Possibly relocating to Florida (Orlando, Lakeland: crime rates, schools, place to live)

[chazepping]

My husband and I (we're in our 60's) are relocating to the US in a few months after spending 15 years in Spain, possibly with our 24 year-old daughter.
We have lived in the Keys, in Lakeland and in Orlando and so are familiar with the weather and life in Florida, but are thinking we would like to be on or near the Atlantic around the Melbourne area.
Any advice from anyone else who has moved there in the last year or two would be much appreciated.

[Knirps]

What sort of information are you looking for?

Comparisons of life here vs overseas? Amenities? Crime rates? Jobs? Schools? What is drawing you to Melbourne?

[BrevardREALTOR]

I moved here 8 years ago, but maybe I can still help.
What drew me to the area was:
1. The schools. I searched all of Florida, and in my opinion, I found the highest concentration of quality school in Brevard County. This wouldn't directly apply to you, but it will help your value if you go to sell in the future.
2. The laid back lifestyle. Brevard County is like a lost piece of paradise in my opinion.
3. The waves. I love the Gulf, and I think it's beautiful, but I have way more fun playing in the waves.
4. There's nothing like being able to walk a few block and enjoy an ice cream at the beach. It feels like an instant vacation. To live on the water would be even better!

If you have any specific questions feel free to ask.

[pbforsberg]

GREAT place to live.

Beaches are wonderful, people are friendly, restaurants are abundant and the business climate is positive.

Job growth is phenomenal.

You'll love it here.