Retirement in Florida is often seen as the perfect escape: a place to relax, enjoy the warm weather and spend time doing what you love. However, for many Floridians, the dream of carefree retirement is becoming harder to achieve, as they find themselves having to return to the workforce to cover basic expenses.
Recent surveys have highlighted this growing trend. A September 2024 survey by Resume Builder found that 13% of seniors are planning to return to work in 2025, while 22% are already back in the workforce. This reflects the reality that many retirees are struggling with the high cost of living in Florida.
According to a late 2024 study by Go Banking Rates, Floridians need to earn at least $71,592 per year to retire comfortably. But the average retirement income in the state is only around $30,158, according to SmartAsset’s report from the same period.
For some seniors, this financial gap is forcing them to re-enter the job market. Take Janette Campbell, for example. Janette, a retired teacher, found herself in a difficult situation when she realized she couldn’t cover her mortgage and basic household expenses.
She told CBS Miami, “I went back to work because I found myself in a difficult position where I wasn’t able to pay for my mortgage or food for the house.” Janette is currently undergoing training and actively searching for a full-time job to make ends meet.
The situation is even more challenging for some seniors who are dealing with additional healthcare costs and family responsibilities. Barry Schoen, a retired veteran, is one such example. In late 2024, he shared his struggles with the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
Barry had to return to work as an intern for CareerSource due to the rising costs of living in South Florida. His wife’s medications are expensive, and his special needs son requires ongoing support. As Barry put it, “The economy is so costly. You get four items in the grocery bag today and it’s 40 bucks. My wife’s meds are astronomical. My son is not working…”
Ricky Bowman, a retiree who receives Social Security benefits, also faces a similar situation. In the spring of 2024, he told Florida’s ABC Action News that he was looking to return to painting, a job he had done in the past, to make ends meet. With Social Security benefits of about $1,400 per month, Ricky said, “The price of everything is almost double. $8 for a box of cereal?”
These stories highlight the financial strain many retirees are facing in Florida. While the state’s warm climate and lifestyle are attractive to many, the high cost of living is forcing some seniors to reconsider their retirement plans. For those who thought their golden years would be a time to relax, the reality of rising prices and increasing expenses is pushing them back into the workforce.
It’s a tough situation for many, as they are now looking for ways to supplement their income, whether through part-time or full-time work. The need for a higher income has become especially pressing as inflation continues to push prices higher, making even everyday essentials more expensive. Whether it’s groceries, medication, or housing, the costs are rising faster than many can keep up.
For retirees in Florida, the dream of relaxing in retirement may be out of reach for now. The only option for some seems to be returning to work, a necessity rather than a choice. This shift in retirement plans highlights the ongoing struggles that seniors face when the cost of living outpaces their income.
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.
Benjamin Ford is a dedicated local journalist passionate about reporting on community news, events, politics, crime, and finance. With a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to uncovering impactful stories, he provides in-depth analysis and timely updates on issues that matter to the local audience. Benjamin enjoys engaging with the community and staying informed on emerging trends when he’s not covering the latest developments.
