Can New Yorkers Still Afford To Retire In South Florida?

Introducing the new weekly podcast The Peter Zalewski Show that features interviews with South Florida business leaders focused on real estate, finance and the economy.

The program - hosted by Peter Zalewski of the Miami Condo Investing Club™ - is broadcast live every Wednesday at 4 pm (Miami time) at MiamiCondo.Club and on social media sites.

Episode Overview

In the Oct. 1, 2025, episode of The Peter Zalewski Show podcast, host Peter Zalewski - an analyst who has tracked the South Florida condo market for more than 30 years - speaks Oshrat Carmiel, publisher of the Highest-and-Best.beehiiv.com and a former Bloomberg real estate reporter in New York City.

During the 55-minute podcast, Zalewski and Carmiel dove deep into the evolving landscape of South Florida real estate and migration trends that accelerated following the pandemic.

Zalewski opened the episode with a vibrant introduction, setting the stage for an informative and entertaining conversation that he noted has been years in the making as technology now allows the program to share these stories directly with listeners.

Carmiel’s move to Florida in 2022 epitomized the larger pandemic migration wave, as remote work became the norm and many New Yorkers and Californians flocked to Miami and its suburbs seeking better weather more space and a new lifestyle.

The influx of new residents led to a nearly 70 percent rise in condo prices in less than five years, prompting developers to rush to meet demand with new preconstruction condo projects.

However, as companies like Amazon and J.P. Morgan began calling employees back to the office, some recent buyers faced tough decisions now impacting the local housing market - whether to keep their South Florida homes, rent them out or sell and return north.

Carmiel shared her personal acclimation story, moving from the excitement of palm trees to the challenges of aggressive drivers, observing that moving with children made settling in easier as schools and sports teams quickly created a sense of community.

She noted that Boca Raton - which once had a reputation as a retiree haven - is now attracting younger families and professionals that are contributing to making the community in Southeast Palm Beach County more vibrant and diverse.

These observations were coupled with anecdotes on the quirky realities of South Florida living, including the shock of seeing frozen iguanas and the ever-present alligators in local waterways.

Both Zalewski and Carmiel recommended renting before buying in South Florida, stating that the fast-moving rental market can help newcomers get a feel for different neighborhoods and avoid costly mistakes, especially with fluctuating home prices and rising maintenance fees.

Carmiel praised the Brightline train for its comfort and convenience but acknowledged that daily life still revolves around driving-a big change from Manhattan’s subways.

The conversation explored the growing trend of dual-city living, suggesting that while the initial migration wave has slowed, remote work flexibility continues to make this lifestyle appealing.

Carmiel provided a nuanced view of the current market - luxury properties are still fetching high prices but the frenzy has cooled, with homes sitting longer and buyers having more negotiating power than during the peak of the boom.

Her “Highest and Best” newsletter offers a humorous take on these trends, highlighting quirky realities like the rise of condos designed for Airbnb rentals.

Carmiel’s ultimate advice for newcomers was clear-do their homework rent before buying and be prepared for surprises.

Zalewski and Carmiel also discussed the unique social scene of South Florida, where networking at condo launch parties offers a window into the region’s culture and economy.

The episode closed with reflections on the future, with Carmiel suggesting South Florida is well on its way to becoming a legitimate co-headquarters for many industries, ensuring the tricounty region’s appeal endures.