3 Top Retirement Questions in Florida in 2025
Florida isn’t just a vacation spot — it’s a retirement dream for thousands of Americans every year. With no state income tax, plenty of sunshine, and endless activities, it’s no wonder retirees choose to make the Sunshine State their forever home.
But before you pack your bags, there are important financial, lifestyle, and healthcare questions you should answer to make sure your retirement years are secure and stress-free.
Here are the three most common retirement questions we hear from clients in Florida — and how to tackle them with confidence.
1. How Much Do I Really Need to Retire in Florida?
This is the big question for most people. Your “retirement number” depends on your lifestyle, housing costs, and health needs.
Key factors to consider:
* Housing: Are you buying a home, renting, or downsizing? Florida’s real estate market can vary widely by region.
* Daily living expenses: Groceries, dining, utilities, and transportation costs are generally reasonable, but tourist areas can be pricier.
* Travel and hobbies: If you plan to golf, boat, or travel frequently, you’ll need to budget more.
A good rule of thumb is to aim for 70–80% of your pre-retirement income annually to maintain your lifestyle. Many Floridians find they can live comfortably on less with smart planning.
2. How Will Healthcare Work in Retirement?
Florida is a magnet for retirees, which means plenty of healthcare options — but also some important decisions.
Questions to ask yourself:
* Will you rely on Medicare alone, or will you get a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan?
* Do you want coverage for dental, vision, and hearing?
* How will you plan for long-term care costs, which are not covered by Medicare?
Meeting with a Medicare and retirement planning specialist before you retire is one of the best moves you can make. The right coverage choice could save you thousands each year.
3. How Can I Make My Money Last?
With people living longer, your retirement could last 25–30 years or more. That’s a lot of years to fund without a paycheck.
Smart strategies include:
* Diversifying income sources such as Social Security, pensions, IRAs, and annuities.
* Tax planning — Florida has no state income tax, but federal taxes still apply. A Roth conversion might lower your lifetime tax bill.
* Income protection — Using annuities or other guaranteed-income tools to cover your essential expenses.
Don’t just focus on how much you have — focus on how to take it out in the most tax-efficient way possible.
The Florida Retirement Advantage
Florida offers unique benefits for retirees:
* No state income tax
* Homestead property tax exemption
* A climate that encourages year-round activity
* A large retiree community for social connection
These benefits are only fully enjoyed if your financial plan is solid before you retire or make the move.