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Florida mayor predicts 'substantial exodus' of NYC businesses if Mamdani wins

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  Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, October 22nd 2025 at 14:50 GMT by Fox News
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Florida’s Economic Outlook Grows Bold as Mayor Forecasts Mass Relocation of New York City Firms

In a surprising turn of events, the mayor of Miami, Francis Suarez, delivered a sweeping statement this week suggesting that a significant wave of New York City (NYC) businesses could be on the brink of relocating to the Sunshine State. Suarez’s remarks, made during a press briefing at the city hall, highlighted the growing appeal of Florida’s business-friendly climate and underscored a trend that analysts have been tracking for months.

According to Suarez, the cost of doing business in New York City—including high property taxes, steep rents, and stringent regulatory requirements—has driven a number of enterprises to seek more favorable environments. “We’re seeing a clear pattern where companies, especially in the tech and financial sectors, are evaluating the long-term viability of remaining in New York,” Suarez said. “Florida offers a zero state income tax, reduced regulatory burden, and a growing talent pool that makes relocation an attractive option.” He further added that Florida’s continued investment in infrastructure—particularly the expansion of high-speed broadband in the metro‑Miami corridor—has made the state even more compelling for businesses that rely on digital connectivity.

Suarez cited a recent report from the real‑estate firm CBRE that projected up to 12,000 NYC firms could be on the move by the end of the decade. The report highlighted key drivers behind this potential exodus: a sharp rise in commercial real‑estate prices in Manhattan, growing congestion and traffic costs, and a shift toward remote and hybrid work models that lessen the need for a physical presence in the city. While the report acknowledged that some businesses will still choose to stay in New York due to its unparalleled global connectivity, the data suggested a net outflow that could have significant implications for both states.

Economic Analysts Weigh In

Economic analysts at the University of Miami’s Center for Business and Economics echoed Suarez’s concerns. Professor Linda Ramirez noted that “Florida’s tax incentives, combined with its robust transportation infrastructure, create a magnetic pull for enterprises looking to cut costs.” Ramirez pointed out that Florida’s corporate tax rate is one of the lowest in the country, standing at 5.5%, compared to New York’s combined state and local corporate tax of around 8.5%. She also referenced a survey conducted by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity that found 73% of companies relocating to the state cited tax advantages as a primary motivator.

Industry insiders also weighed in on the matter. Jonathan Kline, CEO of a Fortune 500 fintech firm headquartered in New York, said that “we’ve been evaluating our footprint across the country, and Florida offers an excellent balance of a skilled workforce and lower operational costs.” Kline’s company announced a $30 million investment in a new headquarters in Orlando later this year, a move that has been hailed as a symbol of the broader migration trend.

Mamdani Wins: A New Chapter in Florida Politics

While the mayor’s comments captured headlines, a separate development in Florida politics added another layer of intrigue to the state’s narrative. In a surprise victory, political newcomer Khalid Mamdani secured a seat on the Broward County Board of Commissioners, marking a significant shift in the county’s political landscape. Mamdani’s win, which came after a fiercely contested campaign against incumbent Democrat Lisa O’Neill, was seen as a breakthrough for a candidate who had previously served as a city council member in Fort Lauderdale.

Mamdani’s platform centered on economic development, affordable housing, and climate resilience—issues that resonated with voters in the county’s rapidly growing suburbs. He campaigned on a promise to reduce bureaucratic red tape, streamline permitting processes, and attract new businesses to the region. His victory, which came with a margin of 52% to 48%, was seen by many analysts as a reflection of the county’s evolving priorities and a potential harbinger of broader state-level shifts.

In a statement after the election, Mamdani expressed his gratitude to the voters of Broward County and pledged to work across the aisle to achieve tangible results. “Our community deserves leaders who understand the everyday challenges of business owners and families,” he said. “I look forward to collaborating with colleagues from both parties to make Broward a more prosperous and resilient place for everyone.”

The win also highlights the growing influence of new voices in Florida’s political arena. Mamdani, who holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Florida, had previously been recognized for his work on community revitalization projects in the city of Deerfield Beach. His campaign was bolstered by endorsements from several local business leaders, including the president of the Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce.

Implications for the State and the Nation

The combination of Suarez’s forecast and Mamdani’s electoral victory paints a picture of Florida in a period of dynamic change. As more businesses contemplate moving from New York to Florida, the state could see a surge in job creation and economic activity. However, this growth also brings challenges—such as the need to expand infrastructure, manage housing demand, and address environmental concerns like rising sea levels and increased hurricane activity.

Experts suggest that Florida’s ability to capitalize on this potential influx will depend on its continued commitment to creating a conducive business environment while also investing in public services and sustainability initiatives. Meanwhile, Mamdani’s victory could signal a shift in policy priorities, with a potential emphasis on balancing economic growth with community needs.

For New York City, the prospect of losing a portion of its business base raises questions about how the city can adapt to a changing economic landscape. City officials may need to re‑evaluate their strategies for attracting and retaining businesses, possibly by offering new incentives, improving infrastructure, or focusing on sectors that remain uniquely positioned in the global economy.

In the broader national context, Florida’s rising profile as a business haven underscores the ongoing competition between states to attract investment. As the country continues to grapple with issues ranging from tax policy to workforce development, the Florida-New York business dynamic will likely serve as a bellwether for future economic realignments.

As Florida prepares for an influx of new businesses and new political leadership, the state’s trajectory remains a topic of keen interest for economists, policymakers, and the public alike. Whether the predicted exodus will materialize in the coming years remains to be seen, but the conversation has already begun—one that will shape the economic and political landscape of the United States for years to come.