Travel

9 Things Driving People Out of New York State

Some see New York State as a bustling hub of culture, business, and opportunity mixed with apple orchards and a slower pace of life in Upstate. As for other residents?

It’s a state they’re tired of calling home.

These are some of the key reasons New Yorkers—those from the city and Upstate—are saying goodbye to the Empire State.

Table of Contents

High Cost of Living

Living in New York is expensive—really expensive. Many locals find it hard to afford the high prices of housing, food, transportation, and other essentials.

For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is around $4,200 a month, and even in countryside areas of Upstate NY, housing prices remain steep.

According to Zillow, the average cost of a home in metro areas of Upstate New York is over $220,000. For families and individuals trying to stretch their budgets, this can make everyday life feel like an uphill battle.

High taxes only add to the financial burden. In 2024, ABC News reported on a WalletHub study saying that residents of New York State experience the worst tax burden in the nation.

New York’s tax burden sits at 12.02%. In contrast, Alaska has the lowest tax burden, at 4.93%.

Harsh Winters

If you’ve ever spent a winter in New York, you know how brutal it can be. Snowstorms, freezing temperatures, and icy roads are all part of the package.

For some, the long months of harsh weather become exhausting. Shoveling snow, scraping ice off your car, and dealing with gray skies can take a toll on mental and physical health.

It’s no surprise, then, that many New Yorkers not only dream of living somewhere warmer but take the leap to do so.

In fact, a 2024 survey revealed that the desire to live in a climate with better weather was one of the top reasons New York staters have their eyes set on moving across state borders.

Just how many people reported they plan on leaving New York at the time the survey was taken?

About 37%, which is around seven million NY residents.

For those tired of bundling up and braving the cold, the idea of year-round warmth is simply too tempting to pass up.

Seeking Job Opportunities

While New York City is a major job center with opportunities in finance, tech, and entertainment, not all parts of the state offer the same prospects.

Upstate New York, for instance, has struggled with job losses in industries like manufacturing over the years. For residents in these areas, finding stable, high-paying employment can be a challenge.

Meanwhile, states like Texas and Florida have seen significant job growth in recent years.

Companies are relocating to these states for their business-friendly environments and lower taxes, bringing new jobs with them.

For New Yorkers seeking better employment opportunities or career growth, moving to one of these states can be an appealing—and no-brainer—choice.

Desire for More Space

Lets set Upstate New York aside for a moment; in many cases, space isn’t a problem. In contrast, New York City is notorious for its cramped living spaces. Apartments are small, and outdoor space is often a luxury.

While some NYC residents love the hustle and bustle of city life, others, especially families, crave more room to spread out.

Having a backyard, a larger home, or even just an extra bedroom becomes a priority.

In many other states, housing is more affordable, and it’s possible to get much more space for your money.

For example, a budget under $500,000 might get you a modest apartment in New York City but could buy a comfortable multi-bedroom suburban home in states like Georgia or Tennessee.

For residents looking to start a family or upgrade their living situation, the promise of more space at a lower cost is a powerful motivator to move out of New York.

Political Climate

Some New York residents feel that the political environment in New York doesn’t align with their personal beliefs or priorities. The state is known for its progressive policies, which appeal to many but may frustrate others.

Issues like high taxes, business regulations, and gun laws often come up as points of contention.

On the other hand, states like Florida, Texas, and Tennessee offer different political climates that some find more appealing.

These states tend to have lower taxes, fewer regulations, and policies that align with conservative values.

For individuals and families who feel out of sync with New York’s political landscape, relocating to a state that better matches their beliefs can be an attractive option.

Quality of Life and Work-Life Balance

The fast-paced lifestyle of New York City isn’t for everyone. Long work hours, crowded commutes, and the constant hustle can leave people feeling burnt out.

For those looking for a slower, more relaxed pace of life, New York’s intensity can become overwhelming.

Of course, not all of New York is go, go, go. Upstate New York is filled with farms.

But even then, farmers may grow tired of holding their breath over whether an early frost will demolish their apple harvest or whether too much or too little rain will damage their corn.

In contrast, other states offer a more laid-back lifestyle. Whether it’s the ability to work remotely in a quiet rural area or simply enjoying a less hectic environment, many people leave New York in search of a better work-life balance.

Crime Rate Struggle

New York City residents undoubtedly heard about overall crime dropping by 3% in 2024 compared to 2023, including several categories of major crimes.

But there was an uptick in certain types of violent crime.

Upstate New York is also far from immune to crime.

Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse are the most dangerous cities in Upstate NY, causing some residents to want to move to safer territory.

Statistics aside, the perception of rising crime based on personal experience or what one hears through friends and family can influence one’s decision to leave New York State.

Remote Work Opportunities

The rise of remote work has made it easier than ever for people to live wherever they want.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many workers discovered that they could do their jobs just as effectively—if not more effectively—from home. For New Yorkers, this meant they no longer needed to live near their workplace to earn a living.

With the flexibility of remote work, some New Yorkers decided to leave the high costs and, in the case of NYC, crowded conditions of New York behind.

They opted for states with lower living expenses, more space, and a better quality of life.

This trend has been particularly noticeable among younger professionals and families who value the freedom to choose where they live.

As long as remote work remains an option, it’s unlikely that such workers are itching to return to the Empire State.

7 Quirky New York Laws You Didn’t Know Existed

Untitled design 2025 02 02T132910.074 — Image Credit: SvetaZi/Shutterstock.com.

New York is more than tall buildings and big crowds—if you dig deep enough, you’ll stumble upon some head-scratching laws. They’re fun to learn about if you enjoy odd facts.

7 Quirky New York Laws You Didn’t Know Existed

9 Hilarious New York Town Names That’ll Make You LOL

Untitled design 2025 01 31T134032.694 — Image Credit: unguryanu/Shutterstock.com.

From quirky spellings to names that sound like they belong in a comedy show, New York is home to some of the most hilarious town names that are sure to make you chuckle.

9 Hilarious New York Town Names That’ll Make You LOL

Think You Belong in a Different Decade?

From big bands to big hair, our playful quiz reveals which classic American era fits you best. It’s fast, fun, and full of vintage flair. Oh, and it’s free.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)

Vertical image with bold red and blue text that reads “Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA! TAKE THE QUIZ.” The design features retro illustrations, including two disco balls, colorful flower graphics, a guy with a boombox, a couple swing dancing in silhouette, and a woman in bell-bottoms with a flower in her afro, all against a cream background.

9 Things Driving People Out of New York State

Intellectual Insider

+ posts

A blog which focuses on business, Networth, Technology, Entrepreneurship, Self Improvement, Celebrities, Top Lists, Travelling, Health, and lifestyle. A source that provides you with each and every top piece of information about the world. We cover various different topics.

Travel

10 Things Michigan Might Lose Forever When Baby Boomers Are Gone

Baby boomers—the folks born between 1946 and 1964—have had a huge impact on Michigan. They grew up in a totally different world, one filled with things that are now fading fast.

Some of the baby boomer’s best traditions, habits, and everyday experiences are disappearing, and future generations might never know what they’re missing.

So, we’re honoring baby boomers by taking a look at some of the best things that are fading from their generation.

Table of Contents

Handwritten Letters

Remember when people actually wrote letters?

Not emails. Not texts. Actual letters, with ink and paper.

Boomers were all about that. Writing letters was an art—they took their time, picked out nice stationery, and made sure their handwriting looked good.

There was something special about opening up a letter and seeing someone’s thoughts carefully written out just for you.

Now? Not so much.

These days, it’s all about quick texts, emails, and emojis. Many schools don’t even teach cursive anymore.

Studies show that writing by hand actually helps memory and brain function.

But let’s be real—most Americans barely write anything down anymore. The days of pouring your heart into a handwritten letter are pretty much over.

Drive-In Theaters

If you’ve ever been to a drive-in movie, you know how awesome they are. You pull up in your car, grab some popcorn, and watch a movie under the stars.

For boomers, this was the thing to do on a weekend. It was the perfect date night, family outing, or hangout spot.

But now? Drive-ins are almost extinct.

Back in the ‘50s, there were over 4,000 of them. Now, there are about 325 left.

Due to Netflix, Disney+, and massive movie theaters with reclining seats, drive-ins aren’t keeping up. If you still have one near you, go check it out before they’re all gone!

Landline Phones

Boomers grew up in a time when every house had a landline, and everyone had to share it.

You couldn’t just take your phone and walk away. You had to sit there, sometimes with a ridiculously long cord stretched across the room.

And if you were expecting a call? You had to wait—no caller ID, no texting, just pure suspense.

Today, landlines are practically dinosaurs. Less than 30% of households still have one, compared to over 90% in 2004.

Now, it’s all about cell phones. Few kids today will know the struggle of trying to have a private conversation while your whole family listens in.

Mom-and-Pop Shops

Before Amazon and Walmart took over everything, local shops were the heart of every neighborhood. You knew the owner, they knew you, and they actually cared about customer service.

Whether it was the corner grocery store or a little family-owned hardware shop, these places had charm.

Now, mom-and-pop shops are disappearing fast. Big chains and online shopping make it nearly impossible for small businesses to survive.

Nearly half of small businesses don’t make it past their first five years. The days of walking into a store where workers actually remember your name? Almost gone.

Sunday Blue Laws

Boomers grew up in a world where Sundays were different. Stores were closed, businesses shut down, and people actually took a break.

You couldn’t just run to Target or grab a burger whenever you wanted. Sundays were for family time, church, or just relaxing.

Now, Sundays are just like any other day.

Blue laws, which once kept businesses closed on Sundays, are mostly gone. Sure, it’s convenient to be able to shop or go out on a Sunday, but some people miss the forced slowdown.

It was a time when people actually hung out with family instead of running errands.

Physical Photo Albums

Boomers didn’t have cloud storage or Instagram. They had photo albums—big, heavy books filled with printed photos.

You’d sit down, flip through the pages, and relive memories. There was something real about holding a picture in your hands.

Now, almost no one prints photos anymore. Everything is digital, living on phones, social media, or hard drives (which, let’s be honest, could crash at any second).

Sure, it’s easier to take a million pictures now. But the magic of flipping through an old album is definitely fading away.

Classic Rock on the Radio

For boomers, classic rock wasn’t just music—it was a movement. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin—these weren’t just bands; they were legends.

And classic rock radio stations kept their music alive for decades.

But younger generations are tuning out. Classic rock stations are slowly vanishing as radio stations shift toward pop, hip-hop, and whatever’s trending.

While you can still stream old-school rock, that feeling of stumbling across an epic song on the radio is becoming rare.

Home-Cooked Meals from Scratch

Baby boomers were raised on home-cooked meals—real food made from scratch. No meal kits, no frozen dinners, no Uber Eats.

Cooking took time, but it was worth it. Family dinners were a daily thing, and recipes were passed down for generations.

Now, eating out is the norm; Americans actually spend more money on dining out than on groceries.

Fast food, takeout, and delivery apps make it easy to skip cooking altogether. Sure, it’s convenient, but there’s something special about a homemade meal that you just can’t get from a drive-thru.

Penmanship and Cursive Writing

Boomers grew up practicing their handwriting until it was practically perfect. Cursive was mandatory in schools, and having neat penmanship was a point of pride.

A good signature actually meant something.

Today? Many kids can’t even read cursive, let alone write it.

According to some reports, only about 33% of students can read cursive handwriting. Now, it’s all about typing.

While it’s cool that technology makes things faster, the art of beautiful handwriting is disappearing fast.

Fixing Things Instead of Replacing Them

Boomers knew how to fix stuff. If something broke, you fixed it.

Toasters, bikes, TVs—you name it, they had a way to make it work again. They didn’t just toss things out and buy new ones.

Now? We live in a throwaway culture.

Stuff isn’t even made to last anymore. Americans create over 8 million tons of electronic waste every year. Instead of fixing things, we just buy new ones.

The fix-it-yourself spirit is dying, and with it, a whole lot of practical know-how.

Think You Belong in a Different Decade?

From big bands to big hair, our playful quiz reveals which classic American era fits you best. It’s fast, fun, and full of vintage flair. Oh, and it’s free.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)

19 Historical U.S. Myths That Annoy History Buffs to the Core

Untitled design 2024 05 10T160656.382 — Photo Credit: stokkete via stock.adobe.com.

If your teacher taught it in history class, it’s normal to assume it’s true. Ask any historian, though, and you might be surprised to learn the stuff of school history lessons is often riddled with inaccuracies.

19 Historical U.S. Myths That Annoy History Buffs to the Core

24 Old-Fashioned Candies That Need To Make a Comeback

Untitled design 2024 03 23T205456.526 — Photo Credit: Gary L Hider via stock.adobe.com.

From childhood classics to forgotten chocolates, these treats bring back memories of simpler times. Rediscover the joy of beloved confections that deserve to make a comeback.

24 Old-Fashioned Candies That Need To Make a Comeback

10 Things Michigan Might Lose Forever When Baby Boomers Are Gone

Intellectual Insider

+ posts

Travel

These U.S. Town Names Are So Hilarious It’s Hard to Believe Hawaii’s Aren’t Made Up

Laughs incoming! Anyone with a few American road trips under their belt has likely come across some town names that made them giggle.

Had the towns on this list been formed in the 21st Century, they may have been along the lines of Avocado Toast, Tesla, and Bussin instead of… well, you’ll see.

How many of the Hawaii towns on this list have you visited or lived in?

Defining “Town”

Montpelier, Vermont in the fall. — Photo Credit: Kovcs via stock.adobe.com.

To increase the mileage of your laughs, we’ve included both incorporated and unincorporated towns and communities on this list.

So, what’s the difference?

Unincorporated towns and communities don’t have a local government, whereas incorporated towns do.

We compiled this list by searching Google for the term “Funniest town names in (state).” We then subjectively chose four town names based on what gave our team the biggest laugh.

So, no, we’re not about to claim that these are the only funny town names in the U.S. And since what’s funny is in the eye of the beholder, you might not even find some of them funny yourself.

But with 200 names on this list, we’re willing to bet our bottom dollar that many of them will make you crack a smile.

Alabama

Burnt Corn, Alabama
Frog Eye, Alabama
Eclectic, Alabama
Bacon Level, Alabama

Alaska

Deadhorse, Alaska
Unalaska, Alaska
Afognak, Alaska
Chickaloon, Alaska

Arizona

Nothing, Arizona
Christmas, Arizona
Why, Arizona
Chloride, Arizona

Arkansas

Booger Hollow, Arkansas
Weiner, Arkansas
Possum Grape, Arkansas
Bald Knob, Arkansas

California

Surfboards on the beach — Photo Credit: eddygaleotti via stock.adobe.com.

Forks of Salmon, California
Cool, California
Rough and Ready, California
Hercules, California

Colorado

Climax, Colorado
No Name, Colorado
Hygiene, Colorado
Old Roach, Colorado

Connecticut

Hazardville, Connecticut
Pomfret, Connecticut
Killingly, Connecticut
Moodus, Connecticut

Delaware

Wyoming, Delaware
Broadkill Beach, Delaware
Cowgills Corner, Delaware
Selbyville, Delaware

Florida

Two Egg, Florida
Bagdad, Florida
Yeehaw Junction, Florida
Frostproof, Florida

Georgia

Between, Georgia
Talking Rock, Georgia
Gumlog, Georgia
Blitch, Georgia

Hawaii

Hikapoloa, Hawaii
Captain Cook, Hawaii
Volcano, Hawaii
Cod Fish Village, Hawaii

Idaho

Slickpoo, Idaho
Beer Bottle Crossing, Idaho
Shells Lick, Idaho
Bone, Idaho

Illinois

Sandwich, Illinois
Boos, Illinois
Boody, Illinois
Goofy Ridge, Illinois

Indiana

Floyds Knobs, Indiana
Blue Lick, Indiana
Loogootee, Indiana
Toad Hop, Indiana

Iowa

What Cheer, Iowa
Jamaica, Iowa
Gravity, Iowa
Lost Nation, Iowa

Kansas

Sunflower field. — Photo Credit: scottevers7 via stock.adobe.com.

Speed, Kansas
Ransom, Kansas
Good Intent, Kansas
May Day, Kansas

Kentucky

Possum Trot, Kentucky
Sugartit, Kentucky
Rabbit Hash, Kentucky
Clayhole, Kentucky

Louisiana

Cut Off, Louisiana
Waterproof, Louisiana
Kickapoo, Louisiana
Dry Prong, Louisiana

Maine

Fishing dock. — Photo Credit: CoreyOHara via stock.adobe.com.

Friendship, Maine
Dixfield, Maine
Eustis, Maine
Bangor, Maine

Maryland

Crapo, Maryland
Accident, Maryland
Boring, Maryland
Savage, Maryland

Massachusetts

Sandwich, Massachusetts
Belchertown, Massachusetts
Unstable, Massachusetts
Blight Falls, Massachusetts

Michigan

Jugville, Michigan
Bad Axe, Michigan
Colon, Michigan
Christmas, Michigan

Minnesota

Embarrass, Minnesota
Sleepy Eye, Minnesota
Pillager, Minnesota
Fertile, Minnesota

Mississippi

Rolling Fork, Mississippi
Whynot, Mississippi
Hot Coffee, Mississippi
Chunky, Mississippi

Missouri

Fishing in a river. — Photo Credit: Kyle Spradley via stock.adobe.com.

Tightwad, Missouri
Bland, Missouri
Licking, Missouri
Blue Eye, Missouri

Montana

Nimrod, Montana
Twodot, Montana
Pray, Montana
Coffee Creek, Montana

Nebraska

Beaver Crossing, Nebraska
Funk, Nebraska
Crab Orchard, Nebraska
Cairo, Nebraska

Nevada

Pahrump, Nevada
Eureka, Nevada
Scotty’s Junction, Nevada
Gabbs, Nevada

New Hampshire

Effingham, New Hampshire
Dummer, New Hampshire
Sugar Hill, New Hampshire
Pittsfield, New Hampshire

New Jersey

Brick, New Jersey
Loveladies, New Jersey
Shamong, New Jersey
Buttzville, New Jersey

New Mexico

Gallup, New Mexico
Waterflow, New Mexico
Brilliant, New Mexico
Chilili, New Mexico

New York

River flowing through Adirondack Mountains in autumn. — Photo Credit: steheap via stock.adobe.com.

Neversink, New York
Butternuts, New York
Horseheads, New York
Coxsackie, New York

North Carolina

Lizard Lick, North Carolina
Love Valley, North Carolina
Aho, North Carolina
Nags Head, North Carolina

North Dakota

Flasher, North Dakota
Porcupine, North Dakota
Dickey, North Dakota
Zap, North Dakota

Ohio

Guysville, Ohio
Crooksville, Ohio
Okolona, Ohio
The Plains, Ohio

Oklahoma

Tornado clouds. — Photo Credit: Menyhert via stock.adobe.com.

Non, Oklahoma
Cookietown, Oklahoma
Frogville, Oklahoma
Moon, Oklahoma

Oregon

Bridal Veil, Oregon
Drain, Oregon
Woodburn, Oregon
Butteville, Oregon

Pennsylvania

Intercourse, Pennsylvania
Panic, Pennsylvania
Normalville, Pennsylvania
Pillow, Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Woonsocket, Rhode Island
Chepachet, Rhode Island
Weekapaug, Rhode Island

South Carolina

Ketchuptown, South Carolina
Ninety Six, South Carolina
North, South Carolina
Fish Dam, South Carolina

South Dakota

Peever, South Dakota
Highmore, South Dakota
Bonesteel, South Dakota
Blunt, South Dakota

Tennessee

Nameless, Tennessee
Difficult, Tennessee
Sweet Lips, Tennessee
Bitter End, Tennessee

Texas

Bacon, Texas
Bigfoot, Texas
Bug Tussle, Texas
Blanket, Texas

Utah

Untitled design 2024 02 15T194009.818 — Photo Credit: Jenifoto via stock.adobe.com.

Elmo, Utah
Hurricane, Utah
Kamas, Utah
Tree of Utah, Utah

Vermont

Dummerston, Vermont
Bread Loaf, Vermont
Orwell, Vermont
Tinmouth, Vermont

Virginia

Bumpass, Virginia
Dumfries, Virginia
Cucumber, Virginia
Pie, Virginia

Washington

Humptulips, Washington
Nooksack, Washington
Toppenish, Washington
Sequim, Washington

West Virginia

Booger Hole, West Virginia
Bug Ugly, West Virginia
Odd, West Virginia
Paw Paw, West Virginia

Wisconsin

Dairyland, Wisconsin
Clam Falls, Wisconsin
Spooner, Wisconsin
Gillett, Wisconsin

Wyoming

Barn at Grand Teton National Park. — Photo Credit: Laurens via stock.adobe.com.

Ten Sleep, Wyoming
Jay Em, Wyoming
Crowheart, Wyoming
Muddy Gap, Wyoming

History of Town Names

Untitled design 2024 03 14T141702.804 — Photo Credit: betaverso via stock.adobe.com.

Many of the towns on this list were named by locals a long time ago and point out the obvious.

For example, Frostproof got its name as a marketing ploy to make citrus farmers interested in planting in their town, which was formerly called Keystone City.

While Frostproof typically has an agreeable climate year-round, it just so happens that within a few years of citrus farmers moving there, the town had a frost in 1894. The name Frostproof remained regardless.

In contrast, many town names originate from the first settlers. Bone, Idaho, is an example. Mr. Orlin Bone and his family arrived in an uninhabited part of Idaho.

He opened the Bone Store and a post office (which is now no longer). It only made sense to name the town after himself, too.

Towns Everywhere

Untitled design 2024 05 01T113521.541 — Photo Credit: Don Masten II via stock.adobe.com.

As of Statista’s 2019 data, there are 19,502 villages, towns, and cities in the United States.

But here’s where the opportunity lies for naming these places: 16,410 of that number has a population of under 10,000.

A further 1,572 towns have a population between 10,000 and 24,999, and 741 towns have a population between 25,000 and 49,999. In contrast, a mere ten cities in the U.S. have a population of 1,000,000 or more.

New Towns and Cities

A line to vote. — Photo Credit: rawpixel.com via stock.adobe.com.

If you’re under the impression that settlers already did their thing back in the day by forming all the new towns and cities that would ever exist in the U.S., think again.

Case in point?

In 2021, voters granted the right to create Essex Junction as a city separate from Essex, Vermont.

Similarly, local Utahans voted in favor of Erda becoming a new city in 2022.

So, if you dream of starting up a new town and giving it a funny name, all hope isn’t lost.

However, you’ll need between 1,000 and 2,000 people living there. You also might need enough votes in your favor from nearby locals.

Weirdest Laws in Each State

Three ice creams. — Photo Credit: ahirao via stock.adobe.com.

Most Americans are clear on treating thy neighbor as they’d want to be treated to reduce the chance of fines and jail time. But did you know you could be breaking the law by carrying an ice cream cone in your pocket? These are the weirdest laws in each state, most of which courts (thankfully!) no longer enforce.

Weirdest Laws in Each State That’ll Make You Chuckle

What Decade Are You REALLY From?

From big bands to big hair, our playful quiz reveals which classic American era fits you best. It’s fast, fun, and full of vintage flair. Oh, and it’s free.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)

11 Poor Hygiene Habits Americans Don’t Know They Have

Untitled design 2024 03 20T185031.936 — Photo Credit: nito via stock.adobe.com.

Americans believe in cleanliness, but we may not be as hygienic as we think. These eleven habits reveal where many Americans fail in the hygiene department.

11 Poor Hygiene Habits Americans Don’t Know They Have

These U.S. Town Names Are So Hilarious It’s Hard to Believe Hawaii’s Aren’t Made Up

Intellectual Insider

+ posts

Travel

12 Unmistakable Signs You’re a True Floridian Through and Through

From their fashion choices to their hurricane-prepping skills, many Floridians share traits that make them unmistakable.

If you’re a Floridian, do you agree with this rundown of characteristics? Is there anything you’d change or add?

Table of Contents

They’re Used to Tourists Everywhere

Tourists are part of daily life in Florida, especially in popular destinations like Orlando, Miami, and the Keys.

Floridians have mastered the art of spotting a tourist from a mile away—whether it’s the Mickey Mouse ears, the sunburn, or the oversized beach bag.

While locals sometimes complain about the crowds, they’ve also learned to navigate around them.

Knowing the “local” spots and the best times to visit popular attractions is almost a survival skill.

They Have an Alligator Story

If you’ve lived in Florida for any length of time, chances are you’ve encountered an alligator.

Whether it’s spotting one in a retention pond, having one stroll through your neighborhood, or even finding one in your pool, gator stories are practically a Floridian rite of passage.

The Sunshine State is home to an estimated 1.3 million alligators, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

For most locals, seeing one is no big deal—just another day in the Sunshine State.

Love-Hate Relationship with Theme Parks

Florida’s theme parks are world-famous, and many locals have annual passes to places like Disney World or Universal Studios.

However, their feelings about these attractions can be mixed. On one hand, they love the convenience and fun; on the other, they’re not fans of the crowds and high prices.

Locals often know the best times to visit Florida’s theme parks and have insider tips for avoiding lines.

So, if you’re at a theme park and see someone breezing around with ease, chances are they’re a Floridian.

Flip-Flops Are a Year-Round Staple

In Florida, flip-flops aren’t just footwear—they’re a lifestyle. While other parts of the country reserve flip-flops for the beach or summer, Floridians wear them nearly everywhere, no matter the season.

Grocery shopping?

Flip-flops.

Attending a casual dinner?

Flip-flops.

It’s not unusual to see someone pairing flip-flops with jeans or even semi-dressy outfits.

This year-round sandal-wearing habit especially makes sense in southern Florida. With average temperatures rarely dipping below 65°F in Miami, Floridians prioritize comfort and airflow over traditional footwear etiquette.

They’re Hurricane-Prepared Pros

Hurricane season is second nature to Floridians. They know exactly what to do when a storm is on the horizon.

While newcomers might panic-buy water and canned goods at the last minute, seasoned Floridians calmly check their generators, board up their windows, and rest easy knowing they have a canned food supply.

Oddly enough, many Floridians don’t see hurricanes as a reason to panic—they’re more of an inconvenience.

It’s common to hear locals joke about “hurricane parties,” where they gather with friends, drink, and wait out the storm.

Love for Publix Subs

Ask any Floridian about Publix, and they’ll likely rave about the subs. Known locally as “Pub Subs,” these sandwiches have achieved legendary status.

If you’re a non-Floridian and don’t know which sub to pick, the chicken tender variety is often cited as the ultimate comfort food.

Publix isn’t just a grocery store—it’s a community hub. From the friendly staff to the well-stocked shelves, it’s a place where Floridians feel at home.

And if you’re in Florida and haven’t tried a Pub Sub, you’re missing out.

Driving in Florida Is a Unique Experience

Floridians know the roads are…interesting to drive on. Between the mix of elderly drivers, tourists unfamiliar with local traffic rules, and young speedsters, the roads can feel like a free-for-all.

One thing that stands out is Floridians’ ability to drive through torrential downpours.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common, and locals barely bat an eye at near-zero visibility conditions. They’ve got this.

They’re Passionate About Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie is the official state pie of Florida, and locals take it seriously.

Made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust, it’s a dessert that embodies the tropical flavors of the state.

Many Floridians have strong opinions on what makes the perfect key lime pie.

For some, it’s all about the tartness, while others prefer a sweeter version. Either way, it’s a staple at Florida gatherings and restaurants.

They Know the True Meaning of “Florida Man”

Florida’s reputation for bizarre news stories has given rise to the term “Florida Man.”

These headlines often involve absurd or outrageous situations that make you wonder how they could possibly be real.

Floridians have learned to embrace the meme-worthy label with a sense of humor.

While (thankfully!) most residents aren’t a “Florida Man,” Floridians are well aware of the state’s unique reputation and often have a good laugh about it.

They’re Sunburn Experts

With all that sunshine, you’d think Floridians would have sun protection down to a science. And many do!

However, even seasoned locals aren’t immune to the occasional sunburn, especially after a day at the beach or on the water.

Most Floridians know the importance of sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing.

They’re also the first to offer aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion during the inevitable moment when someone forgot to reapply their SPF.

They’re Masters of Beach Days

A day at the beach is second nature for Floridians. They know the best beaches for every occasion, whether they want calm waters, good surf, or a spot to collect seashells.

They’ve also perfected their beach setups, complete with umbrellas, coolers, and sand-proof blankets.

Floridians take pride in their beaches, and they’re quick to remind you that their state has some of the best in the country.

From the Gulf Coast’s powdery white sand to the Atlantic’s surfing hotspots, there’s a beach for almost everyone.

They’re Used to Wildlife Everywhere

Florida is teeming with wildlife, and residents are used to sharing their space with animals.

It’s not uncommon to see cranes walking across parking lots, manatees swimming near docks, and lizards sunbathing on sidewalks.

For Floridians, these encounters are just part of life.

They’ve learned to coexist with nature, whether that means shooing a frog out of the house or slowing down for a family of ducks crossing the road.

Publix Etiquette Fails—14 Rude Things Floridians Just Can’t Stop Doing

Untitled design 2025 04 07T143056.666 — Image Credit: Joni Hanebutt/Shutterstock.com.

Nothing wrecks a peaceful Publix grocery trip faster than a rude Floridian who acts like the store was built just for them. If you’ve ever sighed loudly in the produce or bakery section, you already know what kind of chaos we’re about to call out.

Publix Etiquette Fails—14 Rude Things Some Floridians Just Can’t Stop Doing

Feel Like You Were Born in the Wrong Decade?

From big bands to big hair, our playful quiz reveals which classic American era fits you best. It’s fast, fun, and full of vintage flair. Oh, and it’s free.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)