The 10 Top Cities Near Tampa, FL to Live in 2024

Introduction

So, you’re considering moving to Tampa, FL, but you’re wondering if you want to dive straight into the city’s heart. You may wish for the best of both worlds: proximity to Tampa’s attractions and the charm of a smaller town. Fear not! We’ve scoured the cities around Tampa to bring you the top contenders for your new home. Let’s embark on a journey to find the best places to live near Tampa, Florida, with a side of sarcasm to keep things interesting.

Schedule a pickup with Clutter!

Importance of Considering Nearby Cities for Living

Living in Tampa sounds excellent, but have you considered the traffic, the hustle, and the occasional tourist invasion?

Sometimes, it’s best to look at the areas around this city, where you can enjoy peace while being a stone’s throw away from the action.

Plus, these cities surrounding Tampa often offer more bang for your buck, whether you’re looking for the best beaches near this city or charming, cute towns near Tampa.

Overview of Tampa

Tampa, the jewel of the Gulf Coast, is known for its bustling downtown, eclectic neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural scene.

But let’s not forget the sweltering summer heat and those pesky mosquitoes. Despite these minor annoyances, it boasts impressive attractions like Busch Gardens, the Tampa Riverwalk, and various professional sports teams.

It’s no wonder people are flocking here in droves.

How to Pick a Neighborhood

Selecting the right neighborhood is like choosing the perfect avocado: it takes time, patience, and luck. Consider factors such as commute time, school quality, local amenities, and your budget.

And remember, what works for one person might not work for another. So, let’s dive into the ten best places to live around Tampa, FL, where you might find your perfect fit.

10 Best Tampa Neighborhoods

1. St. Petersburg

• Location: Just across the bay from Tampa.
• Overview: Known for its stunning waterfront parks, vibrant arts scene, and a downtown that refuses to be boring.
• Population: Around 265,000.
• Cost: It’s slightly cheaper than Tampa but still higher for Florida.
• Pros: Gorgeous beaches, artsy vibe, and plenty of dining options.
• Cons: Tourists galore and summer traffic jams.
• Amenities and Attractions: The Salvador Dali Museum, Fort De Soto Park, and endless bars and restaurants.
• Housing Market: Competitive with various condos, historic homes, and modern apartments.
• Schools: Highly rated public and private schools.
• Commute: About 30 minutes to downtown Tampa, assuming you’re not stuck in one of those famous Florida rainstorms.

2. Clearwater

• Location: Northwest of Tampa, hugging the Gulf Coast.
• Overview: Beachy, relaxed, and perpetually sunny.
• Population: Approximately 115,000.
• Cost: Moderately expensive, thanks to its prime location.
• Pros: Pristine beaches and an abundance of water activities.
• Cons: Can you say “Spring Break Central”?
• Amenities and Attractions: Clearwater Beach, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and Pier 60.
• Housing Market: Prices are high, especially for beachfront properties.
• Schools: Generally well-rated schools.
• Commute: About 40 minutes to Tampa unless the bridge decides to back up.

3. Brandon

• Location: Directly east of Tampa.
• Overview: A suburban haven with plenty of shopping and dining options.
• Population: Around 114,000.
• Cost: More affordable than Tampa and other beach towns.
• Pros: Family-friendly and plenty of amenities.
• Cons: Tampa needs more excitement and nightlife.
• Amenities and Attractions: Westfield Brandon Mall and numerous parks and recreation areas.
• Housing Market: Affordable with a mix of single-family homes and apartments.
• Schools: Decent public schools with some standout options.
• Commute: A 20-minute drive to downtown Tampa, barring any accidents on I-75.

4.Riverview

• Location: South of Brandon.
• Overview: A rapidly growing suburb with new developments popping up.
• Population: About 95,000.
• Cost: Reasonable, with new homes being relatively affordable.
• Pros: Modern housing and a family-oriented atmosphere.
• Cons: Construction noise and growing pains.
• Amenities and Attractions: Alafia River State Park and various shopping centers.
• Housing Market: New developments dominate, offering a range of modern amenities.
• Schools: Improving schools, with new ones being built to accommodate growth.
• Commute: Around 30 minutes to Tampa, depending on traffic.

5. Wesley Chapel

• Location: Northeast of Tampa.
• Overview: A blend of suburban living and rural charm.
• Population: Roughly 60,000.
• Cost: Affordable, with plenty of new construction.
• Pros: Excellent shopping and dining, plus a low crime rate.
• Cons: It can feel too quiet for some.
• Amenities and Attractions: The Shops at Wiregrass and Epperson Lagoon.
• Housing Market: Lots of new homes with reasonable prices.
• Schools: Highly rated public schools.
• Commute: About 30-40 minutes to Tampa, but who’s counting?

6. Palm Harbor

• Location: North of Clearwater, along the Gulf Coast.
• Overview: Quiet, quaint, and perfect for those who love the beach without the crowds.
• Population: Around 60,000.
• Cost: Moderate, with higher prices for homes near the water.
• Pros: Beautiful parks and less touristy beaches.
• Cons: Limited nightlife and entertainment.
• Amenities and Attractions: Honeymoon Island State Park and the Pinellas Trail.
• Housing Market: Competitive, especially for waterfront properties.
• Schools: Highly regarded schools.
• Commute: It takes about 45 minutes to get to Tampa, assuming the highway gods are kind.

7. Apollo Beach

• Location: South of Tampa, along its Bay.
• Overview: A hidden gem for waterfront living.
• Population: Approximately 23,000.
• Cost: Varied, with waterfront homes fetching a premium.
• Pros: Boating, fishing, and a laid-back vibe.
• Cons: Limited shopping and dining options.
• Amenities and Attractions: Apollo Beach Nature Preserve and TECO Manatee Viewing Center.
• Housing Market: Expensive for waterfront homes, but other options are affordable.
• Schools: Good schools, but fewer choices compared to larger areas.
• Commute: Around 30 minutes to Tampa if the traffic gods favor you.

8. Dunedin

• Location: Just north of Clearwater.
• Overview: Quirky, artsy, and full of character.
• Population: About 36,000.
• Cost: Living in Dunedin is not just about charm but also affordability, with a range of charming historic homes that won’t break the bank.
• Pros: A walkable downtown and vibrant community events.
• Cons: Limited new housing developments.
• Amenities and Attractions: Downtown Dunedin and Caladesi Island State Park.
• Housing Market: A mix of historic homes and newer builds.
• Schools: Well-rated public schools.
• Commute: About 40 minutes to Tampa if you stay focused on the cute shops.

9. Lutz

• Location: North of Tampa.
• Overview: A blend of suburban and rural, with lots of green space.
• Population: Around 20,000.
• Cost: Lutz is an affordable option, offering plenty of land for potential residents.
• Pros: Quiet and family-friendly.
• Cons: Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
• Amenities and Attractions: Brooker Creek Preserve and various parks.
• Housing Market: Affordable with a mix of older homes and new developments.
• Schools: Highly rated public schools.
• Commute: About 30 minutes to Tampa, give or take a few tractor sightings.

10. Tarpon Springs

• Location: North of Palm Harbor, along the Gulf Coast.
• Overview: Known for its Greek heritage and sponge docks.
• Population: Roughly 25,000.
• Cost: Moderate, with a variety of housing options.
• Pros: Unique culture and charming downtown.
• Cons: Limited modern amenities.
• Amenities and Attractions: The Sponge Docks and Tarpon Springs Aquarium.
• Housing Market: A mix of historic homes and newer builds.
• Schools: Good public schools with a focus on community.
• Commute: About 45 minutes to Tampa, depending on how many sponges you buy.

 

Schedule a pickup with Clutter!

Conclusion

So, there you have it. Whether looking for the best places to live near this city, Florida, or trying to find cute towns near Tampa, there’s something for everyone.

From the artsy vibe of St. Petersburg to the family-friendly suburbs of Brandon, each area offers its unique perks and quirks. 

Remember, choosing the right place to live is all about finding what works best for you and your lifestyle. Happy house hunting.

FAQs for Living Near Tampa

What are the most family-friendly cities near Tampa?

Some family-friendly cities near Tampa include Wesley Chapel, FishHawk Ranch, and Safety Harbor. These cities offer excellent schools, numerous parks, and family-oriented community events.

Which cities near Tampa offer the best access to outdoor activities?

Cities like Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Brandon are known for their easy access to outdoor activities. Residents can enjoy beaches, hiking trails, and various water sports in these areas.

What is the average commute from these cities to downtown Tampa?

The average commute time to downtown Tampa varies by city. Depending on traffic conditions, it takes about 20-30 minutes from Brandon, 30-40 minutes from Wesley Chapel, and 20-30 minutes from Clearwater.

Which cities have the lowest crime rates near Tampa?

Cities such as FishHawk Ranch, Safety Harbor, and Palm Harbor are known for having some of the lowest crime rates in the Tampa area, making them popular choices for safety-conscious residents.

Are there any cities known for their educational institutions?

Yes, cities like Temple Terrace, home to the University of South Florida, and St. Petersburg, with St. Petersburg College, are known for their solid educational institutions. These cities offer a variety of educational opportunities and resources.