Tampa
Hillsborough County, Florida
What to KnowShaped by Cuban, Spanish, and Italian influences, Tampa combines historic charm, diverse communities, world-class sports teams, and outdoor living into one of Florida's most dynamic cities.
*Median Age
36
The City of Tampa has a median age range of 35.6 years old, while the greater Tampa Bay region boasts a slightly higher average between 42 and 45 years old.
*Median Household Income
$79,670
Tampa offers a lower cost per living compared to other similar-sized metro areas throughout the country.
*Population
414,500
The City of Tampa is Florida’s third-largest city with a growth rate of 1.47% per year. The broader metro area includes over 3.4 million people.
*Median Home Value
$450,355
This is considerably higher than the national average, which is approximately $359,870.
Although today it is considered the 49th most populous city in the US, Tampa was originally founded in 1824 before officially becoming a city in 1855.
Claim to FameHome to the longest continuous sidewalk in the United States, Bayshore Boulevard showcases approximately 4.5 miles of scenic waterfront views. Active locals frequent this spot for run clubs, dog walking, cycling and sunset strolls. It also offers some of Tampa’s most sought-after real estate and luxury condos.
Bayshore Boulevard also plays host to Tampa's annual Gasparilla Pirate Fest —a beloved tradition in which hundreds of thousands of visitors dress up as pirates and stage a mock invasion of the city. Dating back well over 100 years, the entire city celebrates every January with a parade of floats, live entertainment, arts festivals, and more.
Tampa is home to the two-time Super Bowl-winning Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who play at the 65,000-seat Raymond James Stadium. Whether you’re a season ticket holder or have attended one of its many sold-out concerts, you’ll be hard to find a true Tampanian who hasn’t been to this landmark.
Teams to Cheer On
Never to be outshined, the city also cheers on three-time Stanley Cup-winning Tampa Bay Lightning. Locals show their pride at both home and away games by cheering on the team from the Benchmark International Arena in Downtown Tampa.
Tampa’s other claim to fame? The Cuban Sandwich. It became one of the city’s most popular meals back in the 1880s and 1890s when Cuban immigrants brought it to the cigar factories of Tampa's Ybor City—and it’s still just as popular today!
*Tampa's Favorite Cubans
La Segunda Bakery
The iconic bakery behind Tampa's famous Cuban bread since 1915. Their Cubano is considered one of the city's benchmarks.
Columbia Restaurant
The most historic choice, serving its famous Cuban since 1915 in the heart of Ybor City. It's arguably the city's most famous Cuban sandwich.
A few of my favorite spots to visit any night of the week.
Where to DineFounded in 2011, this popular landmark is truly one of a kind. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or coming to shop at the bookstore while you sip your hand-crafted coffee, its a must-see attraction.
Oxford Exchange
A true institution since 1956, this iconic steakhouse boasts one of the largest privately-owned collections of wine in the world and features an internationally-acclaimed dessert room.
Bern’s Steakhouse
One of Tampa Bay’s Michelin award-winning restaurants, this modern Italian restaurant features house made pastas, farm-to-table ingredients and its famous table side mozzarella cart.
Rocca
Be sure to visit the Armature Works on the Hillsborough River. Originally built in 1910 to house Tampa’s electric streetcars, this 73,000-square-foot building now houses a vibrant food hall, rooftop cocktail bars, event spaces and plenty of outdoor spaces, including access to the 2.6-mile Tampa Riverwalk. On weekends, you’ll find this hot spot buzzing with outdoor yoga classes, paddle boarders and live music.
*Be Sure to Try
Buddy Brew Coffee
Perhaps Tampa's favorite cup of joe, grab a cold brew or matcha latte before taking a stroll down the Riverwalk.
Chill Bros Scoop Shop
Founded by three local brothers and their sister, this popular Tampa ice cream shop is famous for its unique and unusual flavor combinations.
Award-Winning HospitalsRanked as the #1 hospital in Tampa Bay by U.S. News & World Report, Tampa General Hospital serves as the area's only Level I trauma center, a leading organ transplant center, and a primary teaching hospital partnered with the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine.
Also located in Tampa on the campus of the University of South Florida, the Moffitt Cancer Center is ranked in the top 10 cancer hospitals in the country providing experimental cell therapies, clinical trials, and specialized inpatient care.
Looking to scout out the area before starting your next chapter? Here are some of my recommendations for where to stay while visiting.
Where to StayLocated in the heart of South Tampa’s Hyde Park neighborhood, this food-focused luxury hotel features a rooftop lounge, culinary theatre and a full-service spa with wine pairings. Situated directly across from the legendary Bern’s Steakhouse.
Epicurean
This four-star luxury hotel stands proudly along Tampa’s waterfront and offers six unique dining options, an outdoor pool with private cabanas, and a full-service spa. Its just steps away from the vibrant nightlife and culture of Tampa’s growing Water Street district.
JW Marriott
Envisioned by visionary Ian Schrager, this five-star luxury resort and spa features an expansive wellness and fitness center, a rooftop pool, and seven distinct dining options including Punch Room and Lilac, lead by Michelin-star chef John Fraser.
EDITION
Schools & UniversitiesAs of July 2026, Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) has earned an A district grade from the Florida Department of Education, marking the district's first A rating in more than a decade and reflecting continued academic growth and excellence across the district.
The two primary universities in Tampa, FL, have distinct profiles. The University of South Florida (USF) ranks #88 among all national universities in the United States, while the University of Tampa (UT) ranks #13 in the Regional Universities South category.