[LHBR702]

I understand that wages in most of the most "hip" and well-known cities in Florida are not keeping up with the cost of housing and other living expenses. Perhaps those contemplating a move should concentrate less on the most obvious or well-known places and more on going where there are jobs and decent wages in comparison to the cost of living. One problem I've personally been having is that many recommend a certain area because of it's beauty (Florida is definitely a beautiful State) and when I research further you find that there are no jobs to be had there. In your opinion, guys and gals, what are there cities in Florida that have the best and most active job markets and pay the highest wages AND if you would, please give a general description of the other aspects of living in that city.

Just a note - We are obviously very interested in the possibility of moving to Florida, but we are not determined to move if it doesn't turn out to look like a smart move. We'd really just like to learn as much as we can about Florida and the other States we are considering so we can make an informed decision. Both responses in favor and against moving to Florida are welcome, but I notice that some posters can be quite condescending in their responses as if anyone who would possibly even consider moving to Florida must be some sort of an idiot. Friendly advice, for or against, is what would be most helpful. Thank you!

[JohnandCheryl]

Don't do it. You will need three jobs to pay a mortgage. I am born and raised here and a single mother, still live with my mother because I can't afford to live on my own. The only real jobs here are in the hotels and attractions that might pay 6.00 an hour.

[leepoffaith]

Originally Posted by JohnandCheryl

Don't do it. You will need three jobs to pay a mortgage. I am born and raised here and a single mother, still live with my mother because I can't afford to live on my own. The only real jobs here are in the hotels and attractions that might pay 6.00 an hour.

Do you mind me asking, do you have a college degree in anything? If so, that is very sad, but if you don't unfortunatly you don't have a leg to stand on

[Racelady88]

Originally Posted by leepoffaith

Do you mind me asking, do you have a college degree in anything? If so, that is very sad, but if you don't unfortunatly you don't have a leg to stand on

I was making more than $16/hr without benefit of a degree and was living hand to mouth in Florida.

[Jammie]

Originally Posted by JohnandCheryl

Don't do it. You will need three jobs to pay a mortgage. I am born and raised here and a single mother, still live with my mother because I can't afford to live on my own. The only real jobs here are in the hotels and attractions that might pay 6.00 an hour.

How can they get away with paying 6.00 an hour. I had the understanding that Fla. raised it's MINIMUM wage to 6.15. Surely if there are so many jobs in the service industry, they would need to pay above minimum wage in order to have employees.

[grammy164]

Originally Posted by JohnandCheryl

Don't do it. You will need three jobs to pay a mortgage. I am born and raised here and a single mother, still live with my mother because I can't afford to live on my own. The only real jobs here are in the hotels and attractions that might pay 6.00 an hour.

Husband and I do not have degrees and we have never been offered as little as 6.00 an hour down here.

[dreamofmonterey]

Originally Posted by LHBR702

I understand that wages in most of the most "hip" and well-known cities in Florida are not keeping up with the cost of housing and other living expenses. Perhaps those contemplating a move should concentrate less on the most obvious or well-known places and more on going where there are jobs and decent wages in comparison to the cost of living. One problem I've personally been having is that many recommend a certain area because of it's beauty (Florida is definitely a beautiful State) and when I research further you find that there are no jobs to be had there. In your opinion, guys and gals, what are there cities in Florida that have the best and most active job markets and pay the highest wages AND if you would, please give a general description of the other aspects of living in that city.

Just a note - We are obviously very interested in the possibility of moving to Florida, but we are not determined to move if it doesn't turn out to look like a smart move. We'd really just like to learn as much as we can about Florida and the other States we are considering so we can make an informed decision. Both responses in favor and against moving to Florida are welcome, but I notice that some posters can be quite condescending in their responses as if anyone who would possibly even consider moving to Florida must be some sort of an idiot. Friendly advice, for or against, is what would be most helpful. Thank you!

I am giving real advice. What field are you in?. Do NOT take advice from the retired. Someone else here wondered why they couldn't find jobs on the internet. In S. Florida especially. Unless you are bi-lingual- you will not find it.
It is wrong for people who have not worked for twenty years to tell people its all good. If you are coming from a metro area like NY, L.A. or Chicago, the pay will shock you. A degree (even Master's) means nothing as employers moved their businesses to Florida to save money. They are not interested in hiring high skilled R.N.'s or attorneys; unless you are a sole practitioner. M.D. or retired, you will have a hard time.That being said North Florida may have a few niches, but unless you know someone there, it is a hard sell.

[grammy164]

Originally Posted by sunnyhelena

Do NOT take advice from the retired. It is wrong for people who have not worked for twenty years to tell people its all good.

I'm just confused. I haven't read a lot of posts on this subject from retirees.

[firemed]

Originally Posted by Jammie

How can they get away with paying 6.00 an hour. I had the understanding that Fla. raised it's MINIMUM wage to 6.15. Surely if there are so many jobs in the service industry, they would need to pay above minimum wage in order to have employees.

I dont understand, if we keep raising the minimum wage will anyone benefit from it ? you will pay more taxes but everything will go up to cover the raise.
I don't know why anyone would want it to go up. If the minimum wage was 100.00 an hour a loaf of bread would cost 50.00. I'm missing the point to it. If it could go up and all the prices stay the same it would work. But where would the money come from? You cant think a CEO would take a cut in pay. Thats just silly talk.

[dreamofmonterey]

loaf of bread would cost 50.00. I'm missing the point to it. If it could go up and all the prices stay the same it would work. But where would the money come from? You cant think a CEO would take a cut in pay.
________________________________________
what kind of theory is this?. The only people against giving a low wage worker a paltry extra 10-20.00 a day must be Wal-mart. Why begrudge these people?. And Jammie, there are MANY people in S Florida making under 6.00 an hour. Many co's get away with murder- there are alot of service jobs- but people are disposable. People are treated as a dime a dozen. Temp work is great for companies who use illegals- they save money on insurance and let them go after 6 months.