Coastal Preferences in the United States: Does Living on California or Florida Coasts Outshine New England?

The United States has seen a significant trend of migration from the northeastern to the southeastern states, particularly for retirees. This phenomenon has been observed for at least three generations and is driven by a variety of factors, including climate, cost of living, and government policies.

Migrating for Retirement

Many older adults who have moved to Florida for retirement are part of what are often called 'empty nesters.' These are individuals who have grown their adult children away from home, reducing their dependence on parental financial support.

Florida stands out as a particularly attractive destination for retirees, with its warm weather and supportive environment for older Americans. Unlike the harsh winters of states like Maine and New Hampshire, where the prospect of enduring bitter cold and shoveling snow becomes less appealing as one ages, Florida offers a near-ideal climate year-round.

Comparing California and Florida

While California, especially coastal cities from San Diego to Sonoma County, is renowned for its beauty and temperate climate, it also comes with challenges. High tax rates and politically charged government policies have created a difficult living environment, leading to a significant population exodus. In a span of one year (from June 1, 2020, to June 1, 2021), 367,299 people left California.

Similarly, several New England states, including Massachusetts and Connecticut, are experiencing negative net migration due to high taxes and high cost of living, exacerbated by harsh winter conditions.

Why Coastal Florida Remains Popular

Florida, by contrast, experienced a net immigration of 220,890 people during the same period, according to figures from Wikipedia. The factors contributing to its popularity include:

Better Weather: Florida's subtropical climate offers mild winters and warm summers, reducing the need for harsh weather preparations. Lower Cost of Living: Florida typically has a lower cost of living compared to states like New Hampshire, Maine, and other parts of New England. No State Income Tax: Unlike California, Florida does not have a state income tax, adding to its financial appeal. Non-Woke Government: Florida's state government is often noted for its non-ideological approach, which appeals to a broader range of residents.

Personal Experiences and Preferences

My personal experience living in coastal areas like San Francisco, Newport Beach, Key Largo, and Newport in Rhode Island supports the trend of preferring coastal Florida. While coastal California offers stunning scenery and rarely experiences extreme heat, the combination of high taxes and politically charged issues makes living there challenging.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while California and Florida both have their unique advantages, the climate, cost of living, and government policies in these states have led to noticeable migration trends. For many retirees and empty nesters, the coastal living options in Florida, with its year-round warmth and supportive environment, remain a top choice over colder northeastern states.