Moving to Florida is a life-changing decision for any family, couple or individual looking for new opportunities, sun, sea and a better quality of life.
However, beyond the charm of its beaches and the promise of a new beginning, there are fundamental aspects that should be considered before packing your bags.
This detailed guide is designed especially for those of us who, like many of us, are torn at heart between the place where we were born and the place where we seek to grow up.
Those of us who come from Venezuelaor any other Latin American countryWe know what it means to leave behind familiar streets, customs and familiar voices.
In this article we break down the 7 key aspects that we must take into account to make this change as smooth and conscious as possible.
1. Cost of living
One of the first factors that we must evaluate when thinking about move to Florida is the cost of living.
Although many believe that life in this state is more affordable than in other parts of the world, it is not as affordable as in other parts of the world. United States, The reality is more nuanced and depends to a large extent on the city of choice and lifestyle.
The most popular cities such as Miami, Orlando o Tampa have high prices for rents, food and services.
At MiamiFor example, the rent for an apartment can exceed $2,000 per monthwhile in more distant or less touristic areas such as Jacksonville o Cape Coral lower prices can be found.
Buying a home also requires a considerable investment, especially in central areas or near the beach.
Beyond housing, other essential expenses that should be considered when considering the move to Florida include basic services such as electricity, water, internet and garbage collection.
In summer, electricity consumption can increase considerably due to the constant use of air conditioning, and electricity bills can exceed $150 monthly in a medium-sized apartment.
Water and garbage are usually included in some rents, but if they are not, they can represent between $50 and $100 per month.
In terms of food, the cost of food varies depending on where you shop. Conventional supermarkets such as Publix or Winn-Dixie are moderately priced, but savings can be made by shopping at chains such as Walmart or Aldi.
For those who prefer Venezuelan productsThere are many specialty stores, although they tend to be a bit more expensive. Cooking at home is still more economical than eating out, where a meal in an average restaurant can be around the $20 to $30 per person.
Transportation also enters into the equation. In many cities in Floridathe system of public transportation is not as efficient as in other large cities in the country, which makes it almost essential to have your own car.
This means additional expenses in gasoline (although it is cheaper than in other states), vehicle insurance, maintenance and tolls.
To move to FloridaIn order to make a comparative study between cities, it is vital to identify the lifestyle you want to lead and balance it with the expected income.
2. Job Opportunities
Another factor that needs to be investigated is the labor market. This state has a diversified economy: tourism, technology, health, education and construction are some of the most dynamic sectors.
For those of us who come from abroad, especially if you do not have a work permit or with the validation of university degreesintegration may be slower. In these cases, training or acquiring local certifications can open many doors.
The large cities offer greater possibilities, but also more candidates. On the other hand, in areas less urban more stable and less competitive jobs may emerge.
The key is to prepare, connect with professional networks and adapt our skills to the requirements of the U.S. market.
For those who are newcomers or newcomers, one of the most useful tools is to become familiar with the main job search platforms. Some of the most widely used in Florida (and throughout USA) are:
- Indeedis one of the most popular and allows you to filter by city, job type, salary and even specific companies.
- LinkedIn: Besides being a professional network, it has a very active employment section where many companies post their vacancies. It is essential to have an updated profile in English.
- Glassdoorin addition to job offersoffers company reviews and salary ranges according to position, which gives a clearer idea of the work environment.
- Craigslist: although less formal, is used in some cities for one-time or temporary jobs. It requires more caution, but can be useful in certain cases.
There are also organizations nonprofit organizations and community centers that offer assistance in preparing U.S.-style resumes, practicing interviewing in English, or translating academic documents.
Large cities such as Miami, Tampa and Orlando concentrate more job opportunities, but also attract a larger number of applicants.
3. The climate, a paradise with nuances
Many think of move to Florida for its tropical climateIts mild winters and eternal summers. But the heat and humidity can be a challenge for those who are not used to it.
Summers are long, hot and often intensely humid, which can affect everything from health to mood.
In addition, it is important to know that Florida is exposed to hurricanes between the months of June and November. This means that at move to Florida insurance should be considered against natural disastersThe company has developed emergency plans and even reinforced homes in the event of severe storms.
There are applications such as "My Hurricane Tracker"to follow hurricanes and tropical storms, where it has interactive maps, forecasts, warnings and it is also free.
It is necessary to learn to live with a exuberant nature but sometimes imposing. Even so, having the beach a few kilometers away, walks through natural parks and sunsets that comfort the soul are part of the emotional balance that many of us find here.
4. Education, a central issue for families
For those who think move to Florida with children, the educational system is a decisive factor. There are good public and private schoolsbut the quality can vary greatly depending on the area. Cities with higher purchasing power tend to have better educational centers.
The state offers compulsory education from age 6 to 16, with public, private, charter and virtual schools.
In additionFlorida allows you to choose between different schools thanks to its policy of "school choice"and has online programs such as Florida Virtual School.
The curriculum follows the standards B.E.S.T., with assessments such as the FAST to measure student progress.
For those looking for higher education, the state has universities recognized as the University of Florida and scholarships such as Bright Futures that help to finance the studies.
In short, moving to Florida gives you access to a varied, flexible education system with good opportunities for students of all ages.
Before move to Florida you should check school rankings, language of instruction and proximity to the new home. The educationIn the end, it not only trains young people, it is also a way to integration for the whole family.
5. Lifestyle and leisure
The lifestyle in Florida is one of the fundamental aspects to take into account, in addition to being its main point of sale.
Florida offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, from surfing and paddle boarding to fishing and sailing.
Beaches as a Miami Beach o Siesta Key continue to attract thousands of visitors, while the ecotourism gaining ground with sustainable activities in parks such as the Everglades.
Theme parks, led by Disney and Universalhave evolved into more immersive experiences thanks to augmented reality and artificial intelligence.
At the same time, cities such as Miami, Tampa y Orlando offer a vibrant nightlife, cultural festivals, urban art and an increasingly creative multicultural cuisine.
There is also a growing interest in digital entertainment, virtual reality rooms, technological escape rooms and eSports are part of the new landscape. At FloridaIn this new and exciting city, leisure is reinvented without losing its essence: sun, fun and an unforgettable experience.
6. Health system: an aspect not to be underestimated
One of the most sensitive issues in the move to Florida (and anywhere in the U.S.) is access to health care. The U.S. healthcare system is not free and medical care can be expensive if you do not have adequate insurance.
Private insurance is available, subsidized insurance and specific programs for low-income people.
It is essential to get information before move to Floridaunderstand how the coverages work and, if possible, sign up for a plan even before you arrive.
Many Latinos tend to avoid medical appointments for fear of the costs, but this can have serious long-term consequences. In planning for move to Floridahealth must be a priority.
7. Legal and immigration aspects: what should not be overlooked
Finally, one of the most sensitive issues is the legal situation. Moving to Florida It is required to have in order the immigration documents, the residence permit o appropriate visa, and in many cases, to have a social security number
Each migratory status offers various rights and limitations, from access to benefits to the possibility of working legally.
It is important to consult with a immigration lawyer o entities specialized to make sure that the whole process is done correctly.
In addition, upon arrival, there are procedures that should be done as soon as possible, to obtain a driver's license from Florida, open a bank accountregistering for public services, among others. Moving to Florida also implies formalizing our new life at all levels.
A new beginning
Moving to Florida is an adventure that mixes hope, nostalgia and a large dose of courage.
From the weather to the educational systemFrom legal formalities to cultural differences, there are many factors that make the difference between a chaotic transition and a successful integration.
For those of us who come from countries such as Venezuelawhere we have learned to reinvent ourselves over and over again, these types of decisions are not taken lightly.
We bring with us a history, an identity, a way of seeing the world. And even though move to Florida involves starting over, it also allows us to bring the best of our roots to a diverse and vibrant environment.
At CuriaraWe know what it is like to leave everything behind to seek stability and a future. We know what it means to miss, adapt, fight and build from scratch.
That's why we are here to accompany you on this path, and support designed for those who, like us, have decided to take the plunge. Because move to Florida is not only a geographical change, it is an act of hope.
