The Pros and Cons of Living in Tampa

Tucked away along Florida’s Gulf Coast lies the beautiful city of Tampa. Divided into several smaller regions, each with its own unique flare, Tampa offers something for everyone. Although it is one of the top tourist destinations in Florida, Tampa has become increasingly alluring to permanent residents as well.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live in sunny Tampa, you’re not alone. In fact, Tampa is the 18th largest metro area in the nation, with a bigger population than both Miami and Ft. Myers. The city gains new residents every year, with this year’s population projected to grow 1.8% from 3 million to 3.14 million. So, what can you expect if you move there? Here’s our breakdown of the pros and cons of living in Tampa.

The pros and cons at a glance

Pros:

• Ample job opportunities
• Excellent entertainment
• Incredible food

Cons:

• Heavy traffic
• Extreme weather
• Unpleasant pests

Let’s take a closer look at each of these pros and cons to help you determine if Tampa, Florida is the right fit for you.

The pros of living in Tampa, FL

1. Ample job opportunities

If you’re moving to Tampa for a career change, you’re in luck! 

In the past year, Tampa has experienced significant job growth in industries like financial activities, construction, and manufacturing. According to the Tampa Bay Times, the city has also been recognized by nonprofit CompTIA as one of the nation’s top 20 “tech towns.” 

Tampa’s unemployment rate decreased by half from April 2021 to April 2022. With unemployment now sitting as low as 2.3%, you can feel confident about landing a position in Tampa’s growing economy. However, you may experience a slight pay cut, as Tampa’s hourly wage is lower than the national average.  

2. Excellent entertainment

Whether you’re an arts aficionado, a sports fan, or a festival enthusiast, you’ll find your niche in Tampa. The entertainment scene is truly endless, so no matter what you’re into, it’s likely you’ll stumble upon an event that piques your interest.

The arts:

Due to its rich history, Tampa has established itself as somewhat of a cultural hub. With theaters and museums scattered throughout the city, there is much to explore.

Live performances are held year round at the Straz, while the Tampa Theatre features a wide range of eclectic films and events.

Some of the area’s most popular museums include:

• Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
• Glazer Children’s Museum
• Henry B. Plant Museum
• Museum of Science and Industry
• Tampa Museum of Arts

Sports:

As an adult, it can be difficult to find community after moving to a new city. If you’re a sports fan, though, have no fear. You’re in good company.

Tampa is home to four major professional teams, each with its own devoted following:

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (National Football League)
• Tampa Bay Lightning (National Hockey League)
• Tampa Bay Rays (Major League Baseball)
• Tampa Bay Rowdies (United Soccer League)

And it doesn’t end there! New teams, like the Tampa Bay Strikers, are steadily emerging.

Festivals:

There is always something to celebrate in Tampa Bay. On any given weekend–and sometimes during the week–vibrant festivals draw crowds from every corner of the city.

Here are just a handful of the events that occur annually:

• Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival
• Gasparilla Pirate Festival
• Sunset Music Festival
• Tampa Pride Parade
• Tampa Riverfest

3. Incredible food

If you’re looking for a city that will satisfy your palate, look no further than Tampa Bay. Tampa has some of the most delicious eats in the United States. According to WalletHub, Tampa ranked 10th in the nation for the best foodie cities of 2021.

With new restaurants, coffee shops, and bars rapidly appearing on the map, it’s almost impossible to name a favorite. You can always rely on the classics for an impeccable meal, such as Bern’s Steakhouse, Oxford Exchange, or The Columbia, but for a longer list of appetizing options, check out these recommendations from locals.

The cons of living in Tampa, FL

1. Heavy traffic

Hate sitting in traffic? Living in Tampa could be your worst nightmare. 

According to a recent report, Tampa has the 12th worst traffic in the United States, with an average of 48 hours lost per year. This statistic can be largely attributed to Tampa’s booming population growth, which is expected to increase even more in the years to come.

Although the city is aware of the problem, solutions seem to be at a standstill. The reality is, Tampa’s current infrastructure is not equipped to handle the number of people living there–and it’s only going to get worse. 

Optimists believe the traffic dilemma will force urban planners to focus on improving public transportation, which would be a game changer.

2. Extreme weather

Florida is known as the “Sunshine State,” which–to many people–sounds spectacular. Droves of snowbirds flock to Tampa to enjoy the warm climate, but the weather isn’t always as romantic as it seems.

The average high is between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit for more than half the year, which can be brutal when paired with Tampa’s near-tangible humidity.

Because of Tampa’s location along the Gulf of Mexico, hurricanes and tropical storms pose a constant threat to residents from June to November. In fact, Tampa is one of the top five U.S. cities most vulnerable to a hurricane.

Inhabitants could face potential flooding, property damage, and personal injury. However, since Florida is well-acquainted with natural disasters, government officials and the media are always prepared to provide timely guidance and aid.

3. Unpleasant pests

One of the perks of living in Tampa is the ability to spend frequent time outdoors, but you may experience some peskier parts of nature while you’re at it.

Tampa’s warm, humid weather attracts a multitude of mosquitos, and they are relentless. According to Orkin, Tampa ranked 11th on the 2022 list of top mosquito cities. Luckily, these insects can be mostly deterred with repellent!

Unfortunately, mosquitos aren’t the only pests that call Tampa “home.” Some Tampa residents have discovered alligators underneath their car or even on their doorstep! Although these occurrences are rare, Tampa residents should definitely be on the lookout for these dangerous reptiles–especially near the water’s edge. Fascinating as they may be, it’s important to remember they are still predators. 

Is Tampa a good place to live?

Tampa, Florida, is often considered a good place to live for many individuals and families due to its various appealing qualities. Whether it’s a good place for you depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Tampa boasts a tropical climate with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal choice if you enjoy mild winters and hot summers. The city’s economy is diverse, with sectors like finance, healthcare, technology, and tourism playing significant roles, and it offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas in the U.S. This affordability can be an attractive option for those looking to save money.

Tampa has seen job growth in various industries, making it a positive destination for employment opportunities. Moreover, the city is known for its cultural diversity and welcoming atmosphere, with a blend of different cultures reflected in its food, festivals, and neighborhoods. Tampa also offers a mix of public and private schools, along with higher education institutions like the University of South Florida and the University of Tampa.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Tampa provides a range of options, including beautiful beaches, parks, and water-based activities. Sports enthusiasts can also appreciate Tampa’s professional teams, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL), Tampa Bay Rays (MLB), and Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL). The city boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene, along with a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.

However, it’s essential to consider some potential drawbacks, such as traffic congestion in parts of the city and the risk of hurricanes due to its location in a hurricane-prone region. While public transportation options are available, they may not be as extensive as in some larger cities. Ultimately, Tampa offers a mix of urban and outdoor experiences, a diverse culture, and a range of job opportunities. Still, it’s crucial to research and visit the area to determine if it aligns with your individual needs and lifestyle preferences before deciding to relocate.

Final thoughts

Tampa is a fun, animated city with indisputable charm. After examining its perks and pitfalls, you might be able to envision your place in it–or perhaps your heart is leading you somewhere else. Either way, along the coast it will remain, ringing with possibility. 

If you can handle a few small obstacles to living in Tampa, then the pros will definitely outweigh the cons. Don’t forget to find your apartment before you move there so you’ll be ready to head straight to the festivals.