[kyle19125]

Originally Posted by grad_student200

By contrast, Central Florida has many transplants from the upper east coast and midwest. Orlando is more "northern" than other parts of the state. In still further disparity, South FL is much like Latin/Caribbean America. Spanish is a dominant language. South FL also has many transplants from South America (e.g. Brazil, Columbia), Central America, Cuba, etc.

The difference between SE Florida and the Orlando area is narrowing considerably and while not becoming more Central/South American is becoming very Puerto Rican, especially since Hurricane Maria occurred and so many were displaced by losing their homes. The city of Orlando/Orange County is predicted to be closing in on nearly 50% of the population of Hispanic origin by the next census in 2020.

[kombuchaluchador]

Op, Im not sure what you are looking for exactly. What are some of your interests? Texas and Florida are very different.

Being that this is a Florida forum, you will likely get mostly Florida answers.

It sounds like if you are from California and Washington State, you may enjoy Austin as a few posted have mentioned. Very healthy and fit population, great recreational opportunities. Really nice atmosphere. Relatively expensive, though.

In Florida there are a few places, but nothing really has a "west coast vibe" if that is what you are looking for. I like places like Fort Lauderdale, or St Pete.

More info on what you are looking for, and we can clarify the answers.

[kiggy]

Originally Posted by kyle19125

The people you find in each state will differ a bit in my opinion. Florida is more or less Northeast US-centric in terms of transplants, while Texas seems more Midwest-oriented which helps explain what I find to be a friendlier vibe overall.

That depends on which side of FL you are talking about. The western portion of Florida is based on the I75 corridor which is much more Midwestern. The eastern shore of FL draws from the I95 corridor, which is much more from the northeastern states.

[lluvia]

Have you taken a look at Texas's property tax?
Be prepared for a sticker shock at least compared to Florida.

[UIOCLTSATIAH]

I live in Texas at the moment. I've been in Houston these past 3 years but lived in San Antonio for 6 years before we moved to Houston/The Woodlands. My daughter lives in Austin (Hook'em!).

These 3 cities are like completely 3 different worlds. San Antonio has that cozy feeling, people are so welcoming and friendly. Austin is very 'hippie', outdoor activities, nightlife... Houston is a busy city with lots of traffic and too big, in my opinion. I personally would never consider retiring in Houston.

If I had a choice, I would go back to San Antonio, lots of things to do in that area...a couple of hours away from Corpus/Port Aransas beaches, not even an hour from all the cute German towns (Fredericksburg, Boerne, New Braunfels, Gruene...) and about an hour from Austin, attractions to entertain the visitors (SeaWorld, Six Flags...), fine shopping and great food, especially Mexican food!

My husband's job is now moving us to South Florida and although we're nervous, stressed and moving is always a headache...we're also super excited!

We lived in Charlotte NC before we moved to Texas and I do miss the Queen City but San Antonio has my heart. =)