Why Florida is Winning: A Look at the New "Floridians First" Budget

Hey there, friends! Gerdys here, and today I want to chat about something that affects all of us living in (or thinking about moving to) the Sunshine State. Governor Ron DeSantis just announced the "Floridians First" Budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27, and honestly? There's a lot to be excited about.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a growing family, a small business owner, or someone eyeing Florida as your next chapter, this budget has some serious wins worth knowing about. So grab your coffee, and let's break it down together!

The Big Picture: What's in This Budget?

The proposed Floridians First Budget totals a whopping $117.4 billion. But here's what makes it really impressive: it includes $16.75 billion in reserves and puts $250 million toward debt reduction. That's not just big numbers on paper, that's real fiscal responsibility that keeps our state strong and stable.

Under Governor DeSantis' leadership, Florida has climbed to the top in some pretty incredible ways. Florida has earned top national rankings in areas like:

• Education
• Entrepreneurship
• New business formations

And Florida continues to be one of the top states people are moving to—Florida continues to attract new residents year after year.

Since 2019, Florida has reported 3.8 million new businesses. That's not a typo, 3.8 million! And all of this growth has happened while actually saving taxpayers money. Pretty impressive, right?

Nearly $10 Billion in Tax Relief, Yes, Really

Here's a number that should make every Floridian smile: since taking office, Governor DeSantis has delivered nearly $9.7 billion in tax relief for Florida families and businesses.

One of the biggest wins? The full repeal of the commercial rent tax, which saves small businesses about $2.7 billion every single year. If you're a business owner or thinking about starting one here in Florida, that's money staying in your pocket instead of going to the state.

This kind of business-friendly environment is exactly why so many entrepreneurs and investors are flocking to Florida. And when businesses thrive, communities grow, which means more jobs, more amenities, and stronger property values for homeowners.

Sales Tax Holidays: More Money in Your Pocket

Okay, let's talk about one of my favorite topics, saving money! The Governor has approved a bunch of permanent and temporary sales tax holidays that directly benefit Florida families. Here are a few highlights, including items that are now permanently tax-free and annual seasonal savings you can plan for:

• Florida now has a permanent annual back-to-school tax holiday (every August) (parents, rejoice!)
• Disaster preparedness supplies (hurricane season is no joke)
• Baby and toddler products
• Diapers (new parents, you're welcome)
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Admissions to Florida State Parks

That last one is especially awesome. Florida has some of the most beautiful state parks in the country, and now you can enjoy them without paying extra taxes on admission. Weekend plans, anyone?

Temporary Tax Holidays Worth Marking on Your Calendar

Beyond the permanent exemptions, there are also some fantastic temporary sales tax holidays to keep on your radar:

• Freedom Summer recreation activities
• Skilled worker tools (great for contractors and tradespeople!)
• Impact-resistant windows and doors (hello, hurricane protection!)
• Appliances and gas ranges
• Camping supplies
• Fishing supplies

That impact-resistant windows and doors exemption? That's huge for homeowners looking to protect their property and potentially lower their insurance costs. If you've been putting off those upgrades, this is your sign!

Healthcare, Education, and Family Services: Florida Investing in What Matters

The Floridians First Budget isn't just about tax relief (though that's certainly a highlight). There are also major investments in the things that make Florida a great place to live and raise a family.

Healthcare Innovation:

• $4.1 billion dedicated to public health and healthcare innovation
• $277.5 million for cancer research, including $80 million specifically targeting pediatric cancers
• $14.6 million to establish the nation's first statewide system for prehospital blood products on ambulances

Family and Children's Services:

• Over $4.8 billion allocated to the Department of Children and Families
• $187.5 million for addiction prevention and treatment programs
• $72.7 million to increase mental health bed capacity
• $35.5 million to strengthen support for foster families

Higher Education:

• $645 million for performance-based funding incentives at state universities
• $100 million for faculty recruitment and retention
• $125 million for preeminence funding to high-performing universities

These investments matter: not just for quality of life, but for property values too. Great schools, accessible healthcare, and strong community services are exactly what homebuyers look for when choosing where to plant roots.

What This Means for Florida Real Estate

Now, let's connect the dots to what I know best: real estate!

All of this good news creates a powerful ripple effect in the housing market. When a state earns top national rankings in education and business growth—and Florida continues to attract new residents year after year—guess what happens? More people want to live here.

That continued in-migration means steady demand for housing across Florida. Whether you're looking at Cape Coral or another Southwest Florida community, the fundamentals supporting our market are strong.

For homebuyers, Florida's tax-friendly environment means more of your hard-earned money stays with you. No state income tax, plus all these sales tax holidays and exemptions? That's real savings that can go toward your down payment, home improvements, or just enjoying life in paradise.

For investors and small business owners, the repeal of the commercial rent tax and the overall pro-business climate make Florida incredibly attractive. More businesses opening means more jobs, which means more people needing homes: it's a beautiful cycle.

And for current homeowners? You're sitting on property in one of the most desirable states in the country. The combination of fiscal responsibility, quality of life investments, and continued population growth bodes well for property values.

The Bottom Line

Florida isn't just winning: we're leading the nation in so many ways that matter. The Floridians First Budget reflects a commitment to keeping Florida affordable, business-friendly, and focused on the priorities that make our state the best place to live, work, and raise a family.

Whether you're already here and loving the Florida lifestyle, or you're thinking about making the move, there's never been a better time to call the Sunshine State home.

Got questions about buying, selling, or investing in Florida real estate? I'd love to help you navigate your next move! Feel free to reach out anytime: I'm here for you.

Until next time, friends!

— Gerdys Ruiseco, Your Local Real Estate Expert