Central FL is a good match for you. In order, Naples is the most expensive, Sarasota second, Clearwater area third (don't go to Tampa - all the disbenefits of living in Central FL(hot, humid), with none of the benefits - like water), Bradenton, Ft Myers area.

I have 3 kids in public school here. You have to look at where you're going. We have no problems in my area. PM if you want to know more. Choose your school carefully, in a nice area, and you will be fine.

Also in FL, no state income taxes, no taxes on groceries, medicine, hair cuts, or other services.

Hot as crap in the summer - no getting around that. If you like sunsets, then you watch 'em all summer long, and forget how hot it is. Lake Tarpon, near me, is the second largest lake in FL, and is great for skiing. If you don't want to go there, you can jetski and do real boating in the Gulf.

Tampa Airport is easy to navigate and very user friendly. 2 beaches in our county are in the top 5 in the country (Ft. Desoto - currently the nation's best, and Caladesi - only accessible by boat).

This is a great place to raise a family. I grew up here, moved away, and came back just for that purpose. When the kids are off to college, I'll cash in my yard and pool for a beach front condo.

Take a look at realtor.com. They have rentals in there. $2k a month will get you something decent, but not a palace. Real estate has become awful expensive.

And, the West Coast of FL is a lot more laid back than the east.

If you go to Kansas, don't plan on seeing too many of those 300 M people.

And, in spite of the Euros who think otherwise, and the foreign press, and the boneheads in charge here that sometimes do dumb things, this (the US) is a great place.