Florida has long been America’s premier destination for many seniors to retire. In fact, the Florida Assisted Living Federation of America predicts that by 2030, seniors will account for nearly 57% of Florida’s projected population growth of 4.8 million — and with nearly 4,000 senior living providers in the state, there are plenty of places for prospective retirees to call their new home.
If you’re not sure where you’d like to retire yet, here are seven great reasons to consider a senior living community in Florida for your golden years.
1. Good company
Seniors aged 65 and older currently make up the largest age demographic in Florida — almost 21% of the total number of people living in the state, according to 2021 Census data. With so many seniors already calling Florida home, there are many opportunities to mingle with other locals and find community groups. There are many active senior living communities, as well as opportunities to move to areas in Florida that have been exclusively created for those over the age of 55.
2. Tax breaks for seniors
Florida is a tax-friendly state for retirees. Florida doesn’t have a state income tax, so even if you’re working part-time during your retirement, you won’t have to worry about losing money to state income taxes. Florida also doesn’t tax Social Security benefits or withdrawals from retirement income, nor are there any inheritance or estate taxes. These tax breaks make Florida an attractive state for seniors that want to benefit from their nest egg during retirement.
3. Vitamin D
Florida isn’t called the Sunshine State for nothing. It has an average of 237 days of sunlight per year, giving locals plenty of time to soak up crucial vitamin D. Safe and short exposure to UVB rays is one of the easiest and most natural ways to gain the vitamin D you need for the day to promote bone health, calcium absorption, and immune system functions. With Florida’s sunny weather, it’s nearly impossible to not have your daily dose of vitamin D!
4. Access to great healthcare
Because of Florida’s large senior population, many doctors and other healthcare professionals have formed top healthcare practices in the state, specific to geriatric health. These various practices give seniors a greater chance for top-quality healthcare. There are also state programs within Florida such as Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders (SHINE) that can help seniors find the best healthcare within their Medicare, Medicaid, or health insurance plans.
5. A variety of cultural experiences
Florida’s tourist attractions and sandy beaches attract people from all over the globe, bringing a wide range of unique cultures within the Sunshine State. The state is also home to several museums, art galleries, and cuisines from various parts of the world. By moving to Florida, you’ll be able to experience different cultures without having to leave the state.
6. International airports
When you live in Florida, there’s no shortage of travel options. There are 13 international airports and several smaller, domestic airports throughout Florida that your family and friends can fly into for a visit — or you can hop on a plane and jet set to a dream vacation destination.
7. Active lifestyle
There are multiple outdoor activities you can take advantage of during your retirement in Florida. It’s home to multiple theme parks and over a thousand mini-golf courses with countless opportunities to explore the beach on horseback, rent a boat, or participate in water sports. Whatever your preferred activity, Florida has a potential favorite for everyone.
If you’re ready to start the next chapter of your life in the Sunshine State, Welcome Home Senior offers free concierge services to assist you or your loved ones in choosing the best Florida senior living community. Contact us today to discuss your options for retiring to Florida.