Apartment hunting in Tampa, Florida requires patience, optimism, and the knowledge that each apartment and location has its own set of positive and negative attributes. Before deciding on your new residence, take the time to educate yourself about the many variables involved in choosing the perfect Tampa apartment.

Tampa, Florida is one the many jewels of the south. It is the perfect balance of city and country living. Tampa is also perfect for people who love the outdoors as it is close to internationally respected beaches such as Clearwater, Sarasota, and Bradenton as well as a variety of parks, lakes, and rivers. However, like any other major city, finding an apartment in Tampa can be difficult. Carefully weigh all of your options before signing a lease and choose the apartment that best suits both your lifestyle and financial needs.

Location

Choosing the right location for your Tampa, Florida apartment is imperative. The wrong choice can be the difference between a short commute and one that consistently takes over an hour. Some of the most popular areas in Tampa are:

• South Tampa:  For professionals, this part of Tampa is coveted real estate. This part of town features a wide variety of upscale boutiques and is home to an eclectic mixture of restaurants. South Tampa is also home to Bayshore Blvd. This historic boulevard is home to the most impressive and luxurious residences in Tampa and features a scenic path enjoyed by runners, bicyclists and those who just want to take a nice stroll by the water.

• New Tampa:  Also called North Tampa, this is one of the safest areas of the city, and predominately houses families and those looking to escape the hectic pace of downtown. Close to the University of South Florida as well as a multitude of familiar shopping and restaurant chains, New Tampa is a bargain for potential apartment renters.

• Ybor City:  Best known for its active nightlife, Ybor City also features a diverse and rich cultural heritage due to the abundance of cigar companies that formerly settled in this area. Ybor also features a variety of restaurants including the world-renowned Columbia Restaurant.

• Davis Islands/Harbour Island:  These two parts of town are very close to one another and feature the best in Tampa’s luxurious living. Residents enjoy water views, easy access to downtown, and the best of upscale shopping and dining.

Amenities

As Tampa continues to grow, so does the amount of apartment complexes. Increased competition has seen the rise of improved amenities. Traditionally, apartment complexes feature a swimming pool, a sporting activity such as tennis or basketball courts and small gym. However, new apartment complexes offer additional amenities like computer rooms, deluxe gyms, and game rooms.

Safety

One of the most important factors to consider when renting an apartment is safety. Many new apartment complexes feature gated access and employ the use of multiple security cameras. After you have narrowed down your list of potential apartments, take the time to drive by at varying points of the day. For example, many complexes may look safe during daylight hours, but can dramatically transform at night. It is also important to consider whether your potential apartment community has or can have individual security alarms in their units.

Value

Apartments in Tampa can range from $400 – $3000 a month. Potential residents can find everything from basic efficiencies to luxury waterfront apartments. However, it is important to consider the value of an apartment before you rent it. For most people, apartment living is temporary. Generally, a good value is one that allows people to maximize the amount they can save each month towards the purchase of a home. For some though, value is more about convenience and lifestyle. For example, a renovated apartment with luxurious amenities and materials can be a better value for someone looking to live a lifestyle they could not otherwise afford if forced to buy.

Recreation

Tampa, Florida is home to a variety of exciting theme parks and attractions. Two of the major attractions are Busch Gardens and Adventure Island. These world-renowned adventure parks draw international visitors and offer affordable rates for Florida residents. Some of the other recreational activities in Tampa include an aquarium, zoo, and a variety of diverse museums including the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI). Tampa also offers it residents and visitors dozens of parks, nature trails, and rivers for use and enjoyment. When choosing an apartment in Tampa, consider its location in relation to all of these exciting recreational activities.