Top 9 Reasons People Love Living in Tampa's Urban Core
Ever wonder what all of the buzz is about with living in Tampa’s Urban Core, but not quite sure if urban living is for you or what you may find there?
In this blog, I am going to provide you with the top 9 reasons why people are flocking to Tampa’s Urban Core, generally known as The Heights and Ybor.
Reason #9 - Affordability
The area just to the north of downtown Tampa is generally more affordable than other desirable areas, such as South Tampa. Even though the home prices have increased pretty dramatically in the urban core, just like everywhere else in Tampa, they are still only a fraction of what you would find in the areas south of Kennedy Blvd.
Reason #8 - Diversity
Tampa’s Urban Core tends to be more diverse socio-economically, age, and ethnicity wise, so if you’re interested in living in a real, authentic neighborhood, among real, authentic people, then this is the place for you!
Reason #7 - Trees and Sidewalks
Most of The Heights neighborhoods have an awesome tree canopy and sidewalks. This makes walking through the neighborhood safer and more enjoyable. It’s also been shown by researchers that neighborhoods with more trees have lower crime rates, and residents do feel safer.
Reason #6 - Multi-Modal Options
There are more multi-modal options available, like more biking options with dedicated bike lanes, sidewalks, scooters, and bus routes. The city planners are really working hard to tie all of the areas of the urban core together, like with the Green Spine Cycle Track project, which connects Ybor City to North Hyde Park through downtown Tampa.
Reason #5 - Proximity
You can’t beat its close proximity to downtown Tampa, as well as all of the major highways. Interested in going for dinner in downtown St. Pete? You can easily jump on 275 and be at your destination within 30 minutes or less.
Reason #4 - Parks
There are lots of parks available, providing all SORTS of amenities like dog parks, pools, pavilions, fitness trails, pickleball courts, and splash pads. Many of the parks in the urban core also have awesome tree canopies, which help to keep the parks usable even in warmer weather.
Reason #3 - Walkability
You’ll be able to enjoy the walkability to bars, restaurants, and shops along the commercial corridors that run through each area. This makes going out for dinner and drinks extremely accessible, and also helps to promote the local businesses that enhance each area. And once you get to know others in your area (and you WILL!), these businesses will become your local gathering places where there are few strangers.
Reason #2 - The Historic Fabric
The historic fabric. Who doesn’t love a bungalow with those large, welcoming front porches? Keep in mind that not every house on every block is fixed up and in pristine condition, and some areas are a little more advanced than others, but most of the areas in the urban core are coming along quite nicely!
Top #1 Reason - The Community Feel
These are real neighborhoods where you will get to know your neighbors, and most of The Heights and Ybor neighborhoods have strong neighborhood or civic associations, helping residents to get to know one another through attending meetings and porch parties, and participating in home tours and other social events. And because of some of the reasons previously mentioned, you will be out and about more, which will encourage getting to know others. Having a cute dog to walk also helps!