Thinking about moving to Tampa? Cigar City is one of the best places to live in the Southeast, thanks to its reasonably affordable housing, quality schools, family-friendly activities, vibrant nightlife, and coastal location in the Tampa Bay area. Here are 14 things to know about living in Tampa!
Tampa at a Glance
- Tampa has a population of over 395,000, making it one of Florida’s most populous cities.
- Located in west-central Florida along the Gulf Coast, Tampa is a 30-minute across the bay to St. Petersburg, a 1.5-hour drive to Orlando, and 3 hours to Jacksonville.
- People of all ages love living in Tampa, with its diverse job market, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of things to do—including activities on the beach—making it a great place to move to!
- Tampa is known for the Historic Ybor City neighborhood—formerly a site for Cuban cigar factories—earning it the nickname Cigar City.
- Home to the Gasparilla Pirate Fest, Tampa has held this locally-beloved festival since 1904. In addition to floats, marching bands, and more, the festival has a fun reenactment of local folklore legend Jose Gaspar and his fellow pirates capturing the city—complete with costumes, ships, and beads.
Enjoy Reasonable Tampa Cost of Living
With amazing year-round weather and proximity to fun in Tampa Bay and weekend getaways in St. Pete’s, it’s no wonder why people love living in Tampa! Just 7% higher than the national average cost of living, Tampa is an affordable Florida city to call home—especially when considering its housing market. While quieter and smaller St. Petersburg offers a higher rate of homeownership at over 62%, livelier Miami’s owner-occupation rate is a much less approachable 30%. This means that Tampa, with a cheaper monthly rent, offers potential buyers a quicker path to ownership than Miami. To cap it off, Tampa’s cooling housing market is ready to turn back into a buyer’s market—putting more affordability and negotiation power into the hands of people moving to or within Tampa—thanks to the overdevelopment of new construction competing with existing and new market options for sale.
A: A livable salary in Tampa will depend on your career, household, location, and lifestyle. A single adult in Tampa, for example, can live on an annual salary of around $49,500. Despite the cost of living being 7% higher than the national average, you can find a variety of affordable neighborhoods without breaking the bank.
Discover Great Jobs in Tampa
Tampa’s economy was historically shaped by cigar manufacturing, earning it the nickname Cigar City. Today, Tampa hosts a variety of industries, including technology, agriculture, healthcare, and finance. With an unemployment rate of 3.8% and income per capita that’s nearly $10,000 higher than both the state and national averages, Tampa is a great place to advance your career. Several Fortune 500 companies have a presence in the area, like Booz Allen Hamilton, Microsoft, and locally-headquartered The Mosaic Company. In addition, Tampa is home to Bloomin’ Brands, a Fortune 1000 network of restaurants, which was named one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity. Those aren’t the only options for jobs in Tampa, though. Residents can also find fantastic opportunities with top area employers like the BayCare Health System, Raymond James, or Suncoast Credit Union—Florida’s largest credit union. And with MacDill Air Force Base located in the southern part of the city, Tampa is a great place for military personnel as well. Not to mention, for those looking to expand their career opportunities, Tampa Bay’s Chamber of Commerce hosts monthly networking events like Coffee Connection, Business Around The Bay, and more to help you gain connections and confidence!
A: Finding a job in Tampa is possible—thanks to its 3.8% unemployment rate and a higher-than-national average income per capita. Plus, there are several Fortune 500 companies in the metro area, like Microsoft, Booz Allen Hamilton, and The Mosaic Company!
Get Quality Education at Tampa Universities
Moving to Tampa to further your education? Tampa has a variety of affordable and accessible higher education options to choose from! Kickstart your career in finance, international business, or criminology and criminal justice at the University of Tampa. Learn about environmental science and policy, public health, or cybersecurity at the University of South Florida‘s Tampa Campus. Pursue a degree in nursing, social work, or psychology at Ana G. Mendez (AGM) University‘s Tampa Bay Campus—an accredited, not-for-profit institution focused on serving Florida’s Hispanic community. Earn your master’s degree in counseling, business administration, or educational leadership online or in-person at National Louis University‘s Tampa Campus. Prepare for a career in law enforcement, veterinary technology, or welding at Hillsborough Community College (HCC), a two-year school with multiple campuses across the Tampa Bay area. Or attend nearby Florida College, where you can choose from degree programs like kinesiology, biblical studies, or American civilization.
A: The best universities in Tampa include a variety of affordable and accessible schools in the metro—including the University of Tampa, Hillsborough Community College (HCC), and AGM University’s Tampa Bay Campus, which is focused on serving Florida’s Hispanic community.
Take Advantage of Tampa Public Transit
Though Tampa is fairly car-dependent and often experiences traffic delays due to busy roads, there are some public transportation options for those who don’t have a car or want to avoid heavy traffic. Hop aboard Tampa’s Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) bus system, which has stops throughout the city and surrounding areas. Make use of ground transportation services to and from the Tampa International Airport, with options like taxis and rideshares to help you navigate downtown. Cruise across Tampa in style with the Pirate Water Taxi, or secure a rental car instantly with Zipcar. Ride the TECO Line Streetcar to explore Downtown Tampa, Ybor City, and the Channel District. Or rent a bike from several bicycle shops in the Tampa area—like Tampa Bay eBikes and City Bike Tampa.
A: Yes, because Tampa has several public transportation options, it’s easy to get around the metro area without a car! Public transportation in Tampa includes Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) buses, Pirate Water Taxi, City Bike Tampa, and Tampa Bay eBikes.
Discover Family Things to Do in Tampa
You’ll find plenty of fun family things to do in Tampa! See animals like the ring-tailed lemur and sun bear, or sign your kids up for Zoo School and summer camps at ZooTampa At Lowry Park. Plan a day trip to Adventure Island, which is full of kid-friendly attractions like Paradise Lagoon, Castaway Falls, and Rambling Bayou. Explore exhibits like Brick Dinos and IDEAZone, or play SciLinx Mini-Golf at the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI). Book tickets to visit habitats like Coral Reef and Moon Bay, or sign your family up for experiences like the Penguin Encounter at The Florida Aquarium. Take your kids to build a fort, learn how money works, practice being a firefighter, or see the World’s Largest Triceratops fossil at Glazer Children’s Museum. Or head to nearby Apollo Beach to immerse yourself in the world of manatees at the Manatee Viewing Center, open November through April.
A: Tampa offers diverse activities for kids, making it a great place for families to vacation or call home! Take your kids to ZooTampa at Lowry Park to see sun bears, explore the Florida Aquarium, or see the World’s Largest Triceratops fossil at the Glazer Children’s Museum.
Enjoy Year-Round Outdoor Activities in Tampa
One of the biggest perks of living in Tampa is the city’s sunny, subtropical climate. With summer highs reaching 90 degrees and winter lows in the 50s, you can enjoy the many outdoor recreation activities the city has to offer all year long. Listen to live music or take your friends to a trivia night at Sparkman Wharf. Sip a craft cocktail, take in the waterfront views, or go on a walk in Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park along the Tampa Riverwalk. Stroll down the 4.5-mile Bayshore Boulevard Greenway, the longest continuous pedestrian walkway in the U.S.—or go biking or running along the nearby Bayshore Linear Park Trail. Go horseback riding, paddling, or glamping at Hillsborough River State Park, just 30 minutes from Downtown Tampa. Head out for a game of sand volleyball, enjoy a family picnic, or walk your dog at Picnic Island Park. Or plan a trip to Busch Gardens to go on thrilling rides like Phoenix Rising, see live shows like Cirque Electric, and explore the 65-acre Serengeti Safari.
A: There’s plenty to do around the Tampa Riverwalk that makes it worth a visit! In addition to the beautiful waterfront views, you can explore Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, and enjoy delicious craft cocktails from a nearby local business.
Have Fun on the Beautiful Tampa Waterfront
You’ll never run out of beaches to go to and fun aquatic activities in and around Tampa! Head to Ben T. Davis Beach to soak up the sun, go for a swim, or bike along the nearby Courtney Campbell Trail—a scenic, 9.5-mile path connecting Tampa and Clearwater. Plan a day trip to Tampa Bay-area beaches like Clearwater Beach to play beach volleyball, set out on a boat tour, or go jet-skiing. Discover why Tampa is one of the best cities for dogs when you take your pup to Davis Island Dog Beach, where your pups can run, play in the sand, and cool off in the water. Spend the day kayaking, canoeing, or biking along the trails at Fort De Soto Park in nearby St. Petersburg. Learn offshore fishing, shark fishing, tarpon fishing, and more at Poseidon Fishing Charters, located about 40 minutes from the city. Or pack a lunch and rent an eboat from eBoats Tampa to travel down Hillsborough River and explore the stunning Tampa scenery.
A: Tampa has several nice beaches in and around the area to enjoy the sunny weather—including Ben T. Davis Beach and nearby Clearwater Beach. Plus, Tampa has dog beaches like Davis Island Dog Beach that your pup can enjoy!
Live In a Supportive Tampa LGBTQ Community
In Tampa, you’ll find LGBTQ-focused organizations, businesses, and events that celebrate the community year-round. Explore the GaYBOR District Coalition, a nonprofit that promotes LGBTQ businesses and allies in the Tampa Bay area. Show your support for the Tampa LGBTQ community by attending the annual Tampa Pride Parade. Enjoy a night out, watch a drag show, and feel welcomed at Bradley’s on 7th, a Tampa gay bar located in the heart of Ybor City. Relax at one of Tampa’s gay-friendly saunas—like the Korean-inspired Shangri-La Bath & Sauna or the Tampa Mens Club. Cheer on LGBTQ filmmakers at the annual Tampa Bay International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (TIGLFF). And if you’re a business owner, check out the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber, which works hard to support the city’s LGBTQ community and allies through networking opportunities and business promotion.
A: Tampa has several businesses, events, and organizations dedicated to supporting and celebrating the LGBTQ community year-round. In the area, you can find the GaYBOR District Coalition, gay bars like Bradley’s on 7th, and the annual Tampa Pride Parade, which is hosted by Pride of Tampa in March for 2026’s celebration.
Explore Historic Ybor City
Tampa’s history of cigar factories can be attributed to the Ybor City neighborhood. Today, as you walk through this Latin quarter, you’ll find buildings with exteriors that reflect the old cigar factories, local cigar shops, vintage boutiques, delicious restaurants, and more. Dive deep into Tampa’s cigar history with a factory tour of J.C. Newman Cigar Co. Learn more about this historic neighborhood by attending events and programming from the Ybor City Museum Society, including their mobile museum and the annual Speakeasy Soiree. Immerse yourself in Tampa’s baseball history with a visit to the Tampa Baseball Museum, where you can learn about Al Lopez, the first Tampa native to become a Major League player and manager. Try beers like the Cloud Dweller, Florida Special Lager, and Night Swim at Coppertail Brewing Co. Bring a group of friends to watch a Buccaneers (NFL) game, play a round of shuffleboard, or compete in darts at premier sports bar Bad Monkey. Attend a cheese-making class and enjoy select wines or local craft beers at Cheeseology. Or listen to vibrant live music and support local artists at The 1920 Ybor.
A: Historically, Ybor City was a hub for cigar factories—which can be seen today in the neighborhood’s building architecture—and was formerly the “Cigar Capital of the World.” Today, the neighborhood’s streets are lined with restaurants, boutiques, and more!
Immerse Yourself in Tampa Arts & Culture
Tampa offers various opportunities for residents to experience the city’s creativity. Enjoy live plays and musicals like The Boy Who Loved Batman, A Beautiful Noise, and Mystic Pizza at the Straz Center—or support Opera Tampa by attending productions like Spanish Nights, Candide, and Don Pasquale. Explore exhibits like Jennifer Steinkamp: Madame Curie, Reframing Haitian Art, and The Last Picture Show at Tampa Museum of Art, one of the best museums in Tampa. Check out artists from around the world, like KEF!, Eleanor Blair, and Flavio Galvan with a visit to the Michael Murphy Gallery. Learn about Florida’s impact on international history with exhibits like Mapping The American Sea and Invisible Immigrants at the Tampa Bay History Center. Attend one of The Florida Orchestra‘s many live concerts, like Landslide, Parrots + Palms, or Elf in Concert. Go on a drive around the city and get a glimpse of various Tampa murals, like Love Where You Live, the classic Tampa Postcard, or Evangeline’s Feast. Or watch independent films and see beloved movies like Grease, The Greatest Showman, and Labyrinth at the non-profit, Tampa Theatre.
A: Yes! The River Arts neighborhood in Downtown Tampa houses the Tampa Theatre, Straz Center for Performing Arts, and the Tampa Museum of Art.
Cheer On Tampa Sports Teams
Don’t miss out on the many sporting events the city of Tampa has to offer! Secure your season tickets and cheer on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL) at Raymond James Stadium. See the Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) in action on the ice rink at Benchmark International Arena. Take your whole family to watch the Tampa Bay Rays (MLB) hit home runs at Tropicana Field in St. Pete. Support the Tampa Bay Sun FC (USL Super League), the city’s first professional women’s sports team, as they score goals at Suncoast Credit Union Field. Watch Tampa Roller Derby (WFTDA) teams like Cigar City Mafia, Switchblades, and Black Widows go head-to-head at Skate World. Head to Steinbrenner Field to root for the Tampa Tarpons (MiLB) during a home game or see the New York Yankees (MLB) in action during spring training. And if you’re a college sports fan, make sure to support the Tampa Spartans (NCAA D-II) of the University of Tampa in baseball, soccer, and volleyball. Or catch the University of South Florida Bulls (NCAA D-I) at football, basketball, and lacrosse games.
A: Tampa has multiple sports teams, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL), the Tampa Bay Rays (MLB), the Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL), Tampa Bay Sun FC (USL Super League), and three Tampa Roller Derby (WFTDA) teams.
Join In on Fun Tampa Festivals
There are festivals of all kinds in and around Tampa for every age and interest. Dress up in your best pirate gear for the Invasion Brunch, parade, and stage performances at the Gasparilla Pirate Fest. Want your kids to take part in the pirate fun? Check out the Children’s Gasparilla, where the entire family can enjoy the children’s parade, airshow, fireworks, and more. Bring a group of friends to see illuminating parade floats, cheer on dance troupes, and listen to lively music at the Sant’ Yago Knight Parade. Dance the night away to live EDM at the Sunset Music Festival. Participate in yoga, watch the wiener dog derby, or eat tacos at the annual Tampa Riverfest. Nod along to live music, try delicious food like Beef Chimichurri and Ceviche, and drink wine from around the world at the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Or cosplay as your favorite character and meet beloved actors, content creators, and authors at the Tampa Bay Comic Convention.
A: There are a variety of notable annual festivals in Tampa for all ages and interests. A few popular annual festivals in Tampa include the Gasparilla Pirate Fest, Tampa Riverfest, and the Tampa Bay Comic Convention.
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Dine at Tampa Restaurants
Tampa’s Cuban cultural history continues to influence the eclectic selection of restaurants in the area today. Start your morning with a Guava Turnover, Breakfast Sandwich, or Cuban Toast at La Segunda Bakery & Cafe. Dine at Columbia Restaurant—”Florida’s oldest restaurant” and “the largest Spanish restaurant in the world”—to try The Original Cuban Sandwich, Cesar Salad, or Gazpacho Andalucia. Feast on Lobster Bisque, Vegan Jackfruit Tacos, or Bahamian Conch Chowder at Salt Shack On The Bay. Try Native-inspired cuisine like Tocobaga Tuna Salad, Okra Fries, and Native Saute at Ulele. Savor Veal Parmigiano, Fried Calamari & Zucchini, and Eggplant Rollatine at Vino e Pasta. Eat Uncle Fred’s Florentine Pizza Bowl, an Italian Combo Sub, or build your own ‘za at New York New York Pizza. Or head to one of the many Tampa food halls—like Armature Works, where you can enjoy a grass-fed burger from Butcher n’ Barbecue (BnB), try a Cold Brew Float from Buddy Brew Coffee, or satisfy your sweet tooth with Tampa Banana ice cream from Chill Bros.
A: Tampa is well-known for its Spanish and Cuban-inspired dishes, like Gazpacho Andalucia and Cuban Sandwiches, due to its Cuban cultural history.
Experience Tampa Nightlife
Planning a night out on the town? With The Big Guava’s vibrant nightlife scene, you’ll never be out of options! Stop by one of the many breweries in Tampa—like Cigar City Brewing for popular beers like Jai Alai, Cosmic Crown, and Florida Man, or Magnanimous Brewing for brews like Supernatural Possession, Return to Forever, and Hyper Critical Haze. Watch the sun set over the beautiful Tampa waterfront while sipping fun drinks like Coral Head, Reef Donkey, and Dead Parrot at LightHaus Beer Garden. Listen to live music in a vintage setting as you slurp down an Old Fashioned or a Long Island Iced Tea at The Hub Bar. Get an authentic Irish pub experience at Four Green Fields, where you can try a Monks Brew or Slieve Bloom Botanical Irish Gin paired with delicious food like The Dubliner Burger. Dance the night away with live music or DJs, or take in the Sky Bar views at Club Prana. Discover your new favorite band, attend a concert, or go to events like Gimme Gimme Disco and Fear Frenzy at The Orpheum. Or enjoy live DJ music, entrees like Jerk Chicken Tacos, and cocktails like Strawberry Moon on the rooftop of M.Bird.
A: Yes! Tampa has a vibrant nightlife scene—with plenty of bars, breweries, and clubs, including Club Prana, District 8 Night Club, The Castle, and more.
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