Family-friendly area to live near Tampa/Clearwater? (Palm Harbor, East Lake: homes, neighborhoods)

[Off4Fun]

Looking for our forever home, and have no idea where that will be yet. But I'll be in Tampa for work and I'd like to check out some of the smaller towns nearby while I am there.

Looking for a place that is great for families with small children and prefer a place that isn't too commercial (the fewer chains the better), like the outdoors, great schools are a must.

Looking for a single family home in the 500s (or less would always be good too).

Any suggestions of towns or neighborhoods to check out?

Thanks in advance,

Erin

[lavender]

Florida is rather the chain capital of the USA but there are so many more improvements being added every week.
Best school areas and homes in your price range, Palm Harbor, East Lake, Seminole, best place to live IMO is near to downtown St Pete, but schools not so good, unless you can do private. Some of the magnet schools are worth checking out, but many zoned ones tricky

If you are this side of bridge remember you have to drive into Tampa daily, but its not dreadful. Tampa side, South Tampa, West Chase, Carrollwood

[Off4Fun]

Thank you. I will be sure to check out those areas. Do you happen to have any specific areas within East Lake or Palm Harbor?

I've been to West Chase and it is nice, but it is so big I don't know whalers to start - if you have any suggestions they are welcome.

Thanks again!

[Fl1150]

Florida is not the chain capital of the USA but we do have a decent amount of them but yes Palm Harbor is nice and also check out Safety Harbor, Lutz, and New Tampa.

[Enyar]

NEW TAMPA??? Are you nuts?! I don't know which is the chain capital of the area but New Tampa is in the running.