St. Pete, Clearwater or Tampa?? (Largo: renting, insurance, mortgages)

[pk1978]

It looks like I may be moving to the area soon for a job relocation from just outside of Washington, DC. My company is located in St. Pete and I'm trying to figure out where we should live if we move down. The cost of living is a lot lower than it is up here, from what I can tell, so I'm looking for suggestions. I'm hoping that the traffic is a lot better than it is around here. Also, I need to find a place quickly so if you know places close to St. Pete that are renting, let me know.

[mcwho]

I live in ST. Pete and HIOGHLY recommentd that you live here, Clearwater or most of tampa is a bad commute. SOuth Tampa would be an option.

[summergal]

If you are going to be working in St. Pete then I recommend living in St. Pete. The traffic nightmare here will make you crazy if you have to commute at all! I drive for a living and can tell you that St. Pete is a bit easier because of all the side streets, but Clearwater/Largo is gridlock during the rush and any commute across the bridges will have you sitting still or crawling at 10mph. This area is becoming more congested exponentially.

Just a side note... Homeowner insurance is out of control here. Many people have been cancelled numerous times and struggle to find any company that will cover them. We all have had it more than double in the past year. It's getting to a point were some will not be able to afford their mortgages and home prices are going thru the roof. This will eventually raise the rents as well, so just a "heads up".