Newbe, yes I was not clear in my statement as I said the real estate market has been hard hit "effecting rental prices." meaning as a RESULT they have more than likely escalated. Exactly my point. Then again it depends on where you are located. I know nothing about Tampa. Eventually they will be in the market to purchase so perhaps a lease with option to buy might work for them. I also don't think the salary will be the same perhaps it would be I Don't know how it compares to Kentucky. One has all of those things to consider when making a major move.

I live in (& LOVE) the Jupiter area. Rentals are in HUGE demand here. I have been looking for a year round rental for a friend & her family as they too are relocating. For anything with 2+ bedrooms in surrounding Jupiter, you are talking $1200-1500/month...minimum. That would likely be a condo or townhouse. On the bright side, we have wonderful schools, a decent job market(considering the economy...) & wonderful access to beautiful beaches.

I also recommend a look @ Jacksonville. There are some wonderful areas in and around there to reside & the living costs are more affordable. I particularly like Neptune Beach & Atlantic Beach (small towns outside of J'ville) but I'm not sure of the schools or typical housing costs. I believe I read an article about J'Ville being one of the best cities to reside & I think it was based on employment & livability...there are several major medical facilities there as well (Mayo Clinic for one...)

I have to agree that particularly in the current economic situation, I'd focus more on getting the job figured out & then finding a decent area nearby to reside.

Good luck!

I agree with Starrs. Concetrate on finding a job first then your second priority can be finding an apartment. Usually if cost of living is low, pay will be low.

diann24, gotcha, I missed your point. Right now it is cheaper to buy than to rent in the Tampa Bay area, but buying comes with its own set of drawbacks, of course. I, too, know nothing about Kentucky. In general, I applaud anyone who has the gumption to consider a big change, and I think a move like the one the OP is contemplating is doable, but as everyone has said, it will require loads of research, job-hunting--lots of unfun stuff along the way.

Hi Stephanie_Medina! I too am from Lexington and am wanting to relocate to FL. Tampa in particular. (family friends there) My range is $850 as well. I was wondering what city did you guys settled on? I have two daughters 14 and 9. Hate to have them starting new schools at these ages. If that's going to be the case, I'd like them to at least be very nice schools.As far as safety, violent crime/burglaries concerns me as it would only be myself and my daughters. Therefore, thats my priority. I've read everyone's responses...However if there are anymore, they'd be appreciated. :)

VH1: >>Hi Stephanie_Medina! I too am from Lexington and am wanting to relocate to FL. Tampa in particular. (family friends there) My range is $850 as well. I was wondering what city did you guys settled on?<<

Doubt she is still around - the OP disappeared after posting this.

Janisj - aww man...Thanks :)