Best fun & safe place for family in Tampa/burbs? Please help (Brandon: apartment)

[steph73]

Hello all, I have read many threads about Tampa neighborhoods etc but am hoping you will help me with some info. Hubby and I are moving in June 2010 to Tampa (from Philly), we both have jobs at Moffitt Cancer Center. We also have a toddler (will be 1.5 years old when we move.) Looking for the "right" community/ neighborhood...please help with your input! We want:
1)Low crime
2) commute time no more than 30 minutes to Moffitt
3)Near other young families/ professionals. NO STUDENTS!!!! (No offense meant, but here in Philly we are currently surrounded by students despite living in a $400k house and after three years I just can't take it anymore.)
4)Close to shopping etc
5)Near park/green spaces/playgrounds/schools for fun outside time--preferably within walking or very short drive distance
6) Looking to rent--with a rent of no more than 1500-2000 per month
7) If there are any moms out there, any good or bad things you know/ have heard about day care in your area
What are your opinions of : Brandon, Citrus Park, New Tampa? (I am just looking at places on the map, & gleaning info from old posts so please describe those communities if you can and PLEASE make suggestions!)
Any help is very much appreciated. Thank you so much!

[alwaysadrmr]

Hello,

I moved from Michigan to Citrus Park, this last summer. It's a very safe and quite area, mall close by, restaurants, grocery stores, easy access to the highway, and great schools.

There are no playground around for my two year old. I would have chosen Westchase, although they are very close to Moffitt, about 15-20 minutes. If you love going to the beach often..it's about 45 minutes.
So,all depends on what you enjoy doing.

For some reasons, I find Brandon very crowded.
I suggest you rent an apartment first, come and then decide for a more permanent housing solution.

Let me know if any specific question,

[alwaysadrmr]

I forgot, there are many nice day care centers in the area. Moffitt has its own and you could have him with you, and take your lunches with him
I think they pay a percentage for the employees.