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FLORIDA - Reports indicate Floridians are ditching expensive coastal cities like Miami and flocking to more affordable Central Florida hubs like Orlando, driven by lower housing costs, better infrastructure, and growing job flexibility.
Recent data collected by moveBuddha confirms that Orlando has become the number one destination for Floridians moving in-state.
Topping the most common route was the move from Miami to Orlando, a sign that the state’s internal migration is changing fast.
Orlando offers a lower cost of living with median home prices nearly half of what buyers face in Miami.
The expansion of high-speed rail between the two cities has also made commuting faster and more convenient, creating new opportunities for remote workers and families alike.
Other Central Florida spots like Kissimmee, Ocala, and The Villages are also experiencing a population surge, according to the data.
These towns may not have the name recognition of Miami or Tampa, but their affordability and space are drawing attention.
Meanwhile, cities like Hialeah and Fort Lauderdale are seeing more people move out than in.
The report also reveals that New Hampshire sends the highest percentage of newcomers to Florida, while North Carolina is the top destination for those leaving the state.
Experts suggest this trend reflects a shift in values as Floridians prioritize affordability, space, and connectivity over coastal living.
Orlando may not have the beaches, but right now, it has the momentum.