Florida remains one of the most landlord-friendly states in the U.S., offering fast-track evictions, no rent control, and favorable lease enforcement laws. With strong population growth and high rental demand, it’s a popular choice for real estate investors—especially in metro areas like Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Fort Lauderdale.
Curious how Florida stacks up against the rest of the U.S.? Check out our guide to the most landlord-friendly states.
Here’s why landlords continue to invest in Florida rental property:
Evictions Move Quickly With Clear Legal Backing
- Florida law allows landlords to file for eviction just 3 days after rent is unpaid (Fla. Stat. § 83.56(3))
- For lease violations, a 7-day notice is typically sufficient
- Tenants must respond within 5 days once served with an eviction notice
- If they don’t respond or fail to comply, landlords may regain possession rapidly
- Court systems are accustomed to streamlined landlord filings
No Statewide Or Local Rent Control
- Florida prohibits local governments from establishing rent control (Fla. Stat. § 125.0103)
- Exceptions require a declared housing emergency and a public referendum
- This ensures landlords can raise rent in response to market trends, property upgrades, or cash flow targets
- Especially useful in fast-appreciating markets like Miami and Naples
Security Deposit Laws Are Reasonable
- No cap on how much a landlord can charge as a security deposit
- Must return deposits within 15 to 60 days depending on whether deductions are made (Fla. Stat. § 83.49)
- No obligation to place deposits in interest-bearing accounts
- Landlords can deduct for damages, unpaid rent, or lease violations with written notice
Strong Lease Enforcement And Legal Autonomy
- Florida courts uphold lease terms when documented clearly and fairly
- Written leases carry legal weight, and landlords can enforce penalties for noncompliance
- Sending a proper notice to vacate is usually sufficient to begin proceedings
- Particularly useful when dealing with early terminations or unauthorized occupants
No Right Of First Refusal Required For Property Sales
- Tenants do not have a legal right to purchase the property before it is sold
- Leases may transfer to the new owner depending on the agreement
- Simplifies selling tenant-occupied units or executing a 1031 exchange
Fewer Statewide Regulations On Landlords
- Florida does not require state-level landlord licensing or rental registration
- There are no mandated annual inspections for most properties
- Few landlord restrictions outside of habitability, anti-discrimination, and health codes
- Particularly advantageous for single family home landlords or Airbnb operators (Airbnb hosts insurance may still be recommended)
Strong Market Demand And Favorable Tax Climate
- No state income tax
- Florida’s average property tax rate is around 0.83%, below the national average
- High inbound migration keeps rental demand strong, especially for seasonal and furnished units
- Landlord insurance is available but can be expensive near coasts, where additional fire insurance or windstorm policies may be required
Bottom Line: Florida Offers Speed, Flexibility, And Profitability
Florida offers one of the most efficient legal and financial frameworks for rental property investors. Landlords benefit from strong enforcement, flexible pricing, low taxes, and access to a growing tenant pool. Whether you operate long-term units or host Airbnb, Florida gives you the tools to stay profitable and protected.
More landlord-friendly states:
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