Florida. Sunshine, beaches, theme parks, and alligators – it’s a state that frequently feels like something out of a movie. While Florida is known for its fun and adventure, there are some facts about the state that non-Floridians who have only heard about it on television find difficult to understand.
Here are some facts about Florida that may surprise you. Unless you’re from Florida, of course.
Florida’s Weather Is Wildly Unpredictable
When people think of Florida, they frequently envision endless sunlight and idyllic beach weather. However, this is not always the case. Florida is notorious for its unpredictable weather, particularly its sudden and powerful thunderstorms. On any one day, you may see sunshine followed by a violent downpour, only to return to clear skies minutes later. It’s as if the weather can’t decide what to do!
In reality, Florida is home to one of the world’s most active lightning zones, with around 1.2 million lightning strikes recorded each year, making it the lightning capital of the US. So, while it may be sunny one minute, don’t be surprised if you’re trapped in a thunderstorm moments later.
Florida Has a Lot More Gators Than You Think
Alligators are nearly synonymous with Florida, yet many people are unaware of how many exist. According to estimates, the state is home to approximately 1.25 million alligators. That’s right, over one million! While they don’t typically seek out trouble, it’s vital to know that they dwell in practically every body of freshwater in Florida.
Gators in Florida can be spotted relaxing near lakes, rivers, and even golf courses. In fact, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) receives thousands of calls each year reporting gator sightings, particularly during mating season. So, if you’re out enjoying Florida’s natural splendor, keep an eye out for these species.
Florida Is Home to Some of the Weirdest Laws
Florida has its fair share of bizarre and unique rules that many people find difficult to accept. For example, did you know that in Florida, unmarried women who parachute on Sundays may risk jail time? Or that it is prohibited to tether an elephant to a parking meter without paying a fee? While many of these laws were enacted a long time ago, they are still theoretically valid.
These unusual laws give Florida a unique character, and while they are not usually enforced, they are nonetheless part of the state’s appeal. It serves as a reminder that even at the most popular tourist destinations, a few surprises might be found in the rulebooks.
Florida Is a Tax Haven for the Wealthy
Many Americans may be unaware that Florida’s tax structure attracts rich individuals. Florida is one of the few states in the United States that does not impose a state income tax. This makes it an especially enticing destination for millionaires, celebrities, and retirees seeking to preserve more of their wealth.
While this tax break benefits the wealthy, critics say that it causes problems for everyone else. Due to the lack of an income tax, the state must rely on sales and property taxes to pay critical services, which can disproportionately burden low-income inhabitants. According to the Florida Policy Institute, middle-class families in Florida pay a much higher proportion of their income in taxes than the wealthiest residents.
Florida’s Wildlife Isn’t Just Alligators
While alligators receive a lot of attention, Florida’s wildlife is much more diverse. The state is home to a huge variety of wildlife, including exotic species like pythons, panthers, and manatees. Pythons, in particular, have become a major issue in Florida, particularly in the Everglades, where they’ve displaced and outcompeted native species.
Burmese pythons were transported to Florida illegally, and they have had a significant impact on the local animals. Efforts to eradicate these invasive species are underway, but it serves as a reminder that Florida’s wild side includes much more than alligators.
Florida Has Some of the Highest Insurance Rates
If you live in Florida or want to move there, you may be surprised at how expensive vehicle insurance is. The state has some of the most expensive insurance rates in the country, with drivers paying much more than the national average. This is primarily due to the high number of accidents, the fear of hurricanes, and the fact that many Florida drivers do not have adequate insurance to cover potential damages.
The average annual cost of full auto coverage in Florida is approximately $4,326. What about the national average? $2,067 each year. This means that whether you’re buying a car, renting one, or simply driving about, you’ll probably feel the sting of expensive insurance prices.