5 Desirable Towns Near Tampa You Will Want to Relocate to in 2024

Updated on February 28, 2024: This story was originally published on February 22, 2021, and has been updated with new information.

If you are looking to relocate to a new neighborhood near Tampa, you are not alone.

According to Moving.com, long-distance moves are on the rise with more people choosing to relocate to a different state or a different county within the same state - and, Tampa is a top destination, with one of the hottest housing markets in the nation.

It’s no surprise that Greater Tampa real estate is in such high demand when you consider:

• Tampa Homes Cost 29% Less Than Miami Homes: More affordable housing compared to other coastal Florida cities like Miami.
• Major Job Growth: As the 19th fastest-growing city in the U.S., Tampa offers a healthy job market and businesses stimulate the local economy.
• Snowbirds Opt for Lower Taxes & High Temperatures: Warmer winter weather combined with lower state taxes offer a recipe for success in this beloved Florida city.

It's not only the city of Tampa that's growing - several Tampa suburbs are on homebuyers’ radars, with many people desiring to live outside of the hustle and bustle of a busy downtown area. 

Here are 5 hidden gems near Tampa, Florida that will check off all the boxes on your home buying list.  

1. Lakeland 

Lakeland sits just east of the Tampa-St. Petersburg Metropolitan Area. With its unique Old Florida history, a strong sense of community, and a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy, Lakeland is considered a hidden gem in the Greater Tampa Bay area. 

New homes in Lakeland are extremely desirable, with the city ranking as the #4 fastest-growing place in the U.S. For many, this is because Lakeland offers a "right-sized" city - neither too big nor too small - as well as offering:

• A central location on the I-4 corridor, for less than an hour's commute to Downtown Tampa and just a hair longer to Orlando and its famed attractions;
• A hotspot for new businesses and job growth;
• A lower cost of living than nearby Tampa or Orlando.

In fact, the median sale price of new homes in Lakeland, FL is $305,000, as of January 2024.

Outdoor Activities in Lakeland, FL

If one of your favorite pastimes is to enjoy nature, then you will love to hear what we have to say about this exciting little city! 

Lakeland is spread out over 75.16 square miles and is surrounded by, hence the city’s name. Take a hike around Lake Parker Park and Circle B Bar Reserve, go boating on Lake Hollingsworth or stroll the path circling the lake, or check out Lakeland's newest park, Bonnet Springs Park, which has been called the Central Park of Florida.

With tons of local landmarks to discover, you will always have something to do in Lakeland. 

Best Neighborhoods in Lakeland

If you are searching for the perfect new construction home in Lakeland, check out these new homes for sale in the Lakeland area. 

Local fun fact: Lakeland is the corporate home to Publix, Florida’s leading grocery supermarket chain!

2. Clearwater 

Picture this: tropical palm trees sway in the wind as the refreshing smell of sea salt and the gentle sounds of ocean waves lapping against pure white sand fills the air. This delicious daydream can become an everyday reality if you choose to relocate to Clearwater, FL. 

What to Do in Clearwater

Located right on the Gulf Coast of Florida and 23 miles from Downtown Tampa, this attractive beach-side town is filled to the brim with exciting activities.

Sip cocktails and dine on local cuisine on the Calypso Queen Tropical Party Cruise or sign up for a Dolphin Adventure at Clearwater Beach. 

Prefer to stay on solid ground? Visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium or go shopping at the Westfield Countryside Mall.  

Popular Neighborhoods in Clearwater

As you can see, there is plenty of fun to go around all year long in Clearwater! So, what are the best places to live in Clearwater?

Favorite neighborhoods in Clearwater include:

• Island Estates
• Greenbriar
• Del Oro Groves
• Northwood Estates
• Feather Sound

Local fun fact: Clearwater’s beaches are ranked as some of the most beautiful in all of the United States

3. Riverview

Located just a hop, skip, and jump from the city of Tampa, Riverview is a sought-after suburb boasting highly-rated schools, abundant parks and recreation, and easy access to highways, beaches, and nightlife.

How close is Riverview to Tampa? Riverview is a quick 10-mile drive from Tampa's city limits, about 19 miles from Downtown Tampa, and 27 from the Tampa International Airport. In other words, your family can enjoy all the wonderful restaurants, entertainment, shopping, and amenities of the big city, while benefitting from more laid-back, suburban surroundings.

Local Riverview Hotspots

Riverview is named for its location on the Alafia River, a popular destination for boating, kayaking, and enjoying riverside parks. Here, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get outside and commune with nature at destinations including the Rhodine Scrub Preserve and Nature Trails, the Bell Creek Nature Preserve, and the Alafia Scrub Nature Preserve.

You don't have to stray far for date night; Riverview is home to local favorites such as Tiki Docks River Bar & Grill, The Talking Pint Bar & Bistro, and Leaven Brewing, Riverview’s first brewery. 

For a unique attraction, visit the Showmen's Museum, preserving the history of the American carnival.

Where to Live in Riverview

A great neighborhood in Riverview is Ridgewood. This peaceful neighborhood offers resort-style amenities, beautiful new construction homes in Riverview, FL, and stunning nature views. Another awesome place to hunt for the perfect home is around the Alafia River. 

Local fun fact: Riverview is said to be one of Florida’s oldest settlements and was originally situated next to the Alafia River. 

4. Zephyrhills

Another Tampa suburb offering a competitive market and a growing number of new construction homes is. Zephyrhills, FL. Here’s why. 

Why Zephyrhills is a Diamond in the Rough

Just 25 miles from Tampa, Zephyrhills is a small suburb with an estimated population of about 20,000 people. But don’t let this little town’s size fool you! 

Zephyrhills offers affordable home pricing and is way less crowded than the nearby city. It's peppered with lush trees, sparkling water, and outdoor recreation. Plus, the commute to Tampa is so quick that it is easy to work in the city and enjoy the small-town vibes of Zephyrhills at the same time. 

Best New Homes in Zephyrhills, FL

Some of the most desirable new construction homes in Zephyrhills, FL are located in Stonebridge at Chapel Creek. Situated amongst towering trees, sparkling ponds, and natural conservation, these waterfront homes offer a relaxing retreat. If you have children and pets, this residential neighborhood is a great choice because it offers amenities for the whole household, including Fido:

• Playground
• Dog park
• Swimming pool
• Cabana
• Open play areas
• Nature trails
• Fitness trail

Along with these amenities, this popular suburban neighborhood is also close to Zephyr Park & WaterPlay and Krusen Park.    

Local fun fact: The popular water brand, Zephyrhills Bottled Water, is sourced from a local freshwater spring in Zephyrhills, Florida. 

5. Plant City

Last but not least, new homes in Plant City, FL are a great investment near Tampa! Located about 15 miles east of Tampa, this quaint Florida hometown is known as the winter strawberry capital of the world and holds onto its heritage with the theme of “Embracing the Future, While Preserving the Past.” 

With many farms dotting the area, you'll find Plant City to offer a peaceful retreat while still providing access to grocery stores and daily necessities, employment opportunities, and entertainment.

The Convenience of Living in Plant City, FL

Plant City is located on the I-4 corridor, Central Florida's main east-west artery. With access to the Interstate and State Highways 92 and 60, you can easily commute to Lakeland (9 miles), Brandon (10 miles), and Tampa (15 miles).

Historic Downtown Plant City is home to local restaurants, antique shopping, and events including a monthly car show. And, let's not forget the Florida Strawberry Festival, an annual, 11-day event with headlining entertainment, a carnival midway, and let's not forget delicious, ruby-red, local-grown strawberries.

Affordable Real Estate in Plant City, FL

Plant City offers you an amazing opportunity. Despite the proximity to the city of Tampa, you can expect to pay far less for a new home in Plant City. And, according to Redfin, prices here have increased 7.8% year over year, meaning your real estate investment is likely to increase in value.

One of the best values is new townhomes for sale in Plant City at Terrace at Walden Lake. Prices here start under $300,000 and these townhomes offer layouts with 1,700+ square feet of living space, a garage, a private covered lanai, and luxurious finishes all included in the price.

Relocate to the Greater Tampa Area with Highland Homes

With so many people relocating to Tampa in 2024, competition for homes is high. As demand continues to rise, inventory remains low and homebuyers need guidance navigating the market. 

Here’s the great news: You can beat the low inventory crunch and build your own new construction home in one of these amazing towns with Highland Homes. 

Not only are new construction homes a fantastic investment for the future and save you countless maintenance costs, but they also provide you with options so you can buy a home without compromise. 

Whether you want a low-maintenance townhome in Plant City, FL, or to build your personalized dream home in Zephyrhills, we’ll help you find the right community and home plan of your dreams, and guide you through every step of the process. Contact us to learn more!