The Real Cost of Living in South Florida: What Londoners Really Need to Know
When you’re thinking about swapping London drizzle for year‑round sunshine, it’s easy to focus on the lifestyle upgrades—bigger homes, beaches on your doorstep, outdoor living, and a slower, more spacious way of life. But the first question almost every London family asks me is the same: “What does it actually cost to live in South Florida?”
The truth is, the cost of living here can feel wonderfully liberating in some areas and surprisingly pricey in others. Here’s a grounded, honest look at what you can expect when relocating to Miami, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, or Palm Beach—told from the perspective of someone who helps Londoners make this move every single week.
Housing Costs: More Space, More Sun, and Fewer Surprises
One of the biggest draws for British families is simply the space. Whether it’s a modern condo in Miami, a gated family neighbourhood in Boca Raton, or the manicured luxury of Palm Beach, you’ll typically get far more square footage than you would in London for the same investment.
That said, you’ll want to budget for U.S. property taxes. Florida has no state income tax, which is a huge win, but property taxes often fall around 1–2% of the home’s value per year. A relocation specialist helps you understand local tax districts, homestead exemptions (which can save you thousands), and the quirks that aren’t obvious when you’re viewing properties online.
Everyday Living: Some Things Cheaper, Some Things Not
For the most part, your day‑to‑day life—groceries, eating out, childcare, fitness, services—will feel either similar in cost to London or slightly cheaper. Dining out is generally better value, especially casual meals. High‑quality produce and imported goods can cost more, but the difference usually isn’t dramatic.
Electricity bills are often higher here simply because the air‑conditioning runs year‑round. And if you choose a home with large landscaping or a pool, you’ll have small monthly maintenance costs. They’re manageable, but worth noting.
On the upside? No council tax. No TV licence. And again—no state income tax.
Healthcare: A Very Different System
This is the area that tends to surprise Londoners most. The U.S. healthcare system comes with insurance premiums and deductibles, and that can feel confusing at first. But once you’re set up with the right plan, access to specialists, quick appointments, and private care is refreshingly efficient.
Many high‑net‑worth families opt for concierge doctors, particularly in Boca Raton and Palm Beach, where the standard of private care is extremely high. I help clients navigate insurance options, compare plans, and choose medical providers so you aren’t left figuring it out alone.
Lifestyle: Luxury Services Become Much More Accessible
This is one of South Florida’s best-kept secrets—luxury lifestyle services are significantly more affordable than in London. Full‑time nannies, home organisers, chefs, drivers, and housekeepers are far more attainable here.
Private clubs vary enormously. Miami and Palm Beach offer some of the most exclusive memberships in the U.S., while Boca Raton and Delray Beach offer incredible facilities at a more relaxed price point.
Why Work With a Relocation Specialist?
The real cost of living isn’t something you can understand from a few online searches. Every neighbourhood, lifestyle choice, and tax district affects the big picture.
When you work with Jacobs Relocation, you get:
Local insight into how costs actually play out day to day
Honest comparisons between communities
Help navigating taxes, insurance, clubs, schools, and medical setups
Access to trusted professionals you won’t find through a Google search
Relocating to Florida should feel exciting, not overwhelming. With the right guidance, you’ll understand exactly what life really costs here—and how to make the most of every advantage.