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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773 Wedgewood Drive, Gulf Shores

$419,900

↓ $5,000

773 Wedgewood Drive, Gulf Shores

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,900 SqFt Residential MLS® # 376811

World Impact Real Estate

14681 Cedar Street, Magnolia Springs

$419,900

14681 Cedar Street, Magnolia Springs

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,775 SqFt Residential MLS® # 368440

Cote Realty Main: 251-473-8600

9010 Eagle Lane, Foley

$419,900

↓ $5,100

9010 Eagle Lane, Foley

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,958 SqFt Residential MLS® # 385920

Coastal Leaders Realty Group PHONE: 251-589-7815

1407 N Alston Street, Foley

$419,900

↓ $5,100

1407 N Alston Street, Foley

5 Beds 3 Baths 2,860 SqFt Residential MLS® # 369465

MarMac Real Estate Coastal PHONE: 256-476-8713

26115 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 5d, Orange Beach

$419,900

26115 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 5d, Orange Beach

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,040 SqFt Residential MLS® # 382263

Engel and Volkers Gulf Shores

507 W Beach Boulevard Unit 501, Gulf Shores

$419,500

507 W Beach Boulevard Unit 501, Gulf Shores

2 Beds 1 Bath 720 SqFt Residential MLS® # 373449

RE/MAX Paradise

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$419,000

↓ $10,000

22474 Beaver Creek Lane, Orange Beach

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,698 SqFt Residential MLS® # 384805

RE/MAX of Orange Beach PHONE: 251-979-8899

14682 Camelia Street, Magnolia Springs

$419,000

14682 Camelia Street, Magnolia Springs

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,770 SqFt Residential MLS® # 374595

Cote Realty Main: 251-473-8600

1149 W Beach Boulevard Unit F2, Gulf Shores

$419,000

↓ $10,000

1149 W Beach Boulevard Unit F2, Gulf Shores

2 Beds 2 Baths 1,030 SqFt Residential MLS® # 384922

Coast 2 Coast Properties

23118 Lieutenant Avenue, Foley

$419,000

↓ $6,000

23118 Lieutenant Avenue, Foley

4 Beds 2 Baths 2,204 SqFt Residential MLS® # 384670

Mobile Bay Realty PHONE: 251-656-5758

630 Pinehurst Drive, Gulf Shores

$418,900

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630 Pinehurst Drive, Gulf Shores

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,774 SqFt Residential MLS® # 385103

Ashurst & Niemeyer LLC

10045 Longview Drive, Foley

$417,500

↓ $7,500

10045 Longview Drive, Foley

3 Beds 3 Baths 2,470 SqFt Residential MLS® # 384934

Coastal Leaders Realty Group PHONE: 251-589-7815


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