the South side has a higher crime rate - downtown is awesome

Parts of the southside are Good. I live in a Stable, Racialy Mixed area in the far south - Pinellas Point. Dwight Gooden used to live a few blocks away in a McMansion he built. The Old Northeast and Old Southeast areas are interesting. Indeed more crime in the south.
Woodlawn is a beautiful subdivision at about 16th ave N and 22nd st N.
The area just noth of Central is interesting Quiet, creative, and connected. Outside of town, Gulfport is nice with retirees Hippies young artisans gay and lesbian and lots of old houses with lower property taxes than SP (loose Code standards too) Lots of Shade and a nice Beach. G-port has a very rich crosssection of Florida/Americans, but some parts of SP are like that too. Gport also has a smaller and more responsive City Government.
One Vital consideration. If you are buying property or have a child or elder in your family. avoid the lowground. many of the streets in downtown Flash Flood in simple thunderstorms, Hurricanes are real and Many fine homes are in primary evacualtion zones. I live Near the water and a friend has beach front poperty. September can be terrifying. Older Homes on higher ground are best. for hurricane safety
The weather is usually great in February, and spring is very nice.
Good Luck with your Move