Looking into moving from Pa to Rockledge area (Jacksonville, Orlando: sales, real estate)

[mmiller26]

My parents are looking into moving to Florida, so my husband and I want to follow them. We have a 2 yr old and a baby on the way later this summer. What are Pros and Cons to moving to rockledge? Especially for a young family. How is the jobs in the area? My husband has a degree in business and it's been dead up here trying to find a job that can meet his salary needs. I am also a photographer so I would have to start my whole business all over. Pros and cons and go! Thanks in advance!!

[kyle19125]

The Space Coast is growing again after a hit from the NASA closures, but the SpaceX program and private enterprise have reinvigorated the economy the last few years it seems. As with most any area in the US currently unless possessing certain in-demand skills obtaining a job from out of town is next to impossible. Saving for at least several months worth of expenses is recommended prior to moving so that it allows time to apply/interview for jobs once down here. The SW side of Rockledge and neighboring Viera are desirable areas to live in as well as the Suntree area on the northern end of Melbourne which borders Rockledge/Viera. Have your parents specifically chosen this area? If so you might also consider the Orlando area, which is just an hour away and would open up potentially much more in the way of job options. The Seminole County area NE of Orlando (specifically towns like Lake Mary, Oviedo and Maitland/Altamonte Springs) offer some good employment opportunity with family-friendly neighborhoods and better public schools.

[Nypafl4u]

What is your husbands expertise in business? As Kyle19125 mentioned above, job wise, you may be better off, depending on his line of work, in the Orlando area. Far more jobs over there, but also expensive real estate, higher congestion, and no coastal breezes.
I think the schools can be fine in Brevard, do some research and visit several. Most are open to tours should you call in advance to set up.
If you look, jobs are available, just have to see if they match what you want. Get the job first before considering moving unless you have the funds for at least 6 months of living expenses.

[Scottamemnon]

Jacksonville could be another option. Its about 2 hours north, but is a banking/insurance city. So business majors should have a pretty easy time finding a job. I got a lot more interviews in JAX compared to Orlando/Space Coast with my insurance background while living up north. I ended up not having to get a new job as my company was ok with me going remote which is the best option you can get when moving south... Northern Pay/Benefits, Florida living.

We thought we really wanted the Space Coast when we decided to move south, but with the cost/quality of rentals in Brevard in the good school zones, we picked southern Jacksonville. The city has really grown on me in the past 6 months. There are huge sections of the suburbs that are Viera quality or better. The apartment choices are miles above what you would find in Brevard county for your money. This is really similar to the recommendation of Seminole county in Orlando. Personally I would visit all three and see what is to your taste.

[Renee Rader]

Hello! I'm so glad you are exploring using this forum. So far, I've read great advice regarding jobs. I live in the Suntree/Viera area which is a neighbor of Rockledge, zip code 32940. There are a lot of photographers who do business with real estate agencies here. The Space Coast Association of Realtors has a directory. www.space321.com

I am a sales agent with Dale Sorensen Real Estate and have been in this area since 2010. You can contact me directly if you want me to send you more information. Thank you.