Climate Change Drives Migration to Florida's Inland Areas
Florida is experiencing a significant population shift as residents move from coastal cities to inland areas due to climate-related risks and economic pressures. Coastal cities like Miami, Tampa, and Jacksonville are seeing population declines as residents face rising insurance premiums—projected to increase by 213% to 322% over the next three decades—alongside heightened risks of hurricanes and flooding. Inland counties such as Highlands, Polk, and Sumter are witnessing rapid growth, with some areas quadrupling their population gains compared to the previous decade. Experts attribute this migration to both the lower cost of living and the perceived safety of inland locations from climate hazards. This trend is expected to accelerate as climate change intensifies its impacts on Florida's coastal regions (Inside Climate News, 2026). 
