Florida has long been painted as the land of sunshine, low taxes, and endless opportunity. But scratch beneath the postcard image, and a very different picture emerges for younger workers.
For younger workers, the numbers just don’t add up. At the top of the list are skyrocketing housing costs. Add in salaries that fall short of the national average and limited career opportunities, and it’s clear why many are choosing to relocate. If you’ve thought about moving south—or wondered why so many are leaving—these facts may surprise you.
A Growing State With A Shifting Flow
Florida’s population growth made headlines in recent years. Yet in 2023, 511,000 people left the state while 637,000 moved in. That’s a drop from 249,064 in 2022 to 126,000 in 2023, according to “The American Prospect.” They called it the largest drop in net migration in a decade.
The numbers show movement in both directions, but the sharp decline suggests momentum is cooling. This trend signals a major shift in who finds Florida sustainable and who can no longer.
The Young Are Packing Their Bags
Roughly 25% of those leaving Florida are between the ages of 20 and 29, based on the Florida Chamber of Commerce database. These departures are concentrated in large metropolitan areas, such as Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Tampa. The most common reasons? High housing costs and limited job opportunities.
When younger residents say goodbye in such high numbers, the state risks losing a vital part of its workforce. Their absence impacts not only the job market but also local communities that rely on a generational balance.
Salaries That Don’t Match The Costs
Florida’s median annual salary was $52,400 in 2024, compared with the national median of $59,400, as reported by ADP Pay Insights. At the same time, Miami’s cost of living is 19% higher than the national average (Payscale).
This imbalance leaves young workers in a bind. Wages stretch further in other states, while in Florida, rising costs erase the benefit of lower unemployment rates.
Housing Prices That Keep Climbing
In Miami, home prices soared from a median of $390,000 in January 2021 to $632,500 by January 2025 (Redfin). For this reason, Miami is now ranked the second least affordable metro area for renters.
Younger residents find these housing prices too expensive. Renters, highlighted in reports, are leaving for cities where apartments are more affordable. And they are also opting for units with missing amenities in cramped Miami studios.
So Where Are They Going?
Georgia, notably Atlanta, has become a prime destination. Renters share that they find city apartments with amenities like a pool, coworking space, and a skyline view for $1,500 less than their Miami studio. For many young Floridians, that kind of savings is enough to seal the deal.
Lower housing costs free up income for savings, travel, leisure, and building a secure future—things that feel out of reach in South Florida today.
What You Should Consider Before Relocating
If you’re weighing a move, take a lesson from those heading out of Florida. Research the following before packing boxes:
- Housing costs: median rent and home prices
- Cost of living: groceries, transportation, healthcare
- Job market: unemployment rate and career opportunities
- Income: typical salaries compared to local expenses
- Community makeup: growing with young residents, or aging?
- Quality of life: cultural spots, restaurants, parks, and entertainment
These checks help you determine whether your dream city aligns with your reality.
The Bottom Line
Florida continues to attract wealthier newcomers and retirees, but for younger workers, the dream is slipping away. High housing costs, mismatched wages, and limited career growth have created a tipping point.
If you’re planning a move—whether to Florida or elsewhere—look beyond the postcard beaches. Run the numbers and make sure your new city fits your long-term goals.
