I have lived on the west coast of Florida (Tampa) for the last 30 years, and haven't had ONE hurricane yet! I do seem to remember ANDREW destroying a large part of Miami. Tampa, St. Pete and especially Sarasota, can be very gay/trans friendly. Additionally, it isn't as Spanish oriented as Miami. If that would be a culture shock to you, then it should be a consideration. Sarasota in particular is very arts oriented and dotes on well to-do retirees. Your income would be fine, but don't expect a hacienda on the beach. Excellent museums, Botanical Gardens, Ballet, and Masterworks in Music program. Itshak Pearlman teaches advanced violin during the winter when he stays at his condo there and gives recitals. Storms tend to stay offshore as they head off to clobber the panhandle and New Orleans.