Whether you know it as Big Guava or the Lightning Capital of the World, Tampa is a city that blends a rich history with a promising future in a beautiful locale. Tampa Bay—meaning Tampa proper, Saint Petersburg, Clearwater, and surrounding areas—attracts new residents from other major cities in Florida as well as across the United States.
If you’re searching for an apartment as a new or a lifelong Tampeño, you’ll want to know where to look. There are so many factors to consider: affordability, walkability, availability, commutability, safety, and more.
The following neighborhoods make frequent appearances on notable “best of” lists. They have features like community events, outdoor activities, neighborhood watches and organizations, and proximity to everything the region has to offer. Of course, you’ll want to do some research and compare rent trends in a variety of Tampa neighborhoods, but these communities should give you a place to start.
Bayshore Beautiful
Situated between Downtown Tampa and MacDill Air Force Base on the Hillsborough Bay, Bayshore Beautiful lives up to its name, offering an array of charming bungalows and apartments for rent along manicured, palm-tree-lined streets.
Although Bayshore Beautiful feels tucked away, it’s close to everything. There are plenty of shops strewn along nearby South Dale Mabry Highway, and diverse restaurants abound within walking distance of one another on South MacDill Avenue—the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare.
Playing up to its bayside locale, Bayshore Beautiful has direct access to the World’s Longest Continuous Sidewalk, Bayshore Boulevard. Residents enjoy a wide range of activities along Bayshore Boulevard, from walking to rollerblading and everything in between.
Beach Park
Beach Park may not have its own beach, but it sits in an ideal Tampa location. Bordering the Old Tampa Bay, Beach Park offers beautiful waterfront views along with close proximity to some of the city’s best shopping at WestShore Plaza and International Plaza and Bay Street.
Engage in bayside fun at nearby Cypress Point Park. If you want to head to some of the country’s best beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, cruise west ‘til you hit the coast on I-275, which is directly accessible from Beach Park (see, you can still get some beach in there). Tampa International Airport is adjacent to the neighborhood, as well as Raymond James Stadium and George M. Steinbrenner Field, making Beach Park even more enticing.
Channel District
This neighborhood will make you want to channel your inner adventurer. Nestled alongside the Ybor Channel, the Channel District (also referred to as Channelside) is a vibrant neighborhood brimming with activity. Home to the Port of Tampa, Florida’s largest seaport, the Channel District is a destination for travelers and Tampeños alike.
The Channel District is known for its many exciting attractions, including the Florida Aquarium, the TECO Line Streetcar System, and Sparkman Wharf—a massive multi-purpose entertainment complex complete with a beer garden, bowling alley, event space, upscale shops, and delectable dining options. A close-knit community calls the neighborhood home, coming together for special events like the Maven Market, Art on 12th, and the Urban Home Tour.
In addition to fantastic waterfront views, the Channel District offers residents easy access to Downtown Tampa. The heart of the city sits just west of the Channel District, placing many residents within walking distance of Amalie Arena, Tampa Bay History Center, and Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park.
Davis Islands
Founded by Dave Davis, also known as the “Florida version of the Great Gatsby,” Davis Islands were originally constructed on two islands in the Hillsborough Bay during the Florida Land Boom of the 1920s. Today, Davis Islands is often recognized as being one of the best places to live in Tampa. Neighborhood residents enjoy convenience to Tampa General Hospital, Peter O. Knight Airport, and numerous tranquil parks all located on Davis Islands.
Residents also delight in walkable access to a slew of shops and restaurants strewn along Davis Boulevard, the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare. Much of Davis Islands is residential, boasting an array of homes in various architectural stylings, lush greenery, and well-maintained sidewalks.
The neighborhood sits adjacent to area hot spots like Hyde Park and Downtown Tampa, leaving you feeling anything but stranded on these islands. Davis Islands’ central locale makes it a top choice for everyone, including boating (especially yacht) enthusiasts and Downtown Tampa commuters.
Harbour Island
Just across the Seddon Channel from Davis Islands, and south of Downtown Tampa, you’ll find Harbour Island. This dynamic neighborhood features all the excitement of a major downtown area in the north, along with the private tranquility of planned residential communities in the south. Being on an island, you can expect to take in beautiful waterfront views in every direction.
Two bridges connect Harbour Island to Downtown Tampa, making it easy to enjoy the many vibrant attractions that are just minutes away.
Hyde Park
You won’t want to run and hide from Hyde Park! In fact, you may want to park yourself at any of the many charming amenities of this historic neighborhood. Hyde Park Village is among the neighborhood’s best-known hangouts, offering a bevy of shopping, dining, and entertainment options in a walkable outdoor locale. Hyde Park is also home to the SoHo entertainment district, a vibrant stretch of South Howard Avenue teeming with bars, boutiques, and local eats.
The neighborhood borders the University of Tampa, making it a top choice for university students, faculty, and staff alike. Hyde Park is just across the Hillsborough River from Downtown Tampa as well, touting easy access to the Tampa Riverwalk, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Tampa Theatre, and much more. The neighborhood’s highly rated schools and easy commutes also draw many new residents to the area.
Tampa is an exciting bayside city with plenty to offer and many neighborhoods to choose from. When you’re touring an apartment or about to sign a new lease, be sure to ask the property manager or leasing assistant questions about the apartment’s safety. You’ll also want to be on the lookout for apartment amenities that ensure your safety. Best of luck on your search in Big Guava!
