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Talk to a Specialist →The Tax Math
Connecticut has the 3rd highest property taxes in America and taxes all retirement income. A $350K home costs $7,490/yr in CT property tax vs $2,850 in Polk County. Add 6.99% marginal income tax on pensions and withdrawals. A couple saving $80K retires $10K-$16K/year richer in Lakeland.
Property Tax Comparison ($300K Home)
| Location | Effective Rate | Annual Tax |
|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | ~2.14% | $6,420 |
| Polk County, FL (homestead) | ~0.95% | $2,375 |
| Annual Savings | $4,045 | |
Income Tax Comparison
| Income Source | Connecticut | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security | Partially taxed | $0 |
| Pension ($50,000) | Taxed at 3-6.99% | $0 |
| 401(k)/IRA Withdrawals | Taxed at 3-6.99% | $0 |
Total Estimated Annual Savings
For a couple with $80,000 combined retirement income and a $300,000 home: $10,000-$16,000 per year.
Over 10 years: $100K–$160K in cumulative savings. Over 20 years of retirement, the gap compounds further.
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Best Communities for Connecticut Buyers
- Golf lifestyle: Sandpiper Golf ($150/mo all-in with golf) or Lake Ashton (resort-scale amenities)
- Lakefront: Traditions at Lake Ruby (boat dock, Lennar built)
- Lowest cost: Lake Henry Estates ($5,650/yr) or Highlands Ridge (homes under $100K)
- Newest construction: Lakes at Laurel Highlands (D.R. Horton, $170/mo, no CDD)