Take a look at central Florida. I live in On Top of the World, a retirement community of about 12,000, in Ocala. Not near the beach but in the center of horse country with lots of horse farms around the area. Ocala is about 60,000, 25% of them retirees, so the medical system is excellent. Three hospitals, lots of doctors. Plus, we're only 35 miles from Gainesville and the University of Florida. Weather is hot and humid in the summer but fall and winter are mostly sunny and dry. We actually do get frost every now and again in January but the temps are back up when the sun comes out. The closer to the beach you look the harder it will be to get insurance, especially if you buy a manufactured home. We currently have AAA insurance. OTOW is a beautiful place to live. 3 pools, 3 golf courses, lots of classes for the body and the mind. Also has 2 small shopping centers attached so you don't need a car. It's divided in sections, one where you purchase your home and lot, the others are on 99-year leases. All homes are concrete block, built to hurricane standards. Prices right now are very low, although the real estate market has started to improve. A house that was valued at $185,000 in 2006 just sold for $70,000. This is an 1,800 sq ft. house. If you are interested in renting, they have a rental division. Lease will be for 6 months which would give you lots of time to look around.