Read previewThis as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Cassie Leigh, a 29-year-old journalist who moved from Pittsburgh to Tampa. AdvertisementAfter only a few months in, I liked living in Tampa so much that I bought a house. Living here felt like paradise — but then everything changedAfter 23 years in Pittsburgh, I was mesmerized by the year-round warm weather, living so close to the beach, and being surrounded by people my age. Wind mitigation is crucial; your insurance company could charge you more if you don't have the right hurricane shutters. I love the beaches and the weather, but living here is not worth the price tag.

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Persons: —, Cassie Leigh, I've, hasn't, It's, homebuyers Organizations: Service, Business, Tampa, Florida Locations: Pittsburgh, Tampa, Florida, Miami, Orlando, Canadian, I'm, South Carolina