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Guide to Moving to Tampa Bay: Exploring South Tampa

Moving to Tampa Bay

Alexandra Valencia

April 24, 2024

Are you thinking about a move to the vibrant city of Tampa, Florida? Look no further than the eclectic and charming neighborhood of South Tampa.

Located within the heart of Tampa, this neighborhood is a hidden gem. With its unique blend of culture, history, and modern amenities, South Tampa offers a lifestyle that will appeal to everyone in your family.

Why South Tampa?

South Tampa is in Hillsborough County on the southwest side of Tampa Bay, with easy access to Florida’s main attractions and the downtown area. It boasts a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to a diverse array of interests. South Tampa offers a lifestyle that will appeal to people of all ages, including individuals, families, and retirees.

South Tampa offers a unique blend of urban sophistication, community living, and a rich cultural scene set against a picturesque waterfront backdrop. Its proximity to downtown Tampa and some of the best schools in the area make it an ideal choice as a place to move for job opportunities and raising a family.

With parks, recreational facilities, and a thriving arts scene, this dynamic community offers a perfect balance between relaxation and excitement. Whether you’re a foodie looking to indulge in some culinary delights, a nature enthusiast seeking outdoor adventures, or a history buff eager to explore the past, South Tampa has something for everyone.

South Tampa has a reputation for offering its residents a great quality of life. If you’re looking to live in an area with warm weather year-round, a sense of community, convenient access to a wide range of amenities and activities, and a low crime rate, South Tampa may be the perfect place for you to call home.

A Vibrant Culinary Scene

One of the most enticing aspects of South Tampa is its culinary scene. From cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, there’s no shortage of delicious options to satisfy your palate. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, international cuisine, or classic comfort food, you’ll find it all within reach in South Tampa.

Ranging from trendy to kid-friendly and everything in between, South Tampa has some of the best restaurants in the Tampa Bay area and is home to quite a few renowned Michelin chefs.

Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty

Nature enthusiasts will feel right at home in South Tampa, thanks to its many parks, trails, and waterfront vistas.

You can spend a leisurely afternoon strolling along Bayshore Boulevard, the world’s longest continuous pedestrian walkway (4.5 miles), and soak in breathtaking bay views while walking, running, or cycling. For those seeking more adventurous options, nearby attractions such as Picnic Island Park, Ballast Point Park, and Lettuce Lake Park offer ample opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and hiking.

One of the best things about living in South Tampa is that some of the best beaches in Florida are only a short drive away, such as Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. You can enjoy outdoor activities and the beach year-round in the “Sunshine City” of Tampa, Florida.

Historic Charm and Cultural Attractions

History buffs will appreciate South Tampa’s rich heritage, which you can take in through its historic landmarks and cultural attractions. Take a step back in time with a visit to the Tampa Bay History Center, where exhibits chronicle the region’s storied past.

Explore the historic streets of Hyde Park Village, where charming boutiques, art galleries, and cafes beckon visitors to wander and explore.

Family-Friendly Communities

For families considering a move to South Tampa, you should know that the neighborhood offers an array of family-friendly amenities and activities. Top-rated schools, community parks, and family-oriented events create a welcoming environment for residents of all ages.

The schools in South Tampa are some of the best in the state of Florida, so parents can rest assured that their kids will get an excellent education, whether they attend public schools or private schools in the area.

South Tampa also has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live. In its close-knit communities, residents know each other and always look out for each other. With its safe streets and tight-knit community vibe, South Tampa provides an ideal setting to raise a family and create lasting memories.

There are many family-friendly neighborhoods in South Tampa. One such neighborhood is Palma Ceia, which is a popular choice for its excellent schools, parks, and playgrounds.

The Job Market

The job market in Tampa has seen growth in various sectors in recent years. Tampa’s economy is driven by industries like healthcare, finance, technology, tourism, and education. There are plenty of local job opportunities in South Tampa for business professionals, healthcare providers, teachers, law enforcement, and so on.

Some of the major employers in the Tampa Bay region include Tampa General Hospital, BayCare Health System, Moffitt Cancer Center, Raymond James, and the University of South Florida. South Tampa is also home to the MacDill Air Force Base.

The healthcare sector in particular is robust in Tampa, with several hospitals, medical centers, and research institutions contributing to job opportunities. The finance industry also thrives in the city, with many banks, investment firms, and insurance companies headquartered or having large operations in the area.

Tampa’s technology sector has been growing steadily, fueled by initiatives to attract tech companies and startups to the region. The city has seen a rise in the number of tech incubators, co-working spaces, and innovation hubs, providing opportunities for professionals in fields such as software development, cybersecurity, and information technology.

Tourism plays a significant role in Tampa’s economy. Attractions such as Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, the Tampa Museum of Art, and the Lowry Park Zoo draw millions of visitors annually. This sector provides employment opportunities in hospitality, entertainment, and leisure services.

With quick and easy access to downtown Tampa, South Tampa is a great location for those in the healthcare, financial, and hospitality sectors.

Cost of Living

When it comes to the cost of living, Tampa is relatively affordable compared with other major cities in Florida and across the United States. Housing costs in particular tend to be more reasonable than those in cities like Miami or Orlando.

While housing costs can vary depending on factors such as location, size, and amenities, the median home price in Tampa is lower than the national average.

South Tampa can be one of the more affordable places to live in the Tampa Bay area, especially as it offers a variety of housing options available for all budgets—including single-family homes and apartments all the way up to luxury condominiums and waterfront properties.

Utilities and transportation costs in Tampa are also reasonable compared with other metropolitan areas, although they can vary depending on individual usage and lifestyle choices.

Healthcare costs in Tampa are in line with national averages, with access to quality medical care provided by many hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities throughout the city.

While the cost of living in Tampa may be influenced by factors such as housing prices and lifestyle choices, it is generally considered to be affordable. Residents enjoy a high quality of life at a reasonable cost.

Finding Your Dream Home

As you start your journey to South Tampa, you’ll discover many housing options to suit your lifestyle and budget. From historic bungalows and waterfront estates to modern condominiums and luxury apartments, there’s something for every taste and preference.

South Tampa provides a mix of neighborhoods with different personalities. Some of the most popular ones include Hyde Park, Davis Island, and Bayshore Beautiful.

Hyde Park is a historic neighborhood boasting beautiful bungalow homes, upscale boutiques, and delectable dining options. Davis Island is an island community with waterfront living and yacht clubs. Bayshore Beautiful has waterfront mansions and winding roads and is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city of Tampa. 

South Tampa offers real estate that appeals to all budgets and aesthetics. There are newer gated communities and older, established neighborhoods, both of which offer an array of home designs and styles. Overall, if you are looking to buy a home in a neighborhood with character and charm and a friendly community feel, you will find it in South Tampa.

Start Planning Your Move to South Tampa

Moving to South Tampa offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the best that Tampa Bay has to offer. With its vibrant culture, diverse amenities, and welcoming community, South Tampa provides the perfect place to settle down and enjoy a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle.

So why wait? Start planning your move to South Tampa today and prepare to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

With the help of an experienced real estate professional who knows the ins and outs of the local market, finding your dream home in South Tampa is easier than you may think. Contact Alexandra Valencia for a free consultation today.

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