Are there any areas in TB where you would feel safe walking at night? (Tampa: to rent, crime)

[rheadabovewater]

I'm about to make a huge move - I'm female, in my 50's, I'm a California native, and I've been planning a move to Tampa Bay to be with my family. Safety is a major thing for me though, because I'm a walker and many times I walk at night.

I just came back from a trip to Tampa and am worried about the neighborhoods. Currently I live in a very safe area in northern California, but I honestly am concerned about truly safe neighborhoods in Tampa. I know there are pockets of slum-like areas that are right next to "good" areas....if I were to rent a house in a nice development like Tampa Palms in the Lutz area, would that be safe to walk in at night??

Thanks in advance, R.

[bentlebee]

To be honest...I watch some crime programs on tv and very often people are making statements after a horrible crime has happened; "I never thought anything like this could happen in this quiet town, neighborhood, etc..."

That to me says it all....

[Keeper]

There are lots of places where you will find ppl walking in the early evening but you won't find them walking at night after dark.

[BucFan]

If you're 55, check out Sun City Center, Ruskin - about 20 miles south of Tampa. Outstanding community - lot of sidewalks and very safe for walking, biking, or whatever. Great place for folks over 55.

[Dallas Gator]

South Tampa - Bayshore Blvd - Longest contiguous sidewalk in america. Great views totally safe great neighborhood

[joelibyan]

Not knowing you, you could be completely reasonable or completely paranoid. If you're paranoid, then anywhere could be potentially hazardous. If you're not, then use sound judgment in when and where you walk. I lived in North Tampa/Northdale/Carrollwood area and would walk/jog anywhere. It is a safe area with lots of great people and neighborhoods. I think the question you should be asking is where not to walk at night, because that list is a lot smaller than where it's safe. That list is innumberable.

[rheadabovewater]

I have always been completely reasonable.

I realize there are innumerable areas in the Tampa Bay area where I shouldn't walk - I was hoping for specific details in regards to what those would be.

Thanks to others who have responded with areas I SHOULD walk in.

BTW I have always been very cognizant of my surroundings when I go walking in the morning, and am always on alert.

[Jeninfla1964]

I know this isn't the exact answer you are looking for, but Tampa is really no better or worse (well, maybe better) than a lot of other cities. It has its good and bad spots and as long as you are walking in a well lit populated area in the new Tampa area I feel you should be fine. Of course, there are always isolated incidents everywhere, so just be on your guard.

[yeahbuddy]

I would also have to recommend the Bayshore Blvd.

[BucFan]

I understand a pedestrian/runner was fatally hit at Bayshore. I see a lot of runners, skaters on that stretch. Cars go by at 40 mph - lot of traffic, noise, etc. Not sure that would be the most relaxing walk.