We are avid scuba divers and spend a lot of time in tropical humidity. It’ll be different for sure, but we love it.
If our two vote keep Florida red, then this move could save the nation, right?
2 hours north of the Tampa Bay area is Crystal River, a VERY POPULAR dive location. I did my open water training there. Very clear water coming from the multitude of artesian springs in the center of the state. At one time you could easily swim with the Manatees but the yahoos got that very restricted. Lots of dive shops throughout FL but the Gulf of Mexico stays shallow out a ways. Multiple springs can be explored with permission and caution.
I grew up in Norcal and left as a young adult in 1998. Best decision I ever made.
Traffic in Tampa can remind you of the bay area at times. It definitely has some big city feel/urban sprawl that I do not care for.
We ended up setting in the Jax area. About 2 hours from Orlando and 4 from Tampa. St. Johns County/Saint Augustine in particular. More right sized for us. We’re 10 minutes from the majestic St. Johns river and 30 minutes from the beach. Cost of housing is lower than Tampa/Orlando/South Florida, too. Lots of retired military and national guard on my block. In another decade or two we’ll be built out like Tampa or Orlando but for now am enjoying our little slice of Florida paradise. Good luck!