Melbourne, Florida -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/6/2006 -- Last years hurricanes haven’t stopped people from moving to Florida.

In fact, population grew by more than 400,000, which according to The University of Florida represented one of the largest increases in Florida’s history.

Florida Keys, REALTOR, Dennis Handa remarked, ”There are 5 major reasons for the increased migration here.

1. Florida is a unique state that a majority of people grew up dreaming about. As the population ages, they’re grabbing a piece of that dream

2. People are starting to take hurricanes as a fact of life. Much as Californian’s take earthquakes and fire as a fact of life, and Midwesterners live with the threat of blizzards and tornadoes.

3. The Baby boomer influx. With large incomes and equity growth, they’re buying 2nd home as investments here and making lifestyle changes.

4. In 2005, (per Florida’s Economic conference) Florida led the nation in the highest number of new jobs created at 252,600 plus we were the leading state in job creation (3.4%)

5. The high heating costs in the North. When the snow flies, people definitely watch the weather channel and dreams of beaches and palm trees come to mind.

Mr. Handa also remarked, “The hurricanes have definitely affected our Real Estate transactions however.

He explained, “We’re seeing more concern about home location as it relates to flood zones, insurance costs, code restrictions and proximity to water. There is also new emphasis by buyers as to home age and construction. Items such as metal roofs vs shingle, concrete block versus frame, hurricane shutters and which type. In short-more attention to detail through inspections and disclosures..

In conclusion, the Florida dream is definitely alive and well. And the forecast for 2006 is strong both in Job growth and overall population increase

Dennis Handa is the owner of a Florida relocation website called Florida Real Estate Network. The site is located at http://www.flarren.com and is designed to specifically help people relocating to Florida by covering 18 categories of in-depth content and providing links to relocation agents for 46 Florida areas and cities.