[tiredofparadise]

I am looking to relocate to Florida. I have a wife and two kids. I am looking for a nice family-orientated community. Which would be better, the East Coast or the West Coast of Florida?

[racechick8293]

West coast hands down!

[DeoGratias]

The Gulf coast hasn't yet been entirely ruined by transplants and urbanization. I love the Tampa area if you're looking for city living, or the smaller towns slightly north if a rural "Old South" feel is more your style.

[Sunny-Days-in-Florida]

I agree hands down West Coast with very few exceptions like Vero, Stuart and Ft Lauderdale.

I also like north of Tampa, not to far south, nice rural towns, easy access to anything you need, above the Rt 4 line and close to some of the best beaches in Florida.

Look into Odessa, Lutz, Wesley Chapel etc etc. Still small enough to enjoy and the perfect weather location for most people.

North Port seems to be popular also but it is not for me. Maybe check that town out also.

[FLBob]

I think you can find great communities on both coasts. I've always enjoyed St. Augustine, and parts of Jacksonville it was just too far north weather wise.

I settled in Venice which is south of Sarasota. This is a wonderful area of the world.

[Dave_n_Tenn]

Having lived in Fla for 30 years and raised 4 children here... my opinion will reflect my own personal experiences. This is not a coast to coast competition.

Martin County is the jewel of the treasure coast (East). Palm City, Stuart, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound offer a unique family atmosphere with educational, work and recreational opportunities.

It's important to find an area that fits your long term plan as well as offering day to day conveniences.

Martin County Home

[Floridagirl10]

West coast definately. I lie on the East coast, but I've always loved going to the Gulf coast. The beaches are soo much nicer. The Atlantic ocean always looks nasty, but the Gulf of Mexico has the prettiest water. Beaches are good for family. =)

[htlong]

I settled in port orange by chance and I feel it is a great area, I felt safe, stores were close and people were friendly.far enough from bike week hassles but near enough to partake in all events that come to daytona

[SoFLGal]

I think west coast-Sarasota county is a great place to raise a family. I grew up here and am raising my kids here. If you do look at the east coast, look into Jupiter.

[kevinkagy]

As a Miami native, I love the East coast, from Palm Beach to South Miami, but I've heard great things about the west coast too. Sarasota and Tampa are some great cities, that have a lot of really great cultural institutions and beautiful beaches/parks.