[falcon271]

Hi, I'm new to this site and I'm searching for a new place to live in the SE. I have met a wonderful man in Ft. Laud, and I live in the midwest. As you might guess....I really like the "country" atmosphere. I have dogs, cats, a horse etc. I have heard the Ocala is "horse country", but is it affordable and "rural" or expensive and high end horse people. I am a teacher and would like to keep teaching. Can anyone direct me to a place in Fla that is affordable, has a rural feel to it, safe and friendly?

Thanks so much

falcon

[Jammie]

Does anyone have any answers for Falcon?

[Chelito23]

Basically, get a map and find any small town north of Orlando and away from the water. Those areas will be somewhat affordable, by Florida standards. If you want lots of open land at a cheap price, you are about 10 years too late. Check out small towns in North Florida. Ft lauderdale is built out and very expensive. Ocala is prob. one of the cheaper cities in Florida, but it is a sprawl city with little character and little sense of community IMO. See if your love interest is willing to move to the Midwest for you, as that would make more sense economicly.

PS
There are many teaching jobs available throughout Florida, but the pay is low and the schools are not that great. Come down for an extended stay, visiting is different from living here.

[gypsychic]

Originally Posted by falcon271

Hi, I'm new to this site and I'm searching for a new place to live in the SE. I have met a wonderful man in Ft. Laud, and I live in the midwest. As you might guess....I really like the "country" atmosphere. I have dogs, cats, a horse etc. I have heard the Ocala is "horse country", but is it affordable and "rural" or expensive and high end horse people. I am a teacher and would like to keep teaching. Can anyone direct me to a place in Fla that is affordable, has a rural feel to it, safe and friendly?

Thanks so much

falcon

I don't have personal knowledge of Ocala, but it is my impression that it has become more high end rather than "rural" and affordable. I personally live in Dade City (Pasco) which was once all agricultural, beautiful rural area, but now expensive developments are sprouting like mushrooms. If you are set on Florida, you will probably need to go to Citrus County or maybe Sumter for more affordable land, however, these areas may not have teaching positions. I agree with the poster who advised that you just might be better off to stay in the midwest.

Good luck!