Why Florida Floods
Florida holds more NFIP flood insurance policies than any other state — and for good reason. With 1,350 miles of coastline and an average elevation of just 6 feet above sea level, much of the state is vulnerable to both coastal and inland flooding. Hurricane storm surge alone can push water miles inland, devastating entire communities in hours.
Beyond hurricanes, Florida receives an average of 54 inches of rain per year, with summer thunderstorms routinely dropping several inches in a single afternoon. Low-lying terrain and a high water table mean the ground saturates quickly, leading to street and property flooding even far from the coast. South Florida faces an additional long-term threat from sea level rise, which is already causing more frequent tidal flooding in Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
NFIP Risk Rating 2.0 has changed how many Florida premiums are calculated, with some homeowners seeing significant rate increases. Comparing private flood insurance alongside the NFIP is now more important than ever for Florida property owners.
Florida Cities We Serve
We write flood insurance across Florida — here are some of the communities we serve most often.
MiamiTampaJacksonvilleOrlandoFort LauderdaleSt. PetersburgNaplesSarasotaFort MyersWest Palm Beach
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Florida Flood Insurance FAQ
How much does flood insurance cost in Florida?▾
Florida flood insurance costs vary widely — from $500 per year in moderate-risk zones to $3,000+ for high-risk coastal properties. The statewide NFIP average is around $900/year. Under NFIP Risk Rating 2.0, premiums are based on individual property risk. Private flood insurance can save Florida homeowners 20-40% in many cases.
Is flood insurance required in Florida?▾
Flood insurance is required in Florida if you have a federally backed mortgage and your property is in a high-risk flood zone (A or V zones). However, given Florida's hurricane and rainfall exposure, flood insurance is strongly recommended for all Florida homeowners — even those outside mapped flood zones.
Does Florida homeowners insurance cover hurricane flooding?▾
No. Florida homeowners insurance covers wind damage from hurricanes but specifically excludes flood damage — including storm surge. You need a separate flood policy to cover water damage from hurricanes. This is one of the most common and costly gaps in Florida home coverage.
What is the difference between NFIP and private flood insurance in Florida?▾
The NFIP offers standardized coverage up to $250K for the building and $100K for contents with a 30-day waiting period. Private flood insurance in Florida can offer higher limits, replacement cost coverage, loss of use, and shorter waiting periods. Many Florida homeowners save significantly by comparing private options alongside the NFIP.
Which Florida cities have the highest flood risk?▾
Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, St. Petersburg, Jacksonville, and the Keys face the highest flood risk in Florida. Miami-Dade and Broward counties alone hold over 500,000 NFIP policies. Coastal communities face storm surge risk, while inland areas like Orlando and Kissimmee experience flooding from heavy tropical rainfall.