Florida Man’s $5 Investment Turns into $1 Million Lottery Win

These days $5 doesn't go very far, but in this case one Florida man's $5 investment turned into a $1 million lottery win.

How many times has it happened that you've been in line at Publix, glance over at the vending machine and are drawn in to the thought of winning big with the Florida lottery? You think maybe you'll just throw a few bucks in and see what happens. Well, that's exactly what happened to 69 year-old Thomas Hoshko of Fort Lauderdale.

According to a press release, Mr. Hoshko purchased a $5 GOLD RUSH DOUBLER scratch-off game from the Publix at 4703 North Ocean Drive in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. That $5 was extra lucky, as he took home the $1 million top prize. I can't even imagine scratching away and seeing that money add up..the thrill! And not only did he win big, but that store will also get $2,000 for selling the winning ticket.

Now, you may wonder for this Florida Man's $1 million lottery win, how much he actually gets to take home. Hoshko decided to take his winnings right away as a one-time, lump sum payment with an amount of $685,000.

The $5 GOLD RUSH DOUBLER game offers a chance to win some big money. There's over $188 million in cash prizes and 28 top prizes of $1 million. I may have to pick one up on the way home!

When it comes to choosing a place to live, there's one in particular that stands out and Florida is ranked among the top states to call home.

Known for its vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and year-round sunny weather, Florida has earned its reputation as the ultimate destination for those seeking a life filled with excitement, relaxation and a touch of quirkiness. I dreamt for years about moving to Florida from the cold north, and now over 5 years in, it's the best decision I've made. I started in Sarasota and am now in Fort Myers and absolutely love living in the Sunshine State.

Let's face it – Florida's weather is like that friend who's always in a good mood. With an abundance of sunny days, it's no wonder that people from all over come to soak up the rays. From sipping mojitos at a tiki bar to kayaking through the mysterious mangrove forests of the Everglades, the opportunities for outdoor adventure are as vast as the state itself. Florida has some of the most picturesque beaches in the nation. From the east coasts to the west coast, there's a beach vibe for everyone. If thrills are more your thing, Florida is practically the theme park capital of the world.

WalletHub put together a list of the best states to live in and Florida ranked high on the list. They compared all 50 states on different factors including affordability, economy, education and health, quality of life and safety. Florida came in at on the list of best states to call home at #6 with a score of 58.81. You can check out the full list here. Below are the top 10.

With a total score of 57.52, Minnesota ranks high in safety. The state is home to the Mall of America and its 10,000+ lakes.

Wisconsin has a total score of 58.35, ranking high in affordability. Known for big cities like Madison and Milwaukee, beer and the many sports teams around the state.

Idaho has a total score of 58.36 ranking higher in economy and quality of life. The state is best known for its potato production, as well as for its rich source of gems.

Virginia takes the #7 spot with a total score of 58.37, ranking high(ish) in economy. The state is known as "the birthplace of a nation" as well as the "mother of presidents".

Florida has a total score of 58.81, ranking high in affordability and economy. From the east coast to the west coast, the beaches are unbeatable and central Florida has some of the best theme parks in the world.

The total score for Wyoming is 59.16, ranking high in education & health and quality of life. The state is most known for national parks Grand Teton and Yellowstone.

New York has a total score of 59.31, ranking high in affordability, economy and education & health. New York City, also called "The City That Never Sleeps" is what the state is most known for between the Statue of Liberty, Times Square and Central Park.

With a total score of 59.32, New Hampshire ranks high in affordability and quality of life. The state is known for its granite formations and quarries and its breathtaking landscapes.

With a total score of 61.48, New Jersey ranks high in affordability and economy. New Jersey is known for the Atlantic City Boardwalk, Ellis Island and Ocean City beaches.

With a total score of 61.67, Massachusetts ranks high in affordability. The state is famous for the Salem Witch trials, the landing place of The Mayflower and the Pilgrims and the Boston Tea Party.