[Mel81]

We are a family of 8 (2 parents 6 kids) looking to relocate to Florida. We currently are looking to spend between 1500-2200 max. Looking for a nice neighborhood, good schools, preferably gated communites but isn't a must. Prefer not to be directly on the coast so some where Central would be good.

We are completely new here and not even sure where to start. Some of the areas that we have thought to look in include Boca Raton, Kissimmee, Windermere, Jupiter and surrounding areas. If you know of an area that can offer what we are looking for please offer input. We want to avoid high crime rate areas.

Employment is not an issue because we both work online so our job can move with us.

Thank you for any help or feedback.

[Swimmom32]

Boca is very expensive, Good School system and location is excellent, that price is a bit low if you want something nice. Jupiter is also expensive and very family oriented and people seem to really like living there, I would try Wellington that might be a nice fit in the Middle between Boca and Jupiter. Also Good Schools!
Just remember South Florida is quite different than Central Florida (kissemee or orlando area)
Good Luck

[Mel81]

Thanks for the feedback. I have spent the last couple hours looking at price comparable and you are definitely correct. Boca is much higher than I thought. What about schools? Any specific counties/schools that are better than others?

[Swimmom32]

we are happy with the Palm Beach County School System. I would definitely check Wellington. Its a nice area and again less expensive than Boca and Jupiter. you might want to post your questions in the local forum for Palm Beach County I'm sure you will get other responses. It really depends on what it is you are looking for...Parkland is in Broward County also good schools but housing will be more than wellington as well. South Florida in general is not an inexpensive place to live, Car Insurance is very high and so is the cost of food.

although my cooling bills are less than NJ...

[Mel81]

thank you for your help. I have posted in 3 different areas so hopefully I can find feedback that helps. Its kind of discouraging seeing all the posts about crimes and stuff.

[Swimmom32]

it is and yes there is a lot of crime I fell safer in NYC believe it or not but you just have to know your surroundings, Crime is everywhere and something one can not escape.

[straw71]

Stay away from south Florida crime is high, and Orlando is also pretty high with crime. The best school district is st johns county, that is the jacksonville area.