Work in Lakeland, where to live? (Tampa, Orlando: to rent, low crime, university)

[lauriemsr]

Hello all,

I was just offered a really good job opportunity in Lakeland; however: I am not sure where to live. I'm 23 yrs old and married, I will start having kids in about 2 yrs. I just graduated from the University of Florida and I'm Puerto Rican and even though I am young, I'm pretty laid back compared to people my age. I would like to rent for about a year and then as my contract gets renewed, I would buy.

These are my set conditions:
Acceptable commute: 15 to 35 minutes to work
Rent: not more than $500
Low crime area, close to essential stores like a supermarket, pharmacy and gas station.
Not a hassle to get into major highways in order to get to Orlando and Tampa


I do not need to live in Lakeland itself but would like some recommendations as to both places in Lakeland and around it that will be good for me.

Thanks!