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Sun City Center

California to Florida

Moving From California to Sun City Center, Florida (Retiree Guide)

By Dewey Kopenga and Travis Penny. updated June 2026

TL;DR

California has the highest state income tax in the country, topping 13.3%, and some of the priciest housing. Florida's zero income tax plus far lower home prices make Sun City Center one of the largest financial swings of any feeder state, even after a long-distance move.

CA income tax (top)

up to 13.3%

Florida income tax

0%

CA median home price

Far above FL

Distance from CA

~2,500 mi (fly + ship, or 4 to 5 day drive)

The tax and housing math for Californians

California's top income-tax rate exceeds 13.3%, and even middle-income retirees pay high marginal rates. Florida charges nothing. Just as important, selling a California home often funds a comparable or larger Sun City Center home outright, with cash left over, while annual property tax and overall cost of living drop sharply.

Making a long-distance move work

Because the drive is long, most California buyers fly out to scout, then ship belongings or hire full-service movers. We coordinate remote home tours by video and handle the on-the-ground logistics so you can buy with confidence from across the country.

How most California buyers do it

  • ◆Scout trip: Fly in for a few days of tours and to feel the community.
  • ◆Buy: Purchase a single-level 55+ home, often with sale proceeds.
  • ◆Move: Ship belongings or use full-service movers.
  • ◆Residency: 183+ days, Florida license, voter registration, homestead.

Healthcare transfer

Medicare transfers cleanly nationwide. Switch Medicare Advantage during open enrollment to a Florida plan. HCA Florida South Bay Hospital serves Sun City Center, with Tampa General and Moffitt close by.

Frequently Asked

Questions about california to florida.

For many it's the largest of any state, the highest income tax in the country drops to zero, and home equity often stretches much further in Sun City Center.

Start your move

Planning your move from California?

Tell us a bit about your timeline and we'll put together a California-to-Sun City Center plan. Dewey and Travis both get a copy.

Ready when you are

Get the answer for your situation.

One 30-minute call covers property strategy and financing. Dewey and Travis on the line together.

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