Edie I work near Naples FL (Bonita Springs actually) and I live in Cape Coral considered SWFL area. I have lived in FL for over 10 yrs now and in the beginning it was hard dealing with the heat and humidity. After two yrs. I've climatized now so it doesn't bother me as much. Rent in our area, apt. wise can go from 750 and up. I rent a home and my backyard has a freshwater canal. For what I pay in rent with a 3/2 home I couldn't ask for more. Gas is just as high at about $3,80 a gln but then again its higher up North. I live close to 3 Joann's and two quilt shops and a highway trip up North is a larger LQS. There are also plenty of garage sales especially when the northerners (we call them snowbirds) come in Oct. They sell there nice stuff at cheap prices since they're getting new stuff to decorate (their loss is my gain!). All in all there is so much to offer in FL its just a matter of having the time to get out and explore. Wish you the best on your new endeavor.