The Ultimate Forgotten Coast of Florida Relocation Checklist
The Forgotten Coast of Florida isn’t a flashy destination, and that is exactly the point. The pristine stretch of the Gulf feels slower, quieter, and more intentional than the rest of the state. Lacking high-rise skylines for marsh views, oyster bars, and undisturbed beaches, living on the Forgotten Coast is like living on a permanent vacation.
If you are planning a move to areas considered part of the Forgotten Coast, such as Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Carrabelle, Port St. Joe, and Cape San Blas, this checklist will help your move go smoothly.
#1: Understanding the Forgotten Coast Before Selecting a House
The term “Forgotten Coast” isn’t merely a formal boundary, but a lifestyle region. Each community that makes up the Forgotten Coast of Florida offers a different rhythm of daily life, and knowing this early on will help save you time and stress when you begin searching for a house. Both Apalachicola and Eastpoint offer buyers historic charm, river and bay access, and a strong local food scene. St. George Island offers a beach-first living environment with an island feel and seasonal tourism patterns. Carrabelle is renowned for its boating and fishing culture, providing a small-town pace to buyers. And both Port St. Joe and Cape San Blas pose as beach communities with newer development and more growth in recent years.
Before moving, we recommend that prospective buyers decide what matters most to them. Does direct beach access, bay views, and marina proximity take first priority in your book? How about high walkability rates and maximum privacy? Before moving, try testing everyday errands, such as groceries, medical care, and hardware stores from a few select destinations, and if possible, visit during peak season and a quieter, off-season month to really put the town to the test.
#2: How Do I Build a Coastal Budget That Goes Beyond the Purchase Price?
Living on the Gulf is a true reward to the senses: the smell of the fresh sea breeze, the warm climate, and the scenery alone are enough to make anyone want to call the Forgotten Coast of Florida home. However, living on the coast does come with its own set of costs that many inland buyers don’t always expect. But when it comes to coastal budgeting, it is about realism, not fear.
We recommend budgeting to plan for homeowners’ insurance paired with wind and hurricane coverage, as the Forgotten Coast of Florida does fall under hurricane territory. Flood insurance, separate from standard policies, should also be considered. Ongoing maintenance due to salt air and weather exposure is going to have to be taken into account, as well as utilities and infrastructure for septic systems and internet reliability, particularly in more rural areas.
#3: Understand the Difference Between Flood Insurance and Wind Coverage
An important reality of coastal living, particularly in Florida, to remember is that flood insurance and homeowners’ insurance serve two different purposes. Flood coverage is often required depending on the flood zone and lender guidelines, while wind coverage affects deductibles and storm claims. Before making the big move, we recommend asking for the property’s flood zone classification so that you can begin pricing out flood insurance early on, before finalizing your budget. Make sure to also review hurricane deductibles so that you don’t get a pricey surprise later on. Ensure to keep digital copies of policies and home documentation on hand and in a safe place.
#4: Inspect Your Septic System Carefully
Many homes on the Forgotten Coast use septic systems rather than municipal sewer. Florida encourages buyers to always request a septic inspection during the purchase process, as it is a step worth taking seriously. In your checklist, we recommend confirming whether the property uses septic or sewer before requesting a septic inspection and service history. Ask about prior repairs, pumping schedules, or drainfield work, and make sure to budget a contingency fund for future maintenance.
#5: Property Taxes and the Florida Homestead Exemption
If the Forgotten Coast is going to become your primary residence, Florida’s homestead exemption can reduce your taxable value potentially up to $50,000, depending on how exemptions apply. For example, buyers settling in Franklin County communities such as Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Carrabelle, or St. George Island, local property appraiser rules and timelines matter.
It is important to decide early on if this will be your primary home, second home, or investment opportunity. Apply for homestead as soon as you are eligible after closing, and keep your documentation on hand, such as your ID, proof of residency, etc…
“Buyers who do best on the Forgotten Coast are the ones who plan for the realities, not just the views. Insurance, infrastructure, and daily logistics matter just as much as the house itself. When buyers understand those factors upfront, the move feels exciting instead of overwhelming, and far more sustainable long term.” –Preston Russ, Broker Owner
#6: Don’t Panic During Storm Season Prep, It’s All About Organization
Storm readiness is a part of living the coastal lifestyle that everyone dreams of obtaining someday. Locals don’t overreact, but they do prepare, and so should you! In our checklist, we recommend keeping digital copies of insurance policies and closing documents, maintaining a small emergency cash reserve, and knowing evacuation zones and routes. You can also feel free to talk to your neighbors about how storms are handled locally, depending on where you settle.
Ready to Reap the Rewards of Coastal Living on Florida’s Forgotten Coast?
Relocating to the Forgotten Coast isn’t about chasing trends; it is about choosing a slower, more intentional way of living. When you plan for insurance, infrastructure, taxes, and storm readiness upfront, you get to enjoy the lifestyle without constant surprises. With the right preparation, this stretch of Florida offers something increasingly rare: space to breathe, strong community ties, and a daily pace that feels genuinely liveable. Trust the real estate professionals at Coastal Realty to guide you in finding and settling down in the home of your dreams in the many scenic coastal towns that make up the Forgotten Coast of Florida today!