Best Smart Thermostats for South Florida Homes in 2026

A smart thermostat is one of the easiest and most impactful upgrades you can make to your South Florida home's HVAC system. With the ability to learn your schedule, adjust automatically, and be controlled from your phone, these devices can save 10-15% on your cooling costs — which adds up fast when your AC runs 8-12 months a year.

Why Smart Thermostats Matter More in South Florida

In northern states, heating and cooling are seasonal. In South Florida, your AC runs nearly year-round, making thermostat efficiency a much bigger factor in your annual energy costs. A smart thermostat that saves $15/month in Michigan might save $30-$50/month in Fort Lauderdale simply because your system runs so much more.

Top Smart Thermostats for 2026

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)

• Price: $249
• Best for: Set-it-and-forget-it homeowners
• Key features: Learns your schedule in about a week, auto-adjusts based on your habits, built-in motion sensor detects when you're away, energy usage history and tips.
• Florida bonus: "Home/Away Assist" detects when everyone leaves and adjusts the temp up automatically.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium

• Price: $249
• Best for: Homes with hot/cold spots or multi-story layouts
• Key features: Includes room sensors for balanced temperatures throughout your home, built-in Alexa, air quality monitoring, humidity control settings.
• Florida bonus: Room sensors solve the common South Florida problem of second floors being hotter than first floors. Humidity control mode is invaluable in our climate.

Honeywell Home T9

• Price: $199
• Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners who want smart features
• Key features: Remote room sensors, geofencing, 7-day scheduling, works with Alexa and Google Home.
• Florida bonus: Affordable entry point with room sensors for addressing uneven cooling.

Key Features to Look for in Florida

Humidity Control

This is the #1 feature for South Florida. Look for a thermostat that can monitor humidity and adjust your AC's operation to prioritize dehumidification. The Ecobee is the best at this.

Room Sensors

If your home has hot spots, a second floor, or rooms with lots of windows, room sensors help your system maintain comfort where it matters most.

Learning and Scheduling

A thermostat that adapts to your schedule — raising the temperature when you leave and cooling down before you return — provides savings with zero effort.

Utility Rebates

FPL and other South Florida utilities often offer rebates of $50-$100 for installing an ENERGY STAR-certified smart thermostat. Check your utility's rebate program before purchasing.

Installation Tips

• Check compatibility — Most smart thermostats require a "C-wire" (common wire) for power. Older homes may need a C-wire adapter or professional installation.
• Location matters — Install your thermostat on an interior wall, away from direct sunlight, drafts, doorways, and windows for accurate temperature readings.
• Professional installation recommended — While these are marketed as DIY, professional installation ensures correct wiring, proper calibration, and optimal sensor placement.

The Bottom Line

For most South Florida homeowners, we recommend the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium for its humidity control features and room sensors. If you prefer a simpler experience, the Nest Learning Thermostat is an excellent hands-off option.

SoFlo Cooling installs and configures smart thermostats as part of our maintenance and installation services. Contact us to learn more about upgrading your thermostat and optimizing your home's comfort and efficiency.