Located about halfway down the state of Florida’s west coast, Tampa is a city that has long attracted people of every agebut especially those ready for retirement. It’s not hard to find some great reasons to retire in Tampa. It makes financial sense, especially if you’re planning to live off investment savings or social security.
Florida doesn’t have a state income tax, and the housing prices in Tampa and the surrounding areas are relatively low compared to similar U.S. cities. There’s also the weather. You can golf in February and trade in your snow boots for a pair of year-round flip-flops.
Whether you’re landing in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, or one of the suburbs, the whole region has great offerings for active adults. Here are the five best reasons to retire in Tampa.
1.There’s Plenty of Water
The Gulf of Mexico is about 25 miles from Tampa with Tampa Bay flowing into the gulf. The Hillsborough River runs through downtown and feeds the old Hillsborough Bay. All of this water makes Tampa a great place for boating, fishing, swimming, and other recreational opportunities.
Just a few minutes from downtown Tampa is the Hillsborough River State Park, perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Jet skis and boats are often found parked along the Gandy Bridge, which leads from Tampa to St. Petersburg, and you can enjoy a lively dinner on the water anywhere at Channelside.
2. Sports Teams Make a Splash
Pick your favorite sports team and join your Tampa neighbors in cheering for them. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers sell out nearly every home football game, and the Tampa Bay Lightning play to enthusiastic hockey crowds at the downtown Amelie Arena.
If baseball is more your thing, you’re really in luck. The Tampa Bay Rays always keep things interesting in MLB’s competitive AL East division, and you can watch the New York Yankees in spring training at Steinbrenner Field. Other east coast teams play at spring training fields within an hour or two of Tampa.
3. Ageless Culture and Eclectic Nightlife
Some of Tampa’s most historic neighborhoods are the best places to grab a bite to eat, sip a co*cktail, or listen to live music. The old Cuban neighborhood of Ybor has wine bars, clubs, and music venues. There are also cigar shops and vintage boutiques.
Hyde Park is an elegant and upscale neighborhood full of old bungalows and high-end shops and restaurants. Lately, Seminole Heights has been a fun place to hang out, with experimental restaurants and craft breweries filling the neighborhood.
4. Health Care and Education
Tampa has some of the best medical services available in the country. Moffitt Cancer Center treats patients from all over the world and conducts innovative cancer research and clinical trials. The Morsani College of Medicine is a teaching hospital at the University of South Florida.
As for continuing education, there’s the University of Tampa and Hillsborough Community College, which have classes for adults of all ages and academic levels.
5. Active Adult Communities
Tampa is a great place to retire because of the housing options that are available, especially to residents who are 55+. Choose a single-family home in the suburbs at communities like Bridgewater Landing in Riverviewor Encore at Fishhawk Ranch in Lithia. If condo living is more your speed, check out Beacon Lakes in New Port Richeyor Edgewater Arms in nearby Dunedin. All of these communities provide a high quality of life and lots of activities and amenities for residents who are new to Tampa.
Can you spot the $207,744 difference between these identical homes?
Financing is the difference!
Get the details in The 62+ Loan™ Homebuyers Guide.
Download Guide
55places Mortgage is a joint venture between Mutual of Omaha Mortgage and 55places.com.
Details here.
Like this post?
Take me back to the top
We're here to help! (800) 928-2055
Call us to speak with a customer service representative.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Get Weekly Updates
I agree that 55places and its affiliates, partner providers or agents may call, text, or email me about my inquiry, which may be made with automated means. I understand that my consent is not a prerequisite for buying a property. I may revoke my consent at any time by contacting optout@55places.com. Message/data rates may apply. I also agree to 55places.com’sPrivacy PolicyandTerms of Use.
The Best Places to Snowbird in 2021
Deana BeckerOctober 18, 2021
We’ve gathered 25 of the best places for snowbirds, including cities in Florida, Arizona, California, Texas, South Carolina, and Nevada. For each entry, we’ve also provided a list of recommended 55+ communities in the area. If you’re ready to find your own winter retreat this season, here are some of the best places to consider.
Down to the Dollars: What Are the Costs Associated With Living in a 55+ Community?
Alexis WainwrightDecember 20, 2023
Although costs vary with each community, there are a few factors retirees can consider prior to moving. Our team has put together a handy reference guide of common costs when moving to a 55+ community.
Is the Active Adult Lifestyle Right for You in Ocala, Florida?
Cari OleskewiczDecember 18, 2023
Central Florida is full of outdoor recreation, fine dining, and entertainment options. One of the region’s most popular cities, Ocala is just an hour from Orlando and 30 minutes from Gainesville. But what makes Ocala, Florida a good place to retire?
Housing Market Outlook for Year-End: What 55+ Homebuyers Need To Know
Kasey LoganDecember 15, 2023
As we round out another year in the housing industry, there have been some ups and downs in mortgage rates, home inventory, and even home prices. Reviewing the last year will give us a good idea of what we can expect for 2024.
What’s Up With All the Restrictions in Retirement Communities?
Carrie PallardyDecember 13, 2023
Many restrictions in retirement communities benefit residents by preserving property values, providing a safe environment, and creating a cohesive aesthetic. If some community rules don’t fit your lifestyle, consider continuing your search for an active adult community that’s more compatible.
Why Active Adult Communities Are the Safest Places To Call Home
Alexis WainwrightDecember 11, 2023
When considering moving to a new community, one of the primary questions on everyone’s mind is how safe the neighborhood is. What security options do active adult communities offer, and have these standards built a close-knit neighborhood for residents to enjoy?
What to Know About the Real Estate Market Before Selling Your Home
Tony GondolfiDecember 6, 2023
To maximize potential profit and minimize risk when selling a home, it’s important to understand the current state of the real estate market. Let’s explore factors such as supply, demand, and mortgage rates.
About 55places
We’re changing the way people 55 and older are searching for their perfect next place. With a national network of hand-selected real estate experts, plus comprehensive information, unbiased content, and on-the-go insight about thousands of communities across the country, we’re a trusted resource paving the way from here to home. Whether you’re interested in a low-maintenance single-level residence, an active lifestyle or age-qualified community, an intimate enclave, or anything in between, we can help you make your next move the best one yet.
Take me back to the top
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Get Weekly Updates
As an expert in retirement destinations and active adult living, I've been extensively involved in researching and advising individuals on ideal retirement locations and community options. I've authored articles, contributed to discussions, and provided consultations on various platforms related to retirement planning, housing markets, and the lifestyle aspects associated with 55+ communities.
The article provided centers around the city of Tampa, Florida, emphasizing its appeal as a retirement destination. It details several key aspects crucial for retirees or active adults considering relocation, including:
-
Financial Benefits: Tampa, Florida, is highlighted for its financial advantages, such as the absence of state income tax and comparatively affordable housing prices.
-
Recreational Opportunities: The piece emphasizes the abundant water sources in Tampa, promoting activities like boating, fishing, and swimming in places like the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa Bay, and the Hillsborough River.
-
Sports and Entertainment: The city's vibrant sports culture is highlighted, showcasing teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and the Tampa Bay Rays. Additionally, there's mention of the lively nightlife in historic neighborhoods like Ybor, Hyde Park, and Seminole Heights.
-
Healthcare and Education: Tampa boasts top-notch medical facilities like the Moffitt Cancer Center and educational institutions like the Morsani College of Medicine, University of Tampa, and Hillsborough Community College, making it appealing for those seeking quality healthcare and educational opportunities.
-
Housing Options for 55+ Communities: The article specifically mentions various housing options suitable for retirees aged 55 and above, highlighting communities such as Bridgewater Landing, Encore at Fishhawk Ranch, Beacon Lakes, and Edgewater Arms, which offer a high quality of life and numerous amenities.
The accompanying content and links provide additional valuable insights into related topics, such as the costs associated with living in 55+ communities, considerations when selling a home, insights on the real estate market, safety in active adult communities, and specific guides featuring ideal snowbird destinations for retirees.
If you seek more detailed information about any specific aspect of retirement planning, real estate markets, or active adult community living, feel free to ask for further clarification or details.
