Moving Guide to Tampa, Florida

Moving Guide to Tampa, Florida

Tampa is one of the largest cities in Tampa Bay and is located close to the Gulf of Mexico on Florida’s west coast. It is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the southeastern US and houses one of Florida’s biggest ports. And it’s worth noting Tampa’s strong economy.

If you are considering moving to Tampa and searching for homes for sale in Florida, note that you are not the only one with this thought. So, while you are at it, there are a couple of things to check out. This article will guide you on what you need to know while moving to Tampa.

Tampa Economy and Industry

Tampa has a strong economy and industry, so if you are moving to Tampa to seek employment opportunities, there are many there. The city is involved in a little bit of everything, including shipping, telecommunication, health, tourism, insurance, etc.

The average income of a resident in Tampa is around $29,704 per year, which is higher than the US average of $28,555. As a result, the unemployment rate in Tampa is considerably low at 5% compared to the US at 6%. Hillsborough County alone has an estimate of over 13,000 employees.

Tampa Population

Tampa is the third largest city in Florida and the 51st in the US. According to the 2021 census, Tampa has a population of around 387,050 residents. Based on the report from Tampa’s last two censuses, the population in Tampa has increased from the previous year’s 382,769 residents. The new population is said to make the city more urban and younger.

The city spans 176 miles and has a population density of around 3463 people per square mile. In other words, this city is pretty populated but not overcrowded. Hence, moving to Tampa will be a great move for someone looking to build a career, start a family, or even go to school.

Neighbors and Suburbs in Tampa

The Tampa area is well known for its history and roots in Cuba and Italy. This diversity reflects the array of neighborhoods with distinctive cultures and landmarks. There are many shopping and dining options in the neighborhoods, not only in the City of Tampa but in the entire Tampa Bay region. To help you choose what will best suit you, below are some of the well-known Tampa neighborhoods.

Downtown Tampa

Downtown Tampa is an impressive neighborhood with 18-story building skylines that rises to 250 feet high. You can find diverse, upscale properties, luxurious buildings with fitness centers, security, etc. The area is going through a phase of renaissance redevelopment from a business district to a more mixed-use neighborhood.

South Tampa

South Tampa gives you more of an urban vibe. It is famous for its waterfront location and neighboring areas like the MacDill Air Force Base, Port Tampa, SoHo, historic Hyde park, etc. Living in South Tampa is ideal if you want to short commute Downtown. Houses in South Tampa can be a bit expensive, especially those close to Hyde Park, compared to other areas in Tampa.

West Tampa

West Tampa is one of the oldest cities, located west of the Hillsborough River, about a mile from downtown Tampa. It is popular for its cigar manufacturing. You can also get some delicious Cuban, Puerto Rican, and Colombian cuisines in West Tampa. West Tampa is like a significant Latin enclave.

East Tampa

East Tampa is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Tampa bay. It is known for its long-standing culture and a good number of affordable homes. The city is located about 4 miles from Downtown and has an excellent commute.

Channelside District

The Channelside District is another interesting neighborhood in Tampa. The recent launch of the Sparkman Wharf has made this area a destination for many. Also, its proximity to the Amalie Arena and Florida Aquarium and the city’s panoramic view make it a valuable location. If you want to move to this location, you must choose between lofts and high-rise condos.

Tampa’s Housing

If you are moving to Tampa, you’d need a place to stay. You can buy a house if you can afford it or rent an apartment. Generally, the cost of housing in Tampa is relatively affordable.

Although, the area where you decide to stay can influence the cost of housing. If you want an apartment near the beach, it will be a bit more expensive than others, but you don’t need a six-figure salary to afford it.

Final Thoughts

Irrespective of your reason for wanting to move to Tampa, it is a great place to live whether you are single or have a family. The city’s growth rate is alarming, thanks to work activities, cheap housing, vibrant art, and good quality of life. Buying a house or renting one is very affordable when you move to Tampa, and there are so many recreational activities in Tampa that you can explore.