Pensacola area versus Naples, Venice, Sarasota area? (Tampa, Panama City: where to buy, living)

[downthrust]

I'm debating where to buy a second home.. I have been concentrating a lot on the West coast of Florida and have traveled the entire West coast quite a bit.

Folks have mentioned I should look at the panhandle as well.. But I've never been there.

my wife and I are in our young thirties, looking to start a family soon, we have lived in the northeast our entire lives. I work in the manufacturing and mechanical engineering field (machine shops, etc), she is a registered nurse. So of course we have to consider working options as well.

For pleasure we like the nice beaches, fishing, golfing, hiking, etc.

any comparisons would be very helpful.

Also how the cost of living compares to the West coast.

[PcolaFLGuy]

Of the 3 places in SW FL you mention, I've only been to Sarasota. I do have a friend that lives in Ft. Myers that moved there from Pensacola. I think P'cola will be fine for your job needs and amenities (dining, shopping, attractions, nightlife, etc.). It is probably more conservative (especially in elections) and military-oriented than the areas you mention. I feel the towns you mention get more snowbirds from the NE, while the Panhandle pulls more from the Midwest.

Just some random thoughts.

[On-da-Beach]

Are you looking for a winter home? I lived in Rosemary Beach for 3 years and can tell you it's gorgeous. The beaches from Panama City west to Pensacola are just beautiful. If you are looking for a winter retreat though, go further south. The panhandle does get cold in the winter and many restaurants and shops close up. The area becomes capital D Dead for several months. We live in Sarasota now and Love it. (capital L) There's always something to do and places to go. Naples and Ft. Myers... not so much. Tampa is closer for professional sports and concerts and such, too.

The panhandle is pretty and slow paced. Traffic is tough during tourist season everywhere and you learn to cope with it. Spend some time at each place you're considering during the months you'd be there before making any decisions. I hope you'll love Florida as much as we do.