Florida’s Economy Outperform 2026
Florida’s Economy Set to Outperform the U.S. in 2026
Florida Enters 2026 From a Position of Strength
Florida is heading into 2026 with momentum. According to the Florida Chamber Foundation’s 2026 Economic Outlook, the state’s economy is expected to continue outperforming the national average—even as growth cools from the rapid pace of recent years.
This moderation is not a warning sign. Instead, it reflects a healthier, more balanced economy after years of intense expansion driven by population growth, job creation, and housing demand.
Key Economic Indicators Point to Continued Outperformance
The data shows Florida remains structurally strong compared to the rest of the country:
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Economic Growth: Florida has outpaced U.S. GDP growth by an average of 2.3 percentage points over the past four years and is projected to exceed national growth again in 2026.
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Employment: Florida’s unemployment rate has stayed below the national average since 2020 and is expected to remain between 4.2% and 4.3% in 2026.
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Labor Market Resilience: Continued job growth supports housing demand and long-term consumer confidence.
These fundamentals reinforce Florida’s reputation as one of the most economically resilient states in the U.S.
Housing Market Shifts Toward Stability
After years of rapid price increases and limited inventory, Florida’s housing market is entering a period of normalization.
According to insights shared at the Florida Chamber Foundation’s Economic Outlook & Jobs Summit, including commentary from Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. Brad O’Connor:
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Single-family home prices are stabilizing
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Sales activity is improving after a slower period
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Buyers and sellers are adjusting to a more balanced market
This environment may create opportunities for buyers who were previously sidelined by affordability challenges, while still protecting long-term value for homeowners.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers in 2026
A stabilizing economy paired with a normalizing housing market often benefits informed participants:
For Buyers
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More predictable pricing
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Less emotional competition in many markets
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Better alignment between value and affordability
For Sellers
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Continued demand supported by job growth and migration
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A need for accurate pricing and strategic marketing
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Greater importance placed on property condition and presentation
This shift rewards preparation, data-driven decisions, and professional guidance.
Moderation Signals Long-Term Health, Not Weakness
“Florida is entering 2026 from a position of strength,” said Sheridan Morby, Senior Research Economist at the Florida Chamber Foundation. Slower growth, she emphasized, reflects normalization—not decline—after several years of exceptional expansion.
With population growth cooling slightly and economic conditions stabilizing, Florida is building a more sustainable foundation for long-term success.
Florida Remains a Top Real Estate Market in 2026
Florida’s economy continues to outperform the nation, supported by a resilient labor market, stabilizing housing conditions, and long-term demographic strength. For real estate buyers, sellers, and investors, 2026 looks less like a slowdown—and more like a reset toward balance and opportunity.
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