Moving to Tampa Bay? Overview of the Tampa, St. Pete, Clearwater Florida areas
Florida’s Suncoast is where you’ll find the quaint waterfront communities of Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg. It is not unusual for this trio of pristine coastal real estate to be referred to as one area. In fact, the combination of these municipalities, and their proximity to the bay, is more commonly known as: “The Tampa Bay Area.”
The Tampa – St. Pete – Clearwater trio of treasures share having award-winning gemstones like sand, world-class beaches, and plenty of water-related recreational activities. But each city also has its own eclectic flavor that is reflected in the various neighborhoods that exist in these towns, and also through the vibrant residents that live there.
Tampa, as mentioned above, is located near the western coast of Florida. The city of Tampa is located in Hillsborough County and is the county seat of Hillsborough County. Tampa is bordered by the waters of Old Tampa Bay and Hillsborough Bay, which converge to form “Tampa Bay”, as it flows into the Gulf of Mexico. Tampa consists of approximately 112 miles of exquisitely beautiful land and 58 miles of the purest water.
Tampa has world famous attractions like: Hyde Park in South Tampa, with luxury shops, theaters and restaurants. The Seminole Gaming Palace – A casino located on the Seminole Indian Reservation. The Tampa Grand Prix – An entertainment complex with two race tracks, an arcade, and two separate 18-hole miniature golf courses. These and other attractions help fuel Tampa’s economy.
Employment in Tampa is primarily in the tourism and service industries, although more and more high-tech companies are moving their headquarters here. New homes can be found in the area starting at around $200,000. Condominiums abound in Tampa and prices are reasonable and negotiable. Tampa has many golf course communities and large luxury home lots as well.
West of Tampa is the city of Clearwater, located in Pinellas County. Clearwater is the county seat of Pinellas County and is made up of 38 miles of land and 12 miles of water. Clearwater is home to two of the best beaches in the country, Clearwater Beach and Sand Key Beach. Clearwater, Florida is steeped in history dating back to the native peoples who inhabited this extraordinarily beautiful peninsula located on the western coast of Florida, and the Spanish explorers who first encountered them in their global explorations.
Employment in Clearwater is bright with many high tech jobs available. The education, health and manufacturing industries also drive the economy of this city. Small condo prices start around $70,000 and small single-family homes start at about $180,000 and can run into the millions for a large beachfront property. The median home price is currently around $250,000. There are many fantastic properties available in Clearwater for first-time homebuyers, those moving from up north, or anyone looking to upgrade their lifestyle. The cost of living is estimated to be 5% less than the national average cost of living.
St. Petersburg, also located in Pinellas County, Florida, is most often known by its shorter nickname: St. Pete. This city has about 59 miles of premium land and about 73 miles of water. The buildings of this city display some of the most spectacular architectural and craftsmanship details to be found anywhere else. The downtown boardwalk not only adds to the charm of this city, but it’s where you can board a boat for a little dolphin-watching on a fun-filled day. Tourism, education, and health care are just a few of the employment opportunities in St. Pete. New homes and condos can be found starting at just over $150,000, depending on the area. There are many luxurious waterfront homes in St. Pete and many retirement areas as well.
The entire Tampa Bay area is well served by world-class air transportation found at Tampa and Clearwater/St. Pete. Railroads, bridges, and highways also serve residents and tourists.
The trio of Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg with their combined pristine coastlines, sandy beaches, and infusion of each city’s unique flavors, creates a treasure chest of gemstones that sparkle beneath Florida’s sun-kissed, semi-tropical skyline. .