Choosing Florida's Best City to Call Home
When considering a place to call home in Florida, the decision can be overwhelming given the variety and diversity of cities the state has to offer. As a Floridian with deep familial and personal ties to the region, I have lived and worked in various parts of the state, including the Tampa Bay area and the central East coast. However, when it comes to retiring and finding a city to call home, my choice is clear: St. Augustine.
My Ties to Florida
I was born and raised in the Tampa Bay area, where my family has lived for three generations. My 97-year-old mother still resides in the house my father built shortly before I was born, which serves as a strong anchor in my life. This is the first of three anchors I have in Florida, together with my adult children and several grandchildren who call the Northeast Florida coast home.
My Roots on the Central East Coast
While not forced to live in Florida, I did have the opportunity to settle in the central East coast area after completing my education at the University of Florida (UF). Over 40 years later, this area, along with its picturesque beaches and vibrant community, remains a significant anchor in my life and that of my family. It is where my children grew up, made friends, and established roots.
Recent Developments in Northeast Florida
Over the past decade, my family and I have increasingly interconnected with Northeast Florida, where my grandchildren now reside. This area has become the third and most recent anchor in Florida for my family, again reinforcing the strength of our ties to the state.
Why St. Augustine
After considering all the factors, including climate, natural disasters, and personal preference, my choice for where to live in Florida is clear: St. Augustine. This beautiful, historic coastal city offers a blend of charm and character that is unmatched in the state. Here are several reasons why St. Augustine stands out:
Historic Charm and Beauty
St. Augustine is known as the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement within the borders of the continental United States. Its rich history, well-preserved architecture, and stunning natural beauty make it a city of beauty and character. Unlike some more touristy coastal areas, St. Augustine retains a sense of authenticity and tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere in Florida.
Climate Considerations
The climate in St. Augustine is milder than in other parts of Florida. While it's true that Florida can be hot and humid year-round, St. Augustine manages to escape some of the worst extremes. The city's slightly cooler temperatures and less humid climate make it more pleasant to live in, especially for those who cannot tolerate sweltering heat and high humidity. Additionally, St. Augustine is less prone to the intense hurricanes and tornadoes that plague other parts of the state.
Resident-Centric Development
Unlike other areas where rapid development and a significant influx of retirees have led to increased traffic, accidents, and strain on public services, St. Augustine maintains a more manageable pace of growth. This low-key development keeps the area livable and preserves a sense of community and quality of life that is often lost in rapidly developing regions.
Healthcare and Safety
Healthcare in St. Augustine, like in other parts of Florida, is not as top-tier as some other states, but the city has proven to have more stable and reliable healthcare infrastructure. The state of Florida has faced criticism for its healthcare rankings, but St. Augustine stands out as a city with better overall public health services. Additionally, while crime is a concern in any state, St. Augustine's safety metrics generally compare favorably to other cities in the state.
Why Avoid Other Places in Florida?
While Florida offers many attractions, such as amusement parks and beaches, these are just surface-level distractions. The state's relentless heat and humidity, frequent hurricanes, and extensive insect populations make other parts of the state less desirable. For instance, the Panhandle and Jacksonville, while beautiful, have higher rates of crime and health issues. Even other historic cities like Key West, which has its unique charm, face significant challenges related to infrastructure and natural disaster risks.
In conclusion, while Florida might not be the perfect state for everyone, for those like me who appreciate history, beauty, and a livable climate, St. Augustine stands out as the best city to call home in the state. With its perfect combination of charm, safety, and a temperate climate, it is the ideal place to enjoy a peaceful retirement.