More than 100 Orthodox Jewish families are reportedly preparing to move from New York to a new residential community in Florida, citing concerns about antisemitism, high housing costs and the financial pressures of raising large families.
The families plan to join approximately 60 Orthodox households already living at Lakefront Estates, a 550-acre development in Glades County, Florida. The community, which opened in October 2026, was designed to accommodate Orthodox Jewish residents while remaining open to homebuyers from all backgrounds.
The development includes a kosher supermarket, a synagogue and a yeshiva, offering families access to religious institutions and services within their community.
Antisemitism Among the Reasons Families Are Leaving
Several families interviewed by the New York Post identified rising antisemitism as an important factor in their decision to leave New York.
One former Brooklyn resident, identified only as Morris, said he had noticed a change in the atmosphere of his neighborhood, Borough Park. He expressed concern about the level of hostility Jewish residents were experiencing.
A mother of four, who also requested anonymity, said antisemitism and the high cost of living had influenced her family’s decision to relocate to Florida.
Her family also considered Florida’s school voucher programs, which can help eligible families cover the cost of private education.
The accounts reflect the concerns of individual residents and their reasons for moving, amid wider discussions about the safety and future of Jewish communities in New York.
New York Police Report Anti-Jewish Hate Crimes
The relocation comes amid continued concern about antisemitic incidents in New York City.
According to police figures reported in October, 245 confirmed anti-Jewish hate crimes were recorded during the first nine months of 2026. These incidents accounted for 52.9% of all confirmed hate crimes recorded in the city during that period.
The overall number of confirmed hate crimes increased by 12.9% compared with the same period in 2025.
The figures highlight the disproportionate share of reported hate crimes targeting Jewish residents, although they do not, on their own, establish the reasons behind any individual family’s decision to move.
Lakefront Estates Offers Space for Growing Families
Lakefront Estates was developed to provide a residential setting with amenities that support Orthodox Jewish life.
According to information reported by the New York Post, approximately 60 Orthodox families had already moved into the community, with more than 100 additional families reportedly preparing to follow.
Yidel Perlstein, the development’s chief executive, said Orthodox households made up much of the initial group of buyers because many were seeking alternatives to life in New York. He emphasized that the community is open to people of all backgrounds.
Reported prices begin at approximately $460,000 for four-bedroom homes measuring around 2,500 square feet. Larger seven-bedroom homes have been listed at approximately $585,000.
The availability of larger homes is particularly relevant for many Orthodox families, who may need more living space to accommodate their household size and religious lifestyle.
Housing Costs and Taxes Add to Financial Pressures
Antisemitism is not the only factor influencing the move. Housing affordability and the cost of raising children have also contributed to families’ decisions.
New York’s high housing prices can make it difficult for larger households to find suitable homes, while state and local taxes add to the financial burden.
Florida’s comparatively different cost structure and school assistance programs have made the state an attractive alternative for some families seeking more space and a different environment.
New York State Assemblyman Aron Wieder, a Democrat representing Rockland County, said he had seen approximately 20 families from his heavily Orthodox district move to Lakefront Estates.
Wieder pointed to both antisemitism and economic pressures as reasons families were considering relocation. He also expressed concern that Jewish residents should feel safe in their own neighborhoods rather than worry about being targeted because of their identity.
New Residents Face Both Welcome and Hostility
The arrival of Orthodox Jewish families has brought new investment and activity to Glades County.
Perlstein said many local residents had welcomed the newcomers and that the development was creating economic opportunities for the surrounding area.
However, the transition has not been entirely without difficulties. One mother who relocated to the community told the New York Post that while she had encountered friendly local business owners, she had also experienced hostility from some residents.
The community has also attracted attention from far-right online personalities who have posted hostile comments about its Jewish residents. These incidents have contributed to concerns about the safety of families settling in the area.
Perlstein credited local authorities with helping protect the community, while residents have emphasized their desire to raise their children, build their community and maintain positive relationships with their neighbors.
A New Chapter for Orthodox Jewish Families in Florida
Lakefront Estates represents a new option for Orthodox Jewish families seeking a community with dedicated religious amenities and larger homes.
For families leaving New York, the decision involves several considerations, including antisemitism, housing affordability, education and the desire to maintain their religious way of life.
As more households consider relocating, the development’s future will depend not only on housing and infrastructure but also on how successfully new residents and the surrounding community build lasting relationships.
Credit: The Jewish Chronicle
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