Hi everyone! I could really use some outside perspective before making a pretty big decision.
I’m 24 and recently graduated with my MPH in Community Health Education. I currently live in Massachusetts and have been job searching for a full-time public health position.
I recently received an offer with the Florida Department of Health in Tallahassee as a Human Services Program Consultant I in the Division of Public Health Statistics and Performance Management.
The offer is $43,144/year ($1,659 biweekly) + state benefits. I already tried negotiating the salary, and unfortunately they told me this is the highest they can offer.
The position also requires some field work, and I do have a car. My biggest hesitation is whether it makes financial sense to relocate from Massachusetts all the way to Tallahassee for $43K.
Career-wise, I like the idea of getting state-level public health experience and having a Department of Health position on my résumé. I’m especially interested in hearing from people who have worked for FDOH or started their public health careers in state/local government.
For those familiar with Tallahassee: Is $43K reasonably livable for a single person there in 2026? What should I expect for rent, utilities, car insurance, etc.?
And for the public health folks: Would you consider relocating for this salary if the position gave you solid government public health experience early in your career? Is FDOH experience likely to open doors for better-paying positions after a year or two?
I’m not expecting to make amazing money right out of school, but moving this far for $43K is making me hesitate.
Would love to hear from anyone who has worked for Florida DOH, lives in Tallahassee, or made a similar move early in their public health career. Thanks!