Although several areas of the United States are considered desirable places to retire, Florida continues to be one of the leading choices among retirement age couples.

While the most obvious reasons relate to its warm climate, a vacation-like atmosphere, and close proximity to the beach, there are also some distinct financial advantages to living in the Sunshine State.

According to Kiplinger, "Florida has no state income tax, estate tax or inheritance tax, and it doesn't tax Social Security or other retirement income, either." While those advantages certainly wouldn't be the only reasons to settle down in Florida, those features could favorably affect your overall financial security and quality of life.

Since government and business leaders in Florida have long recognized the positive impact seniors have on the local and state economies, there are a lot of policies in place that are supportive of retirement-age residents. In addition to Florida's massive tourism industry, the state's retirement community plays a major role in helping to make Florida a vibrant and thriving place to live.

While the cost of living and health care varies from one Florida city to the next, those expenses are typically considered "average," as compared to other parts of the country. Whether you're in the market for an economical condo or a luxury mansion on the beach, you'll have access to a variety of appealing and affordable choices in Florida.

The starting point for finding a home that will meet your budgetary and lifestyle goals is to select an experienced and knowledgeable Florida real estate agent. Ideally, that person is someone who's responsive, proactive, and service oriented. Since you'll probably be spending a lot of time with them and communicating frequently, you'll also want to pick an agent with whom you feel comfortable and compatible. Although it's not always essential to interview multiple candidates before choosing one, it can be helpful to have points of comparison. Making that type of important decision in a vacuum can often produce less-than-optimal results.

Another element of a successful search for a Florida home is your own level of clarity. If you're unclear about your own requirements, priorities, or location preferences, then it will be difficult to communicate those needs to your real estate agent. The more details and specific information you can provide, the greater your chances for finding the ideal Florida home. While it does pay to have a little flexibility, there are certain things on which you may not want to waiver. If you need a certain number of bedrooms, proximity to the beach, or first-floor laundry, for example, those items would be included on your "must have" list. Access to quality health care, convenient shopping, and social activities might also be near the top of your priority list.