Chris Gates, a 61-year-old pharmacist, relocated from Miami Beach to Santa Fe, New Mexico, in 2023 due to concerns over climate change and rising living costs. After 20 years in Miami, Gates became increasingly worried about flooding and escalating insurance fees, particularly as Florida faces significant climate vulnerabilities, including hurricanes and rising sea levels. He advocated for enhanced climate solutions in Miami but ultimately sought a better quality of life elsewhere.
In Santa Fe, he enjoys financial savings of about $1,000 monthly on home insurance and HOA fees after selling his Miami Beach condo for $710,000 and purchasing a $227,000 fixer-upper. Gates appreciates New Mexico’s statewide climate plan and feels safer there despite recognizing the local risks like wildfires. He sees his move as a proactive step towards a more sustainable lifestyle, emphasizing a desire to be part of the solution in the face of climate challenges.
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