Florida’s Gulf Coast is a spectacular paradise replete with pearly beaches, crystalline waters, and kaleidoscopic sunsets. It’s no wonder that the beaches, particularly around New Port Richey, are the Coast’s main attractions. However, the region also offers a wealth of other highlights, including cultural activities, eateries, entertainment, and more.
Thinking of making this coastal paradise your home? Then read the moving guide below to help you decide.
Pros and Cons of Moving to the Gulf Coast Area
• Pros
1. No State Income Tax
The Sunshine State is one of only seven states that won’t clobber you with state income taxes. However, Floridians still have to pick up the tab for federal income taxes. Property taxes in Pasco county are $1,363 for a home with a median value of $157,400.
2. Amazing Beaches.
This coastal state’s beaches are straight out of a fairy tale. As a matter of fact, Sarasota’s Siesta Key Beach was awarded Number One Beach In the United States and Number 11 in the world by TripAdvisor’s 2020 Traveler’s Choice Awards.
3. It’s Utopia if You’re a Sports Fan
Live and breathe sports? Then you’ll love Florida, with its plethora of football, baseball, and basketball teams, including the Miami Dolphins, Jacksonville Jaguars, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
4. You’ll Get Discounts
The Sunshine State’s residents can enjoy discounts for many popular local establishments, including theme parks, restaurants, spas, and museums.
5. You’re in Luck if You’re a Foodie
This coastal wonderland boasts many delicious signature dishes. Try stone crab, a delicacy served cold with a mustard dipping sauce. Nibble on the classic key lime pie. If you’re really adventurous, gobble up battered gator bites. And, yes, the “gator” is short for “alligator.”
• Cons
1. The State is Completely Flat
There are no hills, valleys, or mountains, so this can make driving monotonous.
2. There are Lots and Lots of Bugs
The Coast is teeming with mosquitoes and roaches, and it also harbors other creepy-crawlies including scorpions, snakes, and spiders.
3. Snowbirds Roost There
Snowbirds are people from cooler climates who “flock” to the Coast to escape the chill. During the winter months, they clog the roads and pack restaurants and other public places.
4. You’ll Run Your Air Conditioner. A Lot.
It’s tempting to constantly run your AC at a low temperature. This may make it freeze or break down. The experts at Progressive Air Systems can diagnose and repair your system, as well as demonstrate how to set your thermostat for maximum comfort and minimal strain on your AC.
Housing Market
You’ll be happy to know that New Port Richey’s housing expenses are 66 percent less than the national average. The median home price for single-family homes is $191,816. This is an uptick of 8.0 percent since 2019, and they’re predicted to go up 5.6 percent next year.
The average for apartment rental ranges from a $702 median for a studio apartment to a $1,350 median for a three-bedroom.
Weather and Natural Disasters
• With an average relative humidity of 75 percent, the Coast is one of the most humid regions in the US. Between May and November, humidity can crest a whopping 90 percent.
• Mold spores and dust mites thrive in high humidity and trigger allergies. Progressive Air Systems’ knowledgeable technicians can optimize your HVAC’s ability to regulate humidity.
• New Port Richey has sunkissed days, but it also has its share of rain, with the majority falling between June and October. It usually happens daily and lasts approximately 30 minutes.
• The state’s coast lies in the path of hurricanes. Hurricane season begins on June 1 and lasts until November 30, peaking in August and September.
Things to Do
You’ll never get bored on the Coast. Here are several ideas for activities you’ll love.
• Dunedin Brewery
The Dunedin Brewery is a family-owned microbrewery serving beers, ales and lagers. The drinks are fresh and delicious, and the staff has an encyclopedic knowledge about their liquors. The brewery also offers scrumptious food and showcases live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
• Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks are renowned as having the world’s finest sponges. Visit the Spongeorama Sponge Factory, where you can see the world’s largest collection of sea sponges. Indulge in authentic Greek food, and enjoy guided historic tours, dolphin cruises, and first-rate shopping.
• Clearwater and St. Pete Beach
TripAdvisor ranked Clearwater Beach as the number one beach in the United States in their annual 25 Best Beaches Awards. St. Pete Beach doesn’t fall far behind at number four. The reasons are obvious: pillowy sand, silky water, boat tours, and family-friendly activities like seashell scavenging.
There are plenty of reasons to love Florida’s Gulf Coast: spectacular beaches, affordable housing, temperate climate, and sports galore! If you’re thinking of moving here, you’ll be claiming your own little piece of paradise. And once you’re settled in, you can call on the professionals at Progressive Air Systems for all of your HVAC needs!