Located as far west in Florida as you pretty much can get, Pensacola has seen explosive growth in recent years, with new developments and opportunities in both jobs and housing as well as a number of pre-existing attractions that bring people to the city to stay.
Are you looking to make a move? Then here are X reasons you should move to Pensacola.
1. Pensacola job growth
One of the biggest reasons people relocate is due to work and job change. Pensacola, like many coastal towns, does have a thriving tourism industry as well as a large, active-duty military presence due to the nearby Naval Air Station Pensacola, which means plenty of defense contractors in the area.
And to help entrepreneurs, the Studer Community Institute recently launched a business accelerator program. Developed from a MIT mentorship program, Pensacola’s business accelerator has a focus on companies that will create jobs and raise wages.
Oh, plus there’s always that little point that Florida doesn’t have a state income tax. That’s big no matter where you go.
2. Pensacola is one of the best beaches in Florida
According to U.S. News & World Report, Pensacola Beach is one of the best beaches in the state, which offer some amazing views of the Gulf Coast as well as powdery, white sand and emerald green waters.
Locals especially appreciated this beach over other nearby options for its relatively peaceful atmosphere without being a huge party scene. In short, it’s a great place to relax in a beautiful setting, and people want to keep it that way.
3. Great outdoor opportunities in Pensacola
If you’re not about hitting the beach, Pensacola still has some great things to do to enjoy the great outdoors. For example, head to the north side of town and get away from the gulf with the Edward Ball Nature Trail, where you can see nature—including turtles and alligators—during a walk or bike ride.
4. Pensacola is great for history buffs
Do you love history? Then you’ll love living in America’s First Settlement. One of the oldest metros in the state, Pensacola offers residents a great place to experience local history with sites from the historic T.T. Wentworth, Jr. Museum to the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum.
Having an active military community, locals also love to explore nearby history with spots such as Fort Barrancas and the Fort Pickens Gulf Islands National Park.
5. Pensacola is ranked among the best cities in Florida
We saved the best for last, literally. According to the U.S. News & World Report, Pensacola is among the top five cities to live in Florida, with particularly high marks on desirability and value for your budget. In fact, Pensacola is even month the top 40 best places to live as well.
One of the biggest draws is (again) the lack of a state income tax plus the incredibly affordable housing in the area, with the median home cost in Pensacola being more than $85,000 cheaper than the national average.
So, will you make the move to Pensacola? While you’ll see some great savings and get more bang for your buck when it comes to housing, did you know a storage unit can still come handy while relocating? Click here to learn more about how Pensacola self storage can help you
