O
ver the past two decades, nearly 400,000 residential properties have been built in flood-prone areas of Florida, accounting for 21% of all new housing in the state. This is the highest percentage among all US states, despite researchers expecting a higher figure given that 40% of Florida's developable land lies in floodplains. South Florida alone has seen significant development, with 124,090 residential properties built on 34,560 acres of floodplain land between 2001 and 2019.

    Miami-Dade accounted for nearly 20,000 acres and 95,000 residential properties, while Broward saw 8,200 acres developed into 24,500 residential properties. Palm Beach County also experienced development, with over 6,500 acres of floodplain land being built upon to create more than 5,000 residential properties.

    Construction in flood-prone areas increases the likelihood of more damaging floods and is a concern for scientists due to climate change. Despite this, coastal communities like South Florida often prioritize waterfront real estate value over flood risks. In fact, Florida is one of the riskiest markets for property insurance companies and has some of the highest premiums for policyholders.

    According to researchers from the University of Miami, 74% of US communities have limited new development in floodplains, while 87% have restricted new housing in flood-prone areas through local regulations. However, South Florida's high concentration of floodplains and dense population make it a unique case, with nearly all of Miami Beach located in or near a FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Area.