The Top 7 Suburbs of Tampa, FL to Live In

When people think of Tampa, they often picture its lively downtown, waterfront views, and vibrant cultural scene. However, the true essence of living in Tampa extends beyond the city limits. The suburbs of Tampa offer diverse residential areas that provide a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still maintaining easy access to the city's entertainment, dining, and business districts. These Tampa suburbs are spread across various parts of the metropolitan area, each offering its own unique character and charm.

In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Tampa suburbs—from the waterfront communities along Tampa Bay to the rapidly growing areas in the north—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you're searching for the perfect apartment in Tampa or curious about the surrounding Tampa neighborhoods, let’s discover the best parts of Tampa to call home.

tampa surburbs

Cost of living in Tampa

Before we dive into the top Tampa suburbs, let's cover how much it costs to live in Tampa. The overall cost of living in Tampa is 3% lower than the national average, making it an attractive destination for those seeking affordability. Housing is a key factor, with the median sale price for a home in Tampa around $445,000, which is slightly above the national average of $432,657. Rent in Tampa follows a similar trend, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Tampa at $1,901, compared to the national average of $1,514.

While some suburbs around Tampa offer even more affordable options, others can be just as costly or more, depending on proximity to the coast or newer developments. Here, we'll explore a range of top suburbs, providing various lifestyle and housing opportunities based on your budget and preferences.

If you're looking for more specific rental insights, check out our guides on the 9 Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Tampa, FL for Renters in 2024 and the 9 Most Expensive Neighborhoods in Tampa to Rent in 2024.

1. Brandon

Known for: Convenience, affordability, and suburban lifestyle

Brandon, located about 13 miles east of downtown Tampa, is a popular suburb known for its convenient location and affordable cost of living. With easy access to I-75 and the Selmon Expressway, residents can quickly commute to downtown Tampa or surrounding areas. Brandon boasts a range of shopping centers, restaurants, and parks, making it a well-rounded suburban choice for those looking to be close to the city while enjoying a quieter environment.

Housing in Brandon varies from affordable single-family homes to new apartment developments, offering a variety of options for renters and buyers.

Population: 116,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,534
Median home sale price: $364,950
Brandon transportation scores: Walk Score 24, Bike Score 39

Apartments for rent in Brandon, FL | Houses for rent in Brandon, FL | Homes for sale in Brandon, FL

2. Riverview

Known for: Rapid growth, friendly atmosphere, and access to outdoor activities

Riverview, located just south of Brandon, has experienced rapid growth in recent years. Known for its spacious neighborhoods and new developments, Riverview attracts residents looking for affordable housing with more space. The area offers plenty of parks, such as the Alafia River State Park, providing opportunities for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Riverview also boasts several shopping centers and dining options, catering to the growing population.

Riverview’s housing market is diverse, with many newly built homes and apartment complexes. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking suburban life with modern amenities.

Population: 107,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,852
Median home sale price: $390,000
Riverview transportation scores: Walk Score 15, Bike Score 37

Apartments for rent in Riverview, FL | Houses for rent in Riverview, FL | Homes for sale in Riverview, FL

3. Wesley Chapel

Known for: New developments, suburban feel, and strong community vibe

Wesley Chapel, located about 25 miles north of downtown Tampa, has quickly become one of the most desirable suburbs in the area. Known for its suburban charm and rapidly expanding developments, Wesley Chapel offers everything from large shopping centers, like The Shops at Wiregrass, to scenic parks and golf courses. The area also has several top-rated schools and sports complexes, attracting those seeking a suburban lifestyle close to urban conveniences.

Wesley Chapel’s housing market features a mix of new construction homes, townhomes, and apartments, providing a range of options for both buyers and renters.

Population: 65,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,636
Median home sale price: $417,995
Wesley Chapel transportation scores: Walk Score 10, Bike Score 33

Apartments for rent in Wesley Chapel, FL | Houses for rent in Wesley Chapel, FL | Homes for sale in Wesley Chapel, FL

tampa florida cruising and boating

4. Valrico

Known for: Quiet suburban atmosphere, access to nature, and strong community connections

Valrico, a suburb located east of Brandon, is known for its quiet, laid-back atmosphere and strong sense of community. The area is popular for its access to outdoor activities, with several parks and nature trails nearby. Valrico offers a more relaxed lifestyle while still being close to Tampa’s amenities, making it a great option for those who enjoy peaceful living with easy access to the city.

The housing market in Valrico includes a mix of single-family homes, ranging from older properties to newer developments, providing options for different budgets and lifestyles.

Population: 38,000
Median home sale price: $455,000
Valrico transportation scores: Walk Score 11, Bike Score 30

Apartments for rent in Valrico, FL | Houses for rent in Valrico, FL | Homes for sale in Valrico, FL

5. Apollo Beach

Known for: Waterfront living, boating culture, and scenic views

Apollo Beach, located along Tampa Bay to the south, offers a unique waterfront lifestyle. Known for its access to the bay and boating culture, Apollo Beach is a haven for water lovers. The suburb features marinas, canals, and waterfront homes, providing residents with opportunities to enjoy boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Additionally, the Manatee Viewing Center is a local attraction where visitors can observe manatees in their natural habitat.

The housing market in Apollo Beach features a mix of waterfront properties and single-family homes, with many homes offering scenic views of the bay.

Population: 26,000
Median home sale price: $475,000
Apollo Beach transportation scores: Walk Score 32, Bike Score 41

Apartments for rent in Apollo Beach, FL | Houses for rent in Apollo Beach, FL | Homes for sale in Apollo Beach, FL

6. Lutz

Known for: Small-town charm, quiet atmosphere, and access to outdoor recreation

Lutz, located north of Tampa, is a suburb that combines small-town charm with proximity to nature. With its quiet, peaceful atmosphere, Lutz attracts those who appreciate a slower pace of life. The area is known for its scenic parks and proximity to Lake Park, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and fishing. Despite its rural feel, Lutz provides easy access to downtown Tampa, making it a great option for commuters.

The housing market in Lutz includes a variety of options, from affordable single-family homes to more spacious properties with larger lots.

Population: 23,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,364
Median home sale price: $713,900
Lutz transportation scores: Walk Score 10, Bike Score 30

Apartments for rent in Lutz, FL | Houses for rent in Lutz, FL | Homes for sale in Lutz, FL

tampa florida nature and waterfront

7. Lithia

Known for: Master-planned communities, outdoor living, and strong community connections

Lithia, located southeast of Tampa, is known for its master-planned community of FishHawk Ranch. FishHawk Ranch is one of the most well-known developments in the area, offering residents an abundance of amenities, including parks, swimming pools, and walking trails. Lithia is popular for those seeking a more rural lifestyle with access to modern conveniences. Its proximity to nature preserves and state parks makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Housing in Lithia includes new developments, particularly within FishHawk Ranch, where residents can find a range of homes from townhouses to larger single-family properties.

Population: 24,000
Median home sale price: $560,000
Lithia transportation scores: Walk Score 0, Bike Score 25

Apartments for rent in Lithia, FL | Houses for rent in Lithia, FL | Homes for sale in Lithia, FL

Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Tampa area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of September 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.

The post The Top 7 Suburbs of Tampa, FL to Live In appeared first on Apartment Living Tips - Apartment Tips from ApartmentGuide.com.



source https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/tampa-fl-suburbs/

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