How your housing costs change when you relocate. Based on 2026 data with 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed.
Your housing costs will decrease by approximately $274 per month ($3,288/year) when you move from Rhode Island to Florida.
If you sell your median-priced Rhode Island home ($425K) and buy in Florida ($395K):
Your Rhode Island equity covers the 20% down payment on a median Florida home with $49K left over. That surplus can cover closing costs, moving expenses, or go into savings.
Over 10 years, this move saves you approximately $33K in housing costs alone.
Your dollar stretches further in Florida. The median home costs 7% less than in Rhode Island, which translates to a $30K difference in purchase price. This means a smaller loan, a lower monthly payment, and less total interest paid over the life of your mortgage.
Good news on taxes: Florida's 0.86% property tax rate is significantly lower than Rhode Island's 1.53%. You'll save approximately $3,106 per year on property taxes, which adds up to $31K over a decade.
Insurance will cost you more in Florida — $4,200/year compared to $2,200/year in Rhode Island. That's an extra $2,000 annually ($167/month). High premiums are driven by severe weather risk in the region.
When you buy in Florida, expect about $7K in closing costs (1.8% of purchase price). This includes a 0.7% transfer tax. Budget for this amount on top of your down payment.
Florida's Florida Hometown Heroes offers Up to 5% as 0% deferred loan. If you haven't owned a home in three years (or are buying in Florida for the first time), you may qualify. Check eligibility requirements and income limits on Florida's housing finance agency website.