The Best Tampa Suburbs To Call Home

Are you considering a move to Tampa, Florida, but want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? The suburbs around Tampa offer a perfect blend of tranquility, community, and accessibility. Whether you're seeking a quiet neighborhood vibe, top-notch schools, or vibrant local culture, Tampa's suburbs have a lot to offer. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best suburbs in Tampa, highlighting what makes each one unique and why they might be the ideal place for you to call home.

Wesley Chapel, FL

The Pasco County, Florida community of Wesley Chapel is a rapidly growing suburban area located north of Tampa. Known for excellent schools, shopping centers, and residential developments, it has become a popular destination for home buyers seeking a balance between urban amenities and suburban tranquility. The area has seen significant expansion since being established in the late 1800s with new housing communities, retail spaces, and entertainment venues continuously updating residents' drive to and from work. Local favorites include Tampa Premium Outlets, Factory Outlets, and Florida Avenue Brewing Co. It's a good thing that Wesley Chapel is located along Interstate 75 - that accessibility provides easy access to Tampa, St. Petersburg, and other major Florida cities, and vice versa. Lots of city dwellers make a weekend out of trips to this burgeoning suburb.

Safety Harbor, FL

French nobleman and introducer of Florida to the grapefruit Count Odette Philippe is credited with establishing Safety Harbor. He became the first non-native settler on the Pinellas County peninsula upon acquiring 160 acres of land in 1842. The area was officially incorporated in 1917 and has gone by several names over the years, most notably Worth's Harbor and Green's Springs. By July of 1925, fire ordinances and building safety laws were established to guide the decades of development to come. From good old Main Street to Bayshore Boulevard, local neighborhoods exemplify the charm of Old Florida while embracing modern amenities. The city's commitment to preserving its historic character is evident in the well-maintained bungalows and Mediterranean Revival-style buildings that line its streets. Businesses here seem to be made to last as well. Safety Harbor Resort and Spa was opened in 1924 and continues to draw visitors from across the Tampa area. 

Westchase, FL

Hillsborough County comprises many stellar communities, but few can compete on the level of the Westchase community. This beautiful area northwest of Tampa boasts meticulously landscaped neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and an array of amenities that cater to diverse lifestyles. You've got Westchase Golf Club, Baybridge Park, and the Westchase Swim and Tennis Center at West Park Village among the many attractions that make this community stand out. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community fostered by regular events and activities organized by the Westchase Community Association. Small in size yet proximal to major highways and Tampa International Airport, Westchase offers convenience without sacrificing the tranquility of suburban living. The area's real estate market includes a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. 

Odessa, FL

This community's very first residents were Georgians - the W.M. Mobley family moved to the region from Savannah in the mid-19th century. Russian immigrant Peter Demens, who played a large role in local development through his work on the Orange Belt Railway, chose the name Odessa in 1880. Hillsborough County and Pasco County share the city's population of roughly 7,500 people. These individuals reside in a diverse mix of settings, from quaint historic districts to spacious lakefront properties. Rolling hills and numerous lakes maintain charm all around. Odessa, Florida is an animal-loving place, with a large horse equestrian center, several stables, and rescues. Its proximity to Tampa Bay allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: small-town tranquility and easy access to big-city amenities. 

Lakeland, FL

Let's talk about Lakeland. This charming city in Central Florida is known for its beautiful lakes - a total of 38 dot the landscape. A picturesque promenade surrounds crown jewel Lake Mirror, which, despite having plenty of things to do, can serve as a gateway to the rest of Tampa through its waterfront Lakeland Station. The city of Lakeland isn't just about water, though. It's got a thriving arts scene, with the Polk Museum of Art showcasing both classic and contemporary works. The city's at Florida Southern College campus also boasts the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings in the world. Over 120,000 people currently call this area home, although more move into its diverse spread of residential properties every year.

Clearwater, FL

You can't talk about Florida's Gulf Coast without mentioning Clearwater. This vibrant city, located on the Pinellas Peninsula, is famous for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Clearwater Beach has consistently been ranked among the best beaches in the United States. The city's Cleveland Street District is a hub of activity with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Sand Key Park offers a quieter beach experience, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a more secluded spot.