Florida home insurance rate changes are a major concern for residents as hurricane season approaches in 2025. With Citizens Insurance implementing new rates and the market remaining one of the most expensive in the nation, homeowners in Port St. Lucie and across the state are watching costs closely.
Florida Home Insurance Rate Changes in 2025
The Florida home insurance market has seen significant shifts in 2025, with rate adjustments affecting thousands of policyholders. According to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR), a rate increase for Citizens Insurance policies took effect on June 1, 2025.
Citizens Insurance, a state-backed provider, is often the only option for many homeowners who cannot secure coverage through private insurers. The company remains one of the largest home insurance providers in Florida, especially in high-risk areas like the Treasure Coast.
Details of Citizens Insurance 2025 Rate Changes
In February, OIR approved a maximum rate hike of 14% for primary residences insured by Citizens Insurance. For secondary or non-primary residences, the increase could reach as high as 50%, according to Insurance Business Magazine.
- Most Citizens policyholders in Florida (about 80%) experienced an average rate increase of more than 8%.
- Approximately 20% of policyholders, mainly in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, saw an average rate reduction of 5.6%.
How much a homeowner’s rate increased depends on the type of policy held. For 2025, Citizens’ dwelling rates are rising 10.4% for multiperil policies and 17.2% for wind-only policies. The mobile home program faces even higher increases, with multiperil rates up by 21.7% and wind-only rates up by 26.6%.
Mobile home dwelling fire multiperil rates are increasing by 18.8%, while wind-only rates for that program are up 20.3%, according to Insurance Business Magazine. These changes reflect the ongoing challenges of insuring property in Florida’s high-risk environment, but there is some positive news as well. For example, Florida Peninsula Insurance has proposed a historic rate cut for homeowners, signaling potential relief for some policyholders.
Impact of Hurricane Season on Home Insurance in Florida
Hurricane season in Florida runs from June through November, peaking in September. This period brings heightened risk for property damage due to storms, flooding, and wind. According to OIR, these risks contribute to Florida’s high home insurance costs.
Most insurance companies in Florida do not issue new homeowners insurance policies 24 to 48 hours before a hurricane or major storm is expected to impact the state. This restriction is in place to manage risk and prevent last-minute coverage purchases just before a potential claim event.
Why Florida Homeowners Insurance Remains Expensive
Florida is considered one of the most expensive states for home insurance. The high cost is due to several factors:
- Frequent hurricanes and storms increase the likelihood of claims.
- Flooding risk is present throughout much of the state, especially in coastal communities.
- High property values and rebuilding costs drive up premiums.
According to 2025 data from Bankrate, the average annual home insurance premium in Florida is approximately $5,761. In some coastal areas, rates can approach $11,000 per year. NerdWallet reports a slightly lower average of $2,625 per year for homeowners with good credit, but notes that those with poor credit pay about $3,855 annually. In recent years, property insurance companies in Florida have seen profits surge, which adds another layer to the ongoing debate about premium increases and market stability.
Citizens Insurance: The State-Backed Option
Citizens Insurance is operated by the State of Florida and serves as the insurer of last resort for residents unable to find coverage in the private market. The company states its mission is to “serve the people of Florida as the state’s insurer of last resort, and as an innovative thought leader focused on promoting a healthy property insurance market.”
Many homeowners in Port St. Lucie and other high-risk areas rely on Citizens for coverage, especially as private insurers reduce their presence or exit the market due to elevated risk and past losses.
Types of Home Insurance Policies in Florida
Florida offers eight main types of home insurance policies, including:
- HO-1: Basic form
- HO-2: Broad form
- HO-3: Special form (most common)
- HO-4: Renters insurance
- HO-5: Comprehensive form
- HO-6: Condo insurance
- HO-7: Mobile home insurance
- HO-8: Older homes
The policy type, property location, and insurer all influence premium costs and coverage options. For condo owners, there are additional hurdles: Florida condo insurance challenges, roof inspections, and policy cancellations have become increasingly common, making it even more important to review your policy details.
Shopping for Home Insurance During Hurricane Season
Purchasing home insurance in Florida during hurricane season can be challenging. Most insurers restrict new policy sales 24 to 48 hours before a predicted storm makes landfall. These rules vary by company, but the intent is to reduce last-minute risk exposure.
Insurance experts recommend comparing quotes from at least three different providers to find the best rates and coverage. Factors such as property location, construction type, and personal credit can all affect premiums.
What to Know About Getting Coverage
- Check with multiple insurers for available options and pricing.
- Consider state-backed Citizens Insurance if private coverage is unavailable.
- Understand policy exclusions, especially for wind and flood damage.
- Act early in hurricane season to avoid last-minute restrictions.
According to OIR, insurance availability and pricing may continue to evolve as the market stabilizes. Details may be updated as the situation develops.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Home Insurance Rate Changes
What are the main reasons for Florida home insurance rate changes in 2025?
Rates are changing due to hurricane risk, high claims, and market instability. The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation approved increases for Citizens Insurance to help address these risks.
How much did Citizens Insurance rates increase for primary residences in 2025?
Most primary residence policyholders saw increases up to 14%. The average increase was over 8%, but some homeowners in Miami-Dade and Broward counties saw a small decrease.
Can you buy home insurance in Port St. Lucie during hurricane season?
It is possible, but most insurers stop selling new policies 24 to 48 hours before a storm is expected. It is best to secure coverage before hurricane season begins.
Are there special options for mobile home insurance in Florida?
Yes, Citizens Insurance and some private companies offer mobile home policies. In 2025, these rates increased more than standard home policies due to higher risk.
Where can I find official information about Florida home insurance rates?
Official updates are available from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation and Citizens Insurance. Always check these sources for the latest details and rate changes.
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