Bethenny Frankel, the quintessential New York City personality and Skinnygirl founder, has officially announced her permanent move to Florida. After decades as a fixture in Manhattan’s high-society and reality TV scenes, she is trading her fast-paced city life for a calmer, sunnier chapter with her daughter, Bryn. The move signals a major shift for both her personal life and her business empire.
A New Chapter with an Ocean View
Frankel shared the big news with her followers on Instagram, posting a video of ocean waves and confirming her new beachfront property is now her primary home. “This will be our primary and permanent residence,” she stated, making it clear this isn’t just a seasonal escape.
While she has not disclosed the exact city, the decision to relocate to the Sunshine State has been in the works for a while. She hinted that recent personal events were the final push she needed to make this significant life change.
Keeping a Foothold in the Empire State
Despite making Florida her home base, Bethenny isn’t completely severing ties with New York. She confirmed that she will keep her properties in both Manhattan and the Hamptons. She described her relationship with the city as “a love,” acknowledging it as the place where she built her career and became a household name on Real Housewives of New York City.
However, her recent comments suggest the city has become more of a “pressure cooker.” The move is a clear choice to prioritize peace and a calmer environment over the constant hustle of New York. Followers had already spotted clues, including social media posts with moving boxes and more frequent sightings of her in Miami.
Why the Florida Move Makes Sense
Florida has become a popular destination for high-profile individuals seeking a change of pace and scenery. For Frankel, the move is logical for several reasons:
- Financial Benefits: The state has zero personal income tax, which is a significant advantage for a successful entrepreneur.
- Real Estate Value: Florida’s market often provides more space and luxury for the price compared to New York City.
- Lifestyle Upgrade: A warmer climate and a beachfront backyard offer a more relaxed and family-friendly way of life.
Her new relationship with tech entrepreneur Tom Villante also seems to fit this new, quieter lifestyle. The couple has been seen enjoying low-key dates away from the paparazzi, suggesting a desire for more privacy than her past on-camera relationships allowed.
The Future of Bethenny’s Business Empire
Fans wondering if Bethenny is retiring can rest easy. She has made it clear she is simply changing her location, not her ambition. Her brand deals, content creation, and philanthropic work with her BStrong initiative will continue. The move to Florida may even provide her with a better base to expand her disaster relief efforts.
Her professional life is expected to adapt to her new surroundings, focusing more on remote work and lifestyle-oriented branding.
| Area | NYC Life | Florida Life |
|---|---|---|
| Media Presence | Daily pap walks, red carpets | Quiet beach posts, Instagram-only updates |
| Business Focus | Fast-paced, high-stakes meetings | Remote deals, lifestyle branding |
| Family Life | Private schools, public chaos | Calmer community settings |
Fans React to the Big News
The announcement was met with a wave of mixed reactions online. Many fans expressed their support, with comments like, “You deserve peace!” and flooding her posts with sun emojis. They see it as a positive step for her well-being.
However, many longtime New York-based fans shared a sense of loss. To them, Frankel is a part of the city’s identity—opinionated, ambitious, and tough. One user commented, “Another one leaves New York,” reflecting a sentiment that her departure marks the end of an era. Even with homes still in the state, her center of gravity has undeniably shifted south.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bethenny Frankel moving to Florida permanently?
Yes, Bethenny confirmed on her Instagram that her new beachfront home in Florida will be her primary and permanent residence, which she will share with her daughter, Bryn.
Will Bethenny Frankel sell her New York homes?
No, she has stated that she will be keeping her homes in both Manhattan and the Hamptons, maintaining a connection to the state that was central to her career.
Why did Bethenny Frankel decide to leave New York?
She cited a combination of personal and professional reasons, suggesting she was seeking a calmer lifestyle and more peace away from the “pressure cooker” environment of New York City.
Is Bethenny Frankel retiring from her business?
No, she is not retiring. She plans to continue her brand partnerships, content creation, and her philanthropic work with BStrong from her new home base in Florida.
