How is Gainesville (Jacksonville, Miami, University: apartment, job, houses)

[Petertherock]

From what I am hearing the best place to live in Florida is northern Florida. So, how is the Gainesville area to live? I mean in terms of crime, finding a safe apartment (looking for a 1BR around $400-$600/month but not a drug haven) Will I find that anywhere in Florida?

[dagator]

Gainesville is a great town. I went to college there and miss it. I live in St. Pete now which is 2.5 hours south. Gainesville has beautiful oak trees and great restaurants. The Downtown is really nice but there are tons of homeless people milling about. That being said there are tons of homeless people all over Florida because of the warm weather. The weather is great because it gets nice and cold during the short winter. Summers are hot and muggy but it rains every afternoon for 15 minutes and that cools it down a bit. Its an hour and a half to the beach - St. Augustine, which is a great day trip. Down sides are that its difficult to catch a flight from Gainesville, you pretty much have to drive all the way to Jacksonville to get a good rate. Additionally, there is not alot of commerce besides the University. Good luck!

[pragmatic1]

I, too went to UF in Gainesville and positively loved it!

Unfortunately, the price range under about 800 is geared toward students, and totally depends on the individuals.

I would avoid the area North East of 13th Street (441) and University Ave - High crime area. I'm not sure if it's a common occurance, but someone tried to get into my car as I stopped at an intersection in that area.

The NW Section is nice - Lots of tree-canopied streets and gorgeous old houses.

Also, there are TONS of things to do - libraries, art galleries, restaurants of every type, and of course - Gator Culture!

I'm here today because I'm seriously considering going back.

[miamiblue]

I also went to college in Gainesville, as did my sister who now works for UF and lives there still. It is a beautiful town, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. I considered moving back when I was trying to escape Miami, but the job market is not very good.

Most everything is centered around the university, so that is something to consider. Overall, it's a great town, but it really depends on what you expect or what you want out of a place to live.