MIDFLORIDA Credit Union is a lender; not a financial, legal, or tax advisor. This article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as advice. Contact a professional financial, legal, or tax advisor for advice related to your circumstances.
Footlocker is relocating its global headquarters from New York City to St. Petersburg, Florida, citing business-friendly policies, tax advantages, and improved quality of life. As more individuals and companies follow suit, Florida's appeal as a relocation destination continues to grow. For many, this move is more than symbolic; it’s a blueprint for lifestyle and financial upgrade.
Start your move to the Sunshine State with MIDFLORIDA Credit Union.
Why Footlocker is moving to Florida
Footlocker’s 2025 headquarters relocation marks a strategic business decision driven by key Florida advantages:
- No state income tax
- Lower operating costs
- Growing talent pools in urban areas like Tampa and Orlando
- Business-friendly regulations and infrastructure support
This move reflects a broader trend; Companies across industries are eyeing Florida not just for savings, but also for access to thriving communities, streamlined logistics, and a better quality of life for employees.
Why homeowners are making the move too
It's not just corporations making their way to Florida. Record numbers of families, young professionals, and retirees are relocating for the same reasons businesses are.
The advantages span economic, lifestyle, and real estate considerations:
- No state income tax
- Lower overall cost of living compared to New York or California
- Year-round warm weather
- Business-friendly climate
- Access to beaches, parks, and recreational areas
- Rapid job growth in healthcare, tech, and finance
For homeowners, Florida's homestead exemption can reduce taxable home values by up to $50,000, a significant saving over time. If you’re considering a move, areas like St. Petersburg, Lakeland, and Orlando offer the right blend of career opportunity and livability. MIDFLORIDA Credit Union serves members throughout these cities and beyond, helping Floridians finance their next chapter.
The housing landscape in Florida
Florida’s housing market continues to attract both buyers and investors. With a range of options at competitive prices, homeownership is within reach for many newcomers.
Popular areas for buyers relocating to Florida:
- Tampa (33629, 33606): Vibrant metro amenities with a historic feel
- Cape Coral (33993): Affordable single-family homes with waterway access
- Winter Garden (34787): Family-friendly neighborhoods close to Orlando
- Port St. Lucie (34953): Suburban charm with growing infrastructure
Whether you're buying your first home or upgrading to fit a growing family, MIDFLORIDA offers a variety of mortgage options to support your goals.
Key Florida homeownership advantages
| Feature | Florida | High-tax states |
| State income tax | 0% | Up to 13.3% (CA) |
| Homestead exemption | Up to $50,000 | Varies or none |
| Average property tax rate | ~0.80% | Over 1.2% in some states |
| Average home price (St. Pete) | ~$400,000 | NYC: ~$800,000+ |
Is St. Petersburg, Florida, a good place to live?
Yes, St. Petersburg is widely considered one of the best cities to live in Florida. The future home of Footlocker headquarters has a population of just over 260,000, offering a blend of small-city charm and big-city amenities.
Residents enjoy:
- A revitalized downtown with restaurants, galleries, and waterfront parks
- A strong local economy driven by healthcare, education, and tourism
- Access to award-winning beaches like Clearwater and St. Pete Beach
The city also boasts one of the best public transit and walkability scores in the state, making it appealing for remote workers, young professionals, and retirees.
What should you consider before moving to Florida?
Relocating to Florida is a major decision that depends on your personal, financial, and lifestyle goals.
Key factors to weigh include:
- Housing market conditions in your target city
- Home insurance requirements in coastal zones
- Job availability in your field
- Cost of living comparison
- Family needs (schools, healthcare, etc.)
Overall, the state offers a compelling mix of affordability, livability, and potential, especially in growth corridors like Central and West Florida.
FAQ: Moving to Florida
Q: Why is Footlocker moving to Florida now?
A: To cut costs, improve tax efficiency, and access a growing workforce in a business-friendly state.
Q: Is now a good time to buy a house in Florida?
A: Yes, particularly in mid-tier markets like St. Petersburg, where property values remain reasonable.
Q: What are the tax benefits of moving to Florida?
A: Florida has no state income tax, a homestead exemption for primary residences, and relatively low property taxes.
Q: Is Florida a good state for remote workers?
A: Absolutely. Many cities offer strong broadband access, co-working spaces, and a high quality of life.
Should you follow Footlocker’s lead?
Footlocker’s decision to relocate its global headquarters to Florida underscores a growing trend: people and businesses are choosing Florida for its economic advantages and lifestyle benefits. From no income tax to a booming housing market, Florida makes a compelling case for relocation.
Make your move with MIDFLORIDA
The decision to shift the global Footlocker headquarters to Florida reflects a broader migration pattern powered by tax advantages, livability, and business growth. If you're asking, “Why move to Florida?”, the answers are becoming increasingly clear: lower costs, better weather, thriving job markets, and long-term home value. Cities like St. Petersburg combine urban convenience with real estate accessibility—making now a smart time to explore your options.
Ready to make your move? Start your application with MIDFLORIDA and discover flexible financing built around where you want to go next.
