www.city-data.com might also be helpful if you have not used it already

Are you aware of the property tax rates down here (in case you plan on buying)

Are you aware of the auto insurance rates?

Are you aware of the hazard insurance rates?

Just some things I suggest you consider.

It will be a big change culturally but maybe you want that.

I would suggest a trip out before deciding if possible.

Amen. Always take at least a quick weekend trip to scout around - especially if you are seriously considering a move.

Sounds as if this is a job move, in which case the job is more important than the place. It is not the greatest university town in the world, but it is a university town.

Winters are colder than your northern friends expect, so expect to have questions about the beach while you scrape frost off your windows. On the other hand, you can throw away your snow shovel.

Summers are very hot and humid, and they do have hurricanes. But the job should be the deciding factor.

Yes, why not just up and move. Sounds just the thing to do. GEEZ,

If it might be a job move - it all epends on the job/future prospects - but also how you like the area/how you view your future there, etc, v. where you live now.