Top 5 Reasons People Are Moving to the Gulf Coast

Posted by Meredith Folger Amon on Tuesday, April 1st, 2025  2:16pm.



TOP 5 REASONS PEOPLE ARE MOVING TO THE GULF COAST


By Meredith Amon Licensed in Alabama and Florida

As a real estate advisor with over 20 years of experience selling luxury homes, I’ve never seen a time quite like this. More and more people are discovering what I've always known—the Gulf Coast isn’t just a vacation spot, it’s a lifestyle. From Orange Beach to Ono Island, Gulf Shores to Perdido Key, there's a wave of interest from buyers looking to put down roots or invest in their own slice of coastal paradise.

Whether you're dreaming of a full-time move, a second home, or an investment property, here are the top 5 reasons people are moving to the Gulf Coast right now:


1. Coastal Living with Southern Charm

The pace of life on the Gulf Coast is intentionally slower, more relaxed, and centered around nature, water, and community. Whether you're sipping your morning coffee on a screened porch with a view of the bay, or spending your evenings watching the sunset over the Gulf, it's hard not to fall in love with the daily rhythm of coastal living.

One homeowner on Ono Island recently told me, “We came for the water, but we stayed because of the people.”


2. Lower Cost of Living & No State Income Tax

Compared to other coastal destinations across the U.S., the Gulf Coast offers incredible value. Home prices here are still relatively affordable, and in Florida, there’s no state income tax—making it even more attractive for retirees and remote workers. I’ve helped buyers sell in markets like California and the Northeast, only to discover they can purchase waterfront property here with money left over.

Start exploring value-packed listings on the Gulf Coast’s premier home search site.

Contact Meredith Amon Gulf Coast Realtor


3. Boating, Fishing & Outdoor Adventure

Water is a way of life here. With easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, inland bays, and rivers, this region is a boater’s dream. From deep-sea fishing to paddleboarding in the back bays, outdoor opportunities are endless. I always tell clients: if you love the water, you'll love the Gulf Coast.

Ask me about homes and condos with deeded boat slips, lift systems, and private docks—they go quickly.


4. New Construction & Investment Opportunities

The Gulf Coast is booming with new construction, offering modern designs, energy-efficient systems, and Gold Fortified certification for storm resistance. From luxury homes on Ono Island to resort-style condos in Orange Beach, there’s an opportunity for every buyer.

Check out the latest listings in new construction communities and let’s discuss your goals. Whether you're looking to build, flip, or buy and hold, I can help you navigate the process.


5. A Destination for All Seasons

This isn’t just a summer town. The Gulf Coast shines year-round. We enjoy mild winters, colorful springs, sun-soaked summers, and breezy fall days that are perfect for festivals and football. It’s an ideal place for those seeking a full-time move or those who want to escape harsh winters without flying across the country.

Many of my buyers have turned what started as a vacation retreat into their permanent residence. The Gulf has a way of pulling you in and making you feel at home.


Thinking of Making the Move?

If the Gulf Coast is calling your name, let’s talk. I live here, I boat here, and I sell here. I know what makes each community unique, and I’d be honored to help you find your place along the coast.

Visit www.searchthegulf.com to browse homes, land, and condos—and let’s start the conversation.



Meredith Amon is a Gulf Coast Expert Real Estate Advisor, licensed in Alabama and Florida. She specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the buying and selling of homes along the Gulf Coast.

#searchthegulf #meredithamon #becausewelivehere
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1117 West Beach Boulevard Unit 404, Gulf Shores

$445,000

↓ $5,000

1117 West Beach Boulevard Unit 404, Gulf Shores

1 Bed 1 Bath 615 SqFt Residential MLS® # 385897

Dalton Wade, Inc

1010 West Beach Boulevard Unit 304, Gulf Shores

$444,900

↓ $5,000

1010 West Beach Boulevard Unit 304, Gulf Shores

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,042 SqFt Residential MLS® # 376465

Coldwell Banker Coastal Realty

1872 West Beach Boulevard Unit A 206, Gulf Shores

$440,000

↓ $25,000

1872 West Beach Boulevard Unit A 206, Gulf Shores

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,252 SqFt Residential MLS® # 379316

Avenue Realty

Pastoral Lane, Elberta

$440,000

↓ $59,900

Pastoral Lane, Elberta

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 381158

National Land Realty

527 Beach Club Trail Unit C202, Gulf Shores

$440,000

↓ $10,000

527 Beach Club Trail Unit C202, Gulf Shores

1 Bed 2 Baths 674 SqFt Residential MLS® # 369764

Keller Williams AGC Realty - Orange Beach PHONE: 251-269-8864

767 Wedgewood Drive, Gulf Shores

$440,000

767 Wedgewood Drive, Gulf Shores

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,700 SqFt Residential MLS® # 376689

Amerisell Realty

17908 Fancy Boulevard, Foley

$440,000

17908 Fancy Boulevard, Foley

3 Beds 3 Baths 2,481 SqFt Residential MLS® # 385110

Coldwell Banker Coastal Realty

6054 Andhurst Drive, Gulf Shores

$440,000

↓ $10,000

6054 Andhurst Drive, Gulf Shores

3 Beds 2 Baths 2,012 SqFt Residential MLS® # 379795

Real Broker, LLC

2715 State Highway 180 Unit 1209, Gulf Shores

$440,000

2715 State Highway 180 Unit 1209, Gulf Shores

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,260 SqFt Residential MLS® # 384264

IXL Real Estate

645 Plantation Road Unit 6110, Gulf Shores

$440,000

645 Plantation Road Unit 6110, Gulf Shores

2 Beds 2 Baths 915 SqFt Residential MLS® # 384392

Kaiser Sotheby's Int-GS PHONE: 251-978-0745

1872 W Beach Boulevard Unit J206, Gulf Shores

$439,900

↓ $5,100

1872 W Beach Boulevard Unit J206, Gulf Shores

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,252 SqFt Residential MLS® # 380803

RE/MAX of Gulf Shores

333 W Beach Boulevard Unit 606, Gulf Shores

$439,900

333 W Beach Boulevard Unit 606, Gulf Shores

1 Bed 1 Bath 516 SqFt Residential MLS® # 376738

Swiger & Company swigerandcompany@gmail.com


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