Need info on Okeechobee area (Miami, Belle Glade: wages, rent , jobs)

[rottysofpdl]

Right now my family and I live in the Panhandle. Love the small town country life and am less than an hour away from the beaches. Problem is I can't find a good paying job less than an hour's drive away.
There's a job possibilty in Okeechobee and I was wondering how the rent and home prices are in the area? Good place to raise a family?
Thanks for your help,
Phil

[rottysofpdl]

C'mon now. Nobody has ANYTHING to say about Okeechobee?
Phil

[lsseds]

I lived in Palm Beach county for 43 years and whenever we wanted to get away for the day we would ride to Okeechobee to enjoy the country. It's a nice little place to visit but I never had the desire to live there.

[kath2210]

I agree. I've been there a few times, last time was after Hurricane Charley. They had power and supplies so we drove over there for gas, extra food, ice and a HOT MEAL!! I think you should check it out though. Personally, I wouldn't want to live there. Good fishing though!!

[hiknapster]

I love the country. I don't even mind rednecks. As a matter of fact I live right in the middle of redneck country now. But I'll tell you something. I would not want to live there. I bet rent is REAL cheap. But, "no thank you!"

You'd have to see it to understand.

[tallrick]

The entire Lake Oheechobee area is going through transition, The bubble mentality is infecting the area as bubbleheads are buying property all around the area. They think it will be the next Miami, but the area has had goofy schemes before, and all failed. There's nothing out there, except the lake, and if a hurricane hits that area, the levees will most likely break, flooding well. That said it is the only part of South Florida that I like, and if it doesn't develop, will be moving west of Clewiston. I have known several people who left Miami to live there, but ALL have returned. Wages are low, unemployment is high, and towns such as South Bay and Belle Glade are the worst in Florida. Okeechobee had a nice flea market though and has some pretty nice looking neighborhoods. Several friendly people too, especially if you're gullible enough to buy some of their overpriced land!

[tallrick]

By the way, rednecks make fun neighbors!

[theqbaby]

Originally Posted by tallrick

By the way, rednecks make fun neighbors!

I have to agree with you on that one !
Most of the rednecks I have met have been very friendly and helpful. I will not discount a person because of thier jobs or ways of life, as long as they are good, friendly and courteous (sp) . I have found that.. they will leave you alone if you want to be left alone, and they will be there if you want to chat or need something. They are definately fun .

[rottysofpdl]

Thanks for all the comments. I think for now I'll stay up here in the Panhandle and keep on looking for a job up here.
Thanks again,
Phil

[kath2210]

What kind of job are you looking for? Highlands County is close to Okeechobee area, not a bad place to raise a family if you want that "small town" thing.