In a significant personal and professional shift, Fox News icon Sean Hannity has decided to leave his long-time home state of New York for the sunnier climes of Palm Beach, Florida. The move marks a dramatic change as Hannity, one of the most recognizable figures in conservative media, bids farewell to the Empire State after declaring himself “done” with its political climate and high taxes.
Hannity’s departure from New York was punctuated by the sale of his luxurious Long Island estate for an eye-watering $12.7 million, significantly more than the $8.7 million he paid for it in 2008. The 11,000-square-foot waterfront property saw a 33% appreciation in value, suggesting strong demand despite the broader economic uncertainties. According to Shawn Elliott, the listing agent from Nest Seekers International, the buyer was a fan of Hannity, who even purchased the estate’s furniture.
“The buyer got a great deal,” Elliott remarked, noting that the sale was the fastest home sale over $10 million in the area, setting a new record. The estate boasted private amenities such as a par-3 golf course, a private dock, and a resort-style swimming pool, many of which were added by Hannity himself.
Now, Hannity is settling into his new 3,800-square-foot townhome in Palm Beach. With a waterfront view and a price tag of $5.3 million, his new residence offers both luxury and financial benefits, notably Florida’s lack of state income tax. “We are now beginning our first broadcast from my new home, and that is in the free state of Florida,” Hannity announced on his daily radio show in January. “I am out. I am done. I am finished in New York”.
The move is more than just a personal preference; it reflects a broader migration trend of Americans leaving high-tax, high-regulation states like New York for states like Florida that offer more favorable economic conditions. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, between 2021 and 2022, New York lost over 100,000 residents, while Florida gained nearly 1.1 million new residents between 2020 and 2023.
Hannity cited “burdensome regulation, high crime [and] horrible school districts” as key reasons for his relocation, echoing sentiments shared by many who have left Democratic strongholds. He also highlighted the benefit of living in a state governed by officials who share his fiscally conservative values, contrasting Florida Governor Ron DeSantis with New York’s Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams.
“And finally, for the first time that I can think of in my adult life, I actually have representatives in the state that I’m living in that share my values,” Hannity said. His move follows a pattern seen among other prominent conservatives like Charlie Kirk, Ben Shapiro, Ken Griffin, and Oracle founder Jeffrey Henry, all of whom now call Florida their home.
As Hannity settles into his new life in Florida, the media landscape watches closely. His departure from New York is not just a personal milestone but a reflection of larger political and demographic shifts influencing America today.