5 Desirable Towns Near Tampa You Will Want to Relocate to in 2025

Updated on March 27, 2025: This story was originally published on February 22, 2021, and has been updated with new information.

If you are looking to relocate to the Tampa area, you are in good company - According to a recent survey, 35% of Americans desire to move in 2025, with 1 in 4 planning to move to a new state. Florida is the #1 state people would like to move to and the Tampa area, in particular, is a top relocation destination in Florida.

Just what makes Greater Tampa real estate so hot?

• Job Market: As the 13th fastest-growing city in the U.S., Tampa offers a healthy job market with a low unemployment rate and businesses that stimulate the local economy.
• Low Taxes: Florida has no state income tax, and sales tax in Tampa is lower than the national average.
• Tampa Homes Cost 28% Less Than Miami Homes: Tampa offers more affordable housing compared to other coastal Florida cities like Miami.

When we talk about Tampa, it's not only the city that's growing - the majority of people planning to move in 2025 are seeking locations outside of the hustle and bustle of a busy downtown area, meaning Tampa suburbs are hot! Here are 5 desirable towns near Tampa that you'll want to consider for your new home in Florida.

1. Lakeland 

Lakeland sits to the east of the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater Metropolitan Area. With its unique Old Florida history, a strong sense of community, and an array of outdoor activities, new homes in Lakeland are highly desirable, with the city ranking as the #18 fastest-growing place in the U.S.

For many, this is because Lakeland offers a "right-sized" city - neither too big nor too small - and Lakeland also offers several big benefits for homebuyers:

• A central location on the I-4 corridor, which means 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, with both major companies and entrepreneurial start-ups calling Lakeland home;
• A lower cost of living than nearby Tampa or Orlando.

Just how much cheaper is Lakeland than Tampa? The median sale price of homes in Lakeland is $335,000 as of February 2025, which is about 21% cheaper than Tampa.

Activities in Lakeland, Florida

Lakeland is spread out over approximately 75 square miles and is filled with parks and lakes, hence the city’s name. In other words, if you love nature, you are going to love living in Lakeland!

Take a hike around Lake Parker Park or 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 and is currently in the running to be named the best city park in the USA.

That's far from all Lakeland has to offer. Lakeland is full of historic charm and is known for its historic downtown and Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. Plus, Lakeland offers modern amenities with diverse restaurants and food halls, entertainment venues, and community events, ensuring there is always something to do in this small city.

Where to Live in Lakeland

Lakeland has three distinct areas: Central or Downtown Lakeland, comprised of the area around the Downtown and Dixieland neighborhoods; North Lakeland, generally identified as the region north of I-4; and South Lakeland, or the area south of Downtown, or roughly south of Memorial Boulevard.

In addition, Lakeland has several smaller suburbs surrounding it, such as Mulberry, Bartow, and Auburndale. Each of these areas of Lakeland has unique characteristics so where to live in Lakeland depends on your personal preferences. Learn more about each of these areas and neighborhoods by checking out our new construction homes in Lakeland-Winter Haven. 

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

2. Ruskin

About 20 miles south of Tampa, nestled adjacent to the Little Manatee River and waters of Tampa Bay, the bedroom community of Ruskin, part of Tampa’s SouthShore district, offers a charming small-town location and laid-back, nature-inspired setting.

Things to Do Near Ruskin

Ruskin offers plenty to do, with family-owned restaurants, annual festivals, and access to beaches and watersports:

• Explore the Ruskin Seafood & Arts Festival, the largest outdoor festival in Hillsborough County, with delicious seafood, amazing artists, and live musical entertainment;
• Take in a flick at the Ruskin Family Drive-In, known as the “last 50’s family drive-in” in the USA;
• Enjoy unforgettable waterside dining, sunsets, and activities ranging from kayaking on the Little Manatee River to sunset cruises on Tampa Bay and deepwater fishing excursions in the Gulf;
• The Southshore Bay Lagoon, located just east of Ruskin in Wimauma, is a unique inland oasis of sun, sand, and water with a tropical beach, swim-up bar, shaded cabanas, and water sports activities.

Best Neighborhoods in Ruskin

According to Nextdoor, the best neighborhoods in Ruskin are Mira Lago West, Belmont, and College Ave/Shell Point West. In addition, areas to the east of Ruskin, such as new homes in Wimauma, FL, are considered by many to be even more desirable thanks to a better selection of homes, higher real estate values, and increased safety due to being further inland and, therefore, outside of hurricane evacuation zones.

Local fun fact: The city of Ruskin was named for John Ruskin, an English writer, philosopher, and utopian.

3. Riverview

Riverview is another sought-after suburb to the south of Tampa, 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, 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, which preserves 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

25 miles north of Tampa, the small city of Zephyrhills is not as well known as its neighbor, Wesley Chapel, the #1 suburb in Tampa. And this is just one of the reasons we think the smaller, quieter Zephyrhills is one of Tampa's best-kept secrets.

Why Zephyrhills is a Diamond in the Rough

Zephyrhills offers a rural-suburban setting with rolling green hills, lush trees and groves, and sparkling waters. It's less crowded than the nearby city, and in these laid-back surroundings, you'll find peaceful neighborhoods with beautiful homes at affordable prices - The median sales price in Zephyrhills is $337.5K, compared to $426.5K in neighboring Wesley Chapel and $424K in Tampa.

Zephrhyills is an eclectic community with unique activities:

• Zephyrhills is a destination for skydiving, with thrill-seekers from all around the world visiting the famous Z-Hills Skydive City;
• The Upper Hillsborough Preserve hosts 14 miles of trails through pine flatwoods abounding with wildlife; 
• WaterPlay at Zephyr Park is a free water park and splashpad operated seasonally by the City of Zephyrhills;
• Zephyrhills' Main Street offers local shops and eateries, and this small city is even home to a distillery and a brewery.

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 best new homes in Zephyrhills are located in Stonebridge at Chapel Creek. This beautiful, nature-inspired community offers new construction homes situated amongst towering trees, sparkling ponds, and natural conservation, with waterfront homes and resort-style amenities providing entertainment and recreation for everyone in your household:

• Zero-entry pool
• Cabana
• Playground
• Open play area
• Dog park
• Nature trail
• Fitness trail

While the current phase in this popular neighborhood is nearly sold out, a new phase is in development and expected to be announced in the Spring of 2025.

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, real estate in Plant City, FL, is a great investment! 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 that Plant City offers 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 festival with headlining entertainment, a carnival midway, and 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, with the median home price here at $350K. Plus, prices here have increased 2.4% 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. These townhomes are priced under $300,000 and offer an amazing value 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 2025, competition for homes is high. As demand stays strong, inventory remains low, and homebuyers need guidance navigating the Tampa real estate 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 Tampa suburbs 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 Lakeland, Zephyrhills, or Wimauma, we’ll help you find the right community and new home of your dreams, and guide you through every step of the process. Contact us to learn more!