Sunflower, I haven't lived in Tampa, so I can't really compare the cost of living to Melbourne's.
But as far as people treating your family different for being interracial, I don't think anyone will really care much about it. It's pretty laid back here.
If you are looking for some exciting nightlife, well....it's not called "Mel-boring" for nuthin'!!

Seriously, it's more geared to families, and if someone wants to go out clubbing, they'd probably hit the road and go to Orlando. We've got one mall, and it's ok but nothing special. People here go more to the beach and the Brevard Zoo for fun.