Relocation guide
Moving to Central Florida
What to know before you move to Polk, Orange, Osceola, or Lake County: how schools are assigned, where the jobs are, what the weather really means for your home, and the costs that change your budget.
Schools
Public schools in Florida are run by county school districts, and the assigned school depends on the exact address, not the city name.
- Each county has one district: Polk County Public Schools, Orange County Public Schools, the School District of Osceola County, and Lake County Schools.
- Use the district's school locator with the specific address before you write an offer. Zones can change between streets and from year to year.
- Florida offers school choice options, including magnet and charter schools and state scholarship programs. Each has its own application dates.
- Higher education nearby includes the University of Central Florida, Florida Polytechnic, Florida Southern College, Southeastern University, and Polk State College.
Jobs and commutes
The region's economy runs along the I-4 corridor between Tampa and Orlando, with Polk County in the middle.
- Tourism and hospitality are anchored by Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.
- Health care is a major employer, including AdventHealth, Orlando Health, and Lakeland Regional Health.
- Publix Super Markets is headquartered in Lakeland, and Polk County is a hub for warehousing and distribution along I-4.
- Commute time matters more than miles. I-4 traffic near Orlando and the theme parks can double a drive at peak hours, so test the route at the time you would actually travel.
Weather and hurricanes
Expect mild, dry winters and long, hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
- The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Inland Central Florida avoids storm surge, but wind and flooding still happen.
- The rainy season brings heavy afternoon storms in summer. Check the flood zone for the specific address, not the neighborhood.
- Roof age and wind mitigation features affect your insurance price. Ask for a four-point and wind mitigation inspection early.
Cost of living
Florida has no state personal income tax, but housing costs here include insurance, property taxes, and association fees that vary a lot by address.
- Median sale prices from Michael's guides: Polk County $311,230 and Kissimmee $388,000. Check each guide for the date and source.
- Polk County's countywide millage for 2025-2026 is 6.6348 mills. With school, city, and district taxes added, combined rates run around 16 to 17 mills.
- A homestead exemption can reduce the taxable value of your primary home by up to $50,000. Apply with your county property appraiser by March 1.
- Many newer communities charge HOA dues and a CDD assessment on the tax bill. Get both numbers in writing before you commit.
County guides
Schools, jobs, commutes, storm risk and county offices for each county, with official sources.
Your first month as a Florida resident
- 1.Get a Florida driver license within 30 days of becoming a resident, and title and register your vehicle in Florida.
- 2.File for the homestead exemption by March 1 after you move into your primary home.
- 3.Register to vote at your new address and update your address with your insurer and lender.
- 4.Look up your assigned schools and enroll with the district using proof of address.
Relocation questions, answered
Does Florida have a state income tax?
No. Florida does not tax personal income. Property taxes, insurance, and sales tax are the costs to plan for instead.
How do I find out which school my new home is zoned for?
Use the county school district's school locator with the exact address. Central Florida districts are county-wide, and zones can differ from street to street.
When is hurricane season in Central Florida?
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Inland areas do not face storm surge, but wind damage and flooding are still possible.
How much does a home cost in Polk County compared with Kissimmee?
Michael's guides cite a Polk County median sale price of $311,230 and a Kissimmee median of $388,000. Prices change, so check the date on each guide.
What is the Florida homestead exemption?
It can reduce the taxable value of your primary residence by up to $50,000 and limits yearly assessment increases. You apply with the county property appraiser by March 1.
How soon do I need a Florida driver license after moving?
Florida asks new residents to get a Florida driver license within 30 days of establishing residency.
Planning a move from out of state?
Michael can help you narrow areas by commute, budget, and lifestyle before you visit, and line up tours for your trip.
Michael Texidor, Florida Realtor, License #: SL3657237. General information, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Confirm school assignments with the district, tax figures with the property appraiser, and flood and insurance details for the specific address.