After a decade of gentle persuasion from her husband, Rhonda Evans finally agreed to leave San Francisco for the Sunshine State. Now, she only wishes she'd made the move sooner.
“My husband's been begging me to move to Florida for 10 years and I finally acquiesced,” Rhonda shares with a smile. “I wish I decided sooner.”
The Evans are the newest residents featured in the ongoing “Community Voices” series, which highlights the stories and experiences of people who've chosen to make Citrus Hills their home.
Their journey offers valuable insights for anyone considering a similar life change.
Finding the Perfect Balance
Bob, who spent his career in construction in San Francisco, and his wife Rhonda initially visited Florida about a decade ago, staying with friends in New Port Richey. While they liked the area then, they found that over the years, it had grown too large and busy for their taste.
Their search led them north to Citrus County, where they discovered something unexpected in Florida: hills.
“When they say Citrus Hills, it really does mean hills,” Rhonda explains. “You don't expect that in Florida, but it's one of the things you really like—the topography.”
What truly sold the couple on Citrus Hills was its perfect balance. As Bob puts it, “There's everything you need here, but not too much. It's just the perfect mix for us.” They appreciate being away from the big city environment while still being close enough to enjoy it when they choose.
The Best of Both Worlds
One of the major advantages of their location is accessibility to larger cities. “We can be in Orlando or Tampa in an hour and a half,” Bob notes. This proximity has allowed them to enjoy numerous day trips to places like St. Augustine, Gainesville, and Ocala.
For the Evans, Citrus Hills offers the ideal combination of peaceful living with convenient access to urban amenities. They're “away from that but still be involved in that environment—close enough to enjoy” the cultural and entertainment options of larger cities.
Year-Round Outdoor Living
Perhaps the most significant lifestyle change for the couple has been the ability to enjoy outdoor activities throughout the entire year. With their electric bikes, they've been exploring the beautiful neighborhoods, the Withlacoochee Trail, and other scenic paths in the area.
Bob emphasizes that Citrus County's climate is more temperate than South Florida locations like Miami or Naples. “Our activities are not limited by the weather. We can do this all year round and it's fantastic. I think it makes you healthier,” he says.
Rhonda agrees, adding that it's “better for the spirit and the soul.”
Building Community Connections
The couple hasn't wasted any time becoming active members of their new community. Rhonda has started teaching an interactive cooking class in the Garden Room next to the grill, creating a space where residents can share their love of food and build connections.
“I think that food is something that we share together and it bonds us,” she explains, while Bob proudly adds, “My wife is becoming a celebrity in the area.”
They've also embraced the social scene, particularly enjoying the outdoor dining options and the popular Tiki Bar with its live music and dancing. What stands out to them is not just the quality of the amenities but the exceptional service and friendly staff.
“The people who work here are very personable and friendly and helpful and kind,” Rhonda notes. “It's one thing to have a great meal, but when the service is great on top of it, it makes it a much better experience.”
No Looking Back
When asked what advice they would give to others considering a move to Citrus Hills, their response is immediate and enthusiastic: “Do it.”
“It is lovely, it's relaxed, and you can be as busy as you want or as not busy,” Rhonda explains. They have “no regrets” about their decision and consider themselves permanent residents.
Bob echoes his wife's sentiment with conviction: “We love it down here. Just we are so happy that we moved here—like my wife said, if you're considering moving here, do it.”
For the Evans, Citrus Hills isn't just a place to live—it's a lifestyle that has exceeded their expectations and brought them genuine happiness. Their story is a testament to the community's appeal and the fulfilling life it offers to those who make the move.
You can learn more about the Villages of Citrus Hills here:
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