Christmas in Florida vs London: Where Does the Holiday Season Feel Better?
Thinking about relocating from the UK to Florida? Christmas highlights the lifestyle differences more clearly than any other time of year. Every December, families across the UK dream of two very different Christmases: one wrapped in scarves and fairy lights in London, the other spent under palm trees in Florida. Over the last week, seasonal travel data, weather patterns, and holiday events have once again put the spotlight on a question many British families ask us at Jacobs Relocation: Is Christmas actually better in Florida than in London?
Let’s break it down — and explore what this contrast reveals about long-term lifestyle choices.
Christmas in London: Tradition, Atmosphere, and Winter Reality
There’s no denying it — London does Christmas beautifully.
From late November through December, the city transforms:
Christmas lights along Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland with markets, rides, and ice skating
Carol services, theatre season, and cosy pubs filled with mulled wine
For many families, this atmosphere feels deeply nostalgic and culturally rich.
The Downsides People Don’t Always Mention
That said, the last week before Christmas in London often brings:
Cold, damp weather with limited daylight
Crowded public transport and travel disruptions
Short days that can feel draining, especially for children
High seasonal stress around commuting, shopping, and logistics
For families already juggling work, school, and travel, Christmas can feel magical — but also exhausting.
Christmas in Florida: Sunshine, Space, and a Different Kind of Magic
Florida offers a completely different festive experience, and it’s one that’s becoming increasingly appealing to UK families.
Over Christmas week, much of South and Central Florida enjoys:
Warm daytime temperatures
Outdoor dining and evening events
Holiday lights without winter coats
More space, more sunlight, and more flexibility
Rather than traditional Christmas markets, Florida celebrates with:
Outdoor tree-lighting ceremonies and holiday parades
Theme park Christmas events across Orlando
Beach walks on Christmas morning
Family barbecues, pool time, and alfresco dining
For children especially, Christmas feels fun, relaxed, and active, rather than confined indoors.
Why Christmas Makes People Rethink Relocation
At Jacobs Relocation, we see a spike in enquiries every December and January. Why?
Because Christmas strips life down to what matters:
Time with family
Energy levels
Weather and wellbeing
Space, pace, and daily stress
Many UK families return from Florida after Christmas saying:
“Life just felt easier.”
Others love London’s tradition — but start asking whether a hybrid lifestyle, seasonal relocation, or long-term move could offer the best of both worlds.
Thinking About Moving from the UK to Florida?
Relocating isn’t just about property prices or visas.
It’s about how life feels day to day — and Christmas is one of the clearest lenses through which to see that.
At Jacobs Relocation, we help individuals and families:
Relocate from the UK to South East Florida
Navigate visas, schools, and lifestyle planning
Understand neighbourhoods, housing, and cost of living
Transition smoothly — emotionally and practically
Whether you’re dreaming of sunshine Christmases every year or simply exploring your options, we help you make informed, confident decisions.
Considering a Move?
If Christmas in Florida felt more like living than escaping, it might be time to explore what relocation could look like for your family.
Get in touch with Jacobs Relocation to start the conversation.