Nearly half of U.S. homeowners are considering a move — climate is a driver

What’s happening

A 2026 survey finds nearly half of U.S. homeowners are considering a move within the year, and 68% expect the frequency of extreme weather events to increase compared with 2025. Florida shows up in two contradictory ways: a meaningful share of in-Florida homeowners are weighing leaving (citing insurance costs and storm risk), while a similarly meaningful share of out-of-state buyers are still relocating to Florida (citing taxes and lifestyle).

Why this matters if you’re buying

This is the underlying tension in the 2026 Florida market. Demand and supply are both moving — sometimes in the same direction, sometimes opposite. Practical implications:

• Don’t assume one-directional pressure. A neighborhood that’s getting an influx of out-of-state buyers can simultaneously see local sellers list their homes, balancing supply.
• Climate risk pricing is real and rising. Newer construction inland, away from flood zones, with a wind-rated roof — those features command a real premium and likely will for the foreseeable future.
• Insurance-driven exits are concentrated. Older coastal homes, especially condos with rising master policies, are over-represented in the sellers-considering-leaving group. That’s also where the deals can appear for buyers who can take that on.

Related FAQs

• Citizens insurance in Florida
• Flood insurance in Florida
• Buyer’s or seller’s market in Florida?