New AARP Florida Survey: Floridians 45+ Concerned About Financial, Health, and Housing Security

AARP Florida’s newly published Vital Voices survey reveals that Floridians age 45 and older are growing increasingly concerned about their financial security, access to healthcare, and the rising cost of everyday life — concerns that are directly reflected in AARP Florida’s 2026 state legislative priorities.

Conducted every three years, the survey captures the top issues impacting older adults, providing a data-driven foundation for AARP Florida’s advocacy efforts on Social Security, Medicare, and family caregiving support, along with consumer protection and community-based services. They are not just priorities, they are essential lifelines.

“This survey makes it clear: Floridians aged 45 and older are deeply concerned about their financial future,” said Jeff Johnson, AARP Florida State Director. “From the rising cost of living to the future of Social Security and Medicare, the issues that are vital to older adults are grounded in economic security and peace of mind. AARP Florida will continue fighting to ensure these priorities are protected—because Floridians deserve to age with dignity, stability, and the financial security they’ve earned.”

Key Survey Findings – Issues Rated Extremely or Very Important:

Social Security & Retirement Security:

• The overwhelming majority of respondents (93%) said having adequate Social Security benefits and enough income to retire are extremely important or very important concerns. Many (75%) are also concerned about the program's future and whether it will continue to pay full benefits.
• Medicare & Health Care Access:
  Floridians continue to express anxiety over the long-term availability of Medicare and their ability to afford prescription medications—both crucial elements of aging with health and independence.
• Cost of Living & Financial Strain:
  Respondents cited growing financial pressures from increased costs in:
  
  • Prescription drugs
  • Electricity and utility bills
  • Transportation

Within the larger topic of cost of living, Floridians 45+ have particular concerns about the overall cost of housing, including

• • Homeowners and renters’ insurance
  • Property taxes
  • Rent and housing

These everyday expenses are making it harder for older adults to make ends meet, especially those on fixed incomes.

But these financial strains are compounded by another uniquely Floridian challenge: preparing for and recovering from natural disasters.

Disaster Preparedness & Insurance Concerns:

· Florida’s frequent hurricanes add another layer of strain. While most respondents (73%) have an emergency plan, confidence in recovery is low: only 24% feel “very confident” they could rebound financially after a disaster, while more than one in three report little to no confidence.

· Insurance costs remain a major concern. Nearly 80% of insured homeowners face a hurricane deductible before coverage begins, with 43% “extremely” or “very concerned” about paying it. Among those without insurance, nearly three out of four said it was simply too expensive.

Florida-Specific Context:

• One in five Floridians—more than 5 million people—receive Social Security benefits.
• Among those age 65 and older, 46% (roughly 2.1 million Floridians) rely on Social Security for at least half of their income.
• Florida remains one of the most expensive states for homeowners' insurance, with average annual premiums exceeding $4,000 in many regions.
• Housing affordability and transportation access continue to challenge aging Floridians, particularly in high-growth and rural areas.

Looking Ahead

The Vital Voices survey helps AARP identify what matters most to its members and guides its work across advocacy, outreach, and education. As the state’s 50+ population continues to grow, AARP remains focused on protecting Social Security and Medicare, advancing caregiving support, and promoting solutions that address the rising cost of living.

The findings from this survey directly inform AARP Florida’s 2026 Legislative Priorities – a policy roadmap centered on Health Security, Consumer Protections, and Livable Communities – to help ensure every Floridian can age with dignity, safety and independence.

View the entire 2025 Vital Voices survey.