Looking to make a life change? Whether you’re sick of your job or need to escape drab weather, maybe it’s time you move to a new home in a new city.
Recently, many Americans have uprooted their lives and headed for new destinations. Tampa is one of them!
Living in Tampa comes with many benefits. From the amazing beaches and warm, sunny weather to the nightlife and food culture, there is much to experience here.
Read on to learn more about all the fantastic things to do in Tampa!
Why Is Tampa So Popular?
Why has Tampa become one of the most popular cities in America for people to move to?
For one, Tampa has a lower cost of living than other big cities (though it’s on par with the national average). Yet, because Florida doesn’t have a state income tax, residents keep more earnings than in other states. Moreover, the unemployment rate is lower in Tampa than in most other regions, making it attractive for young professionals.
However, affordability isn’t the only draw. Tampa also has excellent health care; Tampa General Hospital ranks as one of the best hospitals in the country!
Plus, anywhere you read about Tampa, it’s easy to see how fun the city is.
But is Tampa as fun as Miami or Orlando?
You bet it is! This is one reason why it’s so popular. There are plenty of activities to suit a wide variety of hobbies. Anything you’d find in other Florida cities; you’ll find in Tampa.
Traveling to and from Tampa is also a breeze, with Tampa International Airport conveniently located just west of the city.
What Is it Like to Live in Tampa, Florida?
Living in the Tampa Bay area comes with that laid-back beach lifestyle many only dream of and the amenities of a large metropolitan area. The things you would want to do in a big city like Chicago, Los Angeles, or New York City are also available in Tampa! The only difference is that Tampa feels like a vacation destination year-round.
If you’re looking to move to Tampa, some of the best neighborhoods to consider include:
- Downtown Tampa
- Hyde Park
- Seminole Heights
- South Tampa
While these Tampa neighborhoods have much to offer, you can also live outside the city limits in places like Carrollwood or Westchase. Tampa suburbs provide many of the same amenities as the city at a lower cost.
Now really is the time to invest in Tampa real estate. Especially so since the chief economist for the organization Florida Realtors says the Florida housing market will continue growing steadily through 2024.
What to Do in Tampa
When you live in the city of Tampa, you’ll never run out of things to do. See some of the many options below for how to fill your time.
Outdoor Fun in Tampa
Tampa is one of the best metro areas for those who love outdoor activities. Some activities you can do include:
- Bird watching
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Swimming
The area has many parks, such as the Hillsborough River State Park and Lettuce Lake Park. Fort DeSoto Park in St. Petersburg has a dog beach and dog park, fishing piers, kayak rentals, and more! Or take the ferry to the pristine enclave of Caladesi Island State Park in Dunedin.
If you’re looking for a thrill, visit one of several theme parks, like Busch Gardens or Adventure Island. And when you need a relaxing day, stroll down the Tampa Riverwalk or hop on the streetcar anywhere in the downtown area.
Of course, you can also explore the beautiful beaches along the Gulf in other parts of the area, like Clearwater, St. Pete Beach, and Treasure Island.
Historic Ybor Village
Cuban, Italian, and Spanish immigrants founded Ybor City in the 1880s. It used to be an industrial area mainly focused on cigar manufacturing, but today, it’s a popular entertainment area of the city.
You can find many shopping options in the district. With some of the best restaurants in the city, Ybor City is popular with foodies, too.
Tampa Arts and Culture
Tampa has some excellent museums to visit, like the Tampa Bay History Center and the Glazer Children’s Museum.
The arts are vibrant in Tampa, too. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts downtown has ballets, Broadway shows, and operas. The Tampa Museum of Art is another excellent place to visit.
Tampa Bay Sports
Tampa is an excellent place for sports lovers. Tampa residents can enjoy a variety of national teams, such as:
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL)
- Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL)
- Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
- Tampa Tarpons (MiLB)
The New York Yankees (MLB) also have their spring training in Tampa.
You can enjoy college sports at the University of Tampa (Go Spartans!) or the University of South Florida (Go Bulls!).
Tampa Festivals
If you’re still wondering, “Is Tampa fun to go out?” we point to the festivals to further convince you. Tampa has a year-round schedule of fun festivals, including:
- Florida State Fair
- Gasparilla Pirate Fest
- Riverfest
- Tampa Bay Margarita Festival
Family-Friendly Fun
Tampa is great for those of all ages. While there are many kid-friendly activities, there are also many things for seniors to do. This is why Tampa is the best place to retire in Florida.
A popular spot for families is the ZooTampa at Lowry Park, which has over 1,000 animals in its care! From alligators and elephants to monkeys of all kinds, you’ll never tire of visiting. Similarly, visit the Florida Aquarium for your fill of aquatic wonder.
If you’re looking for an out-of-this-world thrill, you can even spot the International Space Station from Tampa, too!
Living in Tampa: Find Your Next Home with Kimmie Fine
So, are you convinced? Is Tampa a fun place to live?
Absolutely, yes!
If you want living in Tampa to be your dream, come true, search my listings. I have 20 years of experience in real estate sales. Born and raised in Tampa, I have valuable knowledge of the real estate in Tampa Bay. I am the best person to help you find the perfect home and settle into your new life in Tampa!
So, give me a call, and let’s get started on finding you a home in one of the most fun cities in America.