Florida has long been considered one of the top destinations for American retirees, but the AARP is a warning that may no longer be a guarantee.

The organization of American retirees points the finger at new United States Census Bureau data that raises concerns that retirees continue to support Florida’s economy. According to 2023 figures Recently released by U.S. Census officials, the usually reliable migration to the Sunshine State by people from other states may be declining.

“In 2023, according to the Census, Florida’s net migration fell by half from the previous year,” an AARP press release states.

“While in 2022 Florida welcomed nearly 250,000 new Floridians from other states, the highest total since 2005, that number fell to just over 126,000 in 2023. More worryingly, the The number of people leaving the state, 510,925, was the highest since the Great Recession. in 2008. Since last year, more people have moved to Florida than have left, but that gap is closing quickly.

AARP officials say the decline in the number of newcomers to Florida, which typically includes many retirees, should be a “wake-up call” to state lawmakers and public policy makers. New migrants arriving in Florida, particularly retirees, contribute significantly to community growth and economic prosperity in many Florida communities, AARP said. AARP officials are warning state leaders they shouldn’t take retirees for granted given the new U.S. Census results.

“Choosing to move to Florida is often a heartfelt decision for many, representing a lifelong dream or a new beginning,” said Jeff JohnsonFlorida State Director of AARP.

“Conversely, the choice to leave Florida is often motivated by financial considerations. With rising housing costs, limited access to essential care services, and rising utility bills, older Floridians are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain their desired quality of life. Policymakers in Tallahassee must take immediate action to address these critical economic concerns or risk jeopardizing the very foundations of our communities and the livelihoods of Floridians.

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