You’ve read the articles. You’ve seen the top ten lists. Florida is repeatedly named one of the most expensive states when it comes to homeowners insurance.

It’s one of the unfortunate downsides to living in this beautiful, vibrant state. The reasons for our climbing homeowners insurance costs are complex. However, here is a basic explanation:

Each year, insurers pour billions of dollars in their disaster coverage for clients across the nation. These companies purchase reinsurance to protect against those losses so they can continue to cover their clients’ properties. Reinsurance rates are a hotly debated issue on the political front, with new developments emerging every day.

Regardless of the debate’s outcome, there is one underlying factor that’s intrinsic to Florida’s geographical location: weather-related risks. Florida is surrounded by water on three sides, making it vulnerable to severe storm patterns, including (as any Florida resident knows) hurricanes. The costs associated with damage from the driving winds and rain can be astronomical. Homeowners insurance rates are assessed to reflect those potential costs.