Vox producer Marin Cogan and climate change expert Umair Irfan discuss the allure of Florida despite climate change concerns, exploring its unique economic, political, and cultural trends. They explore the challenges the state faces with rising property taxes and coastal development, but also highlight the resilience of Florida and the importance of adapting to climate change. The podcast also touches on the population changes in Miami, its development efforts, and the debate surrounding building in the city amidst climate change concerns.
Florida's population growth is driven by both younger people seeking job opportunities and older individuals accelerating their plans to retire, attracted by the state's warm weather, sunny beaches, and lower taxes.
Florida's aggressive efforts to court businesses from states like California and New York, along with the shifting political landscape, are fueling the state's economic boom and making it a center for conservative policymaking.
Deep dives
Migration to Florida is Accelerating
Florida is experiencing a significant surge in population growth, becoming the fastest growing state in the nation. Between 2021 and 2022, the state's population grew by 1.9%. This growth is driven by people from various states, including New York, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and California. The reasons for moving to Florida differ, with younger people often seeking job opportunities and older individuals accelerating their plans to retire. The state's allure of warm weather, sunny beaches, and lower taxes continue to attract a diverse range of individuals.
Florida's Economic Boom and Political Landscape
Florida's economic boom is fueled by its leadership's aggressive efforts to court businesses from states like California and New York. The state is attracting big companies and creating more jobs, particularly in sectors like technology and healthcare. Additionally, Florida's political landscape is shifting, with many newcomers registering as Republicans. According to data, about 45% of the newcomers registered as Republicans, while only 22.5% registered as Democrats. This political landscape, combined with the state's growth, is making Florida a center for conservative policymaking.
Climate Change, Adaptation, and Concerns about Florida's Growth
While Florida's growth is impressive, it raises concerns about the state's ability to sustain this level of growth, particularly in the face of climate change. Rising sea levels, increased hurricanes, and extreme weather events pose challenges for Florida's infrastructure and population. The city of Miami, in particular, is vulnerable to climate change impacts. However, Miami is adapting by raising buildings above expected flood levels and implementing other measures to mitigate the effects of climate change. Despite awareness of climate risks, people are still moving to Florida, undeterred by the potential challenges.
We’re not just talking snowbirds. The Sunshine State is the fastest growing in the nation despite, you know, climate change. Vox’s Marin Cogan and Umair Irfan explain why.
This episode was produced by Haleema Shah, edited by Matt Collette, fact-checked by Serena Solin and Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Noel King.