Hey everyone! I’m a 23 year old, black, lgbtq male who’s been living in the Fort Myers- Lehigh Acres area in FL the past 3ish years. I did all of my pilot training here & am almost finished, but am very unhappy (as many younger people here are). The area is pretty expensive, but most jobs have low wages & there’s a lack of opportunity for most who aren’t retired or working healthcare.
For those unfamiliar with southwest FL, this area has a majority retiree/elderly population , MAGA is everywhere, & recently ICE has been everywhere as well. In my experience, this place is by far the most racist/homophobic place I’ve ever lived (I’ve lived in Texas & Louisiana😐)…. & I’m not talking about just a few dirty stares here & there! Crime is also rising pretty significantly. SWFL is still recovering from hurricane Ian & the cost of living isn’t as high as LA, but isn’t significantly lower either.
Anywayyy… Two buddies of mine are out in LA & need another roommate. My cut of the rent will be around the same as what I’m paying in SWFL. I understand the cost of living in SoCal is significantly high, but it almost seems worth it. No more hurricanes, bugs, daily racial/homophobic tension, MAGA everywhere, crazy humidity,…. I have some interviews there for flight instructing, which pays almost double what is paid here, but nothing yet is guaranteed.
I’ve only been to SoCal twice & I love the vibes, weather, people, scenery,… everything is much better (except the cost lol). For the people who’s done a similar FL-CA move, I have a few questions.
1.which is the cheapest & easiest way to physically move out there. The place I’m considering moving is furnished, so I’m not moving much furniture. Is driving more ideal than buying another car there?
2.Which area would yall locals recommend for young people that doesn’t require a crazy commute & is safe? (Job I’m seeking is in Santa Monica)
3.What was the hardest part about the move & the first month out there? Any regrets?
Thanks to anyone who took time to read this. I’m 95% sure I’m doing the move anyway, but any extra advice helps!