I've lived in FL over 25 years, then married my DH & moved to TX, but still worked in FL til March of this year. (I drove an 18 wheeler, & So Florida was my regular route.) My favorite part is south central Florida. I really like the Winterhaven, Lake Wales, Lakeland area. You're close to everything. You're an hour away from either coast, good quilt shops, lots of shopping, but small town attitude. Rents are pretty decent, last I heard. Since I've retired, I miss some of the restaurants, my LQS & some of my quilting buddies! Thank goodness for the telephone & internet! I still get to communicate with them!