Anyone from or know anyone from Florida?

[Show 'N' Shine Car Detailing]

I know Autogeek and Mike are in Stuart area.

I am looking to possibly make changes to my life in a dramatic way. That would be leaving the State of IL for another state. Why Florida? I have no idea, lol. I've had previous interests in CA and MO but now on to FL!!

I'd need to find a job, a home, etc.. Big change!! But I think I'm at that point in my life where it really needs to be done.

I'd love to get more information on great places to live, including major cities, towns, counties, etc.. Yearly temps, weather info, hazards (animals etc.. lol to be aware of), companies to work for (I'm really a jack of all trades, I can do just about anything and am easily trainable.

Anyone knows of anyone in the state that could provide a small tour (online) and help me make some decisions, I'd greatly appreciate it!!

[jfelbab]

Re: Anyone from or know anyone from Florida?

I spend a good deal of my time in Florida. Like most states you will find both good and bad in Florida. They have a very slow economy and depressed home market but that appears to be swinging back a bit lately. Unemployment is a couple points higher than the national average but they don't have a state income tax and cost of living is significantly lower than the average. I prefer the southern area of the Golf Coast, Cape Coral-Fort Myers, for the winter climate (mostly dry and warm) and the fishing and boating.

From my view, I'd say government and health care seem to be the two largest employers in that area of FL. Lawn and pool maintenance are also sizable. I haven't seen many detailers in this specific area.

The area (Lee county) was hit harder than most when the economy went downhill. This left many foreclosed homes and the area has not recovered from this yet. You can buy a pretty nice home for surprisingly little money, if you can get a loan. You can buy a 3/2 pool home on a salt water canal, just minutes away from the Caloosahatchee river for under $300,000. 4-5 years ago that home would have sold for $600,000+

Schools and health care also very good as are parks and recreation opportunities. Sadly, there are hardly any jobs to be had in the area. The non-violent crime rate is higher but the violent crime rate is lower than the national average. Taxes, fees, and insurance costs are very high. Summertime heat and humidity are something to be dealt with if you are not used to it.

Here are a couple sites that rank the significant factors in making a city choice.

http://bestplaces.net

http://placesrated.expertchoice.com

Good luck.