florida or stay in NC (Tampa, Orlando: low crime, house, good schools)

[beachbum40]

We are a family of four with two sons 17 and 15. Currently live on the NC coast.
Looking at a possible move to St. Pete or Orlando. Schooling is a big issue for us and so is living somewhere
less congested and with a low crime rate.

[BucFan]

let the kids graduate from their current schools - why would you pull them out now for a move if you don't absolutely have to?

[lavender]

There are good schools in Pinellas County, and I am sure good schools in Orange County
You may prefer to be nearer to the coast, as Orlando is landlocked and very warm in summer
Normally (and locals will smile at this wryly) we have better breezes and weather than inland in summer
however last 23 days have been interesting~!

Lots of great possibilities for places to live you need to do a lot of research.
good luck with your plans

[PDF]

Many parts of Florida are congested and have a high crime rate, so you may not find what you are looking for here. I second BucFan, it sounds like you are mostly happy where you are now...so no rushing into things.

[flyboytampabay]

what part of NC? Used to live in KDH

[beachbum40]

New Bern

[Not_liking_FL]

Originally Posted by beachbum40

New Bern

I'd pick St. Pete out of your choices. The crime rate will be higher than New Bern and traffic congestion will probably be worse. I drive through New Bern several times a month and it's not that bad on Hwy 70. I know 17 sucks, but Orlando and the Tampa Bay area will be worse overall. I can't answer on schools. What do you plan to do for work?

[jambo101]

Uprooting yourself from present location is a major move , saying goodby to family, friends, jobs, familiarity of location.What are you expecting Florida to offer thats going to make the move worthwhile?
What do the kids think of this idea?While schooling is important these guys are going to be off to college in the very near future.
I'd postpone the move until the kids are off to college then schools cease to be a factor in your move,.

[flyboytampabay]

I moved back here several years ago from KDH. Glad I did. I would not move with my children at your age though. If you want less congestion, neither place fits the bill especially St Pete.

[beachbum40]

We don't have any family, friends in the area. Only been here for a year.
Florida has the climate we are used to, more to offer us. Possibly a house with a pool and Not having to drive 2 hrs to get to a play, concert, or dining options.