Wildwood, FL is a small city located in Sumter County, about 45 minutes northwest of Orlando. With a population of around 7,000 people, it's a quiet and close-knit community that offers a relaxed pace of life. However, like any city, Wildwood has its pros and cons, and in this article, we'll delve into the details to help you decide if it's worth moving to.
One of the main attractions of Wildwood is its natural beauty, with numerous lakes, parks, and outdoor recreational areas. The city is also home to a number of community events and festivals throughout the year, which can be a great way to meet new people and get involved in the local community. On the other hand, Wildwood is a relatively small city, and some people may find it too quiet or lacking in amenities compared to larger cities.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Wildwood is relatively low compared to other cities in Florida. The median home price is around $170,000, with prices ranging from $120,000 to over $300,000 for larger homes. Renters can expect to pay between $800 and $1,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, depending on the location and amenities.
Utilities, such as electricity and water, are also relatively affordable, with the average monthly cost for a single person being around $150. However, it's worth noting that property taxes in Wildwood are slightly higher than the national average, with a effective tax rate of around 0.98%. Additionally, Florida has a sales tax rate of 6%, which can add up quickly.
Job Market
The job market in Wildwood is relatively small, with a limited number of major employers in the area. However, some of the largest employers include the Sumter County School District, the City of Wildwood, and the local hospital, Baycare Health System. The unemployment rate in Wildwood is around 4.5%, which is slightly higher than the national average.
For those who work remotely, Wildwood can be a great option, with a number of co-working spaces and coffee shops with reliable internet. However, for those who need to commute to larger cities, such as Orlando or Tampa, the drive can be long and traffic-heavy, with commute times ranging from 45 minutes to over an hour depending on the time of day.
Neighborhoods
Wildwood has a number of different neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own unique character. The Wildwood Neighborhood is a popular area, with a mix of older and newer homes, and a range of prices from $150,000 to over $250,000. The Oxford Neighborhood is another option, with a more rural feel and prices ranging from $100,000 to $200,000.
The Bushnell Neighborhood is a bit farther out from the city center, but still offers a range of amenities, including a grocery store and several restaurants. Prices in this area range from $80,000 to $180,000. For those who want to be closer to the action, the Center Hill Neighborhood is a good option, with a range of prices from $120,000 to $250,000.
Safety
Wildwood is generally a safe city, with low crime rates compared to other cities of similar size. However, as with any city, there are some areas that are considered safer than others. The city center and surrounding neighborhoods tend to be well-lit and patrolled by police, while some of the outlying areas may be more prone to crime.
According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, the overall crime rate in Wildwood is around 2,500 incidents per 100,000 people, which is lower than the national average. However, it's always a good idea to take common-sense precautions to protect yourself and your property, such as locking doors and windows, and being aware of your surroundings.
Schools
The Sumter County School District serves the city of Wildwood, and includes a number of highly-rated schools. Wildwood Elementary School is one of the top-rated schools in the area, with a rating of 8 out of 10. Wildwood Middle School is another option, with a rating of 7 out of 10. For high school students, Wildwood High School is the only option, with a rating of 6 out of 10.
For those who prefer private schools, there are a number of options in the area, including Wildwood Christian Academy and Sumter Christian School. These schools tend to have smaller class sizes and more individualized attention, but can be more expensive than public schools.
Lifestyle and Things to Do
Wildwood has a number of parks and outdoor recreational areas, including the Wildwood Lake Park and the Withlacoochee River Park. These areas offer a range of activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking, and are a great way to get outside and enjoy nature.
The city also has a number of community events and festivals throughout the year, including the Wildwood BBQ Festival and the Sumter County Fair. These events can be a great way to meet new people and get involved in the local community. However, some people may find the nightlife scene in Wildwood to be limited, with only a few bars and restaurants that stay open late.
The Verdict
Wildwood, FL is a great option for those who want a relaxed pace of life and a strong sense of community. With its natural beauty, outdoor recreational areas, and community events, it's a great place to get outside and enjoy nature. However, it may not be the best fit for those who are looking for a more urban lifestyle or a wide range of job opportunities.
Ultimately, whether or not Wildwood is worth moving to depends on your individual priorities and preferences. If you value a close-knit community, outdoor recreation, and a low cost of living, then Wildwood may be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more fast-paced lifestyle or a wider range of amenities, you may want to consider other options.
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