Michigan to Florida
By Dewey Kopenga and Travis Penny. updated June 2026
TL;DR
Michigan's 4.25% flat tax applies to much retirement income, so a Sun City Center move zeroes that out. Combined with no estate tax and a decisive break from long, gray Michigan winters, it's a popular swap, at home prices comparable to Detroit and Grand Rapids suburbs.
Michigan income tax
4.25% flat
Florida income tax
0%
Drive from Detroit
~1,200 mi (2 to 3 days)
Florida winters
60s to 70s vs MI snow
Michigan applies its 4.25% flat tax to most retirement income, with phased exemptions depending on age and source. A retired couple drawing $120k typically saves $3,000 to $5,000 a year as Florida residents. Florida also has no estate or inheritance tax.
Michigan winters are long, dark, and snowy. Sun City Center offers winter highs in the 60s and 70s, year-round golf, and an active club calendar, the classic reason Michigan snowbirds become full-time Floridians.
Medicare transfers cleanly. Switch Medicare Advantage during open enrollment. HCA Florida South Bay Hospital serves Sun City Center, with Tampa General and Moffitt close by.
Frequently Asked
Start your move
Tell us a bit about your timeline and we'll put together a Michigan-to-Sun City Center plan. Dewey and Travis both get a copy.
Ready when you are
One 30-minute call covers property strategy and financing. Dewey and Travis on the line together.
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