Moving to Tampa, Florida
Gulf Coast beaches, a booming tech scene, and $380K median homes — Tampa is where Florida's growth is happening.
$380K
Median Home
3.2M
Metro Population
Top 10 US
Growth Rank
$0
Income Tax
Living in Tampa
Tampa Bay is Florida's sweet spot — more affordable than Miami, more urban than Orlando, and growing faster than both. The tech sector is expanding with companies like ConnectWise, ReliaQuest, and a surge of remote workers choosing Tampa for its quality of life. The median home at $380K is competitive for a coastal Florida metro. South Tampa, Westchase, and Brandon offer family-friendly living, while downtown and Channelside are transforming with new condos and mixed-use developments. Beach access to Clearwater and St. Pete is 30 minutes away. The job market spans healthcare (Tampa General, Moffitt Cancer Center), finance (USAA, Raymond James), and military (MacDill AFB). Real home prices saw a correction through 2025, creating buyer opportunities.
Top Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Vibe | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Tampa | Established, walkable, upscale | $500K-$1M+ | Families, professionals |
| Westchase | Master-planned, suburban | $400K-$600K | Families, golf |
| Brandon | Affordable suburban, diverse | $300K-$420K | Value-seeking families |
| Wesley Chapel | New development, growing | $350K-$500K | Young families, new builds |
| Channelside/Downtown | Urban, condos, nightlife | $350K-$700K | Young professionals |
| Riverview | South expansion, affordable | $280K-$400K | First-time buyers |
Pros & Cons of Tampa
✅ Pros
- ✓ More affordable than Miami/Naples
- ✓ Gulf Coast beach access
- ✓ Growing tech job market
- ✓ Zero income tax
- ✓ MacDill AFB — VA loan opportunities
- ✓ Professional sports (Bucs, Lightning, Rays)
- ✓ International airport hub
⚠️ Cons
- ✗ Hurricane exposure (Gulf Coast)
- ✗ Insurance costs above average
- ✗ Flooding risk in some areas
- ✗ Humidity is intense
- ✗ Bridge traffic to beaches
- ✗ Development spreading rapidly
Financing in Tampa
- VA loans strong presence — MacDill AFB nearby
- FHA loans available — $380K median is within conforming limits
- Condo financing in downtown requires project approval
- Builder incentives in Wesley Chapel and Riverview communities
- Flood insurance may be required in certain zones — check FEMA maps
- Riverview and east suburbs offer the best first-time buyer value