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Moving to South Florida from Chicago?
Trade the polar vortex for palm trees. South Florida offers no state income tax (property and sales taxes apply), affordable waterfront living, and a lifestyle that makes Chicago winters a distant memory.
Chicago vs. South Florida
A realistic cost comparison for Chicago/Midwest transplants
| Category | Chicago | South Florida | Your Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $350,000–$600,000 (Chicago suburbs) | $445K–$650K | Comparable, with no winter maintenance |
| State Income Tax | 4.95% (Illinois flat rate) | 0% | $5,000–$15,000/yr |
| Property Tax Rate | 2.0%–3.5% | 0.8%–1.2% | $4,000–$12,000/yr |
| Heating Bills | $200–$400/mo (Nov–Mar) | $0 | $1,000–$2,000/yr |
| Average Rent (2BR) | $2,000–$3,200/mo | $2,000–$3,200/mo | Similar, but no state income tax |
Estimates based on 2025–2026 market data. Individual results vary based on income, lifestyle, and specific location.
Best Cities for Chicago Transplants
Tex's top picks based on what Chicago/Midwest buyers typically look for
Coral Springs
Median Price
$520,000
Planned community with great schools, parks, and a strong Midwest family feel. One of Broward's most livable cities.
Boynton Beach
Median Price
$445,000
Affordable entry point with beach access and a revitalized downtown. Great value compared to Chicago's North Shore suburbs.
Palm Beach Gardens
Median Price
$620,000
Golf, great schools, and a relaxed suburban lifestyle. Popular with Midwest retirees and families alike.
Pembroke Pines
Median Price
$510,000
Large, well-planned city with excellent schools, diverse dining, and more affordable prices than coastal cities.
Chicago to South Florida FAQ
Is South Florida a good place to move from Chicago?
Absolutely. Chicago to South Florida is one of the most popular relocation routes in the country. The combination of no state income tax (property and sales taxes apply), significantly lower property taxes, warm weather year-round, and a high quality of life makes South Florida an attractive destination for Chicagoans at every stage of life — from young professionals to retirees.
How much will I save on taxes by moving from Illinois to Florida?
Illinois has a flat 4.95% state income tax. Florida has none. On a $100,000 income, that's nearly $5,000 back in your pocket every year. Combined with lower property tax rates (Florida averages 0.8%–1.2% vs. Illinois's 2%–3.5%), most Chicago-area homeowners save $8,000–$20,000 per year in taxes alone after relocating.
What are the best South Florida cities for Chicago transplants?
Coral Springs and Pembroke Pines are popular with Chicago families — both are well-planned, suburban communities with excellent schools and a familiar Midwest feel. Boynton Beach offers great value for first-time buyers. Palm Beach Gardens appeals to retirees and golf enthusiasts. Fort Lauderdale is a great choice for young professionals who want a more urban lifestyle.
How does the cost of living in South Florida compare to Chicago?
Overall, South Florida's cost of living is comparable to Chicago's suburbs, but the tax savings tip the balance significantly in Florida's favor. Home prices in many South Florida cities are similar to Chicago's North Shore suburbs, but you're eliminating state income tax, cutting property taxes nearly in half, and eliminating heating costs entirely.
What is the weather like in South Florida compared to Chicago?
South Florida averages 72°F year-round with roughly 3,000 hours of sunshine annually. Winters are mild (60s–70s), summers are hot and humid (85–92°F), and the rainy season runs May through October with afternoon thunderstorms. There is no snow, no ice, and no polar vortex. Most Chicago transplants consider the trade-off overwhelmingly positive.
Are there good schools in South Florida for families moving from Chicago?
Yes — several South Florida cities have excellent public schools. Parkland's Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School is rated 10/10 by GreatSchools. Weston, Coral Springs, and Palm Beach Gardens all have highly rated elementary and middle schools. Private school options are also abundant throughout Palm Beach and Broward Counties.
"After 20 years in Chicago, we finally made the move. Tex was incredibly knowledgeable about the different neighborhoods and helped us find a home in Coral Springs that checked every box."
The Martinez Family — Moved from Chicago, IL