Moving to Tampa Florida is a significant move, but one you will not regret taking. It’s a great place to live because of the climate, culture, and other aspects.
Listed below are 10 things to consider before making Tampa Florida your new home. Discover what they are!
10 Things To Know Before Moving To Tampa, Florida
1. A Beach House
It might be crazy as it sounds, but almost everyone has a beach house in Tampa. In less than an hour, you can enjoy the sand, sun, and crystal-clear beaches in Tampa. Nearly 4 million people live in the Tampa Bay Metro region, encompassing four counties: Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, and Hernando.
Here’s a quick primer to help you get oriented:
- Hillsborough County
Home to Tampa and Tampa International Airport (TIA). Hillsborough is home to Alafia River State Park and the famous Hillsborough River state parks. We can also find C. W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir and Lithia Springs in Tampa. They are considered two of the largest natural springs in Florida.
- Pinellas County
Here, we can find that beautiful Tampa Bay beaches along with St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and another 22 small cities. Tampa had it all, from beachfront palaces on Clearwater Beach to modest but solid concrete block homes in Greenbriar.
These locations are in high demand by both families and retirees.
- Pasco County
Are you looking for a budget-friendly property? No worries! Pasco County has it for you. Residents of all ages are heading for the lower prices in Pasco. Sprawling subdivisions just north of Tampa in Wesley Chapel and Land O’ Lakes are attracting younger families, while New Port Richey and Dade City appeal to retirees.
- Hernando County
Hernando County is also known as Florida’s Adventure Coast. Its geographic center is an ideal location to start or expand a business. The freshwater rivers, springs, forests, and preserves Gulf waters provide opportunities for many land and water adventures for residents and tourists.
2. Younger Residents Living In Tampa
Tampa has younger residents compared to Naples. New high-rises, condos, shops, and restaurants are breathing new life into the downtown area in Tampa. That means young adults, mainly 25 to 34-year-olds, are opting to live in the bustling city.
Millennials seek communities with attractive beaches, including warm weather, parks, nightlife, lots of activities and events. They want thriving breweries and a vibrant music scene. Affordability is another crucial benefit tipping the scales towards Tampa.
Local leaders are joining forces to improve and revitalize the urban core. It attracts a younger population to live and work there. In return, the growing population of younger professionals helps produce the energy now coursing through the hearts of the Tampa Bay Area’s largest cities.
Since Tampa has more younger residents, so it also has a plentiful supply of prospective dates. It has a friendly environment where you can quickly start a conversation and build common ground over a few drinks and maybe a late-night dinner.
If you’re in the mood for fun, Tampa’s downtown scene doesn’t disappoint. I highly recommended checking out the following bars, breweries, and pubs. So, if you want to start a relationship with a white-collar professional, you should consider moving to Tampa.
3. Nightlife
Tampa Bay’s warm summer and hot days make a perfect combination for a pretty enjoyable and lively nightlife. Who could have thought that Tampa comes to life after the sun goes down, offering great hangouts for all season.
Not in a mood for a lively crazy night? No worries! The city also caters for a slower pace with relaxing boat rides and low-key wine and cocktail bars.
You can start planning your nightlife with our list of the best nightlife in Tampa.
Club Prana is the go-to place for locals and visitors whenever their night requires a bit of shaking up. They have an incredible 5 separate levels – each with a different theme. The 5 venues within this leading nightclub are The Lounge, where you can get down on the hardwood dancefloor or rest on velvet couches; The Mezzanine, where you need to be a VIP for you to have access and they have an exclusive bottle service; The Sanctuary, which is pretty much ‘VVIP’; The Night Club, and The Sky Bar on the rooftop with its 2 bartending stations.
Wanted to be on a custom outfit? Then Gaspar’s grotto is the place for you. It’s known for its Pirate-themed parties with live music and DJs. Situated in the historic Ybor City District, the popular venue combines savory Cuban dishes with 3 spacious bar areas. There’s nonstop entertainment, and you’ll always find fun-filled events that create a festive atmosphere.
Home of the World-renowned musicians such as Lady Gaga, Foo Fighters, Twenty-One Pilots. Yep! If you want to meet celebrities while partying, the Ritz Ybor is the place of destination! When the facility underwent a massive renovation, they included 3 luxuriant rooms, full-service bars, and a great lighting system.
There’s no seating inside the bar, so prepare to party all night!
4. Neighborhoods When Moving To Tampa
Once you’ve decided that you’re moving to this fabulous city, the next step will be looking for the best neighborhoods in Tampa and choosing which one is right for you. With places downtown, along the bay, and on the outskirts of the city, you’re sure to find a good fit.
Check out the best neighborhoods in Tampa:
- Hyde Park
First on our list is Hyde Park! It’s one of the most excellent locations in Tampa. Hyde Park is the area’s most prestigious and historic neighborhood, with nearby access to fine dining, shopping, and nightlife right outside your front door.
Hyde Park has gorgeous parks with trees, benches, and plenty of room to walk around with your dogs.
- Ybor City
This is Tampa’s “Latin Quarter,” with its incredible neighborhood where the culture, history, diversity, and beauty keep it alive. Its community is also famous for its historical Cuban cigar factories. Ybor is host to numerous festivals, parades, and events; it’s known for its nightlife; full of nightclubs for every type of club-goer and music fan
- Davis Island
Next on our list is the famous Davis Islands neighborhood – one of the most desirable in all of Tampa. Living in Davis Islands allows residents a solid suburban feel. It has a friendly environment where kids can ride their bikes and walk safely.
Driving across the Davis Islands bridge and watching the sunlight sparkle on the water makes it clear that this community is a jewel.
- Channel District
Calling all Young Professionals! say hello to one of the top destinations in Tampa. Channel District is one of the most suitable places to live in Florida if you are still in your bachelor years!
Leasing is the most common among residents, and because of that, this neighborhood is famous for young professionals looking to get their feet planted in the city.
This neighborhood is ideal for the social butterfly, the coffee shop fiend, and the outdoor lover. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks to enjoy here.
5. Food
The food in Tampa will make anyone who’s a foodie at heart fall in love immediately. Tampa is bursting with culinary diversity from traditional fare, food trucks, creative farm-to-table cuisine, international gastropubs, and the freshest seafood you’ll ever have.
Check Out the list of the best restaurants in Tampa Florida
Are you in for authentic Chinese food in Tampa, Florida? Why not! One of the best Chinese Restaurants in Tampa. The quality and flavorful dishes have set them apart from every other Chinese restaurant in the Tampa Bay area. They have set the bar high where others have been loathing to tread.
They were featured in different outlets like Tampa Bay Times, Tampa magazines, and CL Creative Loafing. Make sure you make a reservation because this place is trendy, so make a reservation to secure your table.
The best and one of the iconic steak houses in town! Some made a reservation 2 months in advance because it’s always jam-packed! Their menu gives you numerous options for the steak, such as the weight and thickness.
They also recommend what temperature you should have the steak cooked for each option. Don’t forget to order their best seller T-Bone steak and Delmonico that will surely want you to call more.
Suppose you’re not into the whole fine dining restaurant, don’t worry! Ella’s Americana Folk Art Café is for you. The food here is highly recommended, especially on Soul Food Sundays.
Okay, so it’s just their rendition of brunch, but a great version of fried chicken and waffles served with bourbon honey, southern cornmeal fried catfish, and biscuits with smoked sausage gravy top the list of fantastic dishes.
6. Cost Of Living In Tampa, Florida
Tampa is the third-largest city in Florida and home to a unique cultural scene and active nightlife. There’s no lack of things to do in this famous city with beautiful beaches, numerous museums, and various restaurants and bars.
The cost of living in Tampa, Florida, is on par with the average cost of living in other cities around the United States.
Apartment rental prices vary everywhere in Tampa. Some factors need to be considered that will affect how much you’ll pay for rent.
If you desire to stay next to or near the water, it demands a costly rent. Although you can find reasonably priced apartments for rent near the bay, the least expensive rates will be on the north or east side of the city, away from the water.
Food and meals in Tampa are cheaper. The food scene is good, with a compilation of all the food choices one would expect, from trendy eateries to high-end dining to small family restaurants.
The prices are reasonable, with inexpensive restaurants costing around $12 per meal, and you can always count on the chain fast food restaurants for a good, cheap dinner.
Public transportation is an issue – it takes a while to go from one place to another if you don’t own a car. The bus fares are 2$ for local routes and 3$ for commuter express lines.
Tampa also has the TECO Line Streetcar, which is helpful for tourists. The line runs by many local shops, restaurants, and attractions, and a one-way fare is 2.50$ while a one-day, unlimited ride pass is 5$.
7. Outdoor Activities
It’s time to dive into the various outside activities that the Tampa area can offer.
From horseback riding to nature preserves, ziplining, and water sports, here is the list of outdoor activities that you might want to try.
Get your adrenaline pumping on a multi-hour adventure zipping above water and the treetops. This zip line adventure park brags five zip lines, the longest of which is 650 feet, a 200-foot suspension bridge over water, plus fun challenges along the way like rope bridges and log swings.
Located 30 minutes from downtown Tampa, Canoe Outpost – Little Manatee River allows multiple kayaking adventures at different difficulty levels. Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned kayaker, or a pro, I’m sure you’ll enjoy paddling out and back or embarking on a long journey with a return trip by shuttle bus.
Engage yourself in a slice of Old Florida on a peaceful horseback trail ride right outside of downtown Tampa. They offer Western riding lessons for all levels and ages of riding. Don’t worry! A certified guide guides all trails.
How about a swim with manatees? Did you know that Crystal River and Homosassa are the only areas in North America where you can legally swim with and passively observe manatees in their natural habitat? It is a fantastic experience to keep the manatees in their natural habitat while snorkeling along. Indeed! It’s a one-time experience.
8. Education
Are you moving to Tampa to attend college? The Tampa Bay Area is home to several highly-rated public and private universities. About 22 colleges in the area, including 14 private colleges and universities, four public colleges and universities, and four community colleges, offer 2-year degrees.
Check out the best universities in Tampa, Florida.
A Superior Research University located in the heart of Tampa Bay. It is the fourth-largest public university in Florida.
The school educates more than 50,000 students each year in top fields like business management, marine science, and nursing and has excellent athletic programs for football, track and field, and basketball.
The University of Tampa is a private university in Tampa, Florida. It is classified among the best of the best by U.S. News & World Report. This private university offers Division II athletics, an ROTC program, and a wide range of degree programs in biology, finance, international business, sports management, and more.
Southeastern University is a Christ-centered university of higher learning. Who is dedicated to providing a Christian college education intended to equip the next generation to go into the world as influential servant leaders in their professions and their societies.
Southeastern University is more than earning a degree. You are encouraged to join the vibrant campus culture and experience authentic relationships, powerful worship services, exciting athletics, and more
9. Bike Friendly City
Are you aware that Tampa City is awarded as a Bicycle Friendly Community? It is a great time to take Tampa Bay on two wheels with blue skies and beautiful weather; I’m sure biking will be fun and exciting.
It is an easy way to motivate yourself to exercise, even more so if there is excellent scenery and attractions to look forward to along the route.
Any cyclist visiting the Tampa Bay region will want to check out the following paths. From waterfront scenery to relaxing views of native greenery to easy detours to some of Florida’s best beaches, here are a few attractive options to consider.
This former rail trail is the most famous bike trail in the Bay area and has even won many awards over the years. It has been spotlighted by the Rails to Trails conservatory and manages to be on top of various “best of” lists.
The trail runs a 50-mile course from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg, connecting numerous sights of engagement, including beaches, parks, and historic Main Streets. A perfect distance for a leisurely weekend ride. From here, you can explore beautiful downtown Dunedin, enjoy a short detour to Honeymoon Island
- Bayshore Blvd
Bayshore holds the world’s longest sidewalk. This lovely waterfront path highlights astonishing views of the Tampa skyline. The trail is well-maintained with attractive landscaping, including lush tropical palms. If biking isn’t entirely a workout, you can take your fitness up a notch via the series of fitness stations that line the course. It is an easy convenience to downtown, with many great eateries and attractions.
Starkey Wilderness Park is one of the highly recommended trails of Tampa Bay. This is a superb place for any exercise. Cyclists will be satisfied with the 6.5-mile paved trail, surrounded by beautiful greenery on both sides.
The course is flat and fast, and so an excellent choice for an easy, laid-back weekend ride. For those looking to extend your ride, the trail connects to the 42 miles long Suncoast trail.
10. Tampa’s Festival Season
We are ending the list with the all-year festival in Tampa, Florida.
One of the perks of the constant mild weather of a great city is never-ending festivals that come with a ton of unforgettable remembrance.
Check out some great festivals that Tampa, Florida, can offer:
One of the most significant festivals in Florida for the whole family. It’s an annual event that highlights an “invasion” of the city by the pirate ship “Jose Gasparilla” and its motley “krewe” of pirates. The waters of Tampa Bay and the Hillsborough River turn into a floating fleet of pirates and citizens having a grand old time. The festival always takes place in late January or early February.
Tampa’s Sunset Music Festival launched in 2012, and this event happens every Memorial Day Weekend. Sunset Music Festival has witnessed explosive growth to firmly position itself as one of the largest electronic music festivals in the United States.
The crowd was amazing and crazy. You will be blown away with the sound, design, and even with stages with different setups, and there was a lot of variety in the lineup as far as electronic music goes.
Though it was an outdoor event and expected to be very hot, the organizers provided relief from the heat, such as free water stations and giant fans that blow mist everywhere.
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