Tampa is a lively city on Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for its booming job market, diverse culture, and exciting attractions. If you’re thinking about moving to the Tampa Bay area, several fantastic nearby cities offer a great quality of life, unique amenities, and easy access to all that Tampa has to offer.
The best cities near Tampa
1. Clearwater
- Driving distance from Tampa: 22.4 miles
- Population: 117,027
- Median household income: $88,197
- Median rent: $2,100
- Best for: Beach lovers, retirees, and families
- Attractions: Clearwater Beach, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and Spectrum Field
Why Clearwater is a great place to live
Clearwater is a stunning coastal city with some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. With its relaxed atmosphere, excellent schools, and abundance of outdoor activities, it’s a popular choice for families and retirees. The city also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with plenty of galleries, theaters, and museums to explore.
2. Land O’ Lakes
- Driving distance from Tampa: 19.2 miles
- Population: 40,843
- Median household income: $107,768
- Median rent: $2,350 as of June
- Best for: Nature enthusiasts, families, and professionals
- Attractions: Lake Padgett, Dupree Gardens, and Conner Preserve
Why Land O’ Lakes is a great place to live
Land O’ Lakes is a picturesque suburban community that offers a peaceful retreat from city life. With its numerous lakes, parks, and nature preserves, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. St. Petersburg
- Driving distance from Tampa: 23.4 miles
- Population: 261,256
- Median household income: $69,584
- Median rent: $2,100 as of June 2024
- Best for: Art lovers, foodies, and young professionals
- Attractions: The Dali Museum, St. Pete Pier, and Fort De Soto Park
Why St. Petersburg is a great place to live
St. Petersburg is a vibrant and artsy city that has something for everyone. With its world-class museums, trendy restaurants, and lively downtown scene, St. Pete is a popular choice for young professionals and creatives. The city also has some of the best beaches in the area, as well as numerous parks and green spaces to enjoy.
4. East Lake
- Driving distance from Tampa: 23.1 miles
- Population: 33,629
- Median household income: $92,445
- Median rent: $2,422 as of June
- Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, families, and retirees
- Attractions: John Chesnut Sr. Park, Brooker Creek Preserve, and Tarpon Woods Golf Club
Why East Lake is a great place to live
East Lake is a peaceful and scenic community that offers a relaxed lifestyle and plenty of outdoor activities. With its numerous parks, preserves, and golf courses, it is a nature lover’s paradise. The city also has excellent schools, low crime rates, and a friendly community atmosphere, making it an ideal place to raise a family or retire.
5. Wesley Chapel
- Driving distance from Tampa: 24.0 miles
- Population: 68,814
- Median household income: $116,061
- Median rent: $2,395, according to the June 2024 rental data
- Best for: Families, professionals, and shoppers
- Attractions: The Shops at Wiregrass, Florida Hospital Center Ice, and Epperson Lagoon
Why Wesley Chapel is a great place to live
Wesley Chapel is a fast-growing suburb where residents enjoy a high quality of life. It has good schools, plenty of shopping and dining, and major highways are easily accessible. The city has several parks and recreational facilities, including an ice skating rink and a man-made lagoon. Families and professionals can find a lot to enjoy in Wesley Chapel.
6. Oldsmar, FL
- Driving distance from Tampa: 16.4 miles
- Population: 14,886
- Median household income: $72,842
- Median rent: $2,100
- Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, families, and professionals
- Attractions: Upper Tampa Bay Trail, Tampa Bay Downs, and Oldsmar Flea Market
Why Oldsmar is a great place to live
Oldsmar is a laid-back town with numerous parks, trails, and waterways, making it a great place for hiking, biking, and fishing. As with many towns nearby, you’ll find good schools, great shops, and plenty of dining options. Plus, getting into Tampa from here is a breeze.
7. Valrico
- Driving distance from Tampa: 16.4 miles
- Population: 38,594
- Median household income: $91,704
- Median rent: $2,344
- Best for: Families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts
- Attractions: Alafia River State Park, Buckhorn Springs Golf and Country Club, and Westfield Brandon Mall
Why Valrico is a great place to live
Valrico is where families and retirees find a peaceful life. Excellent schools, beautiful parks, and numerous recreational facilities—and its proximity to cities like Tampa and Brandon—make this a great place for anyone who prioritizes convenience and ease.
8. Cheval
- Driving distance from Tampa: 17.6 miles
- Population: 13,189
- Median household income: $129,370
- Median rent: $3,168 as of June 2024
- Best for: Golfers, families, and professionals
- Attractions: Cheval Golf and Country Club, Cheval Athletic Club, and Cheval Equestrian Center
Why Cheval is a great place to live
Cheval is an upscale and exclusive suburb. If you like luxury, you’ll find it—with its beautiful homes and a world-class golf course, equestrian center, and athletic club, Cheval is a popular choice for golfers, horse enthusiasts, and fitness buffs.
9. Riverview
- Driving distance from Tampa: 14.1 miles
- Population: 102,467
- Median household income: $98,470
- Median rent: $2,419
- Unemployment rate: 4.93%
- Best for: Families, professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts
- Attractions: Alafia River State Park, Balm Boyette Nature Preserve, and International Plaza and Bay Street
Why Riverview is a great place to live
Thanks to the good reputation of its schools and beautiful parks, Riverview stands out as a great place to raise a family. It’s a suburb with everything you need—activities nearby for the family, shops, and restaurants, and it’s just 20 minutes outside Tampa.
Whether you’re seeking beachside bliss, suburban tranquility, or a vibrant arts scene, the cities near Tampa offer diverse living options to suit every lifestyle and preference.
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