Where is the best place to live in Florida for families?
Metropolitan Orlando is the most populous metropolitan area and suffers from Florida’s overall crime rates. That being said, there are gated communities that are reasonable or affordable alternatives for families.
Ft Myers has a much lower cost of living than metropolitan Tampa Bay and Miami, but Ft Myers still experiences some crime rates and can be less desirable to work in.
Tampa Bay has more jobs at better salaries (technology, communications), but it also sees higher property values contribute to high cost of living.
Miami is the priciest place in Florida with significant high levels of criminal activity due to poverty within the neighborhoods. Timing a move there could be fine for retirees looking for warm weather and moderately priced homes.