Recommended Areas Near Tampa/Clearwater (Gulfport: rent, high crime, houses)

[BMWZ4RUlz]

What are some areas you would recommend near Tampa/St. Pete that are close to beaches, progressive and safe. We are a liberal couple and my wife is concerned about the race politics of Florida. Any tips? Semi-related question: I see property is cheap around Ybor City. What is the deal there? Surprised prices aren't higher, not safe?


Appreciate your time.

[MortonR]

Originally Posted by BMWZ4RUlz

What are some areas you would recommend near Tampa/St. Pete that are close to beaches, progressive and safe. We are a liberal couple and my wife is concerned about the race politics of Florida. Any tips? Semi-related question: I see property is cheap around Ybor City. What is the deal there? Surprised prices aren't higher, not safe?


Appreciate your time.

You need to do some research as far as geography. The only beaches here are on the Pinellas coast. St. Pete would be the closest, and as far as politics that area is fairly liberal.

If you see property that is "cheap" around Ybor, there's a reason. The neighborhood is nasty. And price is relative.

Race politics are everywhere these days, and if it bothers you, I would highly suggest that you not move to Florida. Once you get outside the developed areas you're in pretty conservative country. The Confederate "stars and bars", jacked up pickup trucks, MAGA hats and Budweiser are predominant.

Look at the vote maps for the recent election and you'll see what I'm talking about.

RM

[BMWZ4RUlz]

Originally Posted by MortonR

You need to do some research as far as geography. The only beaches here are on the Pinellas coast. St. Pete would be the closest, and as far as politics that area is fairly liberal.

If you see property that is "cheap" around Ybor, there's a reason. The neighborhood is nasty. And price is relative.

Race politics are everywhere these days, and if it bothers you, I would highly suggest that you not move to Florida. Once you get outside the developed areas you're in pretty conservative country. The Confederate "stars and bars", jacked up pickup trucks, MAGA hats and Budweiser are predominant.

Look at the vote maps for the recent election and you'll see what I'm talking about.

RM

Thank you very much. So sad I wish we could come together and people realize why they are being pushed with hate and separation...but that is another thread.


Thanks for the tips. Ybor has high crime?

[MortonR]

Originally Posted by BMWZ4RUlz

Thank you very much. So sad I wish we could come together and people realize why they are being pushed with hate and separation...but that is another thread.


Thanks for the tips. Ybor has high crime?

The part north of I-4 is a very rough place. It is slowly (and I mean very slowly) beginning to gentrify.

And if you've been doing any sort of research you would know that there is a proposal to built a baseball stadium for the Devil Rays in Ybor which will not only drive up prices but make it a real nightmare as far as traffic and people.

RM

[Mykarmaisgreat]

Stick to Harbor Island, Davis Island, Bayshore, Palma Ceia and Westshore areas and you will be fine. Rent is high for what you get, but most places are going to have garage parking, security, etc, which to me is worth it no matter where you live. Message me if you are interested and I can refer you to where I live, which Iove.

[cjairo191]

Ybor will be a good investment for the future, but yeah cheap for reason. The city of Tampa is very blue and the suburbs are turning blue. Where are you moving from? Pinellas has an older population near beach the with the exception of some pockets like downtown St Pete.

[SueBSouth]

Originally Posted by BMWZ4RUlz

What are some areas you would recommend near Tampa/St. Pete that are close to beaches, progressive and safe. We are a liberal couple and my wife is concerned about the race politics of Florida. Any tips? Semi-related question: I see property is cheap around Ybor City. What is the deal there? Surprised prices aren't higher, not safe?


Appreciate your time.

It sounds to me like you are describing Gulfport! On the water and a sandy beach! very progressive, and definitely safe. Family members of ours that are a mixed race couple moved there from the North and were immediately embraced into the community. If you can, check it out on Tuesdays (9:00 - 2:00 p.m.) when the market is set up, and also on their "First Fridays" Art and Gallery Walks (5:00 -9:00 p.m.)
Go to www.gabber.com to check out the local paper. A quick peek at Zillow and there appears to be quite a few 3/2 1200-1300 sq ft houses (little bungalows) in the mid $200,000 range.
Good luck with your search, and if you don't care for Gulfport, at least catch at meal at O'Maddy's their food is awesome and then walk the beach and rethink it!!