Moving to Ruskin area... need advice on where to (not) live (Apollo Beach: rental, crime rate)

[Florida41]

I will be moving in May to work in Ruskin. I went to look at rental houses today in the area, and didn't find much to choose from. I'd done some research online, but after getting home I was discouraged to read about how much crime there is in the area. Can you please help me choose from the following areas:

- Apollo Beach
- Ruskin
- Sun City Center

I need to be within 10-15 minutes of work in Ruskin. Anything else isn't feasible because of my hours. I will definitely have to rent, and need to choose a place that allows dogs. I need a place that feels safe, because I'm a single woman. I really liked a place in Ruskin today, in one of the newer housing communities, but was upset to read how much higher Ruskin's crime rate seems to be than surrounding areas.

Apollo Beach Blvd. area had some places. Is this area safe?

I didn't even go to Sun City Center because I was under the impression it's a retirement community. I don't mind living in a quiet area with not much to do. My main necessities are that I'm close to work and that I feel safe.

Please help me choose!

[ems2158]

Since you said you don't mind a quiet area with not much to do, I would recommend Sun City Center. There is not much to do in Ruskin or Apollo Beach either. There is very little crime in SSC. It is only about a 10 minute drive to Ruskin. The housing prices are really low at this point but you have to be 55 or over. Most of the houses are selling for less than they sold for 10-15 years ago. I don't see the housing prices going much lower than they are now.

Also, I like the option of using a golf cart to get around the neighborhood for shopping, etc. SSC is leading edge in the green movement with electric vehicles!

[Florida41]

I'm not 55 and over, so I wasn't sure if I could even rent in SCC. Buying a house is not an option because I'm going to live in the area for less than two years.