Florida’s consumers express increased optimism compared to a year ago, despite ongoing economic uncertainties. The state’s robust economy, with a $1.74 trillion GDP and over 10 million jobs, provides context for this confidence. “In fact, the latest data shows a record gap between Florida’s consumer outlook and the national average,” suggesting that many Floridians perceive a brighter economic future.
The U.S. experienced a 0.3% GDP decline in the first quarter of 2025, primarily due to an increase in imports ahead of impending tariffs. In contrast, the Florida Chamber Foundation anticipates that Florida’s economy will either experience a smaller decline or potentially grow during the same period.
Florida’s consumer sentiment index is significantly higher than the national average, marking “the largest gap in the history of the index.” Consumer spending is crucial as it accounts for over 65% of GDP, indicating that positive consumer sentiment could bolster economic performance.
According to surveys by The University of Michigan and the University of Florida’s BEBR Consumer Sentiment Index, both national and state consumer sentiments have declined in 2025 but not as sharply in Florida. Compared to last year, Floridians feel more optimistic about their economic situation (+5%), while national sentiment has dropped (-32.4%).
Factors contributing to Florida’s optimism include stronger GDP growth in 2024 (3.1% vs. the nation’s 2.5%) and resilient labor market performance with consistent job growth exceeding national rates.
The Metropolitan Consumer Sentiment Index highlights that four major Florida metro areas—Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Tampa-St. Petersburg—rank among the top 15 for positive outlooks nationwide.
Although there is shared uncertainty at a national level, recent consumer sentiment figures suggest potential resilience for Florida amidst broader economic challenges.
For further updates on Florida’s economic indicators such as consumer sentiment and labor market statistics, visit TheFloridaScorecard.org or subscribe to updates from the Florida Chamber Foundation’s “Florida By the Numbers.”
