With the fall sun shining, clear skies overhead, and some of the world’s most impressive yachts bobbing gently on South Florida’s calm blue waters, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) doesn’t just attract people looking to buy boats — it tempts them to join a years-long migration of wealth and population.
“The great thing is that people sometimes who come here for the first time thinking they’re going to buy a boat, end up buying a condo or a home because they realize the experience down here is so unmatched by any other place they’ve come to visit or even live in themselves,” Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis told Fox News Digital.
“There are many things fueling the migration to South Florida,” said Daniel de la Vega, president of ONE Sotheby’s International Realty. “The job growth has been unprecedented. We’ve seen companies continue to move here across many different industries.”
“I think Florida is a wonderful place to live, work, and play,” added Kurt Drstvensek, managing director of Related Group. “It’s a business-friendly place, the weather is amazing, people are very friendly, and I think it will continue to draw folks of all demographics and wealth to the state.”
“I think that the crowd, the energy, and the demographics of the buyers traverse all markets,” said Jimmy Tate, CEO and co-founder of Tate Capital. “Many of them end up buying here and staying here, whether a second home or a permanent residence.”
Marking its 66th year, FLIBS holds the title of the world’s largest in-water boat show. The event generates nearly $1.8 billion annually for the local economy, with the city’s mayor projecting 2025 will be its “most successful year in history.”
Fort Lauderdale’s Downtown Development Authority recently released a “Fueled by Water” report showing more than $12 billion invested in new waterfront projects over the past year. The report highlights that 70% of residents live within 10 minutes of the water, supporting a $43 billion downtown economy. The city’s yachting industry alone is valued at $36 billion.
“The boat show not only increases the city’s visibility, but it also provides many jobs,” Mayor Trantalis said. “There might be $800 to $900 million worth of boat sales, equipment, motors, and related items throughout the weekend.”
“And that’s not even counting people buying condominiums or vehicles, as there are car sales at the event as well,” he added. “It creates an opportunity for the city to really shine. We are the boating capital of the world.”
“A lot of people keep their yachts year-round at Bahia Mar after purchase,” Tate noted. “So it’s great for the economy, South Florida, boat sellers, manufacturers, and everyone involved in the marine industry. It really helps everybody.”
“Fort Lauderdale has really come into its own,” de la Vega said. “It’s no longer the quiet neighbor of Miami. The area is being driven by significant investments.”
“People come to see yachts, have fun, and experience our lifestyle,” he continued. “Then they get interested in real estate. They might make an investment here or eventually decide to make Fort Lauderdale their home. They come for the yachts but often end up buying property, which is a huge win for us.”
As wealth migration unfolds at the boat show, business leaders emphasize the event’s role as a defining factor of South Florida’s spirit and culture.
“The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show has a great and rich history,” said Drstvensek. “The energy of the show perfectly matches that of South Florida, which is experiencing a wonderful renaissance.”
Mayor Trantalis highlighted the region’s growing population: “Fort Lauderdale has seen an enormous influx from all over the country — the Midwest, Northeast, even the West Coast. It’s an easy place to live, and more affordable for people trying to get ahead economically.”
He shared a memorable story from the event: “A gentleman told me, ‘Mayor, I have an investment banking company in New York, and we’re relocating my entire staff and family to Fort Lauderdale because we’ve come to experience what paradise is like in your city.’”
Looking ahead, city and business leaders say diversifying South Florida’s economy will shape its next growth phase.
“We want to ensure we’re not simply relying on hospitality,” Trantalis said. “We aim to create career paths that give people direction and opportunity.”
“The next phase will be continued growth,” Drstvensek assured. “People from the Northeast, Texas, the Midwest, and around the world share their positive experiences, encouraging more individuals to move here. This is just the beginning.”
“This lifestyle and the numerous venues available are what make South Florida communities aspirational to people worldwide,” de la Vega concluded. “It’s an exciting time for the region and its future.”
https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/boat-show-visitors-come-yachts-end-up-buying-homes-booming-florida-city
