The Best Time of Year to Move if You’re Moving to or From Florida

Florida is a mecca of balmy weather, beautiful beaches and bustling activity. Are you thinking about moving to or from the Sunshine State? Before you dive headfirst into a sea of boxes, you need to consider the best time to move. Floridian moves have some unique considerations. Summer means dodging the sun’s fiery wrath and the unpredictability of hurricanes. Winter brings affordable prices — and snowbirds. Fall or spring offers the best of both worlds, balancing mild weather with better rates.

Put on your shades, grab a slice of key lime pie and let’s explore the seasons! Discover the sweet spot to plan your perfect Floridian move.

When Is Peak Florida Moving Season?

Summer is typically the busiest time to move in or out of Florida. Summer is the peak moving season for a few reasons:

• Warm weather: Many people prefer to move when the sun’s out. Cold or wet weather can make moving more complex.
• School break: Parents choose summer moves to avoid disrupting kids’ school years.
• Hot real estate market: Leases often end in summer, so renters have more options. Plus, more people buy or sell homes during this time. 

During peak season, expect higher prices and limited availability due to high demand. Booking moving services in advance is a must if you want a summer move! 

The Best Time to Move to or From Florida

From the balance of the fall to the popularity of summer, each time of year has its perks and quirks. Here’s a breakdown of the best time to move from Florida or to Florida by season.

1. Fall: For an Easy, Breezy Transition

When the autumnal equinox occurs toward the end of September, Florida’s summer heat begins to fade. A warm Floridian fall differs from many other states. The change in temperature makes moving more comfortable — and less sweaty. Besides the weather, off-season moving to Florida during the fall has other benefits:

• Affordable rates: The slow season can translate to savings on moving and housing costs. Professional movers may offer reduced rates. 
• More availability: Moving companies’ schedules clear up once peak season ends. You may have more providers to choose from and a better chance of getting your preferred dates.
• Fewer tourists: Once the summer break ends, many tourists leave Florida. Less crowding makes relocating to or from the state much easier. 

However, moving during this season can present a challenge for parents. Schools start in the fall, so depending on the timing, a move could disrupt your child’s school year. Fall is also the tail-end of hurricane season, which starts on June 1 and ends on November 30. 

2. Spring: Enjoy Comfortable Weather

If you move to or from Florida between March and May, you can expect warm but not roasting temperatures. The mild spring weather offers a pleasant moving experience.

Consider these advantages for a spring move:

• Temperate weather: Warmer days and cooler evenings give you the best of both worlds. You can enjoy mild temperatures while packing up your old home or unpacking in your new one.
• Lower costs: Like fall, moving companies often charge less in spring. If you plan to move in this season, book ahead to avoid price increases as it gets closer to summer peak time. 
• Spring activities: If you’re new to the state, you can enjoy a range of activities. Check out the famous Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival or the Tortuga Music Festival at Fort Lauderdale Beach. 

A spring move has some cons. Florida is a prime spring break destination, so you can expect traffic and crowded beaches. Additionally, moving during the school break is convenient for families with kids, but it disrupts the school year.

3. Winter: Low Cost, High Availability

Florida’s mild winters attract many from colder regions. With peak moving season well and truly over, relocating in winter can save you money. The cooler season kicks off in December and lasts through February.

A winter move brings these benefits:

• Better deals: Off-season moves are more cost-effective. Chat with reputable moving companies to understand their rates during winter months. 
• Accessible moving dates: After the summer rush, professional movers can accommodate your schedule.

Moving in winter has some disadvantages. “Snowbirds” descend on Florida, looking to swap chilly locales for a warmer climate. This rush can mean busier roads. 

4. Summer: The Most Popular Season

Why is summer at the bottom of the list? Florida summers can mean baking heat and humidity, making moving a sticky experience. Physical exertion in the blazing sun can also lead to dehydration or more severe issues. Additionally, since summer is peak season, you may pay more. High demand means less availability, so book your moving services well in advance. 

However, moving during the summer break offers kids an easier transition to a new environment. Additionally, while hurricanes are a potential concern during summertime, peak hurricane season runs from August to October. Relocating during the early summer months can help you avoid storms. 

Tips for Moving to or From Florida

Moving to a different state, city or country is a daunting but exciting adventure. These tips can help make the transition smoother.

1. Create a Moving Timeline

The key to a seamless move is preparation! Start early by setting a timeline for tasks like packing, hiring movers and changing addresses. Break down tasks into manageable steps to avoid last-minute stress. Consider factors like weather and peak moving seasons when scheduling your timeline.

2. Plan Your Budget

Budget like a boss for your move by:

• Calculating expenses: Account for moving costs, storage fees, travel expenses and the unexpected.
• Comparing quotes: Get multiple quotes from moving companies to compare prices and services.
• Preparing for contingencies: Budget for additional expenses like packing supplies.

3. Partner With Professional Movers

The right moving company can transform your move into a seamless experience. Research and hire reputable movers with a proven track record in moving to or from Florida. Ensure they have the right licenses, valuation coverage and services to meet your needs. Book your moving company well in advance, especially during peak moving seasons.

4. Take Care of the Nitty-Gritty Details

As you head into the final stretch, get on top of admin:

• Transfer utilities: Disconnect the utilities at your old home and set up services at your new one.
• Notify providers: Contact your bank, insurance providers and other service providers to tell them about your move. Update your address with the United States Postal Service, and remember to transfer or cancel subscriptions. 
• Driver’s license: You may need to update your driver’s license at your new destination.

Corrigan Moving Systems: The Ray of Sunshine for Your Florida Move

Whether saying hello or goodbye to the Sunshine State, moving is an exciting adventure. Many factors influence the best time to move to or from Florida. Key considerations include the weather, your budget and, of course, hurricane season. Let Corrigan Moving Systems take the hassle out of your move.

We have more than 95 years of experience in local, long-distance and international moves. Wherever you’re coming from or going to, we have the expertise to make it a stress-free experience. Trust us to handle every detail, including pad wrapping and loading. 

Experience moving how it should be! Call us today at 1-800-267-7442 or complete an online form to set up a free virtual or in-home consultation.