Tampa has over 387K residents but continues to grow at a breakneck speed, attracting young professionals, couples, families, and seniors with its employment possibilities, a strong sense of community, world-class amenities, events, and activities, and cozy living conditions. The city is also a great place to plant roots if you’re looking for safety, diversity, and proximity to other Florida cities.
For that and more, Tampa has been named the sixth-best place to live and retire in the United States in 2022-2023 and the fifth-best place to live in Florida in 2022-2023, according to the U.S. News & World Report. But before you begin the process of purchasing Tampa real estate, you should get to know your new city and find the perfect place to call home.
Tampa is home to various neighborhoods, each with its unique character. But if living in the middle of the action is not for you, the best suburbs of Tampa offer a mix of affordability, convenience, and amenities. However, some suburbs stand out from the rest. To help you narrow down your choices, let’s look at the 15 best suburbs of Tampa.
The 15 Best Tampa Suburbs
Although there are many desirable suburbs in ‘The Big Guava’, these are our top choices for those who dream a move to Tampa:
Brandon
Population: 115,909
Median Income: $64,401
Median Home Price: $387K
This family-friendly unincorporated Florida community is one of the best suburbs of Tampa. Located in Hillsborough County, Brandon is a sunny, youthful, fast-growing residential district east of Tampa’s downtown. It provides relocators with high quality of life in charming, reasonably-priced suburban homes in mature, low-crime neighborhoods.
The Brandon real estate market is currently favorable for sellers. Still, with a median home price sitting below the state’s average, the area has become increasingly popular among homebuyers in the Tampa Bay Area and other Florida locations.
Brandon is a typical Florida suburb of single-family detached homes, offering homebuyers anything from a convenient three-bedroom starter bungalow to a spacious two-story Mediterranean-style residence with five or more bedrooms and desirable family-focused features.
There are also condos for sale and townhouses in Brandon, some units listed for under $200K. This community is located just outside of Tampa and offers a wide range of new construction options for those wanting a newly built or custom-built property.
For families moving to Brandon, 11 public school districts and 41 private schools are available with Florida’s open enrollment. Brandon offers a serene and family-oriented environment with all big city amenities and reasonable living costs. The area is spoiled with choices regarding shopping, dining, entertainment options, parks and plentiful recreational opportunities.
Bloomingdale
Population: 23,000
Median Income: $87,000
Median Home Price: $290K
Amenities in this suburb near the Alafia River include Lithia Springs Park, the Shoppes of Lithia, Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, and several golf courses nearby. The Alafia River offers kayaking and canoeing.
Bloomingdale has some of the best public schools in all of Florida. They include Alafia Elementary School and Burns Middle School, which both received school rankings of an A from the Florida Department of Education. There are also several private school options available within driving distance.
Bloomingdale is an excellent suburb for families, retirees, and professionals. It’s also ideal for those who love historic homes and neighborhoods, as this area has many beautiful historic homes.
Valrico
Population: 40,259
Median Income: $84,986
Median Home Price: $453K
Valrico is a thriving, growing community located 16 miles east of Tampa’s downtown. Originally founded as an agricultural settlement, Valrico has evolved into a sought-after Tampa suburb with a pleasant rural vibe, sizable properties for sale, a strong sense of community, and abundant local amenities. Valrico also offers above-average public schools under the supervision of Hillsborough County Public Schools.
As has happened in Tampa and most of Florida, the real estate in Valrico has been in high demand, but the inventory remains low, which has caused prices to climb steadily for the past few years.
The median sale price for a home for sale in Valrico, FL, is about $453K. Many homebuyers in the Tampa area are attracted to Valrico because of the favorable appreciation rates of its large, suburban single-detached homes.
Valrico is home to many sprawling houses with three to four bedrooms, luxurious features like pools and two-car garages, carefully groomed lawns, and several acres or at least big fenced-in backyards. Finding Bungalows, ranch-style dwellings, split-levels, and custom builds is frequent. The city also boasts mobile homes for sale, townhouse communities, and low-rise condos.
Valrico is convenient to all of the amenities, beaches, and recreation of the Tampa Bay area. Still, it also provides fun activities for families and retirees not interested in frequent commuting.
Keystone
Population: 24,039
Median Income: $84,491
Median Home Price: $350K
Nestled in northwest Tampa is Keystone, a beautiful suburb that offers its residents an ideal mix of rural charm and urban convenience. This affluent suburb, boasting tree-lined streets and generous lots for single-family homes, is becoming a sought-after destination.
For those considering moving to Keystone, there are excellent public schools in the area. The Hillsborough County Public School District, providing educational services to Keystone students from kindergarten to high school, is renowned for its excellent performance in Florida.
Residents can take advantage of several parks within close proximity, like Keystone Park and Lake Rogers Conservation Park, with hiking trails or fishing activities along the local bodies of water Lake Rogers or Lake Raleigh.
A diverse range of dining options can be found here, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments offering international cuisine. The suburb also provides golf courses such as The Eagles Golf Club and Fox Hollow Golf Club and Restaurant.
Oldsmar
Population: 14,842
Median Income: $67,389
Median Home Price: $397K
Nestled along the northern shores of Tampa Bay and a few minutes southeast of Lake Tarpon is the small community of Oldsmar, a top place to live in Pinellas County and one of the best suburbs of Tampa.
Oldsmar has a fascinating past, lovely historic bungalows and waterfront real estate for sale, eclectic shops and restaurants, and abundant water-based recreational opportunities. Its low crime rates, quiet atmosphere, and various amenities make this city an excellent fit for both families and retirees in the Tampa Bay Area.
Oldsmar real estate is a strong and diverse market with something to offer buyers at every price point. The median value for a home for sale in Oldsmar is close to $400K, similar to the state’s average but relatively affordable compared to other cities in Florida. Oldsmar’s most affordably priced options are the condos and townhouses, typically ranging from under $200K to $600K.
On the other hand, single-family homes for sale in Oldsmar cost between $280K and $1.7M. Most detached properties have three or four bedrooms, with open floor plans, backyards, and garage space.
Fish Hawk
Population: 20,000
Median Income: $117,553
Median Home Price: $450K
Fish Hawk is a rapidly growing suburb located southeast of the Tampa Bay area, between Bloomingdale and Lithia, known for its excellent schools and family-friendly atmosphere. With an abundance of green space and beautiful parks like the FishHawk Sports Complex and Lithia Springs Park, this community has become a popular choice for young families looking to settle down in the Tampa suburbs.
The top-rated public schools in Fish Hawk are part of the Hillsborough County Public School District. Families can also choose from several private school options within close proximity. In addition, residents enjoy easy access to major employers such as MacDill Air Force Base and Tampa International Airport.
Affordable living is another attractive feature of this vibrant suburb. The median sale price in Fish Hawk is $450K, lower than in other affluent neighborhoods. Residents can find single-family homes with spacious yards or low-rise condos and townhouses with garden views.
Palmetto
Population: 13,480
Median Income: $50,762
Median Home Price: $430K
Palmetto is a Manatee County city considered a top suburb of Tampa, Bradenton, and even Sarasota. Almost completely surrounded by water, Palmetto blends seaside small-town bliss with all the necessary modern-day conveniences. Young professionals, families, and empty-nesters are attracted to the area’s water-centered lifestyle, vibrant historic district, and convenient living expenses.
The fact that Palmetto is located less than 30 minutes away from some of Florida’s most well-known beaches and big city attractions and landmarks is not so bad either, especially with quick access to major roads like I-75, US-41, and I-275, and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
Palmetto real estate is a notable market in Florida’s Gulf Coast with its year-round warm weather, beautiful beaches, and abundant fishing and boating opportunities. The sector has experienced steady growth in the last couple of years. Due to the high demand, homes in Palmetto are selling quickly (after just nine days on the market) and often for over the asking price.
The single-family detached home dominates the housing market in Palmetto, followed by newly-constructed two-story townhouses. The condos for sale in Palmetto might not be as abundant as the single-family dwellings, but they are diverse, desirable, and often more conveniently priced. A large portion of the units listed are in waterfront highrises, and the prices range between $200K and $1.4M.
Wesley Chapel
Population: 53,414
Median Income: $75,273
Median Home Price: $215.6K
Wesley Chapel is ideal for those seeking a balance of urban and rural living. This fast-growing community just 23 miles north of Downtown Tampa offers residents a variety of amenities, such as top-rated public schools, beautiful parks like Wesley Chapel District Park, and easy access to Tampa’s city center via Interstate 75.
The area boasts several golf courses, including Saddlebrook Golf Course, which attracts both professional players and amateurs. For shopping enthusiasts, the nearby Tampa Premium Outlets provide endless retail options.
Wesley Chapel might not be a coastal community, but beautiful Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park is less than an hour away heading west. Here, Wesley Chapel residents can enjoy hiking trails, kayaking, and waterfront views of the Gulf of Mexico. This safe neighborhood offers families and professionals a high quality of life.
Westchase
Population: 23,000
Median Income: $95,000
Median Home Price: $350K
This residential development offers residents an upscale lifestyle with easy access to downtown Tampa and other popular destinations like Tampa Premium Outlets, South Tampa, and the Tampa International Airport.
In addition to its prime location north of the city, near major highways and attractions, Westchase has amenities that make it an ideal place to call home. The community features several parks which offer playgrounds, sports courts, picnic areas, and walking trails. Also home to the Old Memorial Golf Club, and Ed Radice Sports Complex.
Highly-rated public schools like Westchase Elementary School, Davidsen Middle School, and Alonso High School serve the area. This makes it a perfect spot to bring up children or have an active life. The community is also known for its safe neighborhood environment with low crime rates compared to other Tampa established neighborhoods.
Carrollwood
Population: 34,747
Median Income: $69,821
Median Home Price: $265K
Carrollwood is an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil, green-filled area in the Tampa Bay region. This charming suburb is located just northwest of downtown Tampa.
The Carrollwood Village, one of the most sought-after areas within this suburb, features upscale single-family homes as well as low-rise condos that offer water views from the neighboring lakes, including Lake Carroll, Lake Ellen, or White Trout Lake. The village is also close to several golf courses, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and Carrollwood Recreation District making it a great place for individuals of all ages looking for top-notch recreation.
Carrollwood offers numerous shopping centers, including the popular West Side Plaza, with various restaurants and retail stores. Residents can also enjoy cultural events at the nearby Carrollwood Cultural Center.
Families will appreciate living in close proximity to some of Tampa’s best public schools, such as Essrig Elementary School, Hill Middle School, and Gaither High School. St. Joseph’s Hospital North, located a few miles north of Carrollwood, provides medical care to Carrollwood residents.
Pebble Creek
Population: 7,622
Median Income: $83,788
Median Home Price: $285K
Also known as Pebble Creek Village, Pebble Creek is located northeast of downtown Tampa and offers convenient access to I-75 and I-275 for commuting.
One key feature that sets Pebble Creek apart from other Tampa suburbs is its abundance of green space. The neighborhood boasts several parks, such as New Tampa Community Park, which features sports fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a dog park. Additionally, nature lovers will appreciate being close to the serene Hillsborough River State Park for hiking trails and beautiful views.
The housing options in Pebble Creek range from single-family homes to condos offering various styles suitable for young families or retirees alike.
With its growing suburban landscape and close proximity to Tampa Bay, residents of Pebble Creek have access to a wide variety of employment opportunities. From retail and hospitality to education and healthcare, there are plenty of jobs to choose from in this bustling community.
Lutz
Population: 22,000
Median Income: $74,851
edian Home Price: $330K
Located just north of Tampa, in both Hillsborough and Pasco counties, Lutz is a charming suburb that offers residents an excellent quality of life. This community provides a peaceful retreat from historic downtown Tampa while still being centrally located to all the amenities.
Lutz has some of the best public schools in the region, with high rankings for both elementary and high schools. The area also has several private school choices available for those seeking alternative educational opportunities.
Lutz features numerous shopping centers such as Tampa Premium Outlets, restaurants, and golf courses like Heritage Harbor Golf Course & Country Club and Avila Golf & Country Club.
For those looking to invest in a home, the Lutz real estate market offers a wide range of choices, from single-family dwellings to townhouses and condos. This makes it the perfect spot for first-time buyers or anyone who desires a more downsized lifestyle.
Cheval
Population: 11,000
Median Income: $97,906
Median Home Price: $420K
This is one of the most desirable neighborhoods, offering plenty of luxury homes for sale in Florida. Cheval offers an affluent lifestyle for those seeking to settle down in one of Tampa’s premier suburbs and sought-after gated communities.
McKitrick Elementary School and Steinbrenner High School are two of the top-rated public schools in the area, providing a quality education for families and professionals living in Cheval.
Cheval is a beautiful community that provides residents with a range of amenities within its gates. Golf enthusiasts will love living near the prestigious TPC Tampa Bay golf course, which has hosted numerous professional tournaments over the years. Beautiful parks such as Nye Park offer green spaces where you can enjoy outdoor activities.
Land O’ Lakes
Population: 38,000
Median Income: $96,000
Median Home Price: $300K
Located 19 miles north of Tampa in Pasco County, this growing community offers residents plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy. The Land O’Lakes Recreation Complex provides sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas for families to enjoy outdoor activities together.
Nature lovers will appreciate the numerous parks and lakes in the area that offer beautiful scenery and opportunities for fishing or boating. Families with school-aged children will be pleased to know that Land O’Lakes has several highly-rated public schools, including:
- Land O’ Lakes High School
- Rushe Middle School
- Connerton Elementary School
The median home value in this Floridian community is slightly over $450K, so if you consider purchasing an affordable home in Land O’ Lakes, act now before prices soar. The single-family homes lead the sales in the Land O’ Lakes real estate market, followed closely by spacious two-story townhomes for sale.
Builders in Land O’ Lakes are taking advantage of the high demand for housing by constructing new developments at a rapid pace. As a result, it’s easy for any homebuyer to place an offer for new construction homes or townhomes in planned neighborhoods like Connerton or Bexley. Prices for brand-new properties in Land O’ Lakes range between $350K and $970K.
Odessa
Population: 7,682
Median Income: $85,417
Median Home Price: $507K
Odessa is a small, unincorporated community located in Pasco County. Odessa offers residents a peaceful and quiet lifestyle with plenty of natural beauty to enjoy. Several parks and nature preserves are nearby for hiking and outdoor recreation, such as Starkey Ranch District Park and Upper Tampa Bay TrailHead- Lutz Lake. Many golf courses like Heritage Harbor ClubHouse or TPC Tampa Bay exist.
The public schools in Odessa are part of the Pasco County School District, including highly rated schools like Hammond Elementary School and Martinez Middle School. For higher educational options, there are several colleges within driving distance, including St. Petersburg College – Tarpon Springs Campus and Hillsborough Community College – Dale Mabry Campus.
The ideal sense of community for living in Odessa is best for families looking for an affordable yet comfortable suburban lifestyle close to Tampa Bay Area’s attractions but far enough from the city life. Retirees who want to live near waterfront views will also find some great neighborhoods here, including Ivy Lake Estates, Sierra Pines, and Tuscano at SunCoast.
FAQs: Tampa Suburbs
When relocating to a new area, there are always things to consider. Here are some of the top frequently asked questions about the Tampa suburbs, answered.
Which is the safest suburb in Tampa?
The Tampa Bay area offers a variety of safe and family-friendly suburbs for those looking to settle down or relocate. Fish Hawk is a community located in Hillsborough County. Known for its excellent schools and recreational facilities, Fish Hawk boasts low crime rates making it an ideal choice for families with children.
Who are the major employers in Tampa?
Some of the major employers in Tampa include:
- Tampa General Hospital
- BayCare Health System
- MacDill Air Force Base
- Publix Super Markets Inc.
- Tampa Bay History Center.
Does Tampa host annual events?
Tampa is a vibrant city that hosts numerous annual events, attracting locals and tourists alike. These festivities showcase the rich culture, history, and diverse neighborhoods of the Tampa Bay area. From sports to arts and food festivals, there are always entertainment options in South Florida city.
What is the best area of Tampa to live?
South Tampa is known for its beautiful homes for sale and excellent schools. The area includes historic Hyde Park with tree-lined streets and stunning architecture from various periods throughout Tampa Bay’s history. With easy access to downtown Tampa via scenic Bayshore Boulevard, South Tampa residents enjoy a short daily commute while also being close enough to enjoy all that downtown has to offer.
Is it cheaper to live in Tampa or Clearwater?
Tampa has a marginally less expensive cost of living than Clearwater. This difference can be attributed mainly to housing costs, which tend to be more affordable in Tampa. The median cost for homes for sale in Tampa is approximately $240K, while Clearwater’s average home price is around $270K.
What cities are 30 minutes from Tampa, FL?
These nearby communities offer residents diverse, established neighborhoods, excellent schools, and various amenities. The top cities with short commute times from the city center are Brandon, Riverview, Lutz, Palm Harbor, Port Richey, and Safety Harbor.
Is moving to Tampa a good idea?
Moving to Tampa can be an excellent decision for many people, thanks to its diverse neighborhoods, job opportunities, and numerous attractions, including the famous Busch Gardens and Caladesi Island State Park. The city provides a fantastic lifestyle, economical real estate options, lovely neighborhoods such as Ybor City, beautiful beaches, and highly-rated educational institutions.
Why is Tampa so popular?
Tampa has gained popularity over the years for various reasons, making it a desirable destination for people looking to move or visit. Tampa’s various districts, its long-standing heritage, and the vibrant employment opportunities have all made it an appealing place to live or visit. Let’s explore some of the key aspects that make Tampa such an attractive city.
What is the average house price in Tampa?
With its strong housing market, Tampa has become an attractive destination for buyers and investors alike. The average house price in Tampa varies depending on factors such as location, size, age of the property, and amenities available.The median value of the homes for sale in Tampa is around $386K; however, this figure can vary greatly based on neighborhood and property type.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a young family looking for a large home or looking for relaxing lakeside views, these Tampa suburbs offer it all with safe neighborhoods, historic homes, cozy condos, and plenty of green space in the beautiful city of Tampa.
If you’re interested in learning more about buying or selling a home in one of these amazing suburbs, talk to a local eXp agent. Our agents are available to provide assistance in navigating the entire process of purchasing or selling a residence in one of these incredible suburbs or anywhere in Tampa.
Ready to start hunting for a new home in Tampa? There’s nothing quite like attending an upcoming open house. You check out the property for yourself and get a feel of the suburbs or neighborhood.
