Top 5 Neighborhoods for Renting a House in Tampa

Tampa offers a variety of neighborhoods with different vibes, amenities, and housing options. Located in sunny Florida, Tampa boasts a rich history, cultural diversity, and a stunning waterfront. Its charm extends beyond the dynamic downtown area to diverse neighborhoods with unique amenities, atmosphere, and housing styles catering to various lifestyles and preferences.

Whether you fancy family-friendly areas, top-notch schools, scenic parks, or various housing options, Tampa has it all. Get ready to discover the top five neighborhoods offering abundant housing choices for your dream home.

Seminole Heights

Seminole Heights is renowned for its lush landscapes, tree-lined avenues, and vintage bungalows. Its welcoming vibe is second to none, making it an ideal place to rent your next home. Let's talk about the culinary scene in Seminole Heights, a food lover's paradise. With a diverse range of eateries, you'll find everything from American to Colombian cuisine. Some spots you simply can't miss include Tripp’s Diner, a local diner with an extensive menu with everything from shrimp and grits to a meatball sub. La Pequena Colombia is an authentic and affordable Colombian restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere. Finally, Rooster & the Till is the place for an elegant dinner with a six-course meal and creative cocktails.

For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Seminole Heights won't disappoint. The neighborhood boasts several parks offering plenty of green space to relax, play, or get active. Rivercrest Park, with its stunning views of the Hillsborough River, is the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Another gem is the Seminole Heights Garden Center, a community hub that hosts various events and even offers gardening classes. When it comes to getting around, Seminole Heights is incredibly convenient. The neighborhood is just a short drive from Downtown Tampa, Ybor City, and Tampa International Airport. Plus, it's well-served by public transportation, with several bus and streetcar lines passing through the area.

As of November 2023, here are the average rent prices for houses in Seminole Heights.

North Tampa

The neighborhood of North Tampa sits eight miles directly north of downtown Tampa on I-275, making it super convenient for commuting and exploring the city.  North Tampa is a foodie's paradise, with a variety of mouth-watering options. For instance, Council Oak Steaks & Seafood is a must-visit for seafood lovers. If you're in the mood for surf and turf, you might want to try Stonewood Grill & Tavern. A local favorite is Jerk Hut Jamaican Grille & Rhum Bar for some curry chicken and live reggae music.

 Fancy a round of golf or a day at the zoo? You're in luck! Rogers Park Golf Course, Lowry Park Zoo, and the exciting Grand Prix Tampa are also nearby. And let's not forget about those iconic Florida beaches - Honeymoon Island State Park and Caladesi Island State Park are roughly 20 miles west. There, you can enjoy everything from sunbathing and swimming to paddle-boarding and fishing.

As of November 2023, here are the average rent prices for houses in North Tampa.

South Tampa

South Tampa is home to several parks that are perfect for a bit of relaxation or outdoor activities. Picnic Island Park offers stunning waterfront views of Tampa Bay, picnic areas, walking trails, and its very own beach. Gadsden Park is a spacious park with sports fields, playgrounds, and walking paths, ideal for family time outdoors. Ballast Point Park, located on the shores of Hillsborough Bay, provides beautiful views, a fishing pier, picnic areas, and a playground.

South Tampa has an incredibly diverse culinary scene, with an array of international delights and local favorites.  Some spots worth checking out include the Columbia Restaurant, which serves delicious Spanish and Cuban cuisine in a charming setting, and Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe, a quirky spot combining tasty Southern-inspired dishes with a vibrant atmosphere and live music.

As of November 2023, here are the average rent prices for houses in South Tampa.

Tampa Palms

Tampa Palms is a master-planned community that's perfectly nestled along the beautiful Hillsborough River. It sprawls over about 4,000 acres of pure Florida landscape. Tampa Palms has everything from townhouses and condos to single-family homes and even lakefront estates. Just picture yourself waking up to the serene views of the river or a tranquil lake.

If you're a parent or planning to be one, you'll be glad to know that the Hillsborough County Public Schools serve Tampa Palms. There are several public and private schools in the area, including Tampa Palms Elementary, Lawton Chiles Elementary, Liberty Middle, and Freedom High. For those who love the outdoors, Tampa Palms won't disappoint. You've got Lettuce Lake Park, a sprawling 240-acre conservation park nearby, perfect for wildlife viewing or picnics. The neighborhood also boasts its own parks like Compton Park and Amberly Park. Whether you're into pickleball, tennis, or just enjoying a good book by the lake, there's something for everyone.

The neighborhood has shopping centers like Market Square and City Plaza, where you can find a variety of shops and a Publix for your grocery needs. When it comes to dining, you have plenty of choices. There's a place for every palate, from popular chains to local favorites like the Fat Rabbit pub and Cappy's Pizzeria.

Of course, one of the best things about living in Tampa Palms is the sense of community. There are loads of events and activities happening throughout the year. From member tournaments at the golf and country club to annual events like the Gasparilla Pirate Festival and Sunset Music Festival, there's never a dull moment. Transportation won't be an issue either. Tampa Palms is conveniently located near major roads like Bruce B. Downs Boulevard and Interstate 75, so you can easily get around the Tampa Bay area. Plus, both Tampa International Airport and downtown Tampa are within a 20-mile radius.

As of November 2023, here are the average rent prices for houses in Tampa Palms.

Town ‘N’ Country

Located about ten miles northwest of Downtown Tampa, Town 'n' Country is a suburban neighborhood bordering Old Tampa Bay. Town 'n' Country is home to a wide variety of convenient shopping centers along Hillsborough Avenue and just a short drive away from numerous retail delights at International Plaza, Bay Street, and Westshore Plaza. Town 'n' Country residents enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere within minutes of Tampa’s many offerings, in addition to a slew of pristine Gulf Coast beaches. Quick access to the Veterans Expressway and Tampa International Airport makes commuting and traveling from Town 'n' Country a breeze.

This neighborhood offers a wide variety of restaurants. For a fancy night out, you can head over to Ocean Prime or the Capital Grille. If you're in the mood for seafood, Rusty Pelican and Oystercatchers are local favorites. Kelp Sushi Joint is another popular spot if you're craving sushi. And if you're looking for something more casual, Foodys Restaurant and Tomato Joe's Pizzeria are great options. To enjoy the outdoors, check out Hamilton Park or Sandy Perrone Park,  both of which have playgrounds and, basketball parks, making these parks perfect for a family day.

As of November 2023, here are the average rent prices for houses in Town ‘N’ Country.

Tampa’s neighborhoods offer a variety of housing options to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a modern apartment, a family home in a quiet suburb, or a townhome close to the city, Tampa has something for everyone.