Miami and Dade County Cost of Living.
The cost of living index is based on the composite price of groceries, housing, utilities, transportation, health care, clothing and entertainment.
Cost of living indexes will generally be higher in areas that offer access to beaches, culture, arts and recreation. In addition areas, that offer a wider variety of services such as health and education will run higher due to higher wages, and increased quality of living.
Cost of living indexing explanation
A figure of 100 points is used as an average both for the USA and Florida. For example:
Boise Idaho is ranked at a 99
Boston Mass is rated at 240
San Francisco at 217
Statewide, Florida cities come in from a low of 90 and up.
One way to compare Florida areas to salary requirements
For example-If you were relocating from Portland Oregon (whose rate 1s 120) to Orlando, and you currently make $50,000 per year, the formula is as follows
Take the destination index, in this case Orlando-104.2 and divide by Portland’s index-120, then multiply by a salary of $50,000. This will give you a figure of $43,416.00 which would be required to make in Orlando to have the same quality of life.
See comparable Florida statewide
* Re cost of living--in some areas Real Estate has went up dramatically however costs that factor in such as food, transportation, rents etc have not increased at the same rate-so in some areas, even though housing is expensive, the overall rating may still be low
2006 Fourth quarter stats per ACCRA and Council for Community Economic Research
Bradenton-100.6
Cape Coral-Ft Myers-108.0
Ft Lauderdale-117.0
Fort Walton-Destin-97.3
Jacksonville metro-96.3
Miami metro-115.0
Orlando metro-104.2
Palm Coast-Flagler-98.5
Panama City-96.6
Pensacola metro-96.0
Sarasota-107.0
Tampa 98.5
St Pete-Clearwater-99.9
Vero-Beach Indian River-103.4
West Palm Beach metro-117.5
(Population Weighted-State Average=100
See national comparisons
Cost of living (100 = nationwide average)
(Population Weighted-State Average=100
See national comparisons
Cost of living (100 = nationwide average)
* New York, NY 364
* Long Beach, NY 340
* Palo Alto, CA 268
* Menlo Park, CA 265
* Los Altos, CA 261
* Saratoga, CA 261
* Boston, MA 240
* Malibu, CA 233
* San Francisco, 217
* Greenwich, CT 215
* Cambridge, MA 211
* Santa Monica, CA 197
* Keystone, CO 194
* San Rafael, CA 192
* Weston, CT 192
* Darien, CT 192
* Wellesley, MA 192
* Fort Lee, NJ 189
* Arlington, VA 184
* Honolulu, HI 184
* Washington, DC 181
* Princeton, NJ 180
* Vail, CO 178
* Chicago, IL 166
* Sunnyvale, CA 164
* San Mateo, CA 163
* Marathon, FL 161
* Ridgewood, NJ 159
* Mystic, CT 159
For more information about cost of living go to Accra's site at http://www.coli.org/
The cost of living index places Miami at 116.2 as of the 4th quarter 2005
Although statewide it’s ranked higher, consider that it is a major metropolitan area with all the needed services. In that context it compares favorably.
http://www.eflorida.com/profiles/CountyReport.asp?CountyID=37&Display=all
For more information about cost of living stats go to http://www.coli.org
Housing. Minimum two bedroom single family homes in Miami/Dade County.
As of August 2005 the median price is $356,900.
Utilities. water and sewer go to
http://www.co.miami-dade.fl.us/wasd/
For electric and gas go to
Florida Power & Light Co 305 552-3552 9250 W Flagler St
Miami, FL 33174
http://www.fpl.com
People 'n' Gas: 954-763-8900
In conclusion, given Florida’s climate and Job opportunities and the outdoor recreation prospects, Miami can really make sense.
Imagine the advantages of a subtropical resort next to a major metropolitan area.
Imagine beaches located few minutes from major business, shopping and cultural centers.
In Miami you can have your cake and eat it too—why not extend the vacation and make it part of your life.
Why not live in a vacation spot?
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Miami and Dade County Employment
Miami and Dade County Employment
One of the best things about Miami and Dade county is the abundance of career opportunities. From small business to Fortune 500 companies, to multinationals, Miami has it all.
So whether you're an entrepreneur or a corporate executive, Miami could have just the right position for you.
*Since there is no state or local income tax, you take home more.
That combined with a low cost of living means a better lifestyle.
Some Miami statistics:
As of February 2005 per the US Department of labor in Miami:
Number of workers-982,000
Median hourly wage $12.89 to $17.13
Entry $7.78 per hour
Experienced $22.36 average per hour
Annual wage $35,630
For specific figures by occupation go to
http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_5000.htm
http://www.labormarketinfo.com/library/oes.htm
The areas top 5 employers as of late 2003 per the Miami Chamber of commerce http://www.greatermiami.com/live_work_play/factsheet.asp
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY'S TOP 5 EMPLOYERS
Miami-Dade County Pubic School 54,387
Miami-Dade County 32,265
Federal Government 20,100
Florida State Government 18,900
Jackson Health System 11,700
MIAMI-TOP 5 EMPLOYERS
Private Sector Company Name Employment
Baptist Health South Florida 10,300
University of Miami 9,367
American Airlines 9,000
United Parcel Service 5,000
BellSouth 4,800
Additional resources for job and demographic information
Bureau of Economic and Business Research at the University of Florida (BEBR)
http://www.bebr.ufl.edu/
U.S Census Bureau
http://www.census.gov
Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation – Labor Market Information
http://www.labormarketinfo.com
State jobs http://dms.myflorida.com/
*If you have to work for a living, you might as well be in a great environment.
In conclusion the area is growing rapidly. All facets of industry are up. As more homes are built, the infrastructure has to increase---schools, retail and on an on. So, if you’ need to work, why not make a change in your environment and have a great environment with tons of recreational possibilities.
Remember, just because there’s a palm tree in your back yard doesn’t mean you’ll lose your edge.
One of the best things about Miami and Dade county is the abundance of career opportunities. From small business to Fortune 500 companies, to multinationals, Miami has it all.
So whether you're an entrepreneur or a corporate executive, Miami could have just the right position for you.
*Since there is no state or local income tax, you take home more.
That combined with a low cost of living means a better lifestyle.
Some Miami statistics:
As of February 2005 per the US Department of labor in Miami:
Number of workers-982,000
Median hourly wage $12.89 to $17.13
Entry $7.78 per hour
Experienced $22.36 average per hour
Annual wage $35,630
For specific figures by occupation go to
http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_5000.htm
http://www.labormarketinfo.com/library/oes.htm
The areas top 5 employers as of late 2003 per the Miami Chamber of commerce http://www.greatermiami.com/live_work_play/factsheet.asp
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY'S TOP 5 EMPLOYERS
Miami-Dade County Pubic School 54,387
Miami-Dade County 32,265
Federal Government 20,100
Florida State Government 18,900
Jackson Health System 11,700
MIAMI-TOP 5 EMPLOYERS
Private Sector Company Name Employment
Baptist Health South Florida 10,300
University of Miami 9,367
American Airlines 9,000
United Parcel Service 5,000
BellSouth 4,800
Additional resources for job and demographic information
Bureau of Economic and Business Research at the University of Florida (BEBR)
http://www.bebr.ufl.edu/
U.S Census Bureau
http://www.census.gov
Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation – Labor Market Information
http://www.labormarketinfo.com
State jobs http://dms.myflorida.com/
*If you have to work for a living, you might as well be in a great environment.
In conclusion the area is growing rapidly. All facets of industry are up. As more homes are built, the infrastructure has to increase---schools, retail and on an on. So, if you’ need to work, why not make a change in your environment and have a great environment with tons of recreational possibilities.
Remember, just because there’s a palm tree in your back yard doesn’t mean you’ll lose your edge.
Starting a Business in Orlando and Orange County
Starting a Business in Orlando and Orange County
Starting a Business in Orlando and Orange County
The Orange county area is one of the fastest growing and expanding areas in the country.
With over one million residents, the region is constantly expanding, which means more jobs, incredible opportunities and a great lifestyle.
Whether you’re considering relocating a company or starting a business from scratch, Orange County and it’s neighboring communities have a place for your business.
Employees:
Over 520,000 in the greater Orange County area.
Average Annual Wage (2003)
· All Industries
· $34,623
· Construction
· $38,525
· Education & Health Services
· $35,666
· Financial Activities
· $48,414
· Information
· $48,205
· Leisure & Hospitality
· $21,921
· Manufacturing
· $47,730
· Natural Resources & Mining
· $20,952
· Other Services
· $24,722
· Professional & Business Services
· $40,246
· Public administration
· $41,642
· Trade, Transportation and Utilities
· $33,13
Major industries in Orange county
Construction 5.1%
Education & Health Services 15.0%
Financial Activities 6.5%
Information 2.7%
Leisure & Hospitality 22.2%
Manufacturing 4.6%
Natural Resources & Mining 0.8%
Other Services 2.9% 3.2%
Professional & Business Services 17.3%
Public administration 4.4%
Trade, Transportation and Utilities 18.6%
Source http://www.eflorida.com/profiles/CountyReport.asp?CountyID=54&Display=all
Major Employers (2003)
Walt Disney World
Business Line: Entertainment
Number of Employees...53,500 Orange County Public Schools
Business Line: Education
Number of Employees....22,807
Adventist Health Systems
Business Line: Healthcare
Number of Employees.. 17,059 Universal Orlando
Business Line: Entertainment
Number of Employees....14,500
Orlando Regional Healthcare System
Business Line: Healthcare
Number of Employees... 12,000 Orange County Government
Business Line: Government
Number of Employees..6,577
The market and potential:
Total Population Orange County area 990,000 (2003 per census bureau)
Population Forecast (2010) 1,166,000
Median Age 42
Median Household Income $35,7320
Business Assistance:
A message from the Orlando economic development council:
The Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC) is an organization that helps business. We are dedicated to meeting the needs of today's industries and creating a competitive economic climate where businesses can thrive. To meet this goal, the EDC provides key services and support, which range from relocation and expansion expertise to export counsel to long-term planning with our community partners.
Our charge is basically two-fold. To attract new business investment, we market the Orlando region worldwide as a top location for business. In addition, we work with local companies to assist them with expansion plans and other business concerns.See their Web site at: http://www.orlandoedc.com/About%20the%20EDC/
Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI) State Program
EFI is a partnership between Florida's government and business leaders and is the principal economic development organization for the State of Florida. The mission of EFI is to increase economic opportunities for all Floridians, through the creation of quality jobs and the active support of strong and growing businesses. It pursues this mission in cooperation with its statewide network of economic development partners. The primary focus of EFI includes: labor training, venture capital and technology development.
Enterprise Florida, Inc. 390 N. Orange Ave., Suite 1300
Orlando, FL 32801
(407) 316-4600
Web site: http://www.eflorida.com
Florida Tax Incentives: Advantageous Tax structure both state and local
Florida has no personal income tax, no gift tax, no inheritance or inventory tax and no corporate franchise or property tax. Florida also offers a homestead exemption, a $25,000 tax deduction from real Estate value and sales tax exemptions, including a 12 month exemption on qualified manufacturing equipment, motion pictures, television, recording activities, launch vehicles, fuels and payloads.
More on Incentives/Taxation
Some of the more significant advantages to living and establishing businesses in Florida, with respect to taxes are:
No state income tax
No corporate income tax on sub-chapter S corporations
First $5000 of taxable income apportioned to Florida is exempt
No state property tax on inventory or equipment
No business inventory tax
No corporate franchise tax on capital stock
No corporate tax on limited partnerships, individuals, Estates and private trusts
No collected or assessed state property tax
No sales tax on "boiler fuels" used at a fixed Florida location in an industrial manufacturing, processing or compounding process
No sales and use tax on goods manufactured or produced in Florida for resale or export outside Florida
Corporation accounts receivable (one third) exempt from intangible property tax
Exemption of employee stock options from employer
No property tax on goods-in-transit for up to 180 days
While these are in themselves incentives, the following are additional incentives offered by the State and local government working together to provide you with an environment conducive to your success.
Ad Valorem Tax Exemption (real and personal property) is offered by the local government and is based on the financial impact projected on the County (number of employees, capital expenditure, etc.).
Sales and Use Tax Exemption
Silicon technology-based industry transactions involving manufacturing or research equipment
Purchases of machinery and equipment used by a new or expanding Florida business to manufacture, produce or process tangible personal property for sale
Labor, parts and materials used in repair of and incorporated into machinery and equipment that qualify for sales tax exemption upon purchase (phased in over four years, 25% exempt on July 1, 1999)
Electricity used in the manufacturing process (phased in over five years, 80% exempt on July 1, 1999)
Aircraft parts, modification, maintenance and repair, sale or lease of qualified aircraft
Commercial space activity - launch vehicles, payloads and fuel, machinery and equipment for production of items used exclusively at Spaceport Florida
Labor component of research and development expenditures---------------------------------------------------------------------
Summary of Florida's Tax Incentive
Qualified Target Industry Tax Refund Programs
This program provides an inducement for target industry to locate new facilities in Florida or to expand existing facilities in Florida. The program provides tax refunds of $3,000 per new job created. The incentive is increased to $6,000 per job if the company locates in a rural county or an Enterprise Zone. Higher awards are available to companies paying very high wages. To qualify for the “QTI” program, a company must create at least 10 new jobs (or a 10% increase for expanding Florida companies), pay an average of at least 115% of area wages, have a significant positive impact on the community and have local support.
Quick Response Training Program
The Quick Response Training Program provides grant funding for customized training to new or expanding businesses. The program is flexible and structured to respond quickly to meet business training objectives. A local training provider – community college, area technical center or university – is selected and available to assist in the application process and program development or delivery. If the business has a training program in place, a state training provider will supervise and manage the training program and serve as the fiscal agent for the grant funds. Reimbursable textbooks/manuals, materials/supplies and training equipment.
Economic Development Transportation Fund
This grant program provides up to $2 million to local governments for the construction or improvement of transportation infrastructure needed to accommodate new or expanding industry.
Expedited Permitting Assistance
State and local permit streamlining procedures are available to assist businesses in obtaining necessary permits and approvals in a quick, efficient and predictable manner.
Specialized Incentives
Your project may qualify for opportunities such as urban or rural tax credits, and incentives for brownsfields and enterprise zones.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Local Property Tax Incentive
New and expanding businesses can be granted an exemption from property taxes on improvements to real property and for tangible personal property. In order for a company to be eligible for this incentive, it must first meet the definitions of a new or expanding business as defined below:
New Business:
A manufacturer which establishes ten or more full-time jobs.
A business with more than 50% of its sales outside the State of Florida which establishes 25 or more jobs.
Office space of a new Florida corporation housing 50 or more full-time employees of the corporation. The above are applicable if the business is on a site clearly separate from any other facility owned by the same business.
Any business located in a slum or blighted area as defined by Section 163.355, Florida Statutes.
Expanding Business:
A manufacturer that adds a minimum of ten new employees and increases employment by 10% or increases productive output by a minimum of 10%.
A business with more than 50% of its sales outside the State that adds a minimum of 25 new employees and increases employment by 10% or increases productive output by a minimum of 10%.
The expansion must be on the same or a co-located site of the business’ current operations.
If a business meets one of the above definitions as a new or expanding business, it may then file an application for the Economic Development Property Tax Exemption with the local County Commissioners or the appropriate municipality or both. After the city or county commission receives this application, it must submit the application to the county property appraiser for review. After the property appraiser makes the report as to the fiscal impact of granting the exemption, the county or city commission shall then adopt an ordinance in the usual manner-granting the exemption.
A business cannot receive exemption from school taxes or water management district taxes. Also, a business must pay taxes that were approved by the voters of a city or county to pay for bond issues and other special tax levies authorized by the voters of a city or county.
The exemption can only be for the improvements to the real property and for tangible personal property. The land on which the new or expanding business is to be located will still be taxed.
The State offers programs such as the Qualified Target Industry (QTI) Tax Refund Program (tax refund), a Sales Tax Exemption on Electricity and Steam (exemption), a High Impact Performance Incentive (grant) and more.
Tax Information: State
Corporate Income Tax 5.5%
Personal Income Tax 0.0%
Retail Sales Tax 6.0%
Intangible Tax (per $1,000) $1 - $1.50
Groceries and medicine exempt from retail sales tax
Small Business Assistance
Below are nine resources proven helpful to start up and maintain a succesful small business!
Small Business Administration - www.sba.gov
Small Business Development Center - www.fausbdc.com
US Chamber of Commerce Small Business Center - www.uschamber.com/sb
(The US Chamber of Commerce's Small Business Center is a one-stop shop for small businesses, containing everything from practical business advice to the latest small business news from Washington, D.C.)
Florida Small Business - www.floridasmallbusiness.com
Enterprise Florida - www.eflorida.com
The Florida Venture Forum - www.flvencap.org
SCORE Counselors to America's Small Business - www.score-chapter412.org
Odeon Group (Small Business Administration Intermediary) - 305 681-9600
Micro Business USA - 305 438-1407
First Florida Capital - (888) 320-5504
Below is a great site explaining why you should be in business in Florida.
http://eflorida.com/aboutthissite/sitemap/default.asp?tn=1
Starting a Business in Orlando and Orange County
The Orange county area is one of the fastest growing and expanding areas in the country.
With over one million residents, the region is constantly expanding, which means more jobs, incredible opportunities and a great lifestyle.
Whether you’re considering relocating a company or starting a business from scratch, Orange County and it’s neighboring communities have a place for your business.
Employees:
Over 520,000 in the greater Orange County area.
Average Annual Wage (2003)
· All Industries
· $34,623
· Construction
· $38,525
· Education & Health Services
· $35,666
· Financial Activities
· $48,414
· Information
· $48,205
· Leisure & Hospitality
· $21,921
· Manufacturing
· $47,730
· Natural Resources & Mining
· $20,952
· Other Services
· $24,722
· Professional & Business Services
· $40,246
· Public administration
· $41,642
· Trade, Transportation and Utilities
· $33,13
Major industries in Orange county
Construction 5.1%
Education & Health Services 15.0%
Financial Activities 6.5%
Information 2.7%
Leisure & Hospitality 22.2%
Manufacturing 4.6%
Natural Resources & Mining 0.8%
Other Services 2.9% 3.2%
Professional & Business Services 17.3%
Public administration 4.4%
Trade, Transportation and Utilities 18.6%
Source http://www.eflorida.com/profiles/CountyReport.asp?CountyID=54&Display=all
Major Employers (2003)
Walt Disney World
Business Line: Entertainment
Number of Employees...53,500 Orange County Public Schools
Business Line: Education
Number of Employees....22,807
Adventist Health Systems
Business Line: Healthcare
Number of Employees.. 17,059 Universal Orlando
Business Line: Entertainment
Number of Employees....14,500
Orlando Regional Healthcare System
Business Line: Healthcare
Number of Employees... 12,000 Orange County Government
Business Line: Government
Number of Employees..6,577
The market and potential:
Total Population Orange County area 990,000 (2003 per census bureau)
Population Forecast (2010) 1,166,000
Median Age 42
Median Household Income $35,7320
Business Assistance:
A message from the Orlando economic development council:
The Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC) is an organization that helps business. We are dedicated to meeting the needs of today's industries and creating a competitive economic climate where businesses can thrive. To meet this goal, the EDC provides key services and support, which range from relocation and expansion expertise to export counsel to long-term planning with our community partners.
Our charge is basically two-fold. To attract new business investment, we market the Orlando region worldwide as a top location for business. In addition, we work with local companies to assist them with expansion plans and other business concerns.See their Web site at: http://www.orlandoedc.com/About%20the%20EDC/
Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI) State Program
EFI is a partnership between Florida's government and business leaders and is the principal economic development organization for the State of Florida. The mission of EFI is to increase economic opportunities for all Floridians, through the creation of quality jobs and the active support of strong and growing businesses. It pursues this mission in cooperation with its statewide network of economic development partners. The primary focus of EFI includes: labor training, venture capital and technology development.
Enterprise Florida, Inc. 390 N. Orange Ave., Suite 1300
Orlando, FL 32801
(407) 316-4600
Web site: http://www.eflorida.com
Florida Tax Incentives: Advantageous Tax structure both state and local
Florida has no personal income tax, no gift tax, no inheritance or inventory tax and no corporate franchise or property tax. Florida also offers a homestead exemption, a $25,000 tax deduction from real Estate value and sales tax exemptions, including a 12 month exemption on qualified manufacturing equipment, motion pictures, television, recording activities, launch vehicles, fuels and payloads.
More on Incentives/Taxation
Some of the more significant advantages to living and establishing businesses in Florida, with respect to taxes are:
No state income tax
No corporate income tax on sub-chapter S corporations
First $5000 of taxable income apportioned to Florida is exempt
No state property tax on inventory or equipment
No business inventory tax
No corporate franchise tax on capital stock
No corporate tax on limited partnerships, individuals, Estates and private trusts
No collected or assessed state property tax
No sales tax on "boiler fuels" used at a fixed Florida location in an industrial manufacturing, processing or compounding process
No sales and use tax on goods manufactured or produced in Florida for resale or export outside Florida
Corporation accounts receivable (one third) exempt from intangible property tax
Exemption of employee stock options from employer
No property tax on goods-in-transit for up to 180 days
While these are in themselves incentives, the following are additional incentives offered by the State and local government working together to provide you with an environment conducive to your success.
Ad Valorem Tax Exemption (real and personal property) is offered by the local government and is based on the financial impact projected on the County (number of employees, capital expenditure, etc.).
Sales and Use Tax Exemption
Silicon technology-based industry transactions involving manufacturing or research equipment
Purchases of machinery and equipment used by a new or expanding Florida business to manufacture, produce or process tangible personal property for sale
Labor, parts and materials used in repair of and incorporated into machinery and equipment that qualify for sales tax exemption upon purchase (phased in over four years, 25% exempt on July 1, 1999)
Electricity used in the manufacturing process (phased in over five years, 80% exempt on July 1, 1999)
Aircraft parts, modification, maintenance and repair, sale or lease of qualified aircraft
Commercial space activity - launch vehicles, payloads and fuel, machinery and equipment for production of items used exclusively at Spaceport Florida
Labor component of research and development expenditures---------------------------------------------------------------------
Summary of Florida's Tax Incentive
Qualified Target Industry Tax Refund Programs
This program provides an inducement for target industry to locate new facilities in Florida or to expand existing facilities in Florida. The program provides tax refunds of $3,000 per new job created. The incentive is increased to $6,000 per job if the company locates in a rural county or an Enterprise Zone. Higher awards are available to companies paying very high wages. To qualify for the “QTI” program, a company must create at least 10 new jobs (or a 10% increase for expanding Florida companies), pay an average of at least 115% of area wages, have a significant positive impact on the community and have local support.
Quick Response Training Program
The Quick Response Training Program provides grant funding for customized training to new or expanding businesses. The program is flexible and structured to respond quickly to meet business training objectives. A local training provider – community college, area technical center or university – is selected and available to assist in the application process and program development or delivery. If the business has a training program in place, a state training provider will supervise and manage the training program and serve as the fiscal agent for the grant funds. Reimbursable textbooks/manuals, materials/supplies and training equipment.
Economic Development Transportation Fund
This grant program provides up to $2 million to local governments for the construction or improvement of transportation infrastructure needed to accommodate new or expanding industry.
Expedited Permitting Assistance
State and local permit streamlining procedures are available to assist businesses in obtaining necessary permits and approvals in a quick, efficient and predictable manner.
Specialized Incentives
Your project may qualify for opportunities such as urban or rural tax credits, and incentives for brownsfields and enterprise zones.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Local Property Tax Incentive
New and expanding businesses can be granted an exemption from property taxes on improvements to real property and for tangible personal property. In order for a company to be eligible for this incentive, it must first meet the definitions of a new or expanding business as defined below:
New Business:
A manufacturer which establishes ten or more full-time jobs.
A business with more than 50% of its sales outside the State of Florida which establishes 25 or more jobs.
Office space of a new Florida corporation housing 50 or more full-time employees of the corporation. The above are applicable if the business is on a site clearly separate from any other facility owned by the same business.
Any business located in a slum or blighted area as defined by Section 163.355, Florida Statutes.
Expanding Business:
A manufacturer that adds a minimum of ten new employees and increases employment by 10% or increases productive output by a minimum of 10%.
A business with more than 50% of its sales outside the State that adds a minimum of 25 new employees and increases employment by 10% or increases productive output by a minimum of 10%.
The expansion must be on the same or a co-located site of the business’ current operations.
If a business meets one of the above definitions as a new or expanding business, it may then file an application for the Economic Development Property Tax Exemption with the local County Commissioners or the appropriate municipality or both. After the city or county commission receives this application, it must submit the application to the county property appraiser for review. After the property appraiser makes the report as to the fiscal impact of granting the exemption, the county or city commission shall then adopt an ordinance in the usual manner-granting the exemption.
A business cannot receive exemption from school taxes or water management district taxes. Also, a business must pay taxes that were approved by the voters of a city or county to pay for bond issues and other special tax levies authorized by the voters of a city or county.
The exemption can only be for the improvements to the real property and for tangible personal property. The land on which the new or expanding business is to be located will still be taxed.
The State offers programs such as the Qualified Target Industry (QTI) Tax Refund Program (tax refund), a Sales Tax Exemption on Electricity and Steam (exemption), a High Impact Performance Incentive (grant) and more.
Tax Information: State
Corporate Income Tax 5.5%
Personal Income Tax 0.0%
Retail Sales Tax 6.0%
Intangible Tax (per $1,000) $1 - $1.50
Groceries and medicine exempt from retail sales tax
Small Business Assistance
Below are nine resources proven helpful to start up and maintain a succesful small business!
Small Business Administration - www.sba.gov
Small Business Development Center - www.fausbdc.com
US Chamber of Commerce Small Business Center - www.uschamber.com/sb
(The US Chamber of Commerce's Small Business Center is a one-stop shop for small businesses, containing everything from practical business advice to the latest small business news from Washington, D.C.)
Florida Small Business - www.floridasmallbusiness.com
Enterprise Florida - www.eflorida.com
The Florida Venture Forum - www.flvencap.org
SCORE Counselors to America's Small Business - www.score-chapter412.org
Odeon Group (Small Business Administration Intermediary) - 305 681-9600
Micro Business USA - 305 438-1407
First Florida Capital - (888) 320-5504
Below is a great site explaining why you should be in business in Florida.
http://eflorida.com/aboutthissite/sitemap/default.asp?tn=1
Orlando and Orange County Weather
Orlando and Orange County Weather
Orange County’s mild climate, lets you enjoy outdoor recreational opportunities year round. Winter, spring and fall are filled with lots of sunshine.
The hottest month is July and August, with an average high of 92° F and an average low of 73° F. In January the average high temperature is 70° F and the average low is 48° F.
Normal annual precipitation is 53 inches, with the largest monthly totals accumulating from July through September.
Orange county Temperature Annual high average
Month Air
January 70.8
February 72.7
March 78.0
April 83.0
May 87,8
June 90.5
July 91.5
August 91.5
September 89.7
October 84.6
November 78.5
December 72.9
*To compare Orange County weather with other major USA cities go here http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0762183.html
Other Weather Indicators Annual
Average Wind Speed 8.5
Clear Days 89
Partly Cloudy Days 147
Cloudy Days 130
Avg. Relative Humidity 74.0. To see stats by the month, go to
For hurricane information go to the FEMA site at http://www.fema.gov/hazards/hurricanes/
For current information about hurricanes go to http://www.nhc.noaa.gov
For 2005 climate info by areas go to http://www.coaps.fsu.edu/climate_center/LCD/2005LCD.html
For current weather forecasts by cities go to http://iwin.nws.noaa.gov/iwin/fl/fl.html
*Although it looks like we have lots of cloudy days, the sun is out almost year round and the clouds are partial-not like in the Northwest (where I’m from) and it will stay overcast and dark for weeks on end.
*Although we do get rain here-it is a tropical rain and comes and goes quickly and acts as a refresher to the hot days.
To see average January temperatures across the United States go to http://www.mapsofworld.com/usa/thematic-maps/usa-temprature-january.html
Compare where you live or want to live in Florida. For more specific info, look at the area you are interested in and go to the weather page.
So what about Hurricanes, the rainy season and humidity?
We are a tropical climate, so our rainy season comes in the summer. Generally it will rain hard for a half hour then subside. It does get humid then. Although not as bad as you’d think. Our water breezes really help cool us off.
Hurricanes.
Despite four devastating hurricanes in 2004, the number of Florida visitors rose 7% to an all-time high of 79.8 million last year and is on target to hit 80 million this year.
To think on:
If you live on the coast you stand the greatest chance of having one affect you. Some areas of Florida have gone fifty years plus without one but you never know.
As a resident having lived in the Keys and now in central Florida I’ve been through them.
In my opinion, the best thing you can do is buy a home that was built after Andrew-August 92 that was built to stricter building codes. Have window protection and a backup generator and make sure your insurance is up to date. If they ask you to leave, do it!
Realize-If you live in an older home that was not built up to the stricter building codes (After Hurricane Andrew-August 1992) or you live in a mobile home you stand the best chance of having major structural damage.
Living on the beach in a mobile home is asking for it. Although, you may never have a problem, you’re still definitely taking your chances. Barrier islands and open-water Ocean or Gulf front are the most prone to damage.
Having lived in California, I prefer the threat of a hurricane however as opposed to an earthquake. At least you have a warning.
For current information about hurricanes go to http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
For 2005 climate info by areas go to http://www.coaps.fsu.edu/climate_center/LCD/2005LCD.html
For current weather forecasts by cities go to http://iwin.nws.noaa.gov/iwin/fl/fl.html
*Living in a waterfront home typically means that you will pay a higher Insurance premium. The insurance is higher due to flood and wind concerns.
Part of this is also because the pricing on these homes is higher so there is more value to insure against.
Having said all this, I can’t imagine living elsewhere. It is really great to wake up and it’s sunny out.
We spend over half our lives indoors, so when you do go outside, wouldn’t it be nice if it was warm and sunny?
What if you went on vacation and never went back? Sound crazy?
We spend half our lives indoors—why not spend the rest of the time in the sun? You can live in Paradise
Orange County’s mild climate, lets you enjoy outdoor recreational opportunities year round. Winter, spring and fall are filled with lots of sunshine.
The hottest month is July and August, with an average high of 92° F and an average low of 73° F. In January the average high temperature is 70° F and the average low is 48° F.
Normal annual precipitation is 53 inches, with the largest monthly totals accumulating from July through September.
Orange county Temperature Annual high average
Month Air
January 70.8
February 72.7
March 78.0
April 83.0
May 87,8
June 90.5
July 91.5
August 91.5
September 89.7
October 84.6
November 78.5
December 72.9
*To compare Orange County weather with other major USA cities go here http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0762183.html
Other Weather Indicators Annual
Average Wind Speed 8.5
Clear Days 89
Partly Cloudy Days 147
Cloudy Days 130
Avg. Relative Humidity 74.0. To see stats by the month, go to
For hurricane information go to the FEMA site at http://www.fema.gov/hazards/hurricanes/
For current information about hurricanes go to http://www.nhc.noaa.gov
For 2005 climate info by areas go to http://www.coaps.fsu.edu/climate_center/LCD/2005LCD.html
For current weather forecasts by cities go to http://iwin.nws.noaa.gov/iwin/fl/fl.html
*Although it looks like we have lots of cloudy days, the sun is out almost year round and the clouds are partial-not like in the Northwest (where I’m from) and it will stay overcast and dark for weeks on end.
*Although we do get rain here-it is a tropical rain and comes and goes quickly and acts as a refresher to the hot days.
To see average January temperatures across the United States go to http://www.mapsofworld.com/usa/thematic-maps/usa-temprature-january.html
Compare where you live or want to live in Florida. For more specific info, look at the area you are interested in and go to the weather page.
So what about Hurricanes, the rainy season and humidity?
We are a tropical climate, so our rainy season comes in the summer. Generally it will rain hard for a half hour then subside. It does get humid then. Although not as bad as you’d think. Our water breezes really help cool us off.
Hurricanes.
Despite four devastating hurricanes in 2004, the number of Florida visitors rose 7% to an all-time high of 79.8 million last year and is on target to hit 80 million this year.
To think on:
If you live on the coast you stand the greatest chance of having one affect you. Some areas of Florida have gone fifty years plus without one but you never know.
As a resident having lived in the Keys and now in central Florida I’ve been through them.
In my opinion, the best thing you can do is buy a home that was built after Andrew-August 92 that was built to stricter building codes. Have window protection and a backup generator and make sure your insurance is up to date. If they ask you to leave, do it!
Realize-If you live in an older home that was not built up to the stricter building codes (After Hurricane Andrew-August 1992) or you live in a mobile home you stand the best chance of having major structural damage.
Living on the beach in a mobile home is asking for it. Although, you may never have a problem, you’re still definitely taking your chances. Barrier islands and open-water Ocean or Gulf front are the most prone to damage.
Having lived in California, I prefer the threat of a hurricane however as opposed to an earthquake. At least you have a warning.
For current information about hurricanes go to http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
For 2005 climate info by areas go to http://www.coaps.fsu.edu/climate_center/LCD/2005LCD.html
For current weather forecasts by cities go to http://iwin.nws.noaa.gov/iwin/fl/fl.html
*Living in a waterfront home typically means that you will pay a higher Insurance premium. The insurance is higher due to flood and wind concerns.
Part of this is also because the pricing on these homes is higher so there is more value to insure against.
Having said all this, I can’t imagine living elsewhere. It is really great to wake up and it’s sunny out.
We spend over half our lives indoors, so when you do go outside, wouldn’t it be nice if it was warm and sunny?
What if you went on vacation and never went back? Sound crazy?
We spend half our lives indoors—why not spend the rest of the time in the sun? You can live in Paradise
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