Florida's place in the tourist industry means that it has a strong rental market. Rental prices vary throughout Florida, with the more expensive properties located in the high tourist areas or near the beach. Still, bargains can be found, and rental prices in Florida are generally competitive due to high availability. Renting is a good way to test drive a town or neighborhood before committing to purchasing a property.

When renting a property, you will usually be required to pay one month's rent up front and another month's rent to put down as a deposit, which is intended to assure the owner that you intend to treat the property with respect and to provide them with funds if you suddenly leave the property or cause significant damage. Assuming that you look after the property, you will normally get a large portion of the deposit returned to you when you move out. It is common for a small portion of it to be put towards having the place deep-cleaned, even if you have already cleaned it thoroughly in preparation for your departure. The majority of property owners and managers will also run a background and credit check, for which there will usually be a minimal, non-refundable application or processing fee charged. As a newcomer to the US, without a credit history, you may be asked to pay more rent up-front.

Most apartments and houses do not rent on a month-by-month basis, unless they are holiday rentals. Instead, you will probably be asked to sign a 6/7 or 12-month lease. You may be asked for references. Your lease can be approved immediately or up to a week or two later while someone checks your references. If possible, bring English translations of references from mortgage companies or from people you have rented from previously.

If you rent a property, it is advisable to get some sort of renters or contents insurance, which can protect your personal property against fire, theft and vandalism and cover you against liability in case someone is injured or their property is damaged or stolen at your residence. Many insurance companies offer renters insurance policies.

There are thousands of rental agencies located throughout Florida. Some of these agencies are nationwide chains, while others are individually-run businesses. Century 21 and RE/MAX RE/MAX are a couple of the better-known, nationwide agencies. Some rental agencies specialize in short-term or holiday rentals. For a list of agencies in your area, consult your local Yellow Pages.

There are also a number of online databases where you can search for rental properties, including Realtor.com, U.S. Real Estate Directory, Rentals.com, RentalHouses.com, and Florida Real Estate Agents.