Louise Lopez expertly guides queer individuals to vibrant, inclusive U.S. and North American neighborhoods with 15+ years of dedicated experience, ensuring they find not just a home, but a community where their authenticity is celebrated and protected.
One of the most common thoughts you might have before relocating anywhere is how accepting the locals are towards the LGBTQ+ lifestyle. It is a very valid concern and something that sadly still needs to be considered in this day and age.
To help queer folx who are considering moving to Gay Florida, we have put together this guide from experts on the ground, considering the pros and cons of life here, discussing LGBT rights in Florida and whether Florida embraces our community.
We also take a look at the most gay-friendly cities in Florida, and LGBT community organizations in Florida that you should be aware of!
Florida is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque states in which to live. The state is the ideal retirement location for many people, including LGBT individuals. We mean, who wouldn’t like to spend a large portion of the year enjoying warm sun and water?
Other than the hurricanes and bugs, there’s much to look forward to about living here. There are plenty of living options for LGBTQ people in Florida. The LGBTQ community in Florida is estimated to total around 1 million, though this estimate does not take snowbirds and tourists into consideration.
Florida is a tapestry of regions, each offering its own unique appeal to those seeking a welcoming and gay-friendly environment. The state is home to celebrated havens like Fort Lauderdale and Key West, known for their vibrant LGBTQ+ communities and lively cultural scenes. In addition to these well-known hotspots, cities like Port St. Lucie and Lakeland provide quieter, yet equally inclusive alternatives.
These areas boast a blend of coastal charm, LGBTQ+-rich neighborhoods, and city skyrises with stunning water views. Despite the headlines, pockets of Florida have a hard-earned reputation as exceptionally gay-friendly, with numerous enclaves featuring rainbow-painted sidewalks, LGBTQ+-owned businesses, and a community ethos where diverse identities are welcomed and celebrated.
This might be unexpected given how historically anti-LGBTQ the state has been. The Florida Legislative Investigation Committee made an effort to drive out LGBTQ students from schools in the 1950s and 1960s by condemning gay teachers and destroying their careers. More recently, Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ law says public school teachers may not instruct on sexual orientation or gender identity in grades kindergarten through third grade, which has fuelled anti-LGBTQ hate.
The reality, however, cannot be put out by harsh legislation and outmoded philosophy. LGBTQ people will persist here unless Florida itself ceases to exist; it is just frustrating that we still have to be fighting the same battles over and over again.
To reduce the stress of your relocation, we recommend engaging a gay realtor in Florida early in the process to help you find your new perfect home there in the most gay-friendly areas. They will have up-to-the-minute information on the best cities and areas for LGBT people and be able to match your needs to a neighborhood most suited to you.
You can just start with a no-obligation conversation, and if you decide to continue with your move to Florida – they will not only have your best interests at heart but also ensure you are treated with dignity and respect throughout the entire process.
In this article we will cover...
Highlights Of Moving To Gay Florida
Different aspects of every state make it a unique and tempting proposition to transplants, locals, and visitors – and residents of Florida are well aware that their state is brimming with hidden gems. After all, this is why many chose to live here.
Once you move here, you’ll be able to quickly befriend locals and spend your free time discovering the best sights and culture Florida has to offer. On top of this, thanks to an offbeat yet deeply engaged LGBT community, which congregates at a few fabulous queer hot spots, securing a relocation to Florida should allow you to meet queer people with similar interests.
We are certain they will have many more to add, but to get you started, here are a few highlights of moving to LGBT Florida.
Safety
Florida is generally a safe state for LGBT residents, families, and visitors. South Florida locations with vibrant LGBT nightlife scenes and establishments that warmly welcome gay tourists should be expected to have the highest levels of tolerance.
Even so, it’s advisable to always take safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings and take safety precautions wherever you are. Take care when out on your own at night.
Florida has a lower total crime rate than the rest of the country, so you will definitely love living in a safe state. You may have to contend with hurricanes, potential storms, flooding and lightning since Florida is prone to extreme weather. When visiting the beach, always pay attention to caution flags because rip currents are a danger.
Gay Nightlife
From the excitement of the charm of seaside tiki bars and nightclubs, the gay nightlife in Florida has it all. For high-octane excitement at its array of gay bars, visit South Beach in Miami. A few gay clubs in Fort Lauderdale and the nearby neighborhood of Wilton Manors highlight the area’s expanding LGBT culture.
Gay visitors visiting Tampa have a space to be themselves and find gay-friendly establishments along the main street in the historic area of Ybor City. Don’t forget Orlando’s storied gay clubs, which provide a variety of experiences, from intimate dives to massive clubs with lots of entertainment and dancing. Or the hedonism and freedom at the edge of the world offered by Key West.
Respect For LGBTQ history
The largest gay archive and library in the country is the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, recognized as Florida’s LGBTQ community’s Smithsonian since its inception in 1974.
The gallery hosts recurring exhibits from its holdings, which include autographed orange pants from the TV series “Queer as Folk,” as well as an authentic printing of sex research from Dr. Alfred Kinsey. The World AIDS Museum, the first institution devoted to the HIV/AIDS crisis, is also located here and features pieces of Keith Haring’s AIDS Quilt.
LGBTQ+ Rights In The USA
The laws governing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have altered considerably over time in the United States and vary from state to state. In many ways, LGBT rights are some of the best in the world – but the devil is in the detail, and some places are much more hostile to queer life than others.
While same-sex marriage has been legal in every state since the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges ruling on June 26, 2015 (before Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex marriage was legal in 36 states and Washington, D.C. ), LGBT people are still treated differently in different states – both societally and as inequality under the law.
Over half of all states still allow discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression, while counties and cities within states often have distinct laws as well. While some states permit adoption by all couples, others forbid it for all unmarried couples.
This is all to say what most of us already know is that LGBT rights and equality differ greatly across the USA, and the specifics of family, marriage and anti-discrimination laws are different in every state.
Thus, while it is comforting to know that you can choose to marry whoever you love across the USA (and have it recognized as such) and are protected against hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity (which can be punished under Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr.
Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009), there are still many questions you will likely have about moving to Florida and what you can expect of LGBT life there.
Does Florida Embrace The LGBTQ Community?
Living options for LGBTQ people abound in Florida. Beaches, sunny weather, and a wide range of activities in Florida evoke a sense of freedom that appeals to visitors and residents of all orientations, but particularly to the LGBT community seeking a sense of community and acceptance. In its marketing brochures, the state’s official tourism promotion division frequently uses the word “gay.”
The “don’t speak gay” bill, which was passed recently by the state Senate and hasn’t yet been signed into law by the Governor, has drawn attention to Florida. The “Don’t Say Gay” bill, which prohibits the discussion of gender identity and sexual orientation in public schools, was recently signed by Governor Ron DeSantis.
The reality, however, cannot be put out by harsh legislation and outmoded philosophy. The Parental Rights in Education bill, as it is officially known, forbids kindergarten through third-grade teachers from discussing gender identity or sexual orientation in the classroom, or in a fashion that isn’t developmentally suitable or age-appropriate for pupils.
The proposed bill has drawn criticism for potentially harming LGBTQ children or children with gay parents; President Biden dubbed it “hateful.” The bill has sparked protests outside Disney World, in schools, and in the state Capitol. It has also sparked outrage from activists and replies from famous people on social media.
The message is in direct opposition to the inclusive and welcoming environment that advocates for LGBTQ tourism have been trying to promote for years. They are hoping that despite the opposition to the measure, tourists would continue to patronize the bed-and-breakfasts, pubs, cultural institutions, and restaurants that welcome gays.
Is Florida An Expensive State To Move To
Florida can be reasonably priced even though it’s one of the most well-liked retirement and vacation locations in the United States. In actuality, the state’s average cost of living is only 1% higher than the country’s average.
Housing costs. The average home in the state costs $196,800, which is $8,100 lower than the $204,900 national median home value. Homes built in 1939 or before cost, on average, $198,500, while those built in 2014 and later are worth, on average, $322,700.In Florida, the average renter pays $1,128 per month for housing, which is $105 higher than the $1,023 average monthly rent nationwide.
Utilities. Utilities in Florida generally offer savings, with the cost of utilities such as phone service and energy typically being 13% lower than the country’s average. Miami aligns somewhat with this trend, standing in the middle range among Florida cities in terms of utility costs. In contrast, Saint Augustine, Florida, known for its historical significance, often sees utility costs that are slightly lower than Miami’s, further underscoring the state’s overall affordability in terms of basic services.
Transportation. The average driver in the state may anticipate spending $920 on gas alone each year, based on the average price of gasoline, at $2.14 per gallon.
Food: A single adult in the state spends an average of $3,400 on food each year, while a family of four is likely to spend an average of $9,850. For comparison, the average yearly food expenditure in the United States is $9,350 for a family of four and $3,230 for an adult.
LGBTQ+ Community Organizations In Florida
Sweethearts, no matter where you sashay in the sunshine state, supporting LGBT organizations is a fabulous way to spread love and solidarity. These groups are like the sequins on the gown of our community – essential and brilliant, reaching out to those in need of a helping hand or a listening ear. Remember, our collective power and resilience are amplified when we come together as one dazzling family.
In the heart of Florida, the LGBTQ community has blossomed into a diverse and supportive haven, radiating acceptance and progress. This transformation has been spearheaded by the top Florida LGBT organizations, champions in creating a more inclusive and gay-affirming environment.
These organizations provide an array of resources, from emotional support to health services, for community members, their allies, friends, and families. Dive into this treasure trove of support, or better yet, become a part of it. Your involvement can help keep the vibrant spirit of Gay Florida thriving and moving forward.
And let’s not forget the social fabulosity these organizations offer. They’re not just resource hubs, they’re social hotspots where you can meet new friends and build your very own queer chosen family under the Florida sun.
The LGBT division of the American Civil Liberties Union fights for complete equality for all people in Central Florida and the state. The ACLU focuses on legislative issues and evidence-based solutions, similar to Equality Florida. Their fundamental objective is to guarantee that everyone, whether gay or straight, bisexual or transgender, has access to the same civil liberties as everyone else.
The ACLU campaigns for a more secure and accepting environment where LGBTQ people can be themselves without fear of violence or harassment. The ACLU’s singular concentration on The Constitution sets it distinct from grassroots organizing efforts.
The objectives of the LGBT Rights Project are supported by resources and precise constitutional justifications for each purpose.
Equality Florida is the state’s largest civil rights organization fighting for complete equality for residents who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender. The organization was founded in 1997.
With thousands of supporters across the country, this alliance-building organization can effectively push for proper rights for LGBTQ+ individuals in businesses, schools, and homes. The organization is made up of two entities, unlike many other nonprofit organizations. It is made up of:
Equality Florida Institute and Equality Florida Action
Together, these two groups can make a significant difference in Florida, by advocating for better services to protect the health and safety of the area’s LGBT population. Equality Florida has also initiated a number of campaigns that help to make the state a more inclusive place.
Most Gay-Friendly Cities In Florida
In Florida, there are many wonderful areas to live in, but when relocating to LGBTQ Florida, you should be cognizant that there are a few cities and gaybourhoods that are nearer to the queer hubs of life. Knowing them will allow you to pull your U-Haul up to your new house in a gay-friendly neighborhood or town that is best suited to your needs.
If you’re a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or otherwise queer person seeking a welcoming neighborhood with facilities you’ll cherish, start with these top gay and gay-friendly Florida cities to discover your perfect new home, each with its distinct personality.
Give yourself enough time to acquaint yourself with Florida’s diverse personalities, and remember that there is no one perfect answer when it comes to the most gay-friendly places in Florida… and just because it does not make our list doesn’t necessarily make it a bad option.
We recommend speaking to a local LGBT real estate agent for a more detailed understanding of the best options today. Now, let’s take a look at where these fabulously gay-friendly cities in Florida are and why you might want to consider them!
Miami Beach
Miami Beach, known as the Gay Riviera, has flown the rainbow flag for many years. In 1992, the municipality approved the state’s first comprehensive law outlawing discrimination based on sexual orientation. As a resource for gay tourists, it opened the nation’s first LGBT Visitors Center at the intersection of Washington Avenue and 11th Street.
More than 10,000 lesbian and gay visitors attend the city’s renowned White Party Week in November, which features high-energy parties hosted by renowned DJs and artists, sports, comedy shows, and leisure events. White Party Week is the country’s largest and oldest HIV/AIDS fundraiser.
The beach is a major magnet for South Beach, particularly the gay beach around Ocean Drive and 12th Street, in addition to the area’s striking assortment of warm Art Deco treasures and boutique hotels. Spring during the Miami Gay and Lesbian Film Festival and the Miami Beach Gay Pride is the most popular time to visit.
Two miles of South Beach are taken up by eye-catching Art Deco treasures and boutique hotels. The district of South Beach has been sufficiently gay for a long period of time for its gayness to permeate every sphere of life there.
The artistic center of the city, Wynwood, possesses a more gay-friendly hipster attitude and is teeming with lively restaurants, clothing stores, artwork, breweries, clubs, dance venues, and several other retail alternatives.
The area is distinguished by vibrant paintings and murals that delicately cover the walls of numerous buildings.
St. Petersburg
Locals don’t refer to this seaside city as Gay St. Pete for nothing. This city is the heart of gay culture on the state’s Gulf Coast. The ‘burg also boasts a flawless score from HRC’s Municipal Equality Index, an accolade achieved every year since 2014. This is in addition to holding the largest LGBTQ Pride festival in the state each June.
Queer life in this city is tops, according to the Equality Index, which evaluates how well-treated LGBTQ communities are in various locations. There are three LGBT neighborhoods in St. Pete, not just one. The Grand Central District, which runs along Central Avenue from around 16th to 31st streets, is the area with the most activity.
Take a stroll or ride a bike along this lively strip to browse adorable boutiques, take pictures of towering murals, or snack at hip restaurants. The trendy coffee shop/bar Intermezzo is open late, and Freya’s is a delicious vegan diner just adjacent to St. Pete’s rainbow crosswalk.
The Grand Central District is home to much more than 70 GLBT-friendly enterprises, including antique shops, home décor galleries, hairdressers, restaurants, and bars. It is the center of the LGBT community in St. Petersburg.
Sunset Beach, a prominent LGBT beach on the West Coast, is also located in St. Pete. The barrier islands that stretch along the Gulf of Mexico all the way to the west of St. Petersburg are home to a number of islands, including St. Pete’s Treasure Island, where Sunset Beach is situated.
Wilton Manors
In the City of Wilton Manors, diversity is celebrated rather than tolerated. Wilton Manors was designated the “Second Gayest City” in the US after the 2010 US Census. Since there are many people who identify as LGBT in the community, Wilton Manors has long been a progressive location to live, work, and play.
The city has embraced its status as a popular travel destination for the LGBT community. The Pride Center at Equality Park, which is the gay and lesbian community center for Broward County, is located in Wilton Manors and frequently collaborates with LGBT+ organizations. The Stonewall Pride Parade and Street Festival are jointly sponsored by the City.
Since Wilton Manors achieved the honor of electing Broward County’s first openly gay official in 1988, there’s been a significant gay representation on the City Commission. By the year 2000, the city had become the second American city with a majority of LGBT elected officials. Among them were a gay vice mayor, and councilman.
In November 2018, the city became the second in the country (after Palm Springs) to have an all-LGBT+ City Commission, making history once more. The major thoroughfare is “the Drive” (also known as Wilton Drive), where establishments big and small proudly fly rainbow flags.
The Island City is located 40 minutes north of Miami and 10 minutes north of downtown Fort Lauderdale. Wilton Manors’ sister city is Oakland Park, and even the Wilton Manors police are skilled at keeping things queer.
The police force launched a squad car with a rainbow theme in 2019. Enjoy some time on Wilton Drive, a bustling commercial district that is home to more than 40 queer-owned or gay-friendly companies.
Finding Gay Realtors In Florida
When looking for the ideal realtor, why would you consider someone’s sexuality? This may seem strange at first, but there are several reasons why contacting a gay realtor in Florida is a great way to find your dream house.
After all, when it relates to one of life’s most significant transactions, it’s not unreasonable to expect fair, equal, and honest representation from someone who understands the queer community’s particular needs and wishes.
Furthermore, unfortunately, many people (up to a third of Americans) believe that our community does not deserve protection and dignity in housing, adoption, employment, and other areas of life.
So it’s no surprise that LGBT people who use mainstream realtors often describe feelings of discomfort, unnecessary trouble, unenthusiastic representation, or even antagonism or outright contempt.
Everyone deserves a pleasant, stress-free home buying or selling experience while being adequately represented, and this is why we feel you should hire a gay realtor to assist you in finding your future home.
LGBTQ realtors are more likely to be familiar with the diverse communities in their area and know which ones may be best suited to you when looking for a home.
That’s not to say a heterosexual realtor isn’t capable, but they’ve probably never had to address many of the issues LGBT people face. Rather than just being concerned with how bustling, fashionable, or up-and-coming a neighborhood is (or what it may appear like), gay realtors conduct extensive research into the neighborhoods in which they sell homes to ensure that clients are safe.
It used to be challenging to locate professional LGBT-friendly real estate agents in Florida, and it was virtually impossible to find one if you were relocating here from out of state and didn’t have access to a local referral.
You no longer have to search for a realtor without knowing whether or not they are accepting of others because you can use a list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents in Florida to do all of your homework for you.
Simply go to the page, and you’ll be presented with a free list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents who can help you with your relocation, as well as other useful information like LGBT+friendly schools, shopping, storage firms, tradespeople, and more.
Read the biographies of LGBT real estate agents, then choose the one that is right for you. It’s critical that you find someone who will be by your side and support you and your family during one of life’s most exciting occasions.
Even better, there is no hidden motive, cost, or obligation whatsoever!
