(Mar 20, 2023)
A construction boom in the 1980s resulted in downtown Tampa towers, a grandiose airport makeover, and the construction of a ferry terminal. While the economy was weak in the 1990s and early 2000s, it has gradually gained traction due to business-friendly policies. The region has emerged as a preference for information handling in the financial sector, among other novel economic endeavors.
Living in Tarpon Springs, Florida
Tarpon Springs is a small historic community with an intriguing blend of Greek culture, English culture, and Floridian style. You'll feel as though you've been transported to a beach-side Greek hamlet where the symphony of bouzouki bands and the aroma of mouthwatering meals fill the sidewalk.
The seaside city was formed in the early to late 1800s by Greek divers trying to capture soft sea sponges in the Anclote River waters. Currently, the city has the most prominent Greek population in the U.S., as is evident in its sponge docks, delicious Greek eateries, and events honoring Greek heritage.
Tarpon Springs provides its inhabitants a deep suburban vibe, and most people own their homes. There are many parks, eateries, and coffee shops. The city has a large number of seniors and a conservative-leaning population. The public schools test above average.
Economy
Tarpon Springs has a 4.8% unemployment rate. The nation's average is 6.0%. The city's job market has grown by 2.3% in the last year. Future job growth is expected to hit 41.0% during the next decade, which is greater than the national average of 34%.
There is no income tax, and sales taxes are lower than the national average. In addition, the average salary is slightly more significant than the national average at $28,658 vs. $28,555.
Several significant firms in the area contribute to jobs and stability. MacDill Air Force Base, which employs 12,000 people, is a significant economic driver in the area.
Other top employers in Tarpon Springs include Publix Super Markets, TECO Energy Inc., Times Publishing Co., Tech Data Corp., Lakeland Regional Medical Center, Jabil Circuit Inc., Walmart, and Verizon. Most of these companies have headquarters in the region.
Cost of living
Tarpon Springs has a higher cost of living than the rest of the nation. The average rent for a studio home is $1018, slightly lower than the state average ($1044) but higher than the national average ($949).
A one-bedroom apartment costs $1083 a month, and the median home price is $311,900, compared to $294,900 in the state and $291,700 nationally.
The neighborhood also ranks highly in grocery, health, and other prices. However, transportation and utility costs are lower than state and national averages.
Climate and Weather
Tarpon Springs experiences average high temperatures of 83 °F and average low temperatures of 63 °F. The best months are March, April, and November, while the worst are July and August. Temperatures drop around 50 degrees Fahrenheit in January and surge over 91 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August.
As a result, August and July are the ideal months for swimming. Spring is the driest season, with cool evenings and occasional storms, but it is still a great time to be outside.
Schools
Public schools in Tarpon Springs spend around $9,270 per student. The average education expense in the United States is $12,383. Tarpon Springs has roughly 15 kids per instructor. There are ten public schools and one private school in the area. The public schools test above average.
The best public schools in the area include:
- Tarpon Springs Fundamental Elementary
- East Lake Middle School Academy of Engineering
- Brooker Creek Elementary School
The combined reading and math proficiency test performance for each school determines the overall testing rank.
Compared to the statewide average, public schools here have average math proficiency scores of 66% and reading competency scores of 67%. Overall, they have an aggregate score of 8/10, placing them among the 30% of best schools in the state.
Things to do in Tarpon Springs, Florida
The city has parks, bayous, brick streets, and public art. It has two different downtowns, with the older one comprising antique shops, museums, galleries, and boutiques.
Additionally, the internationally known Sponge Docks, established in the 1800s as a Greek natural sponge fishing spot, attract many visitors.
Here is a look at the top attractions to explore with your family and friends.
The sponge docks
The Sponge Docks, which border the walkable Dodecanese Blvd, has not only survived but also served as a significant draw for the city, which has earned the reputation of being the world's sponge capital.
You can also join expeditions to experience what it feels like to work as a sponge diver. After a fascinating and gorgeous trip, pick yourself a sponge from one of the stores lining Dodecanese Boulevard.
Tarpon Springs Aquarium and Animal Sanctuary
From the Sponge Docks, head north to the Tarpon Springs Aquarium and Animal Sanctuary. It's a family-run center with immersive animal encounters. You can hold alligator babies, get up close to gigantic tortoises and baby sharks, and interact with stingrays.
They provide annual passes, Florida resident special coupons, military discounts, police and fire discounts, teacher discounts, and healthcare worker discounts. Once in a while, you can also volunteer at the center and work with the animals.
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral is located not far from the aquarium and animal sanctuary. It's open most of the time. Enter gently to admire the frescoed ceiling and stained-glass windows.
Every January 6th, there's an Epiphany Celebration, which includes boys from the community diving into the Spring Bayou to look for a giant white cross. Whoever finds it is bestowed with the Magi's gift.
Museums
Art enthusiasts can visit the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, which showcases its namesake's artworks, plus those of other contemporary artists and special exhibits.
There's also the Tarpon Springs Historic Train Depot Museum along East Tarpon Avenue, which will take you through the history of the city's railroad. Then, you can learn more about this city's natural and historical history at the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum in Craig Park.
If you are after something kid-friendly, visit the Replay Amusement Museum, where youngsters can enjoy hours of ancient video games such as Pacman and pinball in a retro arcade setup.
Dream Catcher Explorations
On this expedition, you'll discover the Barrier Islands off the west coast of Florida and the Three Reefs Wildlife Preserve. It also includes tubing, snorkeling, and dolphin watching. Complimentary refreshments are available.
Astro Skate and Fun Center
Astro Skate & Family Fun Center is committed to delivering fun for families within and around the Tampa Bay vicinity. Astro Skate provides roller skating, skate rentals, and inflatable bounce houses.
Investigate Anclote Key
Anclote Key Preserve State Park spans 400 acres and has miles of pristine beaches accessible only by boat. It's been named one of America's best hidden-gem parks. You'll have the opportunity to explore the do-friendly North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar, Anclote Key, and Three Rooker Island.
Make sure to check out the lighthouse at the park's southern edge. The cast-iron square pyramid building resembles a prominent iron figure standing guard to direct sailors in the Gulf. If you have your binoculars, you can catch glimpses of bald eagles, shorebirds, and oystercatchers. You can also go fishing, snorkeling, or enjoy a picnic.
Primitive camping is permitted; light up your grill for a beach barbeque. Spend the night under a starry sky, falling asleep to the soothing sound of waves. Wake up to the sounds of birds and take a walk on the beach to see herons and roseate spoonbills.
Flyboard Surf Club
Flyboard Surf Club is open to anyone between 8 and 80. They treat their customers with care and offer a basic course with skilled flyboard teachers, even for those who cannot swim or fly!
Activities include flyboard, hoverboard, private BYOB boat, and jetski riding, all with dolphin sightings.
Go to Fred Howard Park for the most beautiful sunset
While Fred Howard Park is a bit further from the other attractions, it's worth the drive to watch the stunning sunset over the Mexican Gulf.
It's a gorgeous park with a lovely shoreline and a board-covered nature trail to enjoy under the magnificent sunset. It's only around 3 miles away from Dodecanese Avenue.
Experience live entertainment
The city has a plethora of exciting entertainment owing to its diverse culture. Many restaurants, like Mama's, provide belly dancing and live music throughout the evening.
Check out the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center for local plays and film screenings. The city also hosts "Night in the Islands" every month, where people dine outside while serenaded by Greek music and dance.
Cuisine
The aroma of substantial Greek meals drifts through the atmosphere as you walk down the streets. The main issue here will be picking which authentic restaurant to visit.
Mykonos is a family-friendly spot with plenty of "old country" ambiance, serving customers everything from gyros to seafood and saganaki cheese right at the famous Sponge Docks. You can also get your spanakopita fix at Mama's Greek Cuisine.
For those looking for the best beverage, try Tarpon Springs Distillery. They offer locally crafted moonshine, gin, and ouzo (a typical Greek cocktail). But if you prefer craft beer, check out Silverking Brewing Company.
Real Estate in Tarpon Springs, Florida
The median house value in Tarpon Springs is $311,900. Property appreciation has averaged 7.2% over the last ten years. Some of the city's neighborhoods have home prices above $500k, while others have properties costing as little as $125k.
However, if you are looking for a place to start a family, you have to consider other things apart from property prices, like access to amenities, excellent schools, and security. Based on these factors, here's our breakdown of the top neighborhoods to live in Tarpon Springs, Florida.
Cypress Run
Cypress Run is a posh Tarpon Springs neighborhood with various gorgeous style homes. It's a distinguished neighborhood and a golfer's paradise! Indeed, the community's Country Golf Club is one of its most popular attractions, where patrons enjoy top-notch golf, special gatherings, food, and drinks.
The average price of a property in the community is $740,084. It's densely packed with villas, townhomes, and single-family homes, ranging from 2,000 square feet to 3,000 square feet. Many of the properties were constructed in the 1980s and are situated in a lovely park-like environment overlooking the champions golf course and many oak trees.
The best public schools near Cypress Run are:
- Tarpon Springs Middle School
- Brooker Creek Elementary School
- East Lake High School
It's ideal for families, seniors, or high-level professionals looking for a quiet area with a lot of amenities.
City Center
Tarpon Springs' City Center is also an ideal place to live. This district is emerging as a broad cultural attraction with a diverse range of dining experiences, performing arts, and museums. The median home price in the city is now $452,000, which is higher than the national average.
There are numerous attractions near the city center, including the Anclote Isles Marina, Tarpon Springs Splash Park, Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, and Tarpon Springs Culture Center.
This community offers multiple public schools, such as:
- Tarpon Springs Elementary
- Tarpon Springs Fundamental
- Tarpon Springs High
Residents are only a few minutes walk from Saint Petersburg Community College, which caters to a younger generation.
Spring Bayou
Spring Bayou is a historic Greentown located near Sunset Hills. The 140-acre community comprises thousands of houses and a handful of sponge boats. It's most known for having the most significant share of Americans with Greek ancestry.
Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, Tarpon Springs Greektown Historic District, Bayou Bistro, Tarpon Springs Yacht Club, and Lockhart's Seafood Fish and Stone Crab Market are examples the most inhabited places within the neighborhood. Seafood enthusiasts will be pleased to hear that these places boast some of the best seafront eateries in the world.
Despite the neighborhood's commotion, it has a few schools, including:
- Tarpon Springs High School
- Tarpon Springs Elementary
- Sunset Hills Elementary School
- Tarpon Springs Middle School
In terms of housing, living in Spring Bayou isn't as pricey as you might assume. The median listing price for a property is $395,000. Many of the residences range in size from 1,500 to 3,000 sq ft. This neighborhood's real estate is mainly made up of medium-sized residences with 2 to 4 bedrooms.
It's a family-friendly community with decent air quality, low noise levels, parks, daycare centers, playgrounds, and top-rated schools.
Tarpon Shores
The historic, scenic, and pristine city is close to Clearwater, Tampa, and St. Petersburg. It's packed with local malls, airports, hospitals, parks, and golf courses. It's also just two miles from the internationally famous sponge docks, which have superb restaurants, stores, and entertainment.
Tarpon Shores is the least expensive neighborhood on our list, with a typical home price of about $125,870 and a median rent of $745. It has a population of 907 people. The median housing price per square foot is $110.
Some of the best schools near the community include:
- Plato Academy Charter School Tarpon Springs
- Tarpon Springs Elementary
- Tarpon Springs Middle School
- Tarpon Springs High School
Many amenities within the community are within walking distance, but you can also use your bike to get around town. Several restaurants are nearby, such as Johnny Grits Southern Fresh, Jersey Mike's Subs, and Hellas Greek Restaurant.
Dessert shops include Panera Bread and the Fudge Factory. Try ordering from Taco Bell, Los Mexicanos, or Tacos Cielito Lindo for tacos. Queen's Pizza & Restaurant, Twistee Treat Tarpon Springs, and Rodie's Restaurant & Pancake House are attractive dine-in options.
Wrap-up
Tarpon Springs is Florida's coastal oasis. For many folks, this is their dream community. It provides authentic Greek culture plus an array of other attractions. The weather is beautiful most of the year, and home values are slightly lower than the state and national averages.
If you need help looking for a property in Tarpon Springs, reach out, and we'll be glad to help. We are qualified real estate experts in Florida with tremendous experience helping many people moving here locate residences. Call us today for expert help.
(Mar 20, 2023)
