Moved to Florida and want to come back

Submitted by heartrva t3_y5g93b in rva

Anyone else have experience living in both Florida and RVA? Moved to Florida to try something new and enjoy a warmer winter. I now live in a humid swamp surrounded by people I have nothing in common with. I truly am unhappy here but am surrounded by people who feel like they live in paradise and think I am crazy for not liking it here.

What am I missing? I was back in RVA recently and the weather had changed, the air was cool and crisp, and I could feel my body start to naturally relax and want to get cozy after feeling on edge from the heat down here. I miss seasons, six months of summer is killing me. I'm outdoorsy which is why Florida was appealing to me but legit 6 months a year I don't want to go outside after 9am.

I could go on about cultural differences down here but really just seeking perspectives/ trying to convince myself I'm not insane for hating living in "paradise". To me Richmond has always felt like home to me, it's a very magical, special, open and quirky place. I'm at a low point today, thanks for any responses.

Edit: I appreciate all your comments and I feel very validated, thank you. If I end up moving back, maybe we can have a Florida trauma recovery meetup lol

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dreww4546 t1_isjm1h9 wrote

RVA operates on a one in/one out basis...so you have to convince someone to take your place in Florida in order to come back.

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revel911 t1_isk1tiu wrote

Give it a few months when it is 10 degrees here and 69 degrees there.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isk2qcg wrote

10 is incredibly rare here. and never in day. Average day temp at coldest time is in low 50s, see weather data on wunderground.

I would take even colder than that to escape Florida

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McFlare92 t1_isk63ec wrote

Yeah I am always puzzled when people talk about it being 10 or 15 degrees in Richmond. That is very very rare

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isk6uj9 wrote

people will also tell you about our regular blizzards here. I've had so many people tell me about regular epic snow falls. None of which I've actually seen.

At a guess 10 degrees would be the record overnight low during the crazy freeze once in the last decade. The ASHRAE hvac design temp here, ie as low as it reasonably goes, is 19

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C14R16 t1_islsysb wrote

The blizzard of '96 was epic

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Charlesinrichmond t1_islxff0 wrote

they actually were. But also 28 years ago. And 12"....

per WRIC

When it all was added up, Richmond ended up with a foot of snow at the airport. Just like in 2016, there were higher amounts in the West End. It also marks the last time we have officially received a foot of snow from a storm here.

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zapatoada t1_isk9jme wrote

We'll get down to the low 20s daytime during like a polar vortex event but that's only a week every couple years.

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Captain_Tiberius t1_isomkw9 wrote

FWIW - During the early January 2018 cold snap, we had record lows of 2 degrees and -3 degrees on consecutive nights. In February 2015, it got down to 4 degrees. So single digits do happen, although they are rare.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isovmtn wrote

they absolutely happen. But those were literal record setting events. Beyond rare, unique. Which is why the ASHRAE temps are the most useful.

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kneel_yung t1_iskmqla wrote

lol yeah that's like only 20 degrees above the coldest temperature ever recorded here, since records began, of -12.

Dead of february is the coldest time of year here and it rarely dips below 20, and when it does it's only at night. I vaguely remember going to work one morning and it was 19 at 8am. Absolute coldest day temps in richmond that you see on a regular basis are mid 20s, and that is usually only a couple days here and there in late january through late february.

Our winters are usually in the 30s and 40s most of the time. It stays in the the upper 40s and low 50s through new years. White christmas is rare, I want to say maybe 5 or 6 in my whole life.

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Rs90 t1_isloaeh wrote

Cause it feels like 10 when I'm riding my bike to work with tears in my eyes cause FUCK IT'S COLD. And then your coworker, who drove to work, is like "pretty this mornin. Only 45 and sunny!".

So experiences tend to warp perspectives. Yeah I'm aware it's not a tundra but it still gets cold as fuck in Richmond sometimes. May not be 10 degrees but it can sure feel like it when it's sticking to ya the way it does some mornins.

Edit- and yes I'm aware 45 n sunny ain't bad but I'm a weak bitch who hates the cold

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revel911 t1_iski5uk wrote

I never said it was average … just that it does happen, while VERY unlikely in southern FL

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isluqr7 wrote

I've personally experienced 26 in the evening in Miami. That said, that's beyond unusual. Normal is having AC on in car at noon

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AONYXDO262 t1_ispe1ov wrote

I'd rather live in -10 degrees daily than move to that shithole.

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Myfourcats1 t1_islm52m wrote

Maybe one of the NOVA people will leave.

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TGIIR t1_iso6vgt wrote

Oh come on. I’ve been here 13 years now. I’d have been here sooner but my job. I love the outdoors and restaurants here. The James is much prettier than the Potomac.

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RaraAvisDelParaiso t1_isl9clw wrote

Maybe he has some contacts in high places? that can squeeze him in, discreetly, crossing the river in the middle of the night?

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Gamegis t1_isk2sx3 wrote

I wish this was true Lmao. Or we wouldn’t have such a damn housing supply/price issue.

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jodyhighrola t1_isjf3c1 wrote

At least you took the chance, whether you stay or go. You learn a lot from seeing other places & people.

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Asterion7 t1_isk0kuo wrote

This 100%. So many native RVA people I meet who dump on Richmond and have never lived anywhere else. There is a reason so many people who move away move back.

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WildSwimming9311 t1_isjgvab wrote

I came from Florida to RVA in ‘99. Was not a huge fan of VA until I went back to FL in 2012 to visit friends and family for a couple months. I’ll take the slow Richmond days over the chaos that is Ft Lauderdale, Boca, and Pompano. I haven’t been back and would actively avoid returning to the state should an opportunity arise.

People always ask how we handle the heat down there, it’s simple really….we don’t go outside after 8am or before 5pm and our air cons are top notch.

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RVAblues t1_isjkxb7 wrote

You’re not insane. Florida sucks.

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jjj999catcatcat t1_isjtymn wrote

+1 for Florida sucks. I lived most my life in FL, moved here and would never consider moving back

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GrandmaPoses t1_isjrfsw wrote

You’re not crazy but also did you not know it was a humid swamp filled with people you have nothing in common with before you moved? That’s like the first thing I think of when I think of Florida.

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fl_man_in_rva t1_isjh6d0 wrote

What part of Florida did you move to? That state has the complete spectrum of people, minus the mountain folks for obvious reasons. There's a joke that when you're growing up there, your closest friends are retired. I had to ride my bike far too see kids my age or wait for my neighbors grandkids to come visit.

There are seasons, just not the normal ones. You've got love bug season, gates of hell season, hurricane season, and snow bird season. Preparing for "winter" is trying to remember if you have a jacket and where you put it, for the three weeks you need it.

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heartrva OP t1_isjjthz wrote

Space Coast. Just kinda ended up here as a central point to explore the rest of the state for a few years. Lots of retired folks and beach bums, I just don't like the vibe.

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citrus_sugar t1_isk93a3 wrote

Yikes, I loved in St Pete and St Pete or Gainesville have more of an RVA vibe, probably Gainesville more now.

Space Coast is kind of trashy unless you’re rich, I def recommend trying those other spots out come on back up!

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LunchLadySade t1_islsvip wrote

Gainesville is the tits, really loved the spectrum of outdoor and culture there.

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ChefNamu t1_isjwbzl wrote

I spent some time in Florida growing up. Absolutely hated it and couldn't wait to leave, so you're definitely not alone. Florida is good if you're retired and like either golf or the beach, not for much else.

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Jesweez t1_iskqznv wrote

I really like Florida but I’m a crazy biologist and so I’m attracted to places like that, lol.

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Wiltonator t1_iski1oy wrote

Ive lived all over FL - broward, Hillsboro, Jacksonville. It’s a huge state so different areas might be more to your liking. But for me personally RVA was always home. Love having 4 seasons. The people here are more my speed.
FL pros are hot weather if like that kinda thing and no income tax. Cons are it’s full of retirees, tourists and beach bums.

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ramblingclam t1_iskitbs wrote

I grew up Brevard County south of Melbourne and now live in Richmond! Where exactly did you move? There is a lot to love about Florida, and a whole lot to hate. Unfortunately the awful things are very in your face (heat/humidity, seemingly endless suburban sprawl, tourists, etc.) and the best parts are subtly beautiful and requiring a little digging to find (a sunrise surf session on an isolated beach, Florida prairies, the St, John’s River in the spring). It’s tough. I definitely have nostalgia for FL, but left there and am happy in Virginia. The south Brevard beaches is one of my favorite places. I have lots of Brevard recommendations if you want to message me.

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sweetnpeach t1_ismqypz wrote

The space coast is really ugly and trashy. It’s very FLORIDA. I grew up in Orlando and Cocoa / Cape Canaveral area was always where we went to the beach and I really don’t see the hype. Plus the beaches were always so dirty.

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borneoknives t1_isnwp7a wrote

Space coast is boring as fuck. Go down to Miami for a while. It’s a different world

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isofikm wrote

also a surprisingly boring one when you live there. Unless you like clubbing a lot. In which case, great town.

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Asterion7 t1_isk0g7o wrote

Florida is a good place to visit and a terrible place to live.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isk3krb wrote

cannot agree, it's also a lousy place to visit. At some point my wife just started refusing to go there to visit my family, on the theory it sucks. We all thought that a perfectly reasonable take.

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Jesweez t1_iskr6wn wrote

What sucks so bad about visiting?

My biggest interest is always the nature, and Florida has some pretty damn cool nature.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_islv377 wrote

a reasonable question. Short answer is that most of it is like visiting the new jersey suburbs of NYC. Traffic and people without charm and redeeming quality. But that's the man built environment, the nature can be cool. If you like bugs.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isk2jmi wrote

yes. Lived in South Florida. Prefer RVA so much it's indescribable. Florida is a shitty place to live

At least now you will know that when people talk about Richmond having the worst humidity ever that they have no clue how bad it can be. Florida is indescribably worse.

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heartrva OP t1_iskhk15 wrote

Seriously, when moving here I thought "well VA gets humid" yes it does, but not for half the year and it is on a whole other level. Like walking outside into soup. Outdoor exercise becomes more difficult even if you do it during the "cool" parts of the day. Just ugh

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suurahh t1_isjux77 wrote

Florida fucking sucks. Spent the first 26 years of my life there. Have been in RVA for 9 months and have never been happier. If you're looking to get out of there but not get as far north as RVA I recommend Savannah, GA. Hope you survive and make it out of the swamp.

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heartrva OP t1_isjzsj8 wrote

Thanks. I love Savannah but it isn't cycling-friendly which is a must for me. Also no legal weed there.

One thing RVA could use is some Spanish moss though. That's one of the few things I love about being further south. Maybe I'll import some if I come back lol

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DoubleDragon33 t1_isjg8e6 wrote

whoah are we the same person? i just moved to florida (short term for work) from RVA and have been having many of the same thoughts as you! i stay pretty busy with work and i have family here, so overall i can deal. but yeah- the cultural differences are insane and the people are quite different down here. i’m sorry you’re feeling down today. if it makes you feel better just know i’m in the same boat!

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heartrva OP t1_isjhuwj wrote

Thanks for the response. What part of Florida? I'm in Central Florida but I'm an hour plus to an urban/city environment. I've checked out and considered moving to:

  • Tampa Bay/St Pete: insanely expensive, hurricane risk

  • Orlando: expensive, awful traffic, tourists, no sea breeze so it's even hotter

  • Jacksonville: I've seen this described as "Richmond with a beach." I've driven through a couple times, looks like it has potential, but haven't spent any significant time there.

I won't lie the lack of income tax here is nice. I would take a decent pay cut to move back to VA.

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DoubleDragon33 t1_isjwe6f wrote

I’m near Daytona, which is pretty much all the awful things about Florida wrapped up into one city, lol.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isk35kq wrote

I've heard decent things about Tampa St. Pete. Jax no way, that's a florida version of Va beach. Orlando, what, you want MORE humidity?

Best thing is to leave Florida of course. I couldn't wait to get out. Was just talking to another refugee at a party last night about how people who haven't lived there think florida is great, and we are so happy to not be there.

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heartrva OP t1_isk6tbc wrote

Refugee LOL that is hilarious! If I end up moving back I'll coordinate a Former Floridians of RVA trauma recovery meetup!

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Splask t1_ism7xkf wrote

I have lived in St. Pete and currently live north of Clearwater and commute to Tampa for work. The traffic is insane and the people driving the cars are worse. The only thing great about it right now is how much I'm going to make when I sell my house.

I'm going to miss all of the awesome rare fruits I'm growing though.

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robyoungin t1_isk6vsw wrote

Native Floridian here, I would never move back. BUT if you’re looking for a more Richmond vibe there are some little pockets.

Jacksonville is a giant suburb but the five points neighborhood is young and walkable and has some interesting things to do, as does the Atlantic/Jax Beach area (lots of bars and music).

College towns are a good bet, Gainesville is small and the university is basically 100% of the town but there are options for good food, music, and some really nice state parks close by (Paynes Prairie , Hammock Preserve, Ginnie Springs)

Orlando is a ring of hell but some surrounding neighborhoods are nice, north of the city is the University of Central Florida and the smaller city of Winter Park which gives a very Carytown vibe.

I can’t give any advice on the people or weather or traffic, but there are things to explore. Good luck!

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NoFanksYou t1_isknd00 wrote

Have you looked at Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach?

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sweetnpeach t1_ismrqhj wrote

If you hate Florida, Orlando will only make you hate it more. I lived there for 32 years and it’s not worth it unless you’re rich or a Disney Adult and just must be near the Parks. Orlando can be very nice if you have enough money to live in a nice area and enjoy all the city has to offer. But if you’re middle class or below, it’ll be really bad.

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DefaultSubsAreTerrib t1_isjgvg0 wrote

How long have you been in Florida? It's natural to feel unsettled when you move to a new place.

If you find that Florida doesn't match you, there's nothing wrong with that. But keep in mind that you wanted to try something new. So why come back to Richmond---why not try a third place? New Orleans, Baltimore, Austin, Memphis...

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goosey65 t1_isjhvnk wrote

If you miss seasons, don’t move to Austin, New Orleans, or Memphis. Also, in general, don’t move to Austin (shared as a former resident—2014-18.)

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anonyngineer t1_isjiu2n wrote

I was in Memphis for work about 10 years ago, and the entire economy seemed to be based on telling sob stories for better tips.

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brat84 t1_isjs2al wrote

Grew up in FL for 20 years and been here for 13. I moved because of the heat and needed a change of environment. I really don’t like it down there unless I’m near the beach or the springs, always swimming. What part do you live in?

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heartrva OP t1_isjz6cy wrote

Space Coast. I've never been a huge beach person, it's OK as an escape every so often but I don't love it like some people do.

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icepick314 t1_isjuyva wrote

I look at it this way.

When you are hot, you can only take off so much.

When you are cold, at least you can put on more till you are okay.

Don't know why people live anywhere near swamp.

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kailalawithani t1_ism1901 wrote

I haven’t seen it mentioned, but the culture in Florida is completely different than anywhere I’ve ever lived, which is 9 states and counting. I lived in FL (central and Tampa/St. Pete Metro) for 8 years between high school and college. The minute I graduated college I left the state and moved to DC.

Folks in Florida, at least in the areas I lived, are consumed by their appearance. I knew many girls who received plastic surgery of some sort as a HIGH SCHOOL graduation gift, and some that received their second round for college graduation. I used to joke that I was a Tampa 5 and a DC 8. Very few people keep their natural looks.

And another fascinating thing I noticed, Florida has more nice cars on the road than anywhere I’ve ever lived. We’re talking Bentleys, Maseratis, Lambos, Ferraris, suped out Audi coupes, more Land Rovers and Mercedes Gs than you could count! But they all live in shitty or mid level apartments or other rentals, and they all lease those cars! It’s wild. They’re more concerned with their cars, which they can drive around and show off, than the quality of where they live.

And they’re all ass holes. Genuinely. There is no neighborly love. Everyone’s out for themself!

So aside from the weather, lack of seasons, and old people who genuinely are a danger on the road, I left because of the culture. And after almost 10 years in Virginia and DC, I have never regretted it.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isofse7 wrote

can definitely confirm cars and high school graduation boob jobs in Miami

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geekitude t1_isk54r7 wrote

Came to VA to escape FLA, haven't gone back. A steaming swamp with fetid people.

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TGhost21 t1_iskxazv wrote

I lived in FL for 15 years and am in RVA area for about five. I despise everything and anything and everyone in FL. With a full passion. Its hell.

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toilet_roll_rebel t1_isjhq92 wrote

I moved to Florida, lived there for two years, then moved back to RVA. I liked living there, but it just didn't work out for me. It didn't help that I moved there right before the pandemic started so I couldn't travel around the state like I had planned to. I've been back for a year and a half and I've got a really great, high-paying job that I love. Couldn't do that in Florida because the pay is so low. You're not insane; Florida's not for everyone. Pack up and come home.

PS: I don't know where in Florida you are, but take a trip to St. Petersburg. It's artsy and a little quirky like Richmond. If I'd lived there instead of Tampa, I might have been happier in Florida. By the time I realized that, rents had gone up so high, I couldn't afford to live there.

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heartrva OP t1_isjk1rz wrote

St Pete is great, but expensive and it's even hotter there than where I am now.

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V3gasMan t1_isjl0yn wrote

I grew up in FL before moving here in college. I think VA is better overall. The only thing Florida really has going for it is no sales tax

Edit: I did grow up in Tallahassee so there wasnt much to do compared to South FL or Central FL.

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heartrva OP t1_isjyywj wrote

You mean income tax? Yeah I would take a decent pay cut moving back to VA but homeowners insurance is really expensive down here due to the hurricanes/weather so it may even out

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Huckles123 t1_isjlp3g wrote

Woah! I grew up in tally too. Let’s be friends? I’m probably moving back in the next year or so. Will definitely miss VA and the seasons. But will visit a lot.

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RV-Yay t1_isjpzar wrote

You're not crazy. We moved to Richmond from Florida 4.5 years ago for my work and it was the best thing we've ever done (and we knew very little about Richmond so it was really a leap of faith/let's try something new). My husband and I both moved to Florida when we were kids (9-10) and lived in various places around Florida (St. Pete, Tampa, Gainesville, Tallahassee, Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton) until we left in our early-mid 30s.

Florida pros: the beach (if you're a beach person). We lived in South Florida a mile from the beach and rarely went. Professional sports teams. Cuban food.

Florida negatives: the government and the people who vote for that government. Hurricanes are getting worse, and after evacuating three separate times for Hurricane Irma, I was done. Home insurance is expensive (and flood insurance is becoming near-impossible to get). We also wanted to start a family, and where we were at the time (south Florida) was not somewhere we wanted to do that.

The only city I would consider moving back to is St. Petersburg (and even that would be a longshot). It has a somewhat smaller city feel while having all the amenities of a larger city (and Tampa is just across the bay). It leans slightly more liberal than other places in Florida and is pretty gay-friendly. It's beautiful and has lots of good museums and restaurants. The beaches are some of the best in the world.

We still have family in St. Pete/Tampa so visit at least once or twice a year. I enjoy going, but I don't miss Florida at all. Even my parents, who are pretty conservative, moved away from there in the last few years because Florida has changed a lot.

There's nothing wrong with admitting a place isn't for you.

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Loud_Welder_6876 t1_isk0k1m wrote

I grew up in RVA and moved to the W Palm Beach area for 10 yrs. I’d take a coastal S Florida summer ANY DAY over these horrible humid mosquito ridden summers in RVA. The place clears out, prices drop, and you get a rainstorm in the afternoon to cool it off. It very much depends on what part of FL to influence your experience

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isk46dr wrote

oh god no. And that 4pm daily thunderstorm just makes it more humid.

Even when I was in Miami and disliking it I would think, hey, at least I'm not in broward or west palm, things could be worse

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heartrva OP t1_iskgkj8 wrote

Yeah, I've rarely seen a summer thunderstorm cool anything off down here. Maybe while it's raining, but 30 minutes later the sun comes back out and things get super steamy.

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I_Enjoy_Beer t1_isk1g6y wrote

Every time I visit Florida, I am reminded why I could never live in Florida. Its flat, hot, humid, gritty, sun-bleached, and full of rednecks and assholes from the northeast.

The Keys are pretty nice, though.

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dj1200techniques t1_isloj6b wrote

Ur right there aren’t any rednecks literally 5 minutes outside rocketts landing.

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Cunbundle t1_isk2ph9 wrote

I hate summers here but I know it's only like two months of punishment then it will all be over. Six months of that? Hell no. Come home!

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TGIIR t1_iso9q1a wrote

Amen to the two months. I just stay inside until it’s over.

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jjs6067 t1_iskbb52 wrote

I lived in Richmond for PT school, then moved to Florida afterwards to be near my parents. I did that for 4 years, and moved back to Richmond. Florida is not a great place to live, and the people there, on average, are much ruder than in Richmond. Not to mention it’s mostly retirees, so making friends was a bitch.

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TGIIR t1_iso9lf7 wrote

I retired to Richmond. Been here 13 years. I was born in Alaska and worked my way down. People here in RVA are nice. And they get to places on time. Not being late was an adjustment for me for sure. I was always surprised when someone showed up on time. Used to it now…haha. Couldn’t go farther south though.

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RicTicTocs t1_iski7cw wrote

Sorry, you have lost all RVA cred and must remain in place for eternity. That’s how hell works.

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alienofamerica t1_iskjrdj wrote

I’ve lived in RVA for 14 years now. I just visited my parents in Florida for a couple of weeks. Other than the novelty of being able to lounge by the pool in mid September, I was majorly home sick. I can’t describe it. It’s a completely different vibe up here, but everyone down there I talked to swears Florida is paradise. I saw a gator though, so that was pretty cool.

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InterstellarUncle t1_isnu22s wrote

We moved to nova from Florida 12 years ago and are still so happy we did. Every time I step outside in even the worst mid day summer heat here, I remember that it was hotter and more humid at midnight in Fl. In October.

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upearlyRVA t1_isjfrmg wrote

Yep, always good to try and play in the same sandbox.

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Diet_Coke t1_isjt71w wrote

Lived in Richmond my whole life but mod r/FloridaMan so I feel like I know a lot about the state, and I have family there. You couldn't pay me to live in Florida. The state is one giant shell game where some people deny to themselves global warming is going to make it an unlivable monument to man's hubris, some people know it's coming and are trying to get out at the last minute, and some people know it's coming and are getting out now - plus the old people who don't care because they won't be here to see it. Also the insurance market is collapsing with no signs of it getting better under De Santis or Crist, so it's only going to get less and less affordable to live there.

Additionally the culture is extremely superficial and Florida ranks 41 / 51 for education spending per student - for context, DC is 4, MD is 9, VA is 21.

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ManBMitt t1_iskbz5x wrote

I hate the heat - to me, RVA is way, way more outdoorsy than Florida (I think is better fit outdoors activities than pretty much any mid-large city east of the city.

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blueskieslemontrees t1_iskpe5o wrote

Of all the places in the country to live FL is the last place I would pick for reasons across the spectrum. So I am not surprised you are miserable.

But similar to your experience there, about 6 months out of the year here in RVA indo not want to be outside due to the pollen or heat and humidity. Our summers are awful and not enjoyable and our spring weather is perfect but a biological bomb has gone off and shuns you. Midwest summers are my ideal. So to each their own.

That said, RVA is "sticky" - many who leave return

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solostinlost t1_iskt218 wrote

Yep! Orlando for a year in what was supposed to be my dream job. I had the hardest time making friends and the weather got old pretty quick. Richmonders love to complain about heat and humidity but we’ve got nothing on central FL. Moved back here 5 years ago and haven’t regretted it

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simplysmittyn t1_isl50iw wrote

Just returned from a visit to St. Pete Beach and Tampa and realized that I could not live there. Too humid, too sticky all the time. I had been considering how cool it would be to live in a more mild, coastal town. But nope. Coming back to the fall temps and changing leaves is the best.

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RaraAvisDelParaiso t1_islbalh wrote

Florida is no paradise for anybody, the humidity is so high that it’s like living under warm water, the ppl that live there are lying and secretly jealous, make a plan and try to escape in the middle of the night, 2:00 ish should be good.

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Top-Experience-8874 t1_ism11t4 wrote

I lived in South Beach during season for 5 years in my early 20’s and LOVED it ….. but then I woke up one day and realized I was exhausted and moved back to NY. I guess it depends on your age and what your into, Florida can be fun for sure but never off season , and you really have to like to party 😹 but hey you tried something new and that’s good not everybody has the courage , but if it’s not for you, just come back -

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Splask t1_ism1agv wrote

I am literally in the process of doing this right now lol.

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donteatmydog t1_ism3ho9 wrote

Ahh, you nailed it - it's a pseudo paradise if you're not a boat/sun/heat lover. Mostly it's hot, detached, and honestly boring.

I am a born and raised South Floridian and just moved to Richmond.

In the 3 days I've been here I have seen more wildlife, diversity, inclusion, kitschy charm and llamas than I ever saw in Florida.

Feel validated, but at least you're about to go into the beautiful time of year so hopefully you can enjoy some outdoor time.

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TGIIR t1_isocgjc wrote

The outdoors is amazing here. Never hiked so much in my life (and I’m old).

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DeannaZone t1_ism9ts8 wrote

"I now live in a humid swamp surrounded by people I have nothing in common with." Basically when I asked my husband what it was like moving from Pacific Northwest to here lol

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wwiv423 t1_ismo2gu wrote

I made the opposite move. I lived in Melbourne beach for 2 years before moving to rva. They are very different places each with their own positives and negatives. I loved the small beach town vibe of indiatlantic, restaurants etc. I’ve recently relocated to San Diego and now I miss both Melbourne and RVA for different reasons. I know right now how nice the fan is with the weather and leaves changing.

I think it’s good to go and try new places. If you end up going back to rva, there will likely be something you’ll miss about the Space Coast, I’m sure!

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sweetnpeach t1_ismqh0g wrote

I grew up in Florida and lived there until I was 32 and moved to Virginia. They are two vastly different cultures. I can never see myself moving back to Florida. The year-round summer, bugs, gators, high cost of living, etc is just not worth it to me.

Moving to Virginia and having four seasons is something that never ceases to amaze me. To see blossoms on trees in Spring and vibrant orange, yellow, and red leaves in Fall. Even bare trees in winter that look a bit haunted is something I love. The history here is amazing and embraced much more than in Florida. Having a choice of both beaches AND mountains also??

It’s also weird things like how in Florida so many buildings and houses are beige. Coming here and things looking historic, cute, and/or quaint blew my mind. In Florida everything is stucco, cement, or cinder block.

I could go on and on, but yeah I totally get the differences both big and small.

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JamesBhand-007 t1_isjqgf1 wrote

I don’t mean to hijack your post but I really want to move to Philly in the spring and am scared of this happening :(

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isk3y3x wrote

I like Richmond better than Philly. That said, go. You might feel differently. And you can always move back, Richmond isn't going anywhere.

There's no shame in trying someplace different even if it doesn't end up working out. In fact, the reverse. And you will eat awesome cheesesteaks, and roast pork

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TGIIR t1_isobu3v wrote

And bakeries. My father is dead now but I always looked forward to visiting him in NJ - right outside of Philly. The food was awesome there and there was the best Italian restaurant close to his house. You could bring your own wine there and pay a $2 corkage fee. The bakery was next door. And cheaper alcohol was right down the road. My husband and I had a food/alcohol roadmap every time we went to visit. I miss that. And actual hoagies. And my dad.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isofyhy wrote

we actually have very very good bakeries in Richmond. Now Italian food... not so much.

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TGIIR t1_isohnth wrote

Can you steer me to a good bakery? I’m in the West End and don’t drive so has to be close. I’ve lived in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Then DC area for 20+ years. I’ve been in Richmond now for 13 years. Yeah, I’m old. I love it here. Drivers here still stink but people are very nice. Until they get in their car…lol. Well, that might be my old age talking.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isoijz7 wrote

that might be impossible sadly. All the ones I know are in the city. Sub Rosa is good to the point of getting written up in NYT for it. Idle Hands. Europa crust has a great rep for bread. Pearls and Shyndigz for cake. Sugar and Twine etc

You should make a post about it and see if people have suggestions

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TGIIR t1_isonv4d wrote

Might have to make a trip into the city then. Thanks for the recommendations.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_isovrw5 wrote

you should post for recs before coming in, to get a good list. With specifics - like say if you want Sfogliatelli or cannoli I'd go to 8 1/2 in fan.

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TGIIR t1_isowlxc wrote

I just had the worst lasagna ever from a place I used to order from regularly. I couldn’t even eat it. I called them to complain and person answering phone said that’s how we make it. Think they might have changed owners. Used to have the best linguini with clams. Best pizza. Best pasta in West End. Really good customer service. Sadly, no more. My step-grandmother was Italian and her lasagna was legendary. I miss Nan and her lasagna. She made it on Thanksgiving and I noped out of the turkey for that lasagna.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_ist4h4k wrote

leonardos? I make my own lasagna I confess. Lots of good recipes out there. Fair amount of work, but I feel its the season again

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TGIIR t1_istoq8o wrote

Pizza Express. Used to do the best pasta besides pizza. No more. I get pizza from Mod now. Hate to order from chain but their pizza is the best. Still looking for pasta.

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TGIIR t1_istp9jf wrote

Sorry just order in now. I’m disabled and can’t cook. My Nan (step grandmother) made the best lasagna ever. If I could cook would do her recipe.

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TGIIR t1_isoxfp9 wrote

For some reason I was just craving lasagna the other day. Hard to find around here that delivers.

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heartrva OP t1_iskgxho wrote

I still advocate people taking risks and trying new things. Have you always lived in RVA? If so it's always good to get out of your hometown even if just for a bit.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_islvwn5 wrote

exactly! Never any shame in going. Pride should be the feeling, even if someone comes back. It means you tried

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Ditovontease t1_isksokj wrote

I know a lot of Richmond to Philly and vice versa folks. I think the vibe is similar to Richmond definitely but bigger. I think you’ll like it

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55V35lM t1_isjrhg9 wrote

Nothing wrong with changing your mind and returning or going somewhere that’s more middle ground - maybe, Charleston, SC?

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buttsofpoop t1_isk8ll7 wrote

Born and raised in FL, south and north. RVA is exactly where I want to be. Sure, it gets similarly hot in the summer, but it only lasts a couple months. South Florida... The portion I was in, I had a hard time finding "my people". It's much easier here imo. The only thing I miss is the dance scene in north Florida 🤷 guess I gotta build it myself!

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Jesweez t1_iskqt52 wrote

I moved from Florida to RVA. (Originally from neither).

I kind of miss Florida for how weird and wild its natural environment is.

I miss having things like alligators and dolphins and manatees and all manner of reptiles and tropical plants around.

Although I was in quite a strange and particular living situation that I’m sure is nothing like your experience there.

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Charlesinrichmond t1_islvp0l wrote

we have lots of dolphins up here fyi. Way more than I ever saw in Florida. Gators even in the dismal swamp! But I've seen my lifetime supply of gators I think.

that said, Florida nature is totally weird and wild and we should stop paving over it

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Cbcomments t1_isl0a6f wrote

I'm the opposite, moved here from Orlando and looking forward to going back. There's somewhere for everybody. I left out of boredom and curiosity. It was nice to change things up but FL is a better fit for me. If you want to come back to VA, do it.

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heartrva OP t1_isl8d1r wrote

What do you like about Orlando?

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Cbcomments t1_islb3sk wrote

Music (artists I like don't come here), food (mostly Caribbean), people from everywhere, the Magic, events, hanging out downtown, and Orlando is centrally located, so I can easily get to places around the state. I lived there most of my life so I know who and where to go when I need/want something.

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sweetnpeach t1_isms8e4 wrote

I moved from Orlando to VA and I definitely don’t miss it, but you’re right about the Caribbean food. It’s hard to find good Caribbean food here and it’s definitely not as widely available.

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Btdtsouthside t1_islq7sc wrote

I lived in Palm beach county back in the early 2000s. It was a total kick in the head but I loved the nature and felt very comfortable there in the winter. Summers were rough. But not as hot as here in summer. The farther you go north in Florida, the deeper you get into the South.

Florida people were shockingly friendly at first but then I got used to them. They just tell it like it is without regard for who is listening. Bunch of drunken uncle types. At least you know what they are up to? Richmond folks are more reserved but still friendly.

I go visiting down there from time to time. It’s still fun to me. I make sure to hit at least one beach and one state park every trip. They have the absolute best county and state parks in Florida! We used to try to hit one every weekend.

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Whitney_Ashley t1_isltbpe wrote

I don't know if it's just you, but a lot of the time...people have their family and friends around them. It's hard to just up and move somewhere that you don't really know anyone.

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Beastmayonnaise t1_isltukr wrote

I've never understood anyone wanting to move to florida. Whats the draw? Alligators, old people, terrible politics, hurricanes, swamps, terrible traffic/highways/drivers, megachurchs every other turn, Jesusland. Seriously what is the draw?

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cinamntoastcrunch t1_ism17e8 wrote

Every time I go to Florida I’m reminded I never want to go back.

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cavalierpaladin t1_ism87lh wrote

I’m a Florida native, transplanted to RVA since 2010. I love Richmond, especially the change of seasons, but I can’t tell you how disappointed I was by the unforgiving humidity during my first summer here—I had definitely taken the sea breeze for granted.

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JacksonTheGrey t1_ism9qp6 wrote

I lived in Boca Raton for over a decade. You couldn’t pay me to move back to FL. The summers are so hot and humid, the highways are ALWAYS crowded, the people are so very fake and pretentious, and you forget how beautiful fall is. Just my 2 cents.

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xabrol t1_ismgs9r wrote

You'd probably like it better in North Carolina near the smokey mountains than Florida, imo. I.e the Ashville area.

I mean anything south of VA is drastically warmer. Theres a lot to offer in NC, SC, and GA. I think you have more exploring to do 😁

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cybersaint2k t1_ismlr5f wrote

We moved from Florida just before Covid for work here. Work was scrambled due to Covid. Now we are a bit stuck here, wishing we were back in Florida.

We have loved the area. It's not a bad place to live at all. But we do miss our friends in Florida.

And my wife misses chewing her damp air before she swallows it. She seems to really like humidity. Lots of humidity.

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LennyMorr t1_isnh7pt wrote

Lived in Florida off and on in my 20s. I absolutely hate the place

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Repulsive_Trifle_ t1_isnz0pt wrote

In Colorado and fully sharing that sentiment RVA is so specific and special I had no idea what I was leaving though I sobbed the whole way here.

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bluefirestarter t1_isproz1 wrote

I moved to Orlando from Richmond back in 98 with my family and decided to move back to Mechanicsville a few months back. You couldn't pay me to move back to that overcrowded armpit. Love it up here!

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KDRadio1 t1_isjrs6n wrote

You moved to a place and hate it, you used to live in a different place that you loved and still do.

I don’t really understand what you’re hoping to hear. Florida is not going to have VA seasons and demographics or whatever don’t change overnight.

Come back? I’m trying to come up with what someone From RVA who moved to FL could say that would change anything regarding your situation.

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LunchLadySade t1_isltcpq wrote

I'd recommend Gainesville FL. So many springs to paddle and swim. An abundance of trails and camping. Close to the beach ( similar from here to Norfolk), and also close to Jacksonville for a more city feel. UF has its downside of students and aggressive construction, but also provides culture/intellect.

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only-hooman t1_ispsubz wrote

There is a lot to complain about in Florida, as I see in some of the comments- and they're all true haha. So I figure I'll throw in some of the things I loved while I was there for 6 years (may be what you're missing)-

-Fresh water springs, visit them on the weekdays so it's not too crowded. If you bring a mask and some fins, you can practice your free diving and see some awesome views. Some of them you can see where the fresh water boils out of the earth, it's pretty magical imo. Devils den is different, and blue springs doesn't always allow people in the water due to all the manatees! I could go on but I encourage you to look into the springs for sure.

-Scuba diving, if you're interested in marine life it's life changing. Enjoy the salt water while you are still there, I miss jumping in the ocean after work once in a while. Feels so damn good. Anyway, you can see some reefs off the coast of southern Florida (starting around Ft. Lauderdale down to the keys). With a lil online research you can find some easy access spots with out a boat. Scuba diving or not, worth checking out SoFlo. Some places are cool with their own quirks, like Wynwood near Miami surprised me and with the art museums and graffiti art it may feel a bit like Richmond.

-Get yourself a kayak and explore. No need to be scared of the gators, the more you see them you'll notice they are scared of you. Plus you'll get to see a ton of birds that you wouldn't normally see in VA. Learn about the marsh environment and the mangroves then go out and see them, it is impressive.

-Interesting/different job opportunities. I job hoped a bit because it was all so fascinating to me, but it depends on what your interests are. If you don't plan on staying long, might as well check em out while you're there. During my undergrad I did some shark surveys for NOAA through my university as a research assistant, was a vet tech for sea turtles at the marine science center, and was a seasonal stewardess on a yacht in the Bahamas.

I eventually realized I didn't want FL to be my forever home and moved to RVA in hopes to find that. Been here a year and so far love it- I've done a fair share of exploring here so far, but I would love to hear some of the things that make you love this place so much.

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allidyaj t1_issd7ys wrote

My wife and I lived in Florida for 18 years and have relocated to RVA. We moved to a relatively small town in Florida which exploded in population to the point that traffic, especially January though April was insanity inducing. People who moved to FL do have an annoying habit of telling you/themselves that is paradise. (Far more than the people who are from there)

On the flipside, after a couple of years your blood will thin (metaphorically) and the heat from May-October will become more bearable.

So far, my wife and I love RVA. If you miss it, and it is feasible to move back, do so. Life is too short to stay someplace where you are miserable. When we lived in Florida, we had many neighbors in your situation move back because they hated it.

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