Another thread on relocation (Tampa, Sunset: houses, school district, living in)

[gtkicksbutt]

We're possibly moving from Atlanta to Tampa. My husband grew up in Tampa but left 14 years ago and has always wanted to go back home. The area has changed so much since he left that I'm trying to research possible areas to live in Tampa.

Both of our jobs will be near the Tampa airport (Kennedy & W. Shore). The In-laws live in Odessa. We would like to be about 45 minutes from them (no surprise drop-ins) We'd be looking in the 350-400k range for homes. Would prefer a good school district but private schooling can be an option if necessary. DH is trying to limit his commute time - but in all reality - we're used to 1 hr commutes one way. 45 minutes would be great -and 30 minutes would be ideal.

Most of my research has shown the good schools and affordable housing more on the North side. Are there Southern suburbs that are also reasonable?

Thanks so much in advance!

[tampaguy03]

Are you interested in living in the city(South Tampa)..zip codes 33629, some of 33611, yuo can find some modest homes under 400k, and the schools in these areas(Plant High School for example) are some of the best in the state..you are within minutes to the Westshore Business District.

Otherwise, I will let the other posters advise regarding the suburbs...

[gtkicksbutt]

DH actually grew up in South Tampa and went to Plant so we're not opposed. We just assumed that the houses would be really old and small in our price range.

[TampaKaren]

Let me see....45 minutes from Odessa and less than 45 minutes to Westshore. The following are in your target price range.

For south Tampa, you might look into either Virginia Park or Palma Ceia. You might be able to get into Sunset Park which would be ideal for your commute!

Though not technically South Tampa, Seminole Heights has some neat bungalow style homes with good local schools as well. Also, there are a couple of smaller custom builders with homes near Westshore.

If you're not opposed to it, the east coast of Pinellas county might also be an option. Maybe the Northeast St. Pete area, but be aware of the proposed new baseball stadium on the waterfront.

That's my opinion based on the info you provided. I hope it helps a little!

[rudydddd]

Why not think North. Citrus County. 50 min. on the new parkway. Safe and reasonable.

[gtkicksbutt]

I'm not opposed to living on the North side (or any area) - but I have a prereq that it's at least 45 minutes from the out-laws in Odessa.

Thanks for your input everyone! I'll look up the areas you've recommended.

[Tampasteve]

Having lived in Atlanta, I dont miss the traffic and the commute. Sometimes you hear that South Tampa is it is not affordable but within the last year you can definitely find more options. There is a lot to be said for avoiding a big commute except to visit the relatives. There are even some really good schools.

Good luck!

Originally Posted by gtkicksbutt

We're possibly moving from Atlanta to Tampa. My husband grew up in Tampa but left 14 years ago and has always wanted to go back home. The area has changed so much since he left that I'm trying to research possible areas to live in Tampa.

Both of our jobs will be near the Tampa airport (Kennedy & W. Shore). The In-laws live in Odessa. We would like to be about 45 minutes from them (no surprise drop-ins) We'd be looking in the 350-400k range for homes. Would prefer a good school district but private schooling can be an option if necessary. DH is trying to limit his commute time - but in all reality - we're used to 1 hr commutes one way. 45 minutes would be great -and 30 minutes would be ideal.

Most of my research has shown the good schools and affordable housing more on the North side. Are there Southern suburbs that are also reasonable?

Thanks so much in advance!