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The City Neighborhoods of Tampa

Tampa is one of Florida's largest cities, spanning around 440 square kilometers on an inlet that reaches deep towards the west coast of the state. It is bounded to the south by Tampa Bay coasts and to the west by Old Tampa Bay shores, and it includes modern and historic old quarters such as Tampa Palms, Sulphur Springs, Ybor City, and Forest Hills.

Here is a look at some of the best neighborhoods and suburbs if you are looking for a place to live in the city.


What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Tampa?

There are numerous neighborhoods in the city, most of which used to be small towns that were annexed by the expanding metropolis. It is divided into five regions: New Tampa, North Tampa, West Tampa, Downtown Tampa, East Tampa, and South Tampa. Most of the city's neighborhoods are full of character and hidden treasure, from historic homes and museums to golf courses, entertainment centers, shopping villages, and waterfront eateries.

Some of the top neighborhoods include:


Ybor City

This is a Latin city founded in the 1880s. It was formerly known as the world's cigar capital. Today, it is a relaxing spot for daytime lunches, cigar-smoking, coffee sipping, and shopping, as well as a high-spirited hangout for black fedora-wearing revelers when the sunsets.

This city is located northeast of Tampa's downtown region and attracts many college-aged residents. Because the majority of the homes in this neighborhood are designated as historic, any renovation work should be done with caution. The median house price is $178,822, and the average rent is $1,363.


Channelside District

The Channel District is a high-rise-filled microcosm of Tampa teaming with shops, restaurants, and residents. You'll find a mix of high-rise condos, lofts converted into shops, and quaint boutiques here. There is everything you need right here. Splitsville offers bowling, food, and drinks courtesy of award-winning chef James Beard.

The Florida Aquarium offers interactive-touch exhibitions plus a lot of flora and fauna for an afternoon out with your family. There's also the Sparkman Wharf, an outdoor dining hall right on the waterfront. The median home value here is $380,734, and the average rent is $1,996.


Forest Hills

If you are searching for a gorgeous neighborhood with large lots, plenty of green space, and a golf course, this is the place to be! This is a really peaceful location in the heart of Tampa without the high prices of Carrollwood. Living here provides residents with a feel of the suburbs, and most people own their homes.

There are two golf courses in town, one named after Babe Zaharias and one owned by the city. There are parks, restaurants, coffee shops, beaches nearby, and the University of South Florida. The neighborhood also attracts a lot of young professionals who tend to be liberal. It also boasts good public schools and an above-average education system.


Hyde Park

Located in a pedestrian-friendly section of Tampa, this historic neighborhood dates back to the late 19th century and is characterized by tree-lined streets, bungalows, and brick-paved sidewalks. The University of Tampa is nearby and SoHo, where you can find art galleries, boutiques, dessert cafes, and a Starbucks.

It also includes the Bayshore Boulevard to the east, which offers sweeping views of the bay and the city skyline along its gently curving path. Additionally, it is the longest sidewalk in the world. The neighborhood schools consistently receive high ratings, crime is low, and the median household income is $161,154.


Seminole Heights

This is another historic district in central Tampa. It is home to many early-twentieth-century bungalow residences and historic structures. It was one of Tampa's first residential areas served by streetcars.

The area experienced an economic depression in the late twentieth century, accompanied by rising crime but has subsequently seen a recovery fueled by new restaurants, brewpubs, and small businesses.

The neighborhood's historic residences, unique boutiques, and gourmet eateries are attracting an increasing number of visitors, particularly young professionals. The median house value is $240,033, and the average rent is $1,500.


Palm trees and the exterior of the Convention Center at night in Tampa Florida


What About the Best Tampa Suburbs?

If you are a retiree or a young family seeking peace and quiet while still having a reasonable commute in Tampa, here are some of the best suburbs to consider.


Riverview

Riverview is a peaceful and diversified community with diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment. It's also family-friendly, ideal for individuals wishing to settle down and have a family. This location is around 40 minutes from the city center. The median property value is $228,855, with an average rent of $1,591.


Carrollwood

Carrollwood is a prominent residential enclave northwest of downtown Tampa, with a typical house value of $255,951 and an average rent of $1,615. It is a clean, safe, and attractive neighborhood with decent shops and proximity to Tampa Citrus Park and the Tampa Palms. It has a diverse group of residents, which is reflected in its cuisine enterprises as well.


Westchase

Westchase is another tranquil Tampa suburb, with residences encircling a golf field. It offers a wide range of housing alternatives, ranging from condominiums to single-family homes and villas, all at varying price points. There is also a horse racetrack and a shopping village.


Wrap up

Tampa neighborhoods are known to be friendly and welcoming no matter your ethnicity. If you are planning to move to Tampa, these are some of the places to look. Have fun searching!

Interested in what's required for moving to Florida? Read here.

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