Key West is a wonderful. If you want a job, you can ALWAYS get one - everyone EVERYwhere is looking for people. In almost every area.

Cost of living is high but, right now, it's a buyer's market. Probably a good idea to rent for a while and get a feeling for the island before you pick your neighborhood. There are some very fun and savvy realtors who can take you allll around the island and give you a personal 'tour' of all your options, plus give you an insider's perspective. I recommend:
Bruce Moore
Broadway Realty
201 Front Street, Suite 209
Key West, FL 33040
305-294-0250
bruce@broadwaykeys.com

Or, Resort Realty. Shawna Allen is a sweetheart there.
Shawna Allen
Resort Realty & Appraisals, Inc.
138 Simonton
Key West, FL 33040
305-296-6501
shawna@keysresortrealty.com

Hope that helps!
Toni