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Originally Posted On: https://exprealty.com/guides/11-good-reasons-to-relocate-to-tampa-fl/
When considering relocating to Florida, many people naturally think of Miami and Orlando first. However, Tampa has tons of great features that may pique your interest. The largest city of the Tampa Bay Area strikes the perfect balance between a relaxed beach lifestyle and big city commodities. It was named the fifth-best place to live in Florida in 2022-2023 and the sixth-best retirement city in the U.S. in 2021-2022 by U.S. News & World Report.
Safe, active, fast-growing, and livable, the Gulf Coast city has become a magnet for new residents in and out of the state in recent years. Tampa is worth considering for families seeking a pleasant suburban life with plenty of things to do and seniors wanting to retire near the beach on a budget. It is also a great relocation spot if you’re a young professional looking for a vibrant, active environment to start a business or advance your career. But before you start your search for Tampa real estate, here are just a few of the many reasons to relocate to Tampa:
There’s No State Income Tax In Tampa
Florida is one of the nine states with no state income tax, a big selling point for potential Florida residents, and the number one reason to relocate to Tampa. The Tampa sales tax rate, which applies to all goods and services purchased in the city, is 7.5%. That consists of 6% Florida state sales tax plus the Hillsborough County sales tax, which is 1.5%. There is no city tax or special tax. The property tax rate in Tampa, Florida, is $19.7121 per $1,000 assessed value.
Beautiful Year-Round Weather In Tampa
If you’re a fan of vitamin D and can’t stand the cold, Tampa is definitely the place for you. Tampa provides 246 days of sunshine per year, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s in winter to the low 90s in summer. On average, Tampa sees 51 inches of rain per year – higher than the United States annual rainfall average of 38 inches. Winters are extremely short and mild in Tampa, and snow is rarely seen. The last time temperatures fell below freezing in the Tampa Bay Area was in 1977, leaving 0.2 inches of snow behind.
A Strong Real Estate Market In Tampa
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The Tampa real estate market is competitive and healthy, with reasonable house prices and a strong chance for value appreciation in the coming years. The median sale price for a home sale in Tampa is now $420K, still below the national average. In short, purchasing Tampa real estate today is considered a fantastic investment, which provides another fantastic reason to relocate to Tampa.
In the Tampa real estate market, properties sell quickly–usually within a week of being listed. The majority of Tampa’s homeowners reside in single-family detached properties of one or two bedrooms. The city has an even split between owned (48%) and rental dwellings (52%).
Single-family detached houses are the most popular housing type in Tampa real estate, followed by high-rise condos for sale and spacious apartment buildings. In addition to single-family houses, Tampa is also home to a number of other popular housing alternatives, including multi-family dwellings, apartment-converted homes, townhomes for sale in Tampa, and other attached properties.
The influx of new homeowners consists of both young people with and without families and retirees and seasoned investors. With more people working remotely, many young professionals are also looking for properties closer to the beach.
Tampa’s Charming And Diverse Neighborhoods
In Tampa, you can find a diverse array of neighborhoods to fit any lifestyle. Some of the best places to relocate to Tampa are:
- The waterfront downtown area: Move here if you’re looking for a lively, modern atmosphere.
- Palma Ceia: Perfect for a calmer scene and more suburban living underneath towering oaks.
- Hyde Park: A hip, historic Tampa neighborhood with a perfect mix of old and new.
- Bayshore Beautiful: It offers stunning condos with gorgeous views of Tampa Bay.
- Ybor City: For eclectic architecture, Cuban flavor, lively nightlife, brick-lined streets, a unique atmosphere, and plenty of amenities, you can’t go wrong with this historic enclave!.
Top-Rated Beaches In Tampa
With crystal-clear waters and miles of soft sand, the Tampa beaches offer the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation under the Florida sun. Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, and the state park beaches of Fort Desoto Park and Caladesi Island are among the best beaches in the area. Clearwater Beach, with its soft white sands and calm Gulf breezes, was named by TripAdvisor the #1 Beach in the entire U.S. in 2016 and 2018.
A Thriving Economy & Job Market In Tampa
Although the primary focus of Tampa’s economy is tourism, other industries such as military, construction, healthcare, finance, technology, and insurance also contribute to the city’s development. The maritime sector also grew significantly in Tampa thanks to Port Tampa Bay -the largest seaport in Florida and the 7th-largest port in the country, resulting in over $15 billion of economic impact. Tampa’s job market has remained robust, with an unemployment rate of just 3.7% (below the national average). This is fantastic news if you want to relocate to Tampa for work.
Tampa Is A Top Retirement Spot
Are you looking for a place to retire that has it all? The Big Guava is #5 of the top 10 destinations for seniors in the nation, according to the U.S. News & World Report ratings. Aside from the fantastic weather, the nearby beaches, and relatively low living and housing costs, Tampa also has plenty of recreational opportunities, from golfing and fishing to museums and theater). In addition, the city provides high-quality healthcare and a large senior population, so retirees can easily find friends and activities that suit their interests. Tampa is an excellent choice whether you’re looking for an active lifestyle or a laid-back retirement.
Low Cost of Living In Tampa
The cost of living in Tampa is relatively affordable compared to other major metropolitan areas. According to Payscale, Tampa, Florida, has a 5% lower cost of living than the national average. Housing, utilities, healthcare, and transportation are among the least expensive costs in this city, while Tampa residents typically pay 3% more for food and groceries than the rest of the country.
Tampa’s Incredible Festivals & Events
There’s no doubt Tampanians know how to have a good time. Throughout the year, there are countless festivals and events in the city that celebrate everything from music and art to food and culture. One of the most iconic festivals is The Annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival, which has been happening in Tampa for over 100 years and includes colorful parades, live music, food, and entertainment.
If pirates are not your thing and you’re in the mood for Cuban food, add the massive Cuban Sandwich Festival at Centennial Park to your list. Other Tampa events & festivals include Ybor City Cigar Heritage Festival, Tampa Bay Blues Festival, Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival, and Fiesta Day at Ybor City.
Top-Notch Museums & Theme Parks In Tampa
No matter your age or interests, you’re sure to find something to enjoy once you relocate to Tampa, Florida. The city is well-known for its museums and theme parks. The Tampa Museum of Art is one of the top art institutions in the state, and the Florida Aquarium is a top tourist attraction in the city. The Tampa Bay History Center is a must-see museum for history buffs with its extensive collection featuring artifacts, books, and maps about the city’s history, culture, and heritage. Those looking for a more adrenaline-filled experience shouldn’t miss Adventure Island Water Park and the Busch Gardens, with its world-class roller coasters and animal shows.
Tampa Healthcare & Hospitals That Top the Charts
Tampa is home to Tampa General Hospital, the #1 hospital in Tampa Bay and the third highest-rated in all of Florida. Tampa General Hospital ranks among the top 50 hospitals in the country for seven medical specialties, including endocrinology, rehabilitation, and pulmonology. If you are planning to relocate to Tampa and need comprehensive healthcare, the world-class network of clinics, TGH Urgent Care, and TGH Urgent Care at Home powered by Fast Track, is also located in the Tampa area.
Reasons To Relocate To Tampa, FL
What’s not to love about Tampa? From its fantastic weather and world-famous beaches to its bustling downtown and diverse culture, Tampa has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a relocation spot in Florida, add Tampa or the best suburbs of Jacksonville to your list of potential destinations. And once you’re ready to purchase your dream home, a local real estate agent can help you find the ideal area for your needs.
