Florida has long been heralded as the ultimate retirement destination, but for some, the Sunshine State is losing its spark. With the challenges of rising costs, extreme weather, and a shifting political landscape, many retirees are considering other states to spend their golden years. Among the top contenders is Delaware, a state that’s quickly becoming a preferred choice for those leaving Florida to retire.
The Downsides of Florida Living
When people think of retiring in Florida, images of year-round sunshine, beaches, and tax benefits often come to mind. However, the reality of living in Florida, especially for aging residents, is becoming increasingly complicated. Alisa Newman, a long-time resident of Coral Gables, Florida, recently made the decision to leave the state she called home for decades.
“For one, there’s the heat,” Newman says. While the warm climate initially attracted her to Florida, the increasing temperatures have become unbearable. “At 6 a.m. it’s 80 degrees and humid,” she explains. As climate change intensifies, Florida’s record-breaking heat has made the state less appealing to those in their retirement years.
But the heat isn’t the only concern. Florida is also known for its severe hurricanes, which have grown more frequent and destructive over the years. Newman recalls how Hurricane Irma uprooted a tree onto her house in 2017. “The storms are getting worse, and people are in denial if they don’t want to see that,” she says. The rising insurance costs, driven by the increased risk of hurricanes, have made it difficult for many retirees to afford living in Florida.
The Financial Burden of Retiring in Florida
Florida’s allure as a retirement haven is also fading due to escalating living costs. Insurance premiums have skyrocketed, with home insurance costs in Florida increasing by over 100% since 2021—three times the national average. For many retirees, the financial strain of these rising expenses is making the state less attractive.
Alisa Newman’s annual home insurance is a staggering $10,100, even with discounts for hurricane windows and a security system. Additionally, car insurance rates have surged, and everyday expenses like dining out have also climbed. With these financial burdens, many retirees are finding it challenging to make ends meet in Florida.
Why Delaware Is Becoming the New Retirement Haven
As more retirees are leaving Florida to retire, Delaware has emerged as a top alternative. Despite its smaller size, Delaware offers a host of benefits that appeal to those seeking a more comfortable and affordable retirement.
Newman, now in her late 50s, has decided to move to Wilmington, Delaware, where she can enjoy a lower cost of living and a more temperate climate. “I kept seeing Delaware on lists of best places to retire,” she says. The state’s walkability, cultural attractions, and proximity to major cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore make it an appealing choice.
Delaware’s real estate market also offers attractive options for retirees. Newman found a new development in Pike Creek Valley where she was able to customize a townhome to her liking. The affordability of real estate in Delaware, combined with the state’s lack of sales tax and low property taxes, makes it an enticing option for those leaving Florida to retire.
A Changing Retirement Landscape
The trend of leaving Florida to retire reflects broader changes in the retirement landscape. While Florida will likely remain a popular destination for some, the challenges of living in the state are pushing others to explore new possibilities. States like Delaware, with their affordability, cultural richness, and milder climates, are rising to the occasion, offering retirees a fresh start in their golden years.
As more people like Alisa Newman make the move, Delaware’s reputation as a retirement destination continues to grow. Whether driven by financial concerns, climate change, or a desire for a change of scenery, retirees are increasingly finding that the First State offers everything they need for a fulfilling and comfortable retirement.
More People are Leaving Florida to Retire in Delaware
Leaving Florida to retire is no longer an uncommon choice. With the growing challenges of life in the Sunshine State, many retirees are finding new opportunities in states like Delaware. As this trend continues, Delaware is set to become one of the top retirement destinations in the country, offering a compelling alternative to the traditional Florida retirement dream.
