Relocating to Florida from Ohio (Tampa, Orlando: apartment, rent, insurance)

[MistyMetz]

My family and I are considering moving to Florida, Tampa area. I have read several of these blogs, but really am confused as to why people are move out of the state of Florida. Most people that move there cannot be confused by the fact that it has a warmer climate, including humidity. I know the climate is different in the south and that includes the bugs, but is that why people really move out of the state?

I have done a great deal of research, but need to get a better handle on the job market there. My spouse and I both will need to work. I have looked at several companies that are in the area. It seems as though there are many opportunities. Are companies still paying for relocation? I have seen on some employer sites that mention it, but not very many. Also, will local employers consider hiring you if you are not local but willing to relocate yourself?

Lastly, I am wondering how much money it will take to relocate a family of three, plus several pets from the Ohio area? We have savings and will continue to save until we are ready to move, but want to pay someone to move us.

We are an active outdoor family. Have vacationed in Florida and love the atmosphere there, but need more feedback from people that can share their experiences.

Thank you

Misty

[totsuka]

I think many people leave FL for jobs.....FL wages are lower...two main industries...retired people and tourism...both are doing ok now....

FL does have it's share of headaches...home insurance is expensive, mine is 2k now...doubled in four years....that is with
no hurricanes in 9 years....housing prices have gone up a lot...but you can find a place if you look...I would think you would rent for a while...

Tampa - you might reconsider that place...water and sink hole problems....

Jobs - depends on your skills/education...like anywhere....

Stuff to do - can get tough to keep kids entertained at times..it's pretty hot and humid with afternoon thundershowers the last few weeks...like every year...the beaches are nice..some people go camping but I tried it a few times and did not care for it down here..

I grew up in Akron and can see why you might want to get away from the cold, grey weather....but I think the schools were better up there (K-12). FL is sort of hit or miss with schools...mostly the kids don't seem to embrace it..plus too many illegals that slow things down....

Moving is not a big deal anymore..just dump your junk at a garage sale/Craigslist to get the weight down....find a decent
apartment and off you go...you can always pick up stuff on CL down here after you get settled....

You might consider Houston TX too. The economy is doing much better than here and the weather is the same...plus they have beaches too...

Good luck!

[annerk]

Originally Posted by MistyMetz

My family and I are considering moving to Florida, Tampa area. I have read several of these blogs, but really am confused as to why people are move out of the state of Florida. Most people that move there cannot be confused by the fact that it has a warmer climate, including humidity. I know the climate is different in the south and that includes the bugs, but is that why people really move out of the state?

I have done a great deal of research, but need to get a better handle on the job market there. My spouse and I both will need to work. I have looked at several companies that are in the area. It seems as though there are many opportunities. Are companies still paying for relocation? I have seen on some employer sites that mention it, but not very many. Also, will local employers consider hiring you if you are not local but willing to relocate yourself?

Lastly, I am wondering how much money it will take to relocate a family of three, plus several pets from the Ohio area? We have savings and will continue to save until we are ready to move, but want to pay someone to move us.

We are an active outdoor family. Have vacationed in Florida and love the atmosphere there, but need more feedback from people that can share their experiences.

Thank you

Misty

Plan on $10K to move your household. Plan on another $5K in various expenses related to the move, not including the cost of buying or renting a home.

Companies will pay for relocation in certain cases. If you are a highly regarded professional, possibly. If you are an administrative assistant, no. What type of work do you do?

Most companies have a strong preference for local applicants, as too many waste time and money and don't really research or think out the move in advance, and then either decline an offer or leave two months after moving and starting the new job.

You want Tampa, not sure why this was posted in the Orlando forum. That's like saying you want to live in Columbus but posting about it in the Cleveland forum.

[MistyMetz]

Thank you for your responses. I am not sure how I was listed in the Orlando area, I will see if I can move this to the Tampa area. My apologies for any confusion.