Tampa, Florida, known as “The Big Guava” to locals, is a historic city in the greater Tampa Bay Metropolitan area, which consists of Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater. Originally a small town, the cigar industry helped put Tampa on the map. In the past few decades, the area has seen significant growth and has become known for its lovely beaches, rich history, and lively sports scenes. But is Tampa a good place to live? Luckily, we’ve got you covered.
If you’re looking at homes for sale in Tampa or apartments for rent and are considering making the move, this Redfin article is for you. We’ll dive into 10 pros and cons of living in Tampa to help you decide if the city is right for you.
5 pros of living in Tampa, FL
There’s a lot to love about living in Tampa, from pristine beaches to lively sporting events. Here are five of the best reasons to make the move.
1. Affordable cost of living
The cost of living in Tampa is relatively affordable,especially compared to other cities in Florida. Tampa’s housing costs, in particular, are cheaper than nearby cities and on par with the national average. For example, the median sale price of a house in Tampa is $425,900, compared to $560,000 in Miami and $550,000 in Fort Lauderdale. This helps make Tampa an attractive option for those looking for an affordable place to live in Florida near the coast.
If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Tampa, the average rent is $1,543 – which is just slightly above the national average.
2. Weather
Tampa’s climate is subtropical, which means mild, dry winters and hot, humid summers. Daily high temperatures rarely drop below 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter or rise above 100 degrees in the summer. If you prefer warm weather and year-round sun, Tampa’s climate will be perfect for you. This is especially true for those seeking refuge from colder northern climates.
3. Outdoor activities
Tampa’s location on the Gulf Coast of Florida means it has numerous beautiful beaches and coastal trails, including Clearwater Beach, Fort de Soto Park, and Archibald Beach Park. It also boasts many state parks and nature reserves, and is only a few hours from Everglades National Park. The bay and nearby rivers also provide ample opportunity for water sports such as boating, kayaking, and fishing.
4. Sports
Tampa is a sports lover’s paradise. It’s home to three major professional sports teams: the Buccaneers in the NFL, the Rays in MLB, and the Lightning in the NHL. Tampa also hosts the Outback Bowl for college football, has numerous golf courses and fishing spots, and is a haven for cyclists and runners looking for flat training days.
5. Community events
Tampa has a rich culture, making for a wide array of celebrations, events, and community get-togethers. There are dozens of popular annual events, many of which take place in the pleasant winter months. Some notable examples include the Gasparilla Pirate Fest, the Florida State Fair, Tampa Pride, and Winter Village.
5 cons of living in Tampa, FL
Like with any city, there are downsides of living in Tampa. Here are five to keep in mind.
1. Hurricanes
As a part of Florida, Tampa is susceptible to hurricanes, which are possible from June through November every year. These natural disasters can cause significant damage to property and disrupt daily life when they hit. If you do move to Tampa, make sure you prepare your home for a hurricane and understand your local building codes, evacuation routes, and emergency procedures.
2. Heat and humidity
While the warm weather is appealing to many, the intense heat and humidity of the summer months can be a drawback. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to reach into the high 90s with high humidity levels from June through August, with plenty of rainfall as well.
3. Traffic
As Tampa continues to grow, traffic congestion has become a more significant problem. In fact, it has some of the worst traffic in the US, and in 2022 was the 201st most congested metropolitan area. This is most notable during the morning and evening rush hours, and can add considerable time to commutes.
4. Bugs and wildlife
Florida’s warm and subtropical climate makes it home to a variety of bugs, including mosquitoes, palmetto bugs, and termites, which can wreak havoc on buildings and be an annoyance from day to day. Additionally, Florida is home to numerous unique animals, including the American alligator, Florida panther, and dozens of dangerous aquatic species.
5. Flat landscape
Tampa, like much of Florida, is very flat. In fact, Florida is the flattest state in the US, with the highest point sitting at just 345 feet above sea level. While this may not be an issue for some, if you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and other mountainous outdoor activities, you will likely be disappointed.
The bottom line: Is Tampa a good place to live?
Living in Tampa has its share of pros and cons. The city offers an affordable cost of living, a vibrant cultural scene, along with pleasant weather and more. However, take into account factors like high humidity, hurricanes, flooding, and traffic congestion. In the end, the decision to call Tampa home depends on what matters to you.
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