“Why Long Islanders Are Moving South — And the Top Places They’re Going in 2025.”

Long Island people are moving down south like never before — and it’s not slowing down in 2025.

Taxes. Weather. Cost of living. Lifestyle. Space.
It’s all part of a bigger shift that’s changing the map of where Long Islanders want to live.

Let’s unpack what’s really going on.

1. New York Taxes Are Driving People Out

This one’s a no-brainer.
Many households drop their property taxes by 50–70% just by moving south.

That alone changes everything.

2. You Get More House for Your Dollar

On Long Island:
$700k = 3-bed split, small yard, taxes $12k–$15k

Down south:
$700k =

• 4–5 beds

• pool

• yard

• new construction

• gated community

• and taxes? Sometimes under $4k

It’s wild.

3. Warm Weather All Year Long

People want:
✔ sunshine
✔ outdoor living
✔ lower heating bills
✔ healthier lifestyle

The older we get, the less we want to shovel snow.

4. Job Growth + Remote Work Changed Everything

You no longer need to be physically in New York to work for a New York company.
This opened the floodgates.

Top Southern Relocation Hotspots for Long Islanders

Here’s where everyone’s going:

Florida

Tampa • Sarasota • Orlando • Melbourne
(Strong job growth + beach life)

North Carolina

Charlotte • Raleigh • Wilmington
(Major corporate hub + affordable)

South Carolina

Charleston • Myrtle Beach • Greenville
(Southern charm + lower taxes)

Georgia

Savannah • Atlanta suburbs
(Big home + warm lifestyle)

Tennessee

Nashville • Chattanooga
(No state income tax!)

The Biggest Advantage Long Islanders Have

Your home equity.
Even modest homes here are selling for significantly more than they were 5–10 years ago.

That equity?
It becomes your launchpad to a bigger lifestyle for less money down south.

Thinking about leaving Long Island?

👉 I help families sell here, relocate, and connect with top agents in every southern hotspot.
Contact Top Long Island Realtor, Jeffrey Jimenez — The Jimenez Team @ eXp Realty for a relocation plan built around your budget, goals, and timeline.