As my college graduation approaches and I move closer to moving back to New York, I'm finding I'm having some serious separation anxiety from the Sunshine State. In order to honor the good Florida has to offer (I swear it isn't just old people and Disney freaks, though they aren't in short supply) I wanted to compile a list of what I'll miss most about Florida living.
1. The Sunshine (DUH!)
There is something really incredible about getting to wear shorts and go swimming for about 10 months of the year. Sure, the heat can get a little obnoxious, but every building in Florida is so pumped full of central air you kind of get over it. Plus nothing brightens your day like literally having a bright and sunny day.
2. Publix.
Growing up in New York, the standard grocery experience meant going to the A&P and being incredibly lucky to find anyone to answer your questions, dealing with 16 year old cashiers who literally hated customers, and lots of faulty shopping carts. Publix puts every other grocery store to shame. The employees are amazing, the produce section is on point, and they'll even load the groceries into the car for you. It's like little pieces of heaven scattered throughout Florida.
3. The Roads.
Complain all you want about 1-4 construction, Florida has some killer roadways. Coming from the Northeast and having dealt with the impacts of snow on roadways (basically giant potholes EVERYWHERE), I have gained a serious appreciation for the upkeep of Florida roadways. My tires thank you!
4. Chick-Fil-A.
Honestly, I can't even write that much here because just the thought of not having access to Chick-Fil-A makes me hyperventilate. I'm pretty sure every future visit to Florida will require me immediately leaving MCO and speeding to the closest Chick-Fil-A. God damn that chicken is just so good.
5. Affordable Living.
Whether it's cigarettes, gas or just basics like food, it seems like EVERYTHING is cheaper in Florida. I'm actually going to quit smoking because I can't rationalize going from $6 a pack here to $13 in New York. Sure, the median average salary is less here, but you really can't argue with a 6 bedroom house for $300,000.
6. NO STATE INCOME TAX.
Okay, I'm pretty sure everyone loves this about living in Florida. There is nothing more enjoyable than doing the math on your hours and not having to subtract the money you owe the state. Though maybe that whole 1-4 thing would get finished quicker if we were paying state income tax, but that's really none of my business.
7. Disney World.
Having Disney World basically in your backyard is pretty awesome. Florida residents get a discount so it's pretty much a no-brainer. To be able to randomly spend a day at Disney when people fly from halfway around the world to visit is one of the coolest things about being a Floridian. And yeah, I guess Universal is pretty cool too.
Obviously these 7 reasons aren't enough to keep me in Florida for life, but they will definitely be missed and keep me coming back. Especially the Chick-Fil-A, I really can't stress that enough.