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 increase by approximately $811 per month ($9,732/year) when you move from Wisconsin to Florida.
If you sell your median-priced Wisconsin home ($280K) and buy in Florida ($395K):
Your Wisconsin equity covers the 20% down payment on a median Florida home with $5K left over. That surplus can cover closing costs, moving expenses, or go into savings.
Over 10 years, this move costs you approximately $97K in housing costs alone.
Housing costs more in Florida. The median home is 29% higher than in Wisconsin — a $115K jump. You may need to adjust your expectations on square footage or location, or come with a larger down payment to keep your monthly costs manageable.
Good news on taxes: Florida's 0.86% property tax rate is significantly lower than Wisconsin's 1.76%. You'll save approximately $1,531 per year on property taxes, which adds up to $15K over a decade.
Insurance will cost you more in Florida — $4,200/year compared to $1,300/year in Wisconsin. That's an extra $2,900 annually ($242/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.