Boomers Fleeing Florida Opt for Appalachia as Cheaper, Safer Retirement Destination

Boomers who moved to Florida are now leaving for Appalachia due to hurricanes, congestion, and costs in the Sunshine State.

Appalachian counties with retirement and recreational areas grew 3.8% from 2020-2022, exceeding national average.

Affluent boomers bypassing Florida for Appalachia has fueled population spikes and development in rural southern towns.

Retirees cite hurricanes, traffic, and rising Florida costs as reasons for settling in Georgia and North Carolina instead.

Some new Appalachian residents now want to limit development that's making the region resemble sprawling metro Atlanta.