What THEY'RE NOT TELLING YOU About Moving To Florida | Honest Review 5 Years Later

Everyone knows that Florida is one of the most beautiful places to live. But it's What THEY'RE NOT TELLING YOU About Moving To Florida that you really need to know.
In this video, I’ll share what they’re not telling you about life in Florida and my personal experience since moving to Tampa Bay 5 years ago. Because let’s be real, you still have to have to live here every day. You have to travel the area to get anywhere, and most importantly, you want to love where you live.
📞 Interested in moving to Tampa? Reach out Day/Nights/Weekends whenever you want; we never stop working for you!!
Juan Alcala - Tampa Realtor
📲 Call/Text Direct at [phone]
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Cost of Living video • The Cost of Living In ...
⏰ Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:58 - Your Realtor, Juan Alcala
01:28 - Goals of the video
02:01 - Article
02:57 - Weather
06:33 - Bugs/Wildlife
10:14 - Insurance
18:09 - Hurricanes
21:29 - Water
24:39 - Home Maintenance
27:40 - Red Tide
31:23 - Reach Out To Us
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About Tampa, Florida:
🟢 en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tampa,_...
🟢 www.visittampabay.com/
🟢 www.tampa.gov/
🟢 www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g...
🟢 www.visitflorida.com/en-us/ci...
#tampa #florida

[@trulivingtampa]

Thinking about making the move to Tampa Bay? Reach out! We're here to help. Juan Alcala - Tampa Realtor 📲 Call/Text Direct at [phone] 📲 Email: [e-mail] 📅 calendly.com/juan-alcala/45 👨‍💻 Website: www.tbhomesearch.com/ Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/juan.alcala.realtor/

[@marcelagarciagalindo8384]

Awesome information about living in Tampa Florida.

[@Moving.To.Charleston]

This was a great informative Tampa video 👍

[@nunya2954]

It isn't rust in the water, it is IRON. SMH

[@Basquegirl28]

Thank you for your information. We’re possibly looking to buy a small property for investment as a vacation rental/ retirement later years. I’ve noticed that the prices have gone thru the roof since Covid. We plan on coming out again sometime this year to visit. What are your thoughts about Cape Coral?

[@trulivingtampa]

As an investment, I don't love it. The Cape Coral market has 10 months of inventory and it's continuing to climb. Prices are on the way down there. If you wait until September, it will be a great time to buy the dip. @@Basquegirl28

[@AuntieM78]

I lived in Florida for over 50 years, until one night in November I took the dog out at 11pm and the weatherman said it was 90 degrees and the humidity was 100% . That's when I decided it was enough and I decided to move North! I don't regret it. It is like walking around in a sauna!

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing.

[@MachinedFace88ttv]

i'm from Wisconsin and i'm sick of it being below 0 55-70% of the year. scraping snow off my car EVERY morning in the winter while my toes are always cold ,working packing trucks in the cold. , , wearing a sweater and shorts, always getting sick, its cold otw to work back from work , Energy bills through the roof all the houses are crappy insulated badly and build between 1800 and 1899 . Your feet are always cold or swampy from having to dress insulated all the time. del ray here we come! anyone else have anymore ?

[@RoscoPColtrane17]

Thank you for leaving, see if you can’t get some friends to join you.

[@Obatala_Vibez]

Come to London uk, you will soon miss FL

[@msbeecee1]

Same experience in Houston Texas. Oppressive heat 10 months a year, too.

[@ganymeade5151]

Newsflash: $400,000 is not affordable for most people. Due to weather events, property insurance is very expensive. With so many moving to Florida, Florida is losing its charm and becoming like everywhere else. Expect to wait in line in many places. Traffic is bad especially with many tourists unfamiliar with where they are going. You will probably need lots of sunscreen every day; and lots of bug spray. As for jobs, many jobs do not pay well; so people have to have extra jobs or work long hours. Florida is beautiful and a great place to visit for many. If you choose to move, you must be able to afford it.

[@taniagarcia3964]

I agree. With the large amount of people moving here rent has gone up up up! I was paying $1,200 a month for a one bed. Now i am paying $1,700 a month. For a person that is living by themselves with one salary it is verrrry hard. Not alot to save.

[@plurtwink]

This guy is definitely minimizing all the downsides of living here in the state. I've lived here for forty years, and i'm ready to get out.

[@buckiemohawk3643]

back in the day when i moved to Florida. Tampa was considered low income area and not that great and I dont understand why people moved their and locals hated living their.

[@judykubichar9029]

😊😊

[@Uknowit264]

As a GA resident, these are standard issues and gripes here and everywhere else. I stand by his comments.

[@maketrax1]

If anyone is thinking of moving to Florida, best time to visit is during August. If you can't handle the August heat, then you'll know.

[@trulivingtampa]

Bingo! Thanks for sharing.

[@sunny1433]

So true, back in the 80’s we went to Disney World with children as being off season it was a lot cheaper. It was brutal, the heat was exhausting, if I had to live there year round I’d never survive that heat.

[@katarinatibai8396]

I can't handle the thoughts of the possibility that an alligator could eat my pets. 🐈‍⬛🐈🐈 + 🐕 + 🐊 = 😱🥶🥶🥶😭😭😭💀💀💀

[@user-hn2gi7tm4v]

When I had my first house built I lived in a secluded area I make a lot of noise restoring cars I had fire ants and alligators sun bathing on my front lawn Had a family of panthers living under our front door overhang We didn’t bother them and they didn’t bother us Was cool to see the little ones getting bigger The mama didn’t bother us and let her stay there She was grateful Definitely not afraid of us but we didn’t bother her with her babies

[@Carolynfoodforest355]

I have lived in Florida my whole life. Beware that it's difficult to get home owners insurance on old mobile homes. I grew up in the Ft. Lauderdale area and moved at age 33. Yes, anyplace near the coasts are a little cooler than the inland areas. I have lived in north Florida for my last almost thirty years. It's a totally different environment. Growing fruits and vegetables is different. As far as hurricanes. Prepare, prepare, prepare. Evacuate if you need to. Or build a strong structure in the center line of the state. Most water is nasty. But I have well water here in North Central Florida and my well hit a spring line. So I have spring water. The water hard water with a high amount of calcium. The salt water coming off the coast will rust your home and car if you live within ten miles of the coast.The environment is hard on everything. If you don't use your air-conditioner with the humidifier, things in your home will mold.

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing your perspective, this is very helpful.

[@ahdiex7363sha]

Greetings from ak How's PCB, Tallahassee, Tampa hurricanes? Any other info thanks

[@Carolynfoodforest355]

@ahdiex7363sha Well, as I said. Home owners insurance is almost impossible to get for just about any home in Florida these days especially the homes on the coast. If you can get home owners insurance you will pay a lot for it. As for hurricanes. Don't buy a house on Amy coast. Stay to the middle of the state. If you haven't been through a hurricane, they can be dangerous. I have evacuated many times. I have been through many hurricanes. The property taxes and homes here in are expensive. Personally, I live in the country areas because the people in the cities are horrible. Florida used to be a great place to live. Not so much anymore.

[@ahdiex7363sha]

@@Carolynfoodforest355 thanks for that , weather wise though is Northern Florida weather reasonable compared to the s. How's the summer temp Thanks alot

[@Carolynfoodforest355]

@ahdiex7363sha I grew up in southeast Florida. Southeast Florida is hot with virtually no winter except for one or two days a year. Near any of the coasts you do get a breeze of sorts off of the ocean. I have lived in north central Florida, just north of Gainesville Florida for 28 years. I love it it up here. We get a winter of sorts, but no snow. Summer is hell here for July, August and September. Those are the months I hibernate in the air-conditioning. Of course there are tons of natural springs here in the area to go to in the summer were the water is 72 degrees all year long. The nature here in North Florida is beautiful. I have lots of different fruit trees in my yard and right now they are all blooming and smell so good. And with the exception of the really hot months we grow fruits and vegetables all year long. The only thing I don't have right now is chickens. I have always had chickens and they are awesome.

[@sharoncrawford7192]

I lived in Florida 25 yrs and moved back to Ohio in 2006. Do not miss it. Crowded roads, crowded beaches, way to hot and humid, and now way to expensive!

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing.

[@user-vb2qj7gr8w]

Great idea, all you old people should move to Ohio. Old people suck.

[@albertmarnell9976]

I sold and gave up on my fantasies of a paradise. I moved back to New York State in 2004, where everything is over controlled but that is better than total chaos. I noticed that 25 years ago it was still acceptable for people to get drunk in Florida. Even back then I saw little of this in New York State. People that need to drink should see mental health professionals. It is probably even cheaper in the long run.

[@PascualMorales-py6gd]

crowded and expensive in 2006? most of tampa's growth has happened in the last 5 or 6 years.

[@marknewton6984]

Enjoy the snow😮

[@williamgoulet6959]

Ahhh. I remember the days when the Pinellas beaches were generally a working class community. Those days are gone…

[@trulivingtampa]

Unfortunately, you’re not wrong.

[@nelsonramos208]

Agree! I used to drive a school bus in Pinnalas County, from 2003-4.

[@laurasherman6614]

Exactly why I bought in 2013 after coming here for 50 years. Also, exactly why I am looking to move now. So very sad. I always knew I would retire here…..never thought I would move again. They ruined the place. Love the midwestern “ya’alls”.

[@williamgoulet6959]

@@laurasherman6614 yep. I understand.

[@missme2466]

Remember the old single family beach houses? All gone. Mom and pop motels? Gone.

[@user-ik6vc5en2y]

We have four seasons in Missouri. Sometimes we get akl four on the same day.

[@trulivingtampa]

It's was like that in Michigan too. 😂

[@daveginter9030]

If you want to live near the coast I would check on homeowners insurance before you move. I have talked to insurance agents and people are now paying over $1500 a month for a 350-400K home near the coast! And developments are being built up like crazy in Central Florida! You will be waiting to get gas, waiting in trafic, taking back roads adding 3 or 4 miles just to avoid it. A line of 12-15 people at restaurants. Auto insurance rates are also crazy! Look at Georgia or the Carolina's your money will go so much further there! Great Video!

[@albertmarnell9976]

Georgia sucks.

[@regtowers4914]

Property taxes - that’s what is most important- in Tampa - $5000 average taxes on a new purchase- can’t go by what the former owner paid because the home was homesteaded for years. Ppl are buying & than shocked between the property taxes, home owners insurance and even Auto Insurance- gotta have a significant income to live here.

[@TheDaon13]

I have a one bedroom condo just under 1000sf without a stitch of grass in NJ and my property taxes are over $6000. My sister in NJ pays almost $20k/year for her home. It’s all relative depending on where you come from.

[@oneofakindjosh79]

I’ve lived in the Tampa Bay Area for almost 20 years, purchased our home in 2015. Our home owners and auto insurance have tripled, every year we get increases. Our property taxes have doubled. I love how you described our area in almost all points but the reality is that our state is degrading and residents are being priced out of paradise. Track home communities are destroying wetlands and the wooded areas, pushing all wildlife out. The community we once had is no longer due to all of the growth you stated.

[@AmericanConstellation]

Here in Pinellas county, there was a fatal accident on US 19 around 11:00 am. The road was closed until around 5:30 pm. The entire central part of the county was gridlocked. It took forever to get anywhere. This happens about 4 times a year. I've lived in Clearwater by the beach for 66 years now. I was born here. I'm lucky to be retired and not have to drive in this mess to go to work. This place has gotten so crowded now it's insane. Everyone here complains about the population and the traffic. Well, they created this mess.

[@AmericanConstellation]

Well, everyone had the same idea. Let's move to Florida. For me, it's kinda fun to watch now. I've got a boat. I take it out on week days when everyone else is at work. I don't take it out on weekends or holidays. @@JADE939

[@Sirenasycaballitos]

I am from Los Angeles. I have lived here since September 2021. Traffic here in my area is just as bad as Los Angeles. The reason is because there are fewer roads for the amount of people that are moving here. So you don’t see the number of lanes that you see in LA, but you will be as frustrated if you don’t schedule an extra cushion to your drive time. In regards to wildlife… I am about a mile and a half from the bay. I have seen two black racers in the last two years. My brother lives a little more inland than me and there was an alligator at his pond. Egrets and herons eat snakes. Btw, my food budget, spending budget is more here than in Los Angeles. For every LA $1:$1.25 Tampa Bay. This was 2021 comparison.

[@freakydonald3611]

Same in Palatka up north its crazy how crowded its become

[@Mias-trailerparkgarden]

Yes I grew up in Clearwater now I’m in Jersey I hate Jersey but I see Florida being so crowded now but I’m looking to retire in a warm place 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@dumaguetedreaming]

Palatka? That was the boonies to me!​@@freakydonald3611

[@TheHiredGun187]

The one thing I remember from living in Tampa close to the McDonalds on Busch Blvd was...every year Busch Gardens would send out a coupon to people who lived within a certian area close to Busch Gardens for a free park visit as compensation for having to hear the peoples screams from the rides all day over the past year. Not sure if they still do it. I have been gone over 20 years

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing!

[@poodee9395]

I live lot 8 from Busch Gardens. That McDonald's is still there. I never got no free coupon and I purchased years ago. I paid 40k for my house. Today I wouldn't be able to afford a house. My house today is worth 400 all day long.

[@sting1111]

I will never forget or could i describe the smell of red tide. it was so bad that we had to leave the west coast and went to east coast that particular September.

[@trulivingtampa]

It was terrible. Thank goodness it was not like that last year.

[@barbarawinsor5306]

As a lifelong CA resident, I never experience red tide here. But as soon as my brother moved to Tampa 5 years ago, he experienced red tide. Florida sucks. Although I must admit your governor is 100 times better than CA's.

[@zsigzsag]

@@trulivingtampa I'm a FL native, have never seen a red tide here on the Atlantic side. I have seen Man 'O Wars seasonally. You have to be careful of these, tentacles can reach up to 60. I've seen children get stung by those that wash up up on the beach even (heads look like a pretty balloon.). I tell visitors always bring vinegar with you to the beach. Best remedy for stings. Crocodiles? Oh yes we have those too! American Saltwater Crocs. These are the big guys, next to alligators. They have almost a celebrity status. Whenever they appear people rush to take pictures. Always best to keep a good distance from these animals.

[@DiannaBurchett-ym8gg]

This video is really informative and unbiased. My last visit was to Tampa Bay. Having my coffee right on the bay every morning watching the dolphins and stìng rays. The possibility of having a bad day 0

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing!

[@r-anne7375]

You said it... (visit) living here is a total different experience.

[@JS_Speaks]

That was the absolute best explanation of Florida I’ve heard to date. Thank you!!

[@trulivingtampa]

Thank you!

[@dapperdino1996]

I understand you like living in Florida, but you haven’t been living here that long. Most Florida natives want to leave due to the cost of living and extreme summers. March and April are hot they aren’t pleasant usually. Hot season runs from April-November usually. Hurricanes are a yearly event they just change impact locations. I moved out after being there for 27 years and I live in Nc now. My car insurance and home owners insurance dropped significantly too.

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing. Be blessed in NC.

[@info781]

NC way too cold.

[@dapperdino1996]

@@info781 it’s not. It has more variation than FL though. It didn’t even snow this past winter.

[@plurtwink]

The heat is no less than BRUTAL here in FL

[@eddieBoxer]

@@info781 You crazy, NC has mild winter, was stationed at FT. Bragg / Liberty its nice weather of course every state has its hurricane, thats Mother Nature.

[@CynthiaWord-iq7in]

Born here, the chemo years ago burned me out up north, freezing all the time...after 25 years Manhattan/6Philadelphia, I moved back. You are right Nov-Mar is great, oh you see people water-skiing by on the river Christmas Days sometimes, Tampa escapes most hurricanes, cranes are phenomenal slow motion walkers, 5 ft tall, ignoring you. Gators wont. Never walk your dog or children along a lakeside or river bank.

[@sunny1433]

See, that gator danger has kept me out of buying in Florida, that & the bugs. I live in New England & winters are tough as I age but I don’t fear any wildlife & bugs are manageable. Lifestyle choices .

[@marknewton6984]

​@@sunny1433Snow.

[@yvette968]

We always vaca in Indian Rocks Beach. It’s our favorite.

[@trulivingtampa]

Ours too! Thanks for watching.

[@msstephanie6962]

Palmetto bugs

[@natashahaynes4840]

Excellent video! Very helpful. Thank you!

[@trulivingtampa]

You're welcome!

[@Brian_R82]

Really appreciate this video I have seen so many where they clearly want to scare you into moving somewhere else. I just want honesty I think you covered everything really well here

[@trulivingtampa]

Thank you, Ryan. I appreciate that!

[@marcelagarciagalindo8384]

I bet but I can't wait to see it with the family & enjoy a nice ☀️!!

[@jennyhong6746]

It’s hot as heck here during summer, absolutely, but I grew up in Chicago and would take heat over those dark dreary depressing blizzards any day. You go out at sunset during summer instead. It’s just like staying in doors during winter, but with SUN☀️

[@trulivingtampa]

And only 3-4 months vs 5-6. 😎

[@IamAngelHart]

I absolutely loved living downtown St. Pete and theres no beating the food.

[@trulivingtampa]

You’re spot on about the food!

[@ElegantlyYours]

Came across your video bc I’m thinking of moving to Florida. I was hesitant to watch thinking you were going to be biased. Wow was I wrong! lol Thank you for such an informative video. You covered more in this one video than I’ve seen in the last 10 I watched (no exaggeration). I took notes because you mentioned things I forgot about when I visited like the water. That was a big deal for me so thank you! Blessings to you and your lovely family. 🌸

[@mindibear]

What a well articulated and thorough video. Thank you!

[@trulivingtampa]

Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it.

[@lindylou3519]

If I could afford it I would move to Savannah but like everywhere the cost of homes anywhere near the coast are extremely expensive.

[@trulivingtampa]

Savannah is a beautiful are too. We visit there every year. It's hotter there than in Tampa, but still awesome. Christmas is a great time to visit.

[@Conservative-Dad]

Let’s gooo! Great video!

[@trulivingtampa]

Thank you, Sir! I appreciate the compliment. 😊

[@the1one132]

We have so many uninsured drivers because they rear end each other and think it's OK because they call it no fault insurance, which is a mistake to do. Hit my car and watch how much fault you have, all of it. The name makes it misleading. Homeowners insurance leaving the state is from the roofing companies defrauding the insurance companies. They make the residents believe they are going to get a new roof for free, but they actually sue the insurance companies, which in turn raise rates and companies left the state.

[@trulivingtampa]

Insurance and the multiplier attorneys used to get. Glad they changed that law.

[@lindylou3519]

I live in GA. After every hail storm we have roofers knocking on our doors in our neighborhood & the surrounding area. Finally last year we got a new roof after a roofer replaced a neighbors roof from wind & hail damage. He made an assessment & we called our insurance company. We got a new roof after paying the deductible. Held our breath when it was time to renew our policy, but was pleasantly surprised. So far they haven’t dropped us & premiums still good.

[@albertmarnell9976]

Georgia is a real hell hole. That is one state that I've gone to many times and never felt safe there. The stink of sulfur in the water is the least of it. @@lindylou3519

[@thomasjefferson4358]

Wonderful and honest insight... thanks.

[@trulivingtampa]

You’re welcome!

[@lakeseminole]

Please stop encouraging people to move to Florida!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@user-vb2qj7gr8w]

Yea, this is hell. Don't come here. People have guns here and don't even need a permit.

[@sqwk2559]

@@user-vb2qj7gr8wit’s called a right for a reason. . Stay in commie NY or something.

[@HamRadioLiveShow]

One thing that I have researched and found to be true is that car insurance in Florida is among the nations highest. Compared to where I live on the West Coast, my rates would double every six months. Thanks for the transparency about that. For us, That’s a real issue in Florida right now. Also, property taxes are higher there than in states like Texas. With all that being said, Florida has amazing natural beauty, a very warm climate, compared to most places in the US and some very fun places to see.

[@trulivingtampa]

Insurance is a pain in the but because of uninsured drives and cash grab injury lawyers. The state has made some reform and it will take a little while to balance out.

[@marialipscomb6988]

You left out all the wildlife, snakes, alligators, no see 'ums, Mosquitos etc...I lived in Fla. while I loved the beaches and fishing, I didn't like the hurricanes or the flooding just from thunderstorms that often caused us to lose electricity.

[@Technotranceism]

​@@trulivingtampa Also in part we have tons of horrible drivers to begin with

[@eddieBoxer]

Car Insurance is very high in Florida because you have many people who do not have car Insurance they cannot afford it.

[@desibeauty34]

Thank you so much for all the information so helpful for me to make a location decision

[@trulivingtampa]

You're welcome!

[@kreese316]

Super informative!

[@trulivingtampa]

Glad it helped!

[@elihunz7463]

Well, first of all, thank you so much for your time very well explained I have watched a lot of videos, and this is probably the best so far kinda, really nailed almost every topic lol, with that being said well informed

[@trulivingtampa]

Glad it helped! Thanks for watching!

[@karaburch7611]

You've been here 5yrs. No one thats been here 20yrs or more appreciate you telling people to move here. Its over populated already. Thats why you wait 5 minutes at a stop light , that's if you make it through the first one. Don't move here.

[@Degarth]

I have been here for 51 years because I was born here in Tampa the descendant of 6 generations of Floridians that first came to Florida before it was even a state. And I don't begrudge anyone that wants to move here. I know Florida is awesome why would I ever be mad at someone for seeing that as well? Yep traffic has gotten worse, but so many other things have gotten better and more vibrant. Life is always about trade offs.

[@trulivingtampa]

Most people dislike change. The ones who don't live free. Thanks for sharing!

[@dennisswanberg1718]

Last summer in Orlando 110 degrees and muggy.

[@pawsitiveleader8710]

Pay is very low compared to up north, but homes, home insurance and car insurance is so much higher impossible to afford?

[@marknewton6984]

But no snow.😮

[@bamccabe1]

No snowmen, no snow angels.😢​@@marknewton6984

[@dannfish]

Great info, about the water quality that is good to know. Juan, if you get time and think it is helpful can you do a segment on your opinion of which cooling systems are the best where people can enjoy 70 degrees f in the hottest months in Florida. Like split units in each room or central or homes newer than 2010 ect. Thanks for posting.

[@trulivingtampa]

A normal AC system will handle that all day with no problems.

[@truenorth3740]

Remember doctors are not required to carry malpractice insurance. They killed my wife of 44 years by missing cancerous tumor. Liability limited to $1 Million award

[@thomasryan2679]

God's strength to you sir.

[@chiarac3833]

That's so wrong. I avoid HMO insurance because they incentivize docs to not perform tests. That just sounds wrong even as I type it out omg.

[@pif4347]

I visited Tampa for one month in the Summer and absolutely loved it!

[@trulivingtampa]

Great to hear!

[@davidaponte7521]

This video confirms my decision to love the one your with, and in my case it’s New Jersey. Weather is weather, and one must adapt accordingly, but since I’ve been in South Jersey all my life I’ve adapted. Property taxes are generally high here, but nothing that’s not seen in New England and now Florida. Why would I leave my birthplace and family for another state.

[@trulivingtampa]

Its all about your ideal lifestyle. If the Garden State is home.. stay. It sounds like you've got it figured out.

[@sunshineandwarmth]

Depends on your birthplace and family. I'm from FL but became trapped in PA while being a good Samaritan. I'd leave this place and what little family I have for anyplace else on earth (or off Earth).🥴

[@davidaponte7521]

@@sunshineandwarmth Sorry to hear that. There has to be a way you can return to your home state of Florida. I wish you well. I for one would never leave New Jersey, and anyone, from my wife to my kids knows that. There is no situation or circumstance that would make me decide to leave New Jersey even as a Good Samaritan.

[@PascualMorales-py6gd]

although the cost of living in tampa has gone up a lot in the last few years, the reason why you hear people say its "affordable" because when you compare it to other major US metro areas like miami, nyc, san francisco, los angeles, seattle, denver, boston, etc, its still more affordable compared to them. there are definitely some neighborhoods tho where the prices are literally insane like hyde park.

[@trulivingtampa]

Perspective is everything. Thanks for sharing.

[@ShopaHolli50]

I lived in Carrollwood and had a pond in apartment and saw gators all the time. I was amazed when I saw them in there. Being from KY 😮

[@trulivingtampa]

Fresh water equals gators. Thanks for watching!

[@lauracusumano9473]

Just bought a vacation condo in Delray Beach. I come from New York, and I must say that the people in Florida drive crazy! And no matter who I bring the subject up to agree 1000% with me. Speeders, reckless drivers, in and out of traffic drivers. All I do is try to avoid them. But I still love Florida🤩

[@trulivingtampa]

Preach! 😂

[@albertmarnell9976]

I don't believe that the drivers up North are any better but I've not been down there in 20 years which is way before the use of phones while driving. People here are so distracted and few stop at stop signs. Stop signs are not Yield signs. They are starting to put cameras in stop signs but that will take a long time.

[@info781]

Speed limits are high in FL.

[@Technotranceism]

​@@info781 at least in most drivers minds.

[@marcygriffin7822]

😊I agree we have some of the best roads to drive on 😊

[@trulivingtampa]

100%. Out car also appreciate the roads here. 😊

[@corneliusva]

Northbound i-75 from Tampa has a few places that are a bit rough

[@spitfirered]

I Moved To St. Petersburg Florida From Illinois In 1968 As A Teen, I Am 68 Now On The Treasure Coast And Realizing Florida Is Not A Great Place For Seniors Who Are Not Wealthy! Yes, I Do Believe It Is Colder Lately, The Heat Can Be Extreme, But The Hurricanes I Don't Welcome, Still I Can't Live Up In The Cold Weather Again!

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing and watching.

[@barbarawilsonpadgett6400]

Virginia is a great state. We have 4 seasons so you get a little of all types of weather. Sometimes all in the same day😀

[@jimshoe402]

All my Buddies 1975 no THANKS Fun But No..Take Care Sir

[@marcelagarciagalindo8384]

Virginia is a beautiful state but the winters are long & dark. I can't wait to go Florida & get some sunshine & don't have to think about wearing pounds of clothes!

[@trulivingtampa]

Yes! 😎🏝@@marcelagarciagalindo8384

[@Scrambled23]

Spot on overall ! GREAT analysis!! I've been in Tampa Bay area or very close my whole 58 years. The traffic is wearing on me though. We moved out to "cow pasture" 20 years ago. Now I need to fight ro get out of my street. Awful. Ready to move...a few more years when traffic catches up again and I'll just be a passenger and i wont worry about it. LOLLL Love the WebMD reference. SO true.

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing!

[@toddwerther188]

Yeah the airport access is great... even from my location in Zhills - assuming no accidents and not rush hour - I can be parked and walking to the terminal in 50 minutes.

[@user-gu8nm9gi1l]

You lost me, when he spoke about uninsured motorist, In VT. liability insurance is require on a motor vehicle just to get then inspected.

[@trulivingtampa]

Florida doesn't require annual inspections.

[@pinschrunner]

You are required to have insurance on Florida. However, people make the first month insurance parent to get their plate then don't pay. Unless they get a traffic stop, they don't get caught. They can renew registration also.

[@sharonjohnson5059]

And there are ALOT of freaking uninsured motorists here!!! I hate that about Florida !!!

[@amantedalbora]

Seriously love your vids. You are one of the only realtors I actually watch on here. Your videos and information are extremely helpful for me, considering I'm trying to move out to that area (area is a little up in the air depending on what company offers me a position, so could be Tampa, St Pete, Clearwater, or Bradenton). The weather there is definitely something I feel I'm going to actually have to experience for myself because I lived in Austin TX for about 6 yrs and during the summers we get a mix of dry heat and subtropical; temps are usually anywhere from 102 - 109 degrees plus 50% - 70% humidity on top of it. Even in the late nights, like 3AM, it's usually still in the mid 80s. The only way I knew how to explain to my friends back north what the heat and wind was like in Austin is, turn your oven to 450 degrees and then open the door and let that heat just SMACK you in the face; that's Austin TX summer right there. I'm a little more concerned with snakes and hurricanes. I've dealt with fire ants (accidently sat on them twice --- was NOT a fun time). I'm not sure how likely it is you'll find a snake chillin' in your home. But any extra feedback about that sort of thing, from anyone really, would be helpful. Right now, I'm mainly looking to rent out there and then after that... we'll see what happens, but snakes and hurricanes --- or maybe not so much getting an actual hurricane, but the effects from nearby hurricanes, such as the flooding. Thanks again for posting all the vids you post. Again, they are EXTREMELY informative, helpful, and in general great content.

[@trulivingtampa]

Thank you for sharing. And for the compliment.

[@raysmith9345]

Clearwater, Hands down (and yes i'm being bias)! Majority in a No Flood Zone, next door to Dunedin, a couple miles from the Beach, Parks and Bikr trails, PUBLIX, etc.

[@Jamamaw55]

The snakes are usually black snakes and are harmless. Some live under my house and are very afraid of me. They are fast to head the other way if I see them at all it’s just a flash. No worries.

[@jrgnc1]

I'm in the process of moving to Florida, specifically Riverview outside of Tampa. So far, what I dislike is the expensive home and auto insurance (double of what I pay now). And then the property taxes are outrageous. Yea, no State income tax, but they get it out of you in other ways. However, I'm not letting that deter me. I live in Raleigh now so I'm accustomed to heat and humidity. But, summer in Florida is temporary, then the remainder of the year is glorious. Up north, 5 months of winter, down south, a few months of intense heat. Pick your poison. Traffic insane. But that's what u get with a high transplant region. Don't compare where you're coming from to down there. Two different animals.

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing!

[@tmiklos4]

I live both in Pennsylvania and in Lake county Florida. Yes if i want to go to the ocean or gulf it is about 1 hour away. But where we live there is so much to do within a 5 mile radius. We still love the north for 8 months a year but the 4 cold months in Florida is great.

[@urika01]

I'm from New Orleans, but when I was 10, my family and I moved to Jacksonville.. I met my Navy Sailor, and we moved away. We love Florida and have wanted to move back for years❤

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing your story.

[@tonyn3227]

You have to have big income, to live in florida, its extremely expensive now, just check out insurance and taxes, enough to deter you from moving now.

[@Jaxboy86]

Nope. My insurance is still pretty low and I just renewed. Dont need a big income to live here.

[@tonyn3227]

@@Jaxboy86 you may be rare few then. My daughter insurance went from $2k to $4k per year. No claims ever.

[@Jaxboy86]

@@tonyn3227 does she live in a flood zone? Near an ocean or some kind of body of water? If not then she needs to shop around.

[@tonyn3227]

@@Jaxboy86 not at all,in land o lakes, inland, no flood zone either. Insurance greedy scum.

[@the1one132]

​@@tonyn3227 I am north of Tampa and pay $1600 for homeowners insurance. Your daughter must be in a flood zone. That is where I see all of the insurance doubling.

[@wednesdaysdoll]

My husband and I moved here 7 years ago . We love raising our son here . I am trying to convince my brother and his wife in Iowa to come here .

[@sharoncrawford7192]

Dont forget the Flamingos. If you have never lived in the south, Florida is a huge adjustment! If you live around any water, you will have alligators. We lived on a lake and saw them swimming around in the lake all the time. One reason car insurance is so high because of immigrants that carry no insurance but drive. Two kind of drivers in Florida, 1. The drivers that put the petal to the metal and 2. Slow old people poking along.

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing.

[@daveginter9030]

Spot on about the drivers!

[@ImperialLegionTV]

This is video is very well done. Real, genuine advice and all truth. Well done.

[@trulivingtampa]

Thank you for the kind words and I'm glad it helped.

[@two2tango222]

I just moved out of Tampa after moving in ‘21. Such a beautiful landscape and wildlife but the cons? Well let’s say they’re conning!

[@charlottehall3864]

Did you see those houses sitting right in the water? That’s the ones that made the prices of insurance go up so when you buy a house double the price of it at least because tax and insurance cost more in the house 4:40

[@liamwilson1058]

Lived on the treasure coast. The last cat 3 hurricane was it for me.

[@Apexpropertycare]

Nice vid brother 👍🏼 2 questions… I was thinking about moving from Canada to the east coast of Florida, what spot would you recommend I base my life in if we want to be safe to raise a family that has a lot to offer as far as amenities and things to do? Also, what’s your opinion and knowledge on mold issues being in a humid state, I’d like to know how you put your clients into a home, do you do inspections for mold and is there a big problem with mold issues throughout homes in general?? Best, Leo.

[@plurtwink]

Around cape Canaveral is the safest are from hurricane 🌀 landfall. The heat is BRUTAL here. It's super expensive here for everything so I've hope you've got plenty of money. I've been here for 40+ years and I'm ready to get out.

[@Apexpropertycare]

@@plurtwink not any better here in Toronto Canada my friend, this heavy inflation has caused issues everywhere on this planet minus some Asian countries and 3rd world countries, but I’m pretty sure you wouldn’t want those alternatives to be honest!

[@Mach11976]

Left Florida in 2017 and I lived in Indian Rocks Beach. Sure I miss the beaches and the laid back life style of the beach but it became too expensive. Moved there in 1992 when there weren't Roundabouts 😂

[@wendywright5486]

Roundabout are going to be everywhere.The part of the u n agenda 2030 look it up 15 min cities and

[@pinschrunner]

Indian Rocks beach is gorgeous.

[@bloodredsky24]

For years ten thousand people a month were moving into Florida. I think every one of them was in real estate, or real estate investment ect. It's like every used car salesman in the country all moved here at once. Now they are all eating each other just to survive. It's hilarious. Non stop entertainment.

[@455SD]

The lights!!!!! Hysterical!!!. Lost my mind waiting. I assumed it was because everyone is a gummer, and it took longer to cross the street!

[@trulivingtampa]

Lol. It's like again in real time…

[@chocolatecity2]

Just bcs Tampa hasn't had a direct hit in 100 years doesn't mean it can't happen next season. Esp if frequency & intensity accelerates. Good intel re: water quality.

[@trulivingtampa]

100%. Not playing big G, just reporting the facts. 😎

[@ithem0nst3r]

I loved living in Orlando. Made trips out to Tampa at least twice a month. I wish i didn't ever have to move out.

[@rwdchannel2901]

My aunt moved to Tampa, Florida in the 1990's. I'm sure Tampa was a decent place to live back then, but now its probably not as nice since a bunch of northerners moved there.

[@tambilepley5506]

great information well Done

[@joycecourts7403]

Every area has challenges. Just depends on what u want. I LOVED living in Fl

[@trulivingtampa]

100% agree with this comment. Thanks for sharing.

[@msstephanie6962]

Can’t talk about bugs and not mention palmetto bugs and I’m a native, I’ve lived in Tampa 60 years. I love Tampa and think it’s the best city in the world

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing!

[@r-anne7375]

Oh yes, palmetto bugs. You mean extra large cockroach's. 🪳 They give me the creeps !!!! Can't !!!

[@JERSEYTOMATO]

How do you register a vehicle w/o auto insurance…as well, do the auto insurance companies have a link w/DMV and appease DMV that “car is NOT insured? Here in NJ…vehicles are frequently subjected , as well as PA license plates are scanned for unregistered/uninsured vehicles and are “booted if NOT towed.

[@trulivingtampa]

They will get insurance to get the car registered and cancel after.

[@dapperdino1996]

Also 28 feet is below sea level most of the state is a lot higher in elevation. For instance Clermont, Florida.

[@corneliusva]

Clermont is growing

[@caciquenica2482]

Im planning to move to florida, next year, possibly around Tampa area but we are open to other areas, it will depend to where my company has job offers so its a very informative video, we currently live in texas, north dallas, nothing wrong, we just want a change

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing!

[@PatriotMike-sb9oj]

We live in Tampa, similar sized home, also 4/2 no pool and our HO insurance just hit $3900. Our only claim in 20 years was a water leak that flooded the dining room and kitchen 8 years ago. I wish our cost was $2500.

[@victorsong8416]

FL is now for the well-to-do. But so are Monaco or Switzerland. These things happen. Areas become expensive for the average person; it happened in many-many places throughout the US before. So you just have to accept and live with it, it's a fact of life. BTW: Things can, and have gone occasionally the other direction also...

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing.

[@dawndeutsch8829]

Hi Juan, Loved your video, Great Facts to know. What town do you and your family live in? We love the tampa bay area, and will be moving in a few weeks. Home in Suburbs of Chicago Has Sold! Is there any homes available in your area?

[@trulivingtampa]

Hey Dawn. Yes, we live in the Southwest area of Largo. It's been a great place to raise the kids and we’re right by the beach. Feel free to reach out, I’m happy to help. 📧 [e-mail] 📲 [phone] 📅 calendly.com/juan-alcala/45

[@cinnamon451]

Don't forget to tell them we love our guns here😊

[@trulivingtampa]

🤣 You’re not wrong.

[@katarinatibai8396]

When you can drive in Italy, in Greece, or in Kamarun, then you can drive everywhere 😂😊😁👍

[@trulivingtampa]

Perspective is everything.

[@cherylsteinberg4022]

I would love to know the negatives about a potential move to Lido Key - in a high rise.

[@rich1958]

Can’t be more expensive than NJ. My prop taxes are $16k for 1/4 acre.

[@trulivingtampa]

You’re not wrong. Our taxes are very fair compared other Metros.

[@annasolovyeva2794]

Thank you for sharing the details of living in Fl !!!

[@trulivingtampa]

Any time!

[@iceandflames]

Got to add Hallandale Beach Florida beautiful city with beautiful beaches and restaurants and growing communities and a good nightlife and Gulf Stream Horse Racing Casino have the Pegasus statue it’s the second biggest Statue in the United States 🇺🇸.❤

[@jimshoe402]

Fine Job 😁😁😁😁😁😁 Rust on House and Don't pump it out of Ground Sink Holes . Use Grey Water..

[@trulivingtampa]

Thats and option too. Thanks for sharing.

[@cortneyoverstreet8130]

Tampa resident, born and raised- while Florida is extremely well run, I have grown to hate the heat and humidity. During the summer, the mornings and evenings do not offer a break- here in south Tampa, you walk outside and it feels disgusting. The temp may be 95 but the feels like temp will be over 100 and it’s all day! Not for the peak of the day between 11-2 folks. The panhandle has milder weather. We also now have cane toads in south Tampa which are gigantic toads that can kill your dog; they have migrated up from Miami. Tampa today is much more congested than even 10 years ago and those of us from here miss the olden days. To be honest, I will not retire here and think Tampa will be a Miami in another 10 years- no thanks.

[@dandenapoli9432]

We are looking to move down within two tears. We’ve been looking in Ft Myers, Estero. They are building 10K homes there. I believe it may bring prices down a little. Would Tampa be a better choice?

[@trulivingtampa]

Great question, Dan. Honestly, anyone who tells you they can predict housing process two years from now is lying. Is Tampa a good long term investment? I believe so, and invest here. Would invest in Cape Coral? Personally, not right now.

[@RobertMcCracken-vj3he]

I was stationed at MacDill AFB from 1964 -1968. Had the best times of my life! I’m sure it is much different nowadays than it was then, especially since cost of living was low and could afford to live on an airman’s pay and enjoy all that Tampa had to offer (with in reason of course ) spent many hours playing Volleyball at Tampa beach and military personnel blended with locals and tourists so there was no stigma about being in the military, as many airman had told me about being stationed at more remote locations where military personnel we’re not as well received. The only complaint the at had a terrible oder from chemicals being dumped into bay by companies across the bay!😊😅😊

[@tonyl1483]

My uncle has a condo in Daytona Beach, he lives there 2 months a year, he’s had 3 car accidents in a month, all 3 accidents had uninsured motorists! Most uninsured motorists are the young drivers that can’t afford insurance! 25:48

[@jeffreynarwold8544]

I live in the Tropics in Florida. The Florida Keys. Even different than some of the things he is talking about……. Flood, wind and home owners insurance. Insurance is no joke……/

[@msstephanie6962]

You should probably mention problems for people that make less than 100,000. Very bad areas and homeless

[@trulivingtampa]

We've done videos on the cost of living and specifically cover this comment. You can "make it" on less but for a FAMILY to move here, buy a house and "thrive," you need to make more than 6 figures.

[@ladydiane1811]

More than 6 figures. Hmmm. Insurance must be a real good gig. 😂

[@Paul-ju5px]

FYI, the water filtration company that installed our filter and softener told us that every time they tested Zephyr Hills spring water they found traces of feces. Whether that's true or not, I don't know, but that's what they told us. We buy purified water instead.

[@charlottehall3864]

In the summer you run your air 24 seven 6:36

[@nancygreen8186]

Very honest assessment of Florida. I am on the Southwest coast and we took a direct hit from hurricane Ian.

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing. Hope your home was okay?

[@ericmoore571]

It's too hot, there are too many hurricanes, and for the most part, it's boring. Oh, there are far too many strange people there now. I grew up in Florida and moved to NYC to escape and I couldn't be happier!

[@EddieHenderson92]

You moved to NYC to find normal? That city is a dumpster with loud and rude people. Also, one of the most poorly run states in general.

[@joeydego2]

gotta love that NYC smell of human excrement on the subway.

[@dagramirez]

Hope that all NYers go back to NY

[@sqwk2559]

lol. Nice troll.

[@EddieHenderson92]

LOL, NYC is an overpriced smelly dumpster city.

[@4llenjames]

Im from Chicago. Lives in Vegas as a casino dealer for years. Unfortunately Ive hit some hard times. I have to move to Ocala, Florida in two weeks to "reset" my life button. Any advice as a 34 year old (not able to buy) male who wants to hopefully make his way into the Tampa area. My goal is to be able to move that way eventually as Ive been offered employment at the Hard rock as a dealer.

[@MrsMirandaWarren]

Don't do it

[@EddieHenderson92]

FL is getting crowded and more expensive. Not great unless you've connections here.

[@corneliusva]

If you do come to the Tampa area there are rents that you can get that are under $2,000 a month but not necessarily what you would choose. I work very near the Hard Rock and it's not really such a bad area or anything. In fact Tampa for a large town is generally pretty decent. It has something like 200,000 residents but it swells to well more than that because of people coming in for work from the outer areas.

[@johnbirchfield3505]

I lived in Henderson Nevada for fifteen years. Also lived in Chicago suburbs as a kid. I’ve lived in Tampa and do love it!

[@pif4347]

If I were to live in Tampa it would probably be January 1st - April 30th, and West Michigan the rest of the year.

[@trulivingtampa]

Thanks for sharing.

[@R1ch4rd74]

we have been here in downtown area since 1984.

[@magiccheeseball]

The snow advisory in North Florida is misleading it would be extremely rare and if it did Snow it would not be enough to stay on the ground

[@emiliamaria0718]

I heard that Jacksonville has never been hit with hurricane 🌀 tornado. Also, there are not a lot of alligators or bugs. Is there a lot of sinkhole or bugs??