New York to Florida
By Dewey Kopenga and Travis Penny. updated June 2026
TL;DR
New York is one of the largest feeder states into Sun City Center. A retired couple drawing $120k cuts roughly 6% state income tax to zero, escapes New York's estate tax, and trades a 1,500 sq ft co-op for a detached 55+ home with a garage at a comparable or lower price.
NY income tax (typical retiree)
~6.85%
Florida income tax
0%
NY estate tax
Yes (FL: none)
Drive from NYC
~1,150 mi (2 to 3 days)
New York taxes most retirement income above the $20,000 pension exclusion, and high earners face rates near 6.85% before New York City's local tax on top. A couple drawing $120k a year typically keeps $6,000 to $8,000 more annually as Florida residents. New York also levies an estate tax with a cliff that can tax the entire estate once you cross the exemption. Florida has no estate or inheritance tax at all.
A modest co-op or attached home in the New York suburbs often equals the price of a detached, single-level Sun City Center home with a two-car garage, lanai, and access to pools, clubs, and golf. The carrying cost difference, lower property tax plus the homestead exemption and 3% Save-Our-Homes cap, compounds every year you hold.
Medicare is federal and transfers cleanly. If you carry Medicare Advantage, switch during open enrollment (Oct 15 to Dec 7) to a Florida plan. HCA Florida South Bay Hospital serves Sun City Center directly, with Tampa General and Moffitt Cancer Center (a top-ranked U.S. cancer center) a short drive north.
Frequently Asked
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