The top pros and cons of retiring in Florida

From armadillo infestations to natural disasters, the Sunshine State isn’t always the postcard-perfect retirement getaway it’s cracked up to be. Still, transplants are flocking to Florida in massive numbers.

According to a recent NBC News report, more than 700,000 people moved to Florida in 2022 alone — making it the second-fastest-growing state, behind Texas. But it’s not all sunshine and balmy beach weather for those living there. Nearly 500,000 people left Florida in 2022, as well, a mass exodus NBC attributed to “soaring insurance costs, a hostile political environment, worsening traffic and extreme weather.”

It begs the question: Why are so many retirees setting their sights on the Sunshine State? For some, the pros simply outweigh the cons.

Pro: It’s a travel hub

According to AARP, there are a lot of reasons to retire in Florida. Thanks to the success of its tourism industry, the Sunshine State is a great place for traveling retirees to settle down. There are 19 commercial airports between the Panhandle and the Keys, including three of the country’s busiest hubs.

Older adults anticipating regular visits from family or interested in traveling during their golden years can rest assured that flights will be plentiful.

Con:...