Your Florida relocation guide
Everything you need to know to start fresh in the right place
Why Florida
No state income tax, warm weather year-round and a fast-growing economy. Central Florida combines an accessible cost of living with quality of life — and Orlando is now a hub for tech, healthcare and tourism.
Cost of living
Orlando's cost of living is close to the US national average and well below Miami, New York or California. Housing is the biggest factor: quite affordable rents and very reasonably priced homes. With no state income tax, your paycheck goes further.
Climate
Subtropical: hot, humid summers (June–September, with afternoon showers) and mild, dry winters (60–77°F). Hurricane season runs June through November — inland Orlando is far more protected than the coast.
Driver's license
New residents must obtain a Florida license within 30 days. Foreign license holders can drive temporarily with their home license plus an international permit. The DMV (FLHSMV) process requires proof of residence, ID and a Social Security number or proof of status.
Vehicle registration
Vehicles must be registered in Florida within 10 days of establishing residency. Insurance from a Florida-licensed insurer is required before registration. Plates are state-issued with annual renewal.
Banking
Opening an account is simple: passport, proof of address and an ITIN or SSN (some banks accept passport only). Chase, Bank of America and Wells Fargo have Orlando branches with multilingual service.
Healthcare
The US healthcare system is private — health insurance is essential. Employers usually offer coverage; the self-employed enroll through the marketplace (healthcare.gov). Orlando has excellent hospitals: AdventHealth, Orlando Health and Nemours Children's Hospital.
Kids and schools
Public school enrollment is free and based on your home address. Documents: proof of address, immunization records (form DH680) and a physical exam. Children learning English receive ESOL support.
Support in your language
Patricia Alvares serves clients in Portuguese, English and Spanish, so each step of your move can be handled in the language you are most comfortable with.
Things to do in Central Florida
Beyond the theme parks (Disney, Universal, SeaWorld), the region offers beaches an hour away (Cocoa Beach, Clearwater), hundreds of lakes and trails, the Kennedy Space Center, year-round golf and a booming dining scene on Restaurant Row.
Your Florida move checklist
Check off each item as you go — your progress is saved in this browser
Central Florida map
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about relocating
Do I need a visa or green card to move to Florida?+
To buy property, no visa is required. However, to live and work legally in the United States you need valid immigration status (a visa, green card or citizenship). Buying property alone does not grant residency rights.
What is the cost of living in Orlando?+
Orlando's cost of living is close to the US national average and well below Miami, New York or California. Housing is the biggest factor, with quite affordable rents and very reasonably priced homes. Florida charges no state income tax, which stretches your income further.
How do I get a Florida driver's license?+
New residents must obtain a Florida license within 30 days. You present proof of residence, an ID and proof of legal status at the DMV (FLHSMV). Foreign license holders can drive temporarily with their home license and an international permit.
How does the US healthcare system work?+
The system is largely private, so health insurance is essential. Employers usually offer coverage; the self-employed enroll through the marketplace (healthcare.gov). Orlando has excellent hospitals such as AdventHealth and Orlando Health.
Can I get help in Portuguese or Spanish?+
Yes. Patricia Alvares works with clients in English, Portuguese and Spanish.
Can I open a bank account as a newcomer?+
Yes. Most banks require a passport, proof of address and an ITIN or SSN — some accept a passport only. Major banks like Chase, Bank of America and Wells Fargo have Orlando branches with multilingual service.
Let's talk about your next move
Service in English, Portuguese and Spanish — no obligation