Florida Homeowners Prioritize Insurance Over Tax Reform

Poll data reveals that a majority of Florida residents view property insurance costs as a greater financial burden than property taxes.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Insurance

Isometric editorial illustration of stacked matte blocks and a terracotta roof tile, representing the financial pressure of insurance costs. — A University of North Florida survey finds that 63% of Florida homeowners identify rising insurance premiums as their primary financial burden over taxes. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you find property insurance costs more burdensome than property taxes for your household budget?

A recent survey from the University of North Florida highlights that 63% of homeowners in the state are more concerned about property insurance than property taxes. This sentiment remains consistent across the political spectrum as voters look toward upcoming reform decisions.

Why it matters

The finding suggests that the escalating cost of home protection has overtaken tax obligations as the primary financial stressor for many households. This shift in household focus is prompting increased attention from policymakers as they address the affordability of living in Florida.

Statewide polling indicates 63% of Florida homeowners prioritize insurance worries, compared to 36% who rank property taxes higher. Among specific voter groups, 70% of Democrats, 62% of NPA voters, and 57% of Republicans cite insurance as their primary concern.

The players

Byron Donalds

A Republican gubernatorial candidate who has emphasized his commitment to enforcing state and federal laws during public town halls.

University of North Florida

An academic institution whose Public Opinion Research Lab conducts recurring surveys to track the policy and financial concerns of state residents.

The details

The survey, conducted in collaboration with the Orlando Sentinel and the South Florida Sun Sentinel, reveals widespread concern regarding the state's property insurance market. As these costs directly impact monthly household budgets and escrow requirements, homeowners are increasingly vocal about the necessity for systemic changes to insurance affordability. These findings surface as candidates, including Byron Donalds, begin discussing policy enforcement and potential reforms ahead of upcoming cycles.

September 28, 2026: Byron Donalds held a town hall in Kissimmee.
November 2026: Voters will decide on property tax reform.

Money Landscape

The current focus on insurance costs marks a departure from traditional homeowner concerns that historically centered on property tax rates. This trend sets the stage for the upcoming November 2026 property tax reform decisions, which may now be overshadowed by the insurance crisis.

Homeowners should review their current insurance premiums against their overall housing budget to prepare for potential policy shifts. Consulting with a professional to evaluate tax and insurance escrow adjustments remains a critical step for households managing rising costs.

The takeaway

Property insurance has become the dominant financial anxiety for a majority of Florida households, outpacing traditional tax concerns. Residents should track upcoming legislative proposals and consider scheduling a budget review with a qualified tax professional to evaluate their specific exposure.