Tampa, FL
Tampa is one of the largest cities in Hillsborough County, and is located on Florida’s West Coast. Situated on Tampa Bay, and near the Gulf of Mexico, close to 400,000 people call Tampa their home. The home and rental prices, plus the cost of living, are lower than the national average, making it an ideal place in which to move. The Tampa Bay Area is one of the largest metro areas in the county, and adds to the bustling feeling of the city.
If you are used to snow and ice, Tampa’s climate is much milder. It is warm and sunny during the spring and winter, but be prepared for humidity and lots of rain in the summer and the fall. The average year-round temperature is 60 degrees, though, so pack your bathing suit and rain gear!
Tampa has plenty of public transportation options, including streetcars and buses, and is nearby multiple airports and train stations. Consult maps if you think you will want to take these frequently. Those who like to travel by foot may like Bayshore Boulevard, a waterside walkway, or the River Walk, a pedestrian trail in Downtown Tampa.
There are plenty of attractions in Tampa. Downtown offers the Riverwalk, plus plenty of museums, cafés and shops. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts, which features shows such as nationally-known musical acts and touring Broadway performances such as Mean Girls, Dear Evan Hansen and Anastasia, is located nearby, so you can stroll and then experience dinner and a show. See animals at the Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa, Busch Gardens Tampa or on a dolphin cruise. Get a taste of history at the Henry B. Plant Museum and in Ybor City as you see buildings from a time gone by, cobblestone streets and plenty of roosters. If you love the outdoors, go to Lettuce Lake Regional Park or the Courtney Campbell Trail. End the day by taking in an NHL game at the Amalie Area, or by going out to eat for classic Cuban sandwiches, crabs, shrimp or another dish for which Tampa is known. If you are in the city in January, do not miss Gasparilla Pirate Day and Fest.
It is easy to get used to life in the Sunshine State. People are friendly, the weather is ideal and there are plenty of things to see and do. Southern hospitality meets modern amenities in Tampa. You can ask for directions, if you ever get lost, and know that others will return the favor. It is easy to know your neighbors here, but big enough to never feel a lack of job, cultural or recreational opportunities. Move there for a change of pace and a more relaxing lifestyle.