[treehugr]

Hello. We currently live in South Florida and are growing tired of the congestion and hectic pace. The population has really exploded over the last 20 years and I'd like to find someplace that's a little more laid back.

We would like to stay in Florida, but move further north. We are looking for an area that would provide the following:

1) GOOD PLACE TO RAISE A FAMILY (low crime rate, good schools, family-age demographic (vs. mostly retirees or a college town).

2) LESS CONGESTED / OPEN AREAS OF LAND STILL AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE. We want to buy land to build our "forever home" (you know, a home you raise your kids in AND remain in when/if you retire) on. We may also try to start a small organic farm, so this one is pretty important.

3) Someplace that's not more than 10-25 miles from the coast (East or West). I have always lived near the coast and just wouldn't feel right being in the middle of the state .

Thanks, I appreciate any advice!

[kyle19125]

I'd recommend taking a look at Brevard County, particularly the more northern end. Brevard County schools are among the top 5 in the state. Crime is relatively low, there are a lot of families, it's not retiree heavy and tourism is at a minimum. The area has demonstrated an interest in organic food as evidenced by some well-supported organic/natural grocers in Melbourne and Satellite Beach. For the best combination of rural, good schools and access to services (as well as lower land costs) check out the southside of Titusville/Canaveral Groves area.

[HarryWho?]

Grant/Valkaria in Brevard. Fellsmere in Indian River.

[treehugr]

Thank you, I will!

[Robyn55]

Originally Posted by treehugr

Hello. We currently live in South Florida and are growing tired of the congestion and hectic pace. The population has really exploded over the last 20 years and I'd like to find someplace that's a little more laid back.

We would like to stay in Florida, but move further north. We are looking for an area that would provide the following:

1) GOOD PLACE TO RAISE A FAMILY (low crime rate, good schools, family-age demographic (vs. mostly retirees or a college town).

2) LESS CONGESTED / OPEN AREAS OF LAND STILL AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE. We want to buy land to build our "forever home" (you know, a home you raise your kids in AND remain in when/if you retire) on. We may also try to start a small organic farm, so this one is pretty important.

3) Someplace that's not more than 10-25 miles from the coast (East or West). I have always lived near the coast and just wouldn't feel right being in the middle of the state .

Thanks, I appreciate any advice!

Are you trying to make a living with this farm thing - or is it just for fun? Robyn

[Straegen]

If you can manage the mosquitoes, De Soto and North Lee County might fit the bill. They have great farmland, reasonably close to the coast, between major airports, less likely to have direct hurricane hits and close to major urban markets while still being out in the "boonies".

[titicaca]

Hi
Did you find anywhere I found your post and am looking for the same exact thing!
thanks