Florida isn’t just about beaches, oranges, and alligators—it’s a state full of personality, wild weather, and even wilder people. From unpredictable storms to weird local news, the Sunshine State has given birth to some sayings that are as funny as they are uniquely Floridian.
If you’ve ever lived in or visited Florida, chances are you’ve heard at least a few of these gems. And if you haven’t? Well, get ready to laugh and scratch your head!
1. “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.”
Florida weather changes fast. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s pouring. This classic line is used all the time—because it’s true!
2. “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity.”
Every Floridian has said this while drenched in sweat. The air feels like soup, and your shirt sticks to you even in the shade.
3. “It’s just a little rain.”
Only in Florida do people shrug off a full-blown thunderstorm like it’s nothing. Rain? No big deal—unless it’s a hurricane.
4. “I’ll believe it’s fall when the high is under 85.”
Forget pumpkin spice and falling leaves. In Florida, fall is just summer with a calendar change.
5. “That’s just a palmetto bug.”
Translation: That giant flying cockroach in your kitchen isn’t a big deal. Just another Florida roommate.
6. “Gotta bring in the flamingos—storm’s coming.”
Plastic lawn flamingos, pool floats, garden gnomes—Floridians know to bring in the décor before it ends up in Georgia.
7. “The ‘Florida Man’ strikes again!”
Every wild, ridiculous headline starts with these two words. And yes, it’s usually someone doing something insane with an alligator.
8. “Snowbirds are back—traffic’s a nightmare.”
When winter hits up north, seasonal residents (a.k.a. snowbirds) migrate to Florida, and locals brace for packed roads and long restaurant waits.
9. “That ain’t a lake, that’s a gator pit.”
Any body of water in Florida probably has an alligator lurking. Locals know better than to go swimming anywhere that’s not a pool.
10. “The love bugs are back—good luck with your windshield.”
These harmless but annoying insects swarm in pairs and splatter all over cars every spring and fall. It’s love, Florida-style.
11. “Hurricane party at my place!”
Only in Florida do people turn natural disasters into social events. Stock up on snacks, beer, and battery-powered fans.
12. “Yes, we have iguanas falling from trees.”
When it gets cold (which is rare), iguanas literally fall from trees. Don’t worry—they’re not dead, just frozen and stunned.
13. “That’s not traffic—it’s Disney tourists.”
If you’re near Orlando, every slow car probably has a theme park map on the dashboard and a kid wearing Mickey ears in the back seat.
14. “I don’t do anything before 8 a.m.—too hot after.”
Mornings are gold in Florida. Once the sun rises, so does the heat—and your motivation disappears fast.
15. “Just another day in paradise… with bugs.”
It might look like a tropical dream, but paradise includes mosquitoes, fire ants, and lizards on your window.
16. “Turn the AC up—I’m sweating through my eyebrows!”
Yes, that’s a real thing in Florida. And no, there’s no shame in blasting the AC 24/7.
17. “Where else can you surf and shovel sand in December?”
While the rest of the country shovels snow, Floridians are chilling at the beach and maybe even complaining it’s too hot for Christmas.
Florida isn’t just a place—it’s a mood. With its strange mix of sunshine, swamps, wild animals, and even wilder people, it’s no wonder these hilarious sayings have become part of everyday life.
Whether you’re a native, a transplant, or just a curious outsider, these Florida phrases are sure to make you smile—and maybe even make you want to visit… just don’t forget your bug spray!
SOURCES
- (https://www.bark.us/blog/teen-text-speak-codes-every-parent-should-know/)
- (https://shorelight.com/student-stories/a-guide-to-american-slang-words-in-2025)
- (https://axis.org/resource/a-parent-guide-to-teen-slang/)
