Where is the best place to be a real estate agent in Florida?

Florida is always a hotbed for real estate. Its sunny climate, strong economy, and ever-flowing influx of newcomers make the state ripe with opportunity for real estate agents. Yet, some cities prove more desirable than others.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, choosing the right location can be the key to success or failure. Here, we determine the best locations in Florida to work as a real estate agent and why they are ideal for attaining success.

Best places in Florida to be a real estate agent

In the real estate business, location is everything—not only for customers and clients, but also for real estate agents who want to establish a successful career. Florida, with its thriving economy, desirable tax advantages, and stable population growth, presents great prospects for real estate agents. 

Below are some of the best cities in Florida to become a real estate professional, along with the most important reasons why they are so prominent.

1. Miami – A Hub for Luxury and International Buyers

Why it’s great for real estate agents:

• Miami’s luxury real estate market is one of the most lucrative in the country, attracting high-net-worth individuals from all over the world.
• The city sees a constant influx of international buyers, particularly from Latin America and Europe, increasing the demand for multilingual agents.
• High turnover in the real estate market means plenty of opportunities for agents to close deals, especially in condominiums and waterfront properties.
• Miami’s strong rental market also provides opportunities for property management and investment clients.

2. Orlando – A Booming Market Fueled by Tourism and Growth

Why it’s great for real estate agents:

• Orlando’s population growth is one of the fastest in Florida, bringing a steady demand for housing.
• The city’s strong job market and appeal to families and retirees ensure consistent real estate activity.
• Short-term rental properties near theme parks like Disney World create opportunities for agents specializing in vacation homes and investment properties.
• Affordable housing prices (compared to South Florida) make it easier for first-time homebuyers to enter the market, increasing sales opportunities.

3. Tampa – Affordable Housing and a Strong Economy

Why it’s great for real estate agents:

• Tampa’s cost of living is lower than Miami’s, attracting homebuyers looking for affordability without sacrificing city life.
• The strong job market, particularly in healthcare, finance, and technology, fuels demand for residential and commercial real estate.
• The city’s waterfront properties, historic districts, and suburban growth provide diverse options for buyers and investors.
• Military families and young professionals contribute to a steady market for rentals and home purchases.

4. Fort Lauderdale – High-End Waterfront Real Estate

Why it’s great for real estate agents:

• Nicknamed the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is famous for its luxury waterfront mansions and yacht-friendly neighborhoods.
• An elite address for retirees and wealthy buyers seeking resort lifestyles.
• The city has a thriving vacation rental industry, particularly with seasonal inhabitants.
• Proximity to Miami enables agents to access the profitable South Florida marketplace without the fierce competition of Miami proper.

5. Jacksonville – Affordable and Rapidly Growing

Why it’s great for real estate agents:

• Jacksonville offers the lowest cost of living among Florida’s major cities, making it attractive for first-time homebuyers and investors.
• The city’s expanding job market in logistics, finance, and healthcare fuels demand for housing.
• Jacksonville’s large geographic size provides opportunities in urban, suburban, and waterfront real estate.
• The military presence (Naval Station Mayport and NAS Jacksonville) ensures a steady market for rentals and home sales.

Top places to be a real estate agent

The best places for real estate agents depend on several factors, including market growth, home values, and job stability. The following factors make a city an excellent place for real estate professionals:

• Strong housing markets – Cities with increasing home values and demand offer more opportunities for sales.
• Population growth – More residents mean more buyers and sellers, keeping the market active.
• Economic stability – Areas with thriving industries and job opportunities support a healthier real estate market.
• Cost of living – Affordable living costs attract homebuyers, increasing demand for real estate professionals.

By considering these factors, agents can identify cities where they can build a successful career.

How to become a real estate agent in Florida?

If you’re considering a career in Florida real estate, follow these steps:

1. Meet the basic requirements – You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. Complete a pre-licensing course – The state requires 63 hours of pre-licensing education.
3. Pass the state exam – After completing the course, you must pass the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate Exam.
4. Activate your license – Once you pass the real estate exam, you can activate your license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
5. Join a brokerage – New agents must work under a licensed broker before operating independently.

Following these steps will help you launch your real estate career in Florida.

Average real estate agent salary in Florida

Salaries for real estate agents in Florida vary based on experience, location, and the housing market. On average:

• New agents – Earn around $40,000 to $50,000 per year.
• Experienced agents can make between $70,000 and $100,000.
• Top-performing agents – Some earn well over $150,000 annually, especially in high-end markets like Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Income potential in Florida is high, especially in cities with strong demand for real estate services.

Best places in Florida to buy a home

For real estate agents, understanding the best locations for homebuyers is key. Some of the top cities for buying a home include:

• Tampa – Affordable housing with strong resale value.
• Orlando – A steady market driven by tourism and local businesses.
• Jacksonville – Low home prices and growing demand.
• Fort Lauderdale – Ideal for luxury buyers and waterfront properties.
• Naples – High demand for retirement and vacation homes.

These areas offer excellent opportunities for both buyers and real estate professionals.

How many real estate agents are there in Florida?

Florida has one of the highest numbers of real estate agents in the U.S. Currently, there are over 220,000 licensed real estate agents in the state. This large number reflects the strong demand for housing and the many opportunities available in Florida’s real estate market.

Summing-up

Florida remains one of the best places in the country for real estate agents. Its stable housing market, growing population, and high wages allow professionals in this line of work to build a successful business in the Sunshine State. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your business, choosing the right city is key.