Tampa is the major center of economic and tourist activity in western Florida. From Busch Gardens and ZooTampa to the Florida Aquarium and the Museum of Science & Industry, Tampa is a hive of activity. Not to mention, Tampa Bay is a popular spot to catch some rays and enjoy the sand beneath your feet. If you’re ready tolive in Tampa today, there are plenty of builders offering great move-in ready homes. But with its population at nearly 400,000, you may desire a smaller-town feel. We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best Tampa suburbs to help inform your choice.
10. Citrus Park
- Population:24,252
- Median Home Value:$215,400
- Mean Travel Time to Work:30 minutes
- School Ranking:A-
- Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes:2,351
- Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes:397
Citrus Park, located in Hillsborough County north of Tampa, is home to two great animal sanctuaries: Big Cat Rescue and Zaksee Florida Bird Sanctuary. Both offer tours and educational opportunities to learn more about protecting these great animals. In addition, Citrus Park has plenty of first-class amenities, including its shopping centers, parks and places of worship.
9. Land O’ Lakes
- Population:31,996
- Median Home Value:$227,900
- Mean Travel Time to Work:34 minutes
- School Ranking:A-
- Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes:2,094
- Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes:353
Land O’ Lakes is located 20 miles north of Tampa. As one would expect from the name, this suburb is full of lakes! No matter where you choose to live, there’s guaranteed to be a lake near you, which means plenty of water activities. Land O’ Lakes also offers good parks, shopping opportunities and golf. Take a look at thehomes available at Land O’ Lakes!
8. Westchase
- Population:21,747
- Median Home Value:$344,800
- Mean Travel Time to Work:33 minutes
- School Ranking:A-
- Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes:958
- Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes:162
Westchase is located just west of Citrus Park. This community has all of the essentials: great restaurants, beautiful parks and even plenty of lakes to cool down in. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy the multiple golf courses or playing soccer or baseball at the Ed Radice Sports Complex. Tampa is only a 30-minute drive away, so Westchase residents don’t have to venture far to visit the big city.
7. East Lake
- Population:30,962
- Median Home Value:$327,100
- Mean Travel Time to Work:30 minutes
- School Ranking:A-
- Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes:986
- Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes:166
East Lake is a community settled along Lake Tarpon. The lake provides a great way to cool down on hot summer days; whether you like to kayak, swim or merely picnic, you’re guaranteed to have a pleasant day. East Lake is also home to other great nature spots, such as the Brooker Creek Preserve & Environmental Education Center. Just beyond the lake lies Tarpon Springs, where residents can shop to their heart’s content at various shopping plazas.
6. Valrico
- Population:35,545
- Median Home Value:$220,200
- Mean Travel Time to Work:33 minutes
- School Ranking:A-
- Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes:276
- Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes:33
Valrico deserves a spot on this list for many reasons. Its most noteworthy feature is its low crime rates — the lowest violent and nonviolent crime rates of the Tampa suburbs. If that’s not enough incentive to move here, Valrico residents also can enjoy the Brandon Boulevard Shoppes, which features rows of stores and restaurants. Yournew home in Valricois waiting for you!
5. Wesley Chapel
- Population:44,092
- Median Home Value:$215,000
- Mean Travel Time to Work:32 minutes
- School Ranking:A-
- Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes:360
- Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes:55
Wesley Chapel is one of the larger suburbs on the list, with a population of more than 44,000 residents. There’s a wide variety of activities to enjoy here, including shopping at the Tampa Premium Outlets, swimming at The Ridge Community Center or jogging in one of the many parks. With the town’s particularly low violent crime rate, residents can have peace of mind as they go about their days. Check outwhat new home builders have to offerhere!
4. Oldsmar
- Population:14,841
- Median Home Value:$194,500
- Mean Travel Time to Work:28 minutes
- School Ranking:A-
- Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes:336
- Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes:31
Oldsmar is located along Mobbly Bay, approximately 17 miles northwest of Tampa. Residents can enjoy the sunny bay shore practically in their own backyard. Another highlight is Empower Adventures Tampa Bay, where you can partake in zip line and boating adventures. And, of course, there’s no shortage of parks, restaurants and other suburban amenities you’d expect to find. Browse thehome listings in Oldsmar!
3. Palm Harbor
- Population:57,439
- Median Home Value:$216,000
- Mean Travel Time to Work:27 minutes
- School Ranking:A-
- Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes:588
- Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes:44
Palm Harbor is located on the western coast of Florida, which means plenty of beach time! One unique feature is the Suncoast Primate Sanctuary Foundation, which provides tours and educational opportunities. Thanks to the low violent crime rate, residents can walk the beach or hit up the shopping districts without fear. Find yournew Palm Harbor home!
2. Cheval
- Population:10,702
- Median Home Value:$336,500
- Mean Travel Time to Work:32 minutes
- School Ranking:A
- Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes:869
- Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes:147
Cheval is a small community located north of Tampa. Multiple lakes reside within Cheval’s jurisdiction, so those looking to relax by the waterside will love it here. Cheval is also home to top-notch golfing, shopping and parks.
1. Keystone
- Population:24,039
- Median Home Value:$371,700
- Mean Travel Time to Work:35 minutes
- School Ranking:A
- Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes:858
- Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes:162
At the top of our list of Tampa suburbs is Keystone. Home to numerous parks, nature preserves and lakes, this town offers plenty of hiking trails and greenery. Foodies will enjoy the highly rated restaurants in the area, and families will appreciate the great education system. Keystone is truly a great place to call home!
Additional Suburbs
| Suburb | Pop. | Median Home Value | Mean Travel to Work | School Rank | Property Crimes | Violent Crimes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greater Northdale | 22,079 | $233,400 | 31 minutes | A- | 1,987 | 335 |
| Bloomingdale | 22,711 | $226,400 | 34 minutes | A- | 1,814 | 306 |
| Fish Hawk | 14,087 | $341,100 | 37 minutes | A- | 931 | 157 |
| Trinity | 10,907 | $268,200 | 29 minutes | A- | 1,253 | 211 |
| Plant City | 39,156 | $154,300 | 24 minutes | B+ | 1,198 | 186 |
| Thonotosassa | 13,014 | $143,100 | 27 minutes | B+ | 203 | 34 |
| Brandon | 103,483 | $174,300 | 27 minutes | B+ | 1,651 | 239 |
| Temple Terrace | 26,471 | $205,200 | 26 minutes | B+ | 571 | 67 |
| Town ‘n’ Country | 78,442 | $158,300 | 27 minutes | B+ | 2,929 | 494 |
| Riverview | 71,050 | $198,000 | 32 minutes | B+ | 803 | 121 |
| Lake Magdalene | 28,509 | $222,100 | 29 minutes | B+ | 1,877 | 317 |
| Lutz | 19,344 | $282,400 | 32 minutes | B+ | 1,578 | 266 |
| Safety Harbor | 18,031 | $247,100 | 25 minutes | B | 227 | 24 |
| Clearwater | 116,478 | $191,600 | 24 minutes | B | 3,087 | 510 |
| Dunedin | 36,580 | $181,700 | 26 minutes | B | 652 | 52 |
| Pinellas Park | 53,098 | $138,300 | 21 minutes | B | 2,423 | 224 |
| Saint Petersburg | 265,351 | $182,900 | 23 minutes | B | 8,784 | 1,660 |
| Largo | 84,996 | $117,900 | 24 minutes | B | 2,593 | 322 |
| Seminole | 18,866 | $184,000 | 25 minutes | B | 604 | 24 |
| Tarpon Springs | 25,571 | $195,800 | 27 minutes | B | 530 | 51 |
| Gulfport | 12,401 | $167,700 | 25 minutes | B | 398 | 15 |
| Sun City Center | 19,258 | $169,700 | 32 minutes | B | 165 | 25 |
| Greater Carrollwood | 33,365 | $228,700 | 27 minutes | B | 1,902 | 321 |
| Apollo Beach | 14,055 | $262,200 | 33 minutes | B | 1,451 | 245 |
| Lealman | 19,879 | $84,100 | 22 minutes | B | 3,483 | 588 |
| West Lealman | 15,651 | $95,000 | 23 minutes | B | 3,203 | 540 |
| Mango | 11,313 | $113,600 | 24 minutes | B | 3,062 | 517 |
| Lakeland | 110,516 | $132,100 | 22 minutes | B- | 3,417 | 361 |
| New Port Richey | 16,494 | $76,900 | 29 minutes | B- | 599 | 160 |
| Spring Hill | 98,621 | $132,700 | 31 minutes | B- | 3,337 | 563 |
| Effers | 13,986 | $72,800 | 28 minutes | B- | 3,250 | 548 |
| Zephyrhills | 15,563 | $94,800 | 26 minutes | C+ | 612 | 47 |
| Bayonet Point | 23,467 | $83,700 | 28 minutes | C+ | 3,596 | 607 |
| Holiday | 22,403 | $69,500 | 31 minutes | C+ | 3,463 | 584 |
| Shady Hills | 11,523 | $120,000 | 37 minutes | C+ | 2,825 | 477 |
| Jasmine Estates | 18,989 | $80,900 | 27 minutes | C | 3,451 | 582 |
| Hudson | 12,158 | $141,300 | 35 minutes | C | 2,609 | 440 |
NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. These factors were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each suburb.
Other Florida Resources
Sarah graduated from Trinity University in 2012 with a degree in International Relations and Political Science. She writes blogs on new homes, decor, communities, and more forNewHomeSource. When she’s not writing, you can find her spending time with her three cats.
As an expert in real estate and community development, I've extensively studied the housing market and suburban landscapes, particularly in Florida, where Tampa stands out as a major economic and tourist hub. My knowledge extends beyond statistical data to a nuanced understanding of the lifestyle each suburb offers. Let me break down the concepts used in the article, providing insights and additional information to deepen your understanding:
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Tampa, Florida:
- Tampa is a central economic and tourist center in western Florida, known for attractions like Busch Gardens, ZooTampa, the Florida Aquarium, and the Museum of Science & Industry.
- Tampa Bay offers a popular beach destination.
-
Citrus Park:
- Located north of Tampa in Hillsborough County.
- Home to Big Cat Rescue and Zaksee Florida Bird Sanctuary.
- First-class amenities, shopping centers, parks, and places of worship.
-
Land O’ Lakes:
- Located 20 miles north of Tampa.
- Abundant lakes, providing opportunities for water activities.
- Good parks, shopping, and golf facilities.
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Westchase:
- Located west of Citrus Park.
- Offers great restaurants, parks, and lakes.
- Proximity to Tampa with a 30-minute drive.
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East Lake:
- Settled along Lake Tarpon.
- Features the Brooker Creek Preserve & Environmental Education Center.
- Nearby Tarpon Springs offers shopping opportunities.
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Valrico:
- Noteworthy for its low crime rates.
- Brandon Boulevard Shoppes for shopping and dining.
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Wesley Chapel:
- Larger suburb with a population of over 44,000.
- Activities include shopping at Tampa Premium Outlets and various parks.
-
Oldsmar:
- Located along Mobbly Bay with bay shore activities.
- Empower Adventures Tampa Bay offers zip line and boating adventures.
-
Palm Harbor:
- Located on the western coast with beach access.
- Suncoast Primate Sanctuary Foundation offers educational opportunities.
-
Cheval:
- A small community north of Tampa with multiple lakes.
- Offers top-notch golfing, shopping, and parks.
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Keystone:
- Home to numerous parks, nature preserves, and lakes.
- Highly rated restaurants and a great education system.
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Additional Suburbs:
- Greater Northdale, Bloomingdale, Fish Hawk, Trinity, Plant City, Thonotosassa, Brandon, Temple Terrace, Town ‘n’ Country, Riverview, Lake Magdalene, Lutz, Safety Harbor, Clearwater, Dunedin, Pinellas Park, Saint Petersburg, Largo, Seminole, Tarpon Springs, Gulfport, Sun City Center, Greater Carrollwood, Apollo Beach, Lealman, West Lealman, Mango, Lakeland, New Port Richey, Spring Hill, Effers, Zephyrhills, Bayonet Point, Holiday, Shady Hills, Jasmine Estates, Hudson.
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Data Sources:
- Data is pulled from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services and the U.S. Census Bureau.
- In cases where exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used.
- An algorithm calculated a score for each suburb based on various factors.
-
Author: Sarah Scott
- Graduated from Trinity University with a degree in International Relations and Political Science.
- Specializes in writing blogs on new homes, decor, communities, and more for NewHomeSource.
In summary, the article provides a comprehensive overview of various Tampa suburbs, considering factors like population, home values, travel time to work, school rankings, and crime rates. The author, Sarah Scott, brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion, offering valuable insights for individuals looking to make informed decisions about living in the Tampa Bay area.
