actually concrete block can be quite efficient if done correctly. by placing the insulation on the exterior, it allows the interior mass to store your heat (or cool) for the house and keep temps a little more consistant. Most of our commercial projects we still build with block and exterior insulation. We typically add 3" of XPS to the exterior over an air barrier coating applied to the block.
In your climate you can get by with a lot less.
You have to decide how you want to finish the interior. You can adhere gyp or you can also plaster it. There are other finishes they can talk to you about.

Thank you! I mentioned XPS to my contractor and he said he wasn't sure if it met hurricane code. We must adhere to Miami-Dade code so I guess I need to do a bit more research on XPS. Thank you for the response... it is VERY much appreciated.

I wouldn't build with anything edible in FL....termites are such an issue and not a fan of the chemicals they use to eliminate them. Mom's house was wood and it was a perpetual headache.

posted on other thread.

I know you said ICF was a stretch, but I would really drill down and see if you can find other places to cut besides your shell. You can only do your shell once, so put your money into that. Cut finishes, cabinets, counters, trim work, bath fixtures, lighting, whatever. Put your money into your shell. It protects you, your family and belongings. It offers energy paybacks. You get a tight, strong home. Granite counters does none of those. Put in good windows with a high DP rating as well.