Long Island has long been a dream destination for many New Yorkers — close to the city, surrounded by beaches, and filled with established communities. But in recent years, more and more Long Islanders are looking south, with Northeast Florida — particularly St. Augustine and Palm Coast — becoming a top relocation spot. High housing costs, heavy taxes, and chilly winters in New York are motivating families, retirees, and even young professionals to explore a better quality of life in Florida.
So, why are Long Islanders choosing Northeast Florida? Let’s dive into the major reasons.
Cost of Living & Housing
-
Housing Prices:
-
Long Island: Median home prices often exceed $600,000–$700,000, with waterfront homes reaching into the millions.
-
St. Augustine & Palm Coast: Median home prices are closer to $350,000–$450,000, making coastal living far more attainable.
-
-
Taxes:
-
Long Island: Among the highest property taxes in the nation plus New York’s state income tax.
-
Florida: No state income tax and lower property taxes, leading to substantial savings.
-
-
Utilities & Expenses: While Florida summers require higher air conditioning costs, the absence of winter heating and snow removal more than balances it out.
Weather & Lifestyle
-
Climate: Long Islanders endure long, snowy winters. Northeast Florida offers year-round sunshine with mild winters and warm summers.
-
Outdoor Activities:
-
Long Island: Summer beach trips, seasonal boating, and limited warm-weather months.
-
St. Augustine & Palm Coast: Beaches, golf, boating, fishing, and outdoor dining are a year-round lifestyle.
-
-
Pace of Life: Florida’s coastal towns offer a relaxed, laid-back vibe compared to the fast pace of Long Island suburbs.
Jobs, Retirement & Community
-
Jobs: While Long Island benefits from proximity to New York City, remote work has freed many families to live where they want — making Northeast Florida more attractive. Locally, healthcare, hospitality, and construction are strong industries.
-
Retirement: Many Long Islanders are heading south for retirement. Florida’s tax benefits, active 55+ communities, and warmer weather make it an ideal retirement destination.
-
Family-Friendly Communities: Northeast Florida has seen a boom in master-planned communities with amenities like pools, parks, and golf courses — perfect for young families relocating from Long Island.
Local Insights
What makes Northeast Florida stand out?
-
St. Augustine: The nation’s oldest city, filled with history, cobblestone streets, festivals, and family-friendly neighborhoods.
-
Palm Coast: Known for affordability, beautiful canals, and easy access to both beaches and nature preserves.
-
Lifestyle Perks: From world-class golf courses to boating on the Intracoastal Waterway, the area offers something Long Islanders often pay a premium for — at a fraction of the cost.
Practical Considerations
-
Distance: Moving from Long Island to Northeast Florida means a drive of 1,000+ miles, often requiring movers or vehicle shipping.
-
Real Estate Market: The St. Augustine and Palm Coast markets are competitive but still affordable compared to Long Island.
-
Tips: Visit first, explore communities like Nocatee, Palm Harbor, and Villano Beach, and connect with a local agent before making the leap.
Conclusion
For Long Islanders, the draw to Northeast Florida is clear: lower housing costs, tax savings, better weather, and a relaxed lifestyle. Whether for retirement or raising a family, St. Augustine and Palm Coast offer the perfect blend of affordability and coastal charm.
👉 Thinking of trading Long Island winters for Florida sunshine? Our team specializes in helping New Yorkers relocate to St. Augustine and Palm Coast — Contact the Kim Devlin Team and let’s find your perfect home today.