Leaving Miami for Metro ATL- Why People Are Leaving South FL for GA

As Will Smith famously said, "Welcome to Miami!" But lately, more and more people are saying goodbye to South Florida and making their way to Georgia—specifically, Metro Atlanta. The trend of people leaving Florida isn't new, but there's been a noticeable increase in Miami residents making the move north. So, what’s behind this shift?

The Cost of Living

One of the biggest reasons people are leaving Miami is the high cost of living. Many are shocked when they compare prices and see how much more home they can get in Georgia for the same amount of money. A five-bedroom rental home in Metro Atlanta can cost the same as a small condo with less than 1,000 square feet in Miami.

Miami's housing prices have skyrocketed, with single-family homes in Miami-Dade County often exceeding $1 million. In contrast, that same budget can get a much larger home on a bigger lot in areas like Suwanee, Alpharetta, or Buford—all within top-rated school districts.

Property Taxes and Insurance Costs

It’s not just home prices that are causing people to leave—property taxes and homeowners insurance in Miami are a major financial burden. Miami-Dade County has some of the highest property tax rates in Florida, often around 2% or more of a home’s assessed value. For a $600,000 home, this means an annual property tax bill of over $12,000. By comparison, counties in Metro Atlanta, such as Forsyth, Gwinnett, and Cherokee, have property tax rates between 0.8% and 1.2%, meaning that same home could have a tax bill of just $4,800 to $7,200 per year. And for homeowners over 62, Georgia’s senior tax exemptions can cut those costs even further.

The homeowners insurance crisis in Florida is another reason people are leaving. Due to hurricanes and fraud, many major insurance companies have stopped writing policies in the state, leaving residents with fewer choices and skyrocketing premiums. In Miami, homeowners insurance can range from $6,000 to $12,000 per year—or even more for coastal properties. Some homeowners pay over $15,000 annually just for insurance. By comparison, insurance in Metro Atlanta is significantly lower, ranging from $1,500 to $3,500 per year, even for larger homes.

Avoiding Natural Disasters

South Florida residents are growing tired of annual hurricane preparations, evacuations, and rising insurance costs due to storm damage. While Georgia does experience occasional storms and tornadoes, the risk is nowhere near what Florida faces during hurricane season. The peace of mind that comes with not having to worry about storm surges or boarding up windows every year is a major draw for those relocating.

Traffic and Overcrowding

Miami’s population boom has led to overwhelming traffic congestion. Many residents report spending over an hour commuting just 12 miles due to packed roads and constant construction. While Metro Atlanta certainly has its share of traffic issues, the farther out you go into the suburbs, the less of a headache it becomes. People moving from Miami often find that Metro Atlanta’s traffic, while not perfect, is still far less stressful than what they’re used to.

A Better Quality of Life

Beyond financial reasons, many people are looking for a change in lifestyle. South Florida’s fast pace, crowded streets, and high costs can make it difficult to feel a sense of community. In North Georgia, residents enjoy strong local businesses, farmers markets, and community events where people actually know their neighbors. Whether it’s through schools, churches, or local festivals, there’s a stronger sense of connection that many people miss in Miami.

For those looking for a slower, more relaxed pace of life, Metro Atlanta offers exactly that—without sacrificing job opportunities, entertainment, or amenities.

KeyPoint

When you add it all up, it’s no surprise that so many people are leaving Miami for Metro Atlanta. Lower costs, better schools, more space, and a higher quality of life make Georgia an attractive alternative.

If you’re thinking about making the move to North Metro Atlanta, there are plenty of great communities to consider, including Alpharetta, Suwanee, Buford, and more. Exploring these areas can be the first step to finding a home that offers the lifestyle and financial benefits that many former Miami residents are now enjoying.