Discover the Top 10 Places to Live in the Tampa Bay Area

If you're considering a move to the Tampa Bay area but aren't sure where to start, you're in good company! Every year, we assist numerous buyers who might be new to the region. The Tampa Bay region is made up of four main counties:

- Hillsborough County: Home to the bustling city of Tampa.

 - Pinellas County: Nestled on the west side of Tampa Bay, it's famed for its stunning gulf beaches. Cities like Clearwater and St. Petersburg can be found here.

 - Pasco County: North of Pinellas and Hillsborough, Pasco has witnessed remarkable growth over the past ten years, especially on its southern side.

- Hernando County: Situated further north of Pasco, it offers a more countryside vibe and tends to be more budget-friendly.

Choosing the right neighborhood depends on your unique needs. Whether you prioritize beach proximity, daily commutes to Tampa, or family-friendly spaces, there's an ideal spot for everyone.

Below, we've rounded up our top 10 favorite areas in Tampa for you to consider:

1. South Tampa: At the heart of Tampa Bay's action. Ideal for those working in Downtown Tampa, it's surrounded by shopping, entertainment, and nightlife. Notable spots include the Amalie Arena and the Straz Center. Home styles range from historic bungalows to upscale estates. However, lot sizes can be on the smaller side, and it's among the pricier locations.

2. Westchase: Offering a suburban vibe close to Tampa, it features two vibrant downtown areas, diverse housing options, and the Westchase golf course. If you prioritize safety, some sections are gated.

3. Safety Harbor: Positioned in Pinellas County, it boasts a charming historic downtown. Famous for its dining, unique boutiques, and the renowned Safety Harbor Resort and Spa. Housing varies from vintage homes to modern single-family residences.

4. Dunedin: A coastal city known for its lively Main Street, parks, marinas, and the Pinellas Trail. Honeymoon Island and Clearwater Beach are both a short drive away, making beach outings convenient. Dunedin offers both historic homes, typical ranch style single family homes, and many 55+ condo communities.

5. St. Petersburg: A city bursting with art, culture, and a beautiful waterfront. The downtown area is vibrant, filled with shops, restaurants, and museums like the Dali Museum. Plus you can enjoy a baseball game with the Tampa Bay Rays. Historic homes and modern high rise condos make up the majority of downtown. However, there is a plethora of housing options surrounding the downtown area as well.

6. Wesley Chapel: Rapidly growing, it's ideal for those looking for newer communities. It offers shopping centers, restaurants, and ample recreational opportunities.Some of the more exciting things to come to Wesley Chapel are the Tampa Premium Outlet Mall, Pop Stroke Golf, and the Krate. Wesley Chapel has many different subdivisions, master-planned communities, new construction and homes on acreage.

7. Odessa: Odessa  is located just north of Tampa. It offers a mix of old and new. On the south side of Odessa you will find established neighborhoods, farms, lakefront estates and homes on acreage. This part of town has a more rural feel while still being just a stones throw from everyday conveniences. The north side of Odessa is filled with newer master planned communities with amenities for all ages.

8. Palm Harbor: With top-rated schools and golf courses, this community is ideal for families and retirees alike. Its close proximity to beaches like Honeymoon Island adds to its charm. Homes in Palm Harbor were built between the 1970s through the 1990s on average.

9. Lutz: Lutz is located in Hillsborough county just north of Tampa. It offers a blend of suburban life and natural beauty, featuring lakes and parks. It is known for its top rated schools. It has a mixture of traditional neighborhoods, newer construction and homes on acreage or lakes.

10. FishHawk Ranch: On the southeast side of Tampa in Lithia, FishHawk ranch is a massive master-planned community. It is known for its tight-knit community vibe, top schools, and excellent amenities. This is a newer community with homes dating back to the late 1990s up to new construction homes.

In conclusion, the Tampa Bay area has a multitude of communities, each with its unique charm. Based on what you desire in a home and neighborhood, you're sure to find your perfect fit here. And we're here to guide you every step of the way!