Want to skip ahead? Here are the topics we touched on: 0:00 Intro 0:55 Why choose Tampa? 1:35 Florida offers year round outdoor living 2:17 Traffic & commuting in Tampa 3:35 Lower cost of living in Florida? State income tax, housing options, auto insurance 4:39 Home prices - how much do you get for your money? 5:51 How easy is it to meet people in Tampa? 6:35 Things to do, outdoor activities 7:15 Golf courses outside Tampa city limits 7:55 Bad drivers in Florida? 8:28 Weather & hurricanes 8:57 Bugs & alligators 9:36 Florida man news stories 10:15 Tampa food & restaurants 11:00 Sports, concerts, entertainment
Hi Melanie my name is Rose I am a realtor in Orlando for approx 17 years. My daughter and I are moving to Tampa and looking for rentals and need some place good for my daughter and I. My daughter needs to be close to USF/UT area. I am a single senior and looking for an area where I can join some groups to meet people. Can you help recommend rental areas or purchase areas. I need help! Would love to chest! My email is agentrose63@gmail.com
Hello Melanie, me and my girlfriend are flying into Tampa for the weekend. We’re coming from the metro-Detroit area and looking to rent or buy. Can you help? Are you available this weekend? My email address is myraiders@hotmail.com
As far as commuting, two major no-no's of you can help it. (1) Do *NOT* work/live on opposite sides of downtown Tampa. Traffic in all directions absolutely stinks in all directions inbound and outbound during commute hours, there are no alternate routes to avoid it, and that's when traffic is "normal," nevermind if there's a breakdown or accident. (2) Do *NOT* work/live on opposite sides of the bay. Same issues. Even when traffic is "normal" it's a soul sucking commute, and if there's an accident or breakdown, 2-4+ hours just got added to your commute. It's not all doom & gloom though. Just follow the those two rules, live & work on the same side of downtown and/or same side of the bay, and commuting will never even register on your mind as an issue.
Melanie is one of the best 💯 Realtor in Tampa. She is friendly, honest and very efficient. She helped me to buy my first house in tampa. Julia from NY.
Great video. It's been several years since I've lived in Tampa, and it's always nice to hear a perspective from someone who has lived in other cities along the east coast.
Thanks for the great video about Tampa guys. After living in Ft. Lauderdale for 28 years I can attest to the overcrowding and insane traffic that is just too much to deal with now in the southeast coast amongst other things. I've visited the Tampa area twice in the last couple of years and soon going to be relocating there. This was a good and informative video and only confirmed what I saw and experienced when I visited. Thanks for posting this!
Went to high school in St Pete and college at University of Florida and then I worked up in the panhandle before I had to move away... I have been gone for about 20 years. I have missed it every single day. I agree with Todd that having to hide away eight months out of the year or shovel snow is enough to make you want to go back to Florida. I'll take the heat any day. Planning on moving back down and I'm trying to decide on St Pete or Tampa or the east coast of Florida. I believe I want the Gulf side just because I love the Gulf. But I can't seem to decide between St Pete and Tampa. Thanks for the great video, you have helped answer some of the questions I had...at least about Tampa. All of your videos are fantastic. By the way as far as people thinking the state is too hot or the hurricanes are bad or there are too many alligators or the people are crazy, I kind of let them think that so that they don't crowd the state too much and can save it for us, but I know that doesn't work really well for a realtor. 😄😂
Thank you so much for posting videos like this. I'm moving to Tampa next year from SoCal so I hope the transition won't be too different for me. I really appreciate all the advice and insight you guys have to offer
@Michael I'm in north OC. I have some friends out in IE and there definitely is a noticeable difference but not really any improvements.I would stick to trying another state than trying to make it work here. I feel like it's only gonna get worse, especially with the election coming up. Hell, with the way things seem to be going, sign me up for the Mars mission lol. We're in for a bumpy ride
🤫 Don't let everyone know how great Tampa really is. Jokes aside, love the content your putting out there showing the beauty of Tampa. Born and raised in Bay area (so I'm a Tampon 😂) and its the perfect place that caters to everyone no matter how old you are or where your from.
This sounds really happy. I like that there’s transplants from other places and also I would like if I could find people from other countries who are from UK or France or Australia, I heard Greek good! Yes!
I'm a rare Tampa native, so this is really all I know except for a brief stay at UF for college. (Go Gators!!) I like it here because I need the sunshine to be happy. The biggest con in my opinion is the heat. Like today in June, it was in the mid 90s but humidity index made it feel like 111°! Walking outside felt like walking into a bathroom where someone's taking a piping hot shower. So you get a kind of reverse cabin fever where you have to stay inside because of the heat. That's just me though. A lot of folks are Northern transplants like this guy and love the heat. Also, and it's probably like this in every big city, Tampa Bay is hundreds of different neighborhoods and satellite cities. Each neighborhood has a completely different feel, cultural makeup, demographic makeup, etc. So you could visit 10 neighborhoods and feel they have nothing in common except for the weather. Let me extend a big welcome to anyone who wants to move down here. People are friendly and, like the guy said, most are from other places so it's not full of cliques & the like. Rent first. Explore the different neighborhoods, and you'll soon find your perfect neighborhood and home here in Tampa Bay! PS. I feel that a lot of people don't realize before they move down here that while there are a lot of water activities in the city of Tampa, there are no actual beaches! Sometimes brochures will show folks on the beautiful white sand beaches, but they are ALL in Pinellas county. So if you move to Tampa proper, its a 45 minute drive to the beach. Still not too shabby. But if you're wanting to live really close to a beach, you need to look along the west side of Pinellas. And bring your wallet!
Agree. Heat blows. Also a native here. That said, there are technically beaches. Would you want to swim in them? Debateable. Picnic Island has one. Cypress Point Park does too. And there's another on Davis Islands.
My absolute favorite area on the east coast. Lived in Tampa area for 26 years and someday will get to move back. If you love the outdoors this is the place.
I live in buffalo, NY my brother is moving to Lakeland in August so i started looking around the area and found your videos they are so well made and filled with great content. I want to move down to Florida and your videos make me really love Tampa hope to visit in Sept.
Born and raised Floridian, currently living in Oklahoma for work. OMG do I want to move back lol. The lack of beaches and cuban sandwiches is wearing on my psyche. Just waiting for my lease to be up and I'm going back home!
I’m from Tulsa, OK originally but currently living in Henderson, NV. I feel so bad for you! That strongly SUCKS! I do wish you the best so that you can move back! A much lower cost of living doesn’t mean that we are really alive at all! I don’t like Oklahoma either and half of my memories over there are things I’m not fond of at all. It’s too boring in Oklahoma!
Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida and lived in Tampa for a year! Made lifelong memories and friends. Should have never left and will gladly move back should the right doors open. Tampa will forever be my 2nd home ☀️🥰
Originally from Wisconsin. I'm currently trying out the Dallas area. But, I moved from Wisconsin to get rid of winter. Currently 17 degrees and snow! I'm looking at a May move to Tampa! Looking forward to the adventure!!!
I enjoyed this video...very well done as usual. :-) Love the Tucker pic! It would be fun if you could work him into a future video again. The video he was in when he kept trying to eat your hair was pretty cute. I've lived in Pinellas County now for 30 years and honestly couldn't imagine living anywhere else. I'm originally from Minnesota so I know about cold! Growing up summer was always my favorite season by far so here I am living in an "endless summer" as it says on the license plates.
Thank you both for your perspectives on living in the Tampa Bay area, great information and summary! I am planning on visiting in about 2 weeks and look forward to checking out the area and things to do!
I grew up in south Tampa in the 60s and 70s. It was middle class back then. I left Tampa in 2010, not so much because I hated it.. Just the traffic got terrible, it's now a city for young adults, definitely not a place to retire to. I live in the panhandle of Florida now, I like it much better as I get older, glad I left Tampa. It's a great city but I will take the slower pace and shorter summers of the panhandle.
This Video really helped me. I watch many from several creators in Florida. I think you have to be honest about what you really need for daily life. What isn’t your Style so to speak. BC a lot of places in Fl seem wonderful w Pros and Cons. I am drawn towards Naples. Knowing there’s no public transportation is a deal breaker for me. And if I must drive, I prefer not to much traffic. If I want more synergy and entertainment. I can visit certain areas. I’m in California Everyone I know of has or are moving to FL. I’m learning the difference between Southside to Miami vs Miami Beach to Panhandle, Clearwater etc.. Thanks for doing these Videos It helps to hear how other “Transplants” think about their FL lifestyle. 👍
I miss Tampa a lot. My aunt and uncle lived here for 25 years and I visited annually. I still have family but they live outside of Clearwater. Wish I could come back soon for a little visit. Miss the accents, and people, sun and sand, and palm trees.
Great video! We are looking to relocate from Buffalo, NY in the near future. We were thinking more central FL, but who knows maybe we will visit the Tampa area before we make the big move 🙂
I visit Tampa every year for Yankees spring training. If I ever decide to leave Kansas, it would be for Tampa. One thing about restaurants there I've noticed are all the amazing breweries that have opened up.
Traffic in Tampa is horrible. As someone who moved here from New York I had to adjust to the length of the red lights. Some lights are a 2-3 minute wait. A normal 15 minute drive will take 30 minutes It took me about 4 years to stop complaining about it. Also the driving here is bad. The slow drivers block the left lane causing everyone to change lanes hence one of the reasons we have so many accidents. Other than that I LOVE Tampa and do not miss the cold at allllllllll.
I just love your Energy, I was close to moving to Tampa last year, but moved to Miami. If I ever leave South Florida I would choose the Tampa Bay Area.
@@jumb0shr1mp6 I recommend either St. Pete beach or Miami. I like both places, but the vibe is so different between the two. There’s a lot of New Yorkers here in Miami. Come visit and when you do take a trip to Fort Lauderdale it’s more affordable compared to Miami.
I love you guys together such a great energy ✨ love to see someone that was born in Ohio, currently live in Ohio and moving there next year! So cool thank you
Tampa native. I want a better light rail system. I live next to rail tracks and i never see any commercial or transport trains. Only freight. We have existing infastructure all we need is some rennovations like in ybor for an amazing light rail system! It will put a large relief on the traffic. I know myself will use it aswell.
Hi Melanie, thanks for the video. I currently live in San Diego and looking to move out ASAP. Been here 20 years and I'm ready for change. Been researching states and cities that meet my political, economic and recreational needs; Tampa seems like a top choice.
You will never find a comparable climate, but No tyrants like Gavin Gruesome in FL. I have good friends near USD, and they are moving to Florida, if Gavin is not recalled. The reduction in taxes will be welcome! I think you will like Tampa.
@@jdhjimbo Whether aside, FL beats CA in every aspect. I have the freedom to conduct my personal business without state interference. I will also have zero, ZERO state income tax! I can carry my firearm, stand my ground and enjoy a version of true capitalism. One year to go here in Commie-fronia. This state is beautiful, has lots too offer; the cost has become unlivable. See ya soon Florida1
@@donniedarko1345 I lived 13 years in CA, and another 5 in Seattle and 1 in Lkrtland, but escaped the Left Coast before the real loons took over! All 3 are gorgeous states, but not fit for a libertarian like myself, to live in. I did miss the weather and scenery some, but blue states are hellholes, and I can imagine the Covid Cult theatrics were miserable to endure in Commiefornia. Newsom and his drunk aunt Nancy are simply awful human beings!! You will love Florida, and all the money you save, and not having to argue with deranged loons every day!
I'm moving back after 11 years. I miss it so much and now my parents retired there a few miles from my sister in Wesley Chapel and I can't wait to be able to hang out with them since they're in their 70's. Cannot wait. Arizona is nice, but the weather is hard on my skin. My lips are always peeling no matter how much water I drink. In Tampa my skin was always nice and it glistened oddly enough like in Twilight. lol So excited to get back.
Def thinking of moving to Tampa or right outside of it from MA. I lived in NC a while back & loved it. MA is just too expensive for a single gal. And yes MA car ins is ridiculously expensive. Going to rent to make sure I like it before I make a perm decision
May I suggest visiting with Jenna (many tattoos) at the 2001 Odyssey on Dale Mabry, just north of 275! It's a great club, clean and friendly staff. Jenna is my favorite for several years!
I move back to Tampa in 2 days and I’m here watching videos about Tampa like I haven’t lived there before but it’s been years I moved out of Tampa in 2013 and I’m moving back and it’s the first time I’m going to be living BY MYSELF in Tampa
I have purchased renovated and sold two to three hundred homes in Northern NJ. A month ago I flew to Tampa and met with a realtor to see if there’s opportunity to do this. Unfortunately it seems like Tampa is no different then the rest of the country. Prices are high, No deals.
This video came right on time, I am currently in the process of looking at houses in Land O Lakes & Odessa. Would like to move within the next few months, however that is dependent on a job :(
Lots of Ohio escapees,Michigan escapees,Pennsylvania escapees,New York escapees:lots of people from the Upper Midwest and Mid Atlantic area of the country .
Great video Melanie. My husband & I are back and forth between Tampa & Orlando. Your boyfriend says everything my husband says in regards to why Tampa is awesome. We're coming down from SC too, but looking to rent first, do you assist with rentals too?? - Kim
Hi Melanie👋🏻. I love your videos. You’ve answered a lot of my questions. Would you please do a video focusing on 55 plus communities in the Tampa area?
We have been here for a little over 2 weeks now and love the environment! He is my spirit animal😂 “so is the weather bad?” Uhhh NOPE😂 I love Hot weather🙌🏽 Thanks Melanie for all your awesome videos. Your videos have truly been invaluable while we planned to move here😊
I am back in a small town in GA and I HATE IT!! People here are so closed off and know each other and are not up to meet new people. I’ve never been able to make friends here or find a girl here. That was NEVER a problem in Florida. I lived in Orlando but I want to be somewhere closer to the beach.
My husband and I want to move to Tampa in a few years with our two young kids. We know pretty much nothing about the area other than the fact we want to live there lol. I sure hope you’re still around the area doing your realtor thing because I just adore you and have every intention of calling you up when the time comes. Oh and we currently live in Green Bay, WI.......brrrrr.
Well, we have occasional bug issues and bad drivers from all around America who move here, for awhile, here in Northern Virginia. So that makes me feel better when I consider moving to Tampa. It makes me think we can handle that just fine.
I moved to Tampa in March and I absolutely love it. I've lived in Ponce, PR; Honolulu, Columbia, MD; Leesburg, VA; Alexandria, VA; Tucson, AZ; Kissimmee, FL; and Pensacola, FL. Honolulu was awesome, but I rather live in Tampa than in a small little island.
I'm from Philly, PA; I don't think FL has bad drivers at all!!! I think NJ & NY have horrible drivers, but I'm quite comfortable with FL drivers. I'd like to know more about these road tolls though.
Thanks！Very informative. Can you do a vedio about medical facilities in Tampa? I think it is the central concern for most retirees who want to move to FL.
I have my one and only job offer in Tampa, Florida. Since it is my only offer, and I graduate soon, I will have to take it. It’s indifferent for me because I have lived in California for years and have made amazing friends there who I will miss dearly. However I’m happy to start my professional career. This is a big move and change for me..I won’t know anyone at all, I’ll be totally alone! I’m usually good with making friends but I’ve been in school my whole life! I’m pretty nervous about how I’ll meet people.. I mean it’s a bit weird to go to a bar alone but I won’t know anybody! Idk how to meet people my age outside of college as I played a sport and always easily made friends through the team. It’s gonna be a huge huge huge change. We’ll see
Could you please add a link to the mountain bike trails he's talking about? I'm an AK amputee from Michigan, I'm sick of being cooped up during the winter myself lol
My moms family is in Tampa Bay but more in new port richey geographically so thanks for the extra help lol. We currently live in commack on long island in Suffolk county and hope to move down to tampa bay this summer particularly in the new port richey/ trinity area. They love the 24 hr warmth the fact that pasco is all republican and everyone they meet is friendly and always willing to help not to mention amazing schools and much more job opportunities then long island the only thing that's the same is local taxes and that's basically it and price of groceries takeout gas etc is way lower then west Islip in Suffolk where they used to be. Thanks again for the educational content Regards Andrew PS my grandparents were first to move they left for tarpon springs in 1989 then in 2000 they bought land in trinity and closed on their house in 2002 and lived there ever since, my aunt lisa also lives in trinity but my other aunt lives in Clearwater they were originally from palm harbor but moved to Clearwater in 2019. My dads side is in palm beach county lake worth to be exact my uncle was first to move in 1995 then my granddad in 1998 but moved to ocala and lastly my aunt in 2000 and my uncle moved next door to my aunt in 2001 so they're still there after all these years lol. My granddad sadly deceased in 2015 and his condo was sold in 2017 after being vacant and abandoned for 2 years
Hey there, I am moving to Tampa in the fall. Love your videos they are super helpful. I am younger though about 23. It would be great if you could do a video for young adults moving to Tampa. Jobs, social life, living costs (apartments, renting, and such). I think that would be a great video.
I currently live in Illinois. I am a diabled veteran. Illinois allows disabled vets an exemption for property taxes. Does Florida allow for this exemption? Great videos!
@@Mark-tb1zq I never could get a straight answer. Some said because Florida requires PIP, some said high level of DUI’s and some said so many from out of state and lots of accidents.
Great content! I am looking for a safe n developing community around Tampa to move in. Are there any areas with high rate of crimes should I avoid? Your video is amazing!
When you say you wash your car everyday, do you mean you go to a car wash or can you just spray down your car with a hose and that will get rid of the love bugs??
Hi Hailey! The lovebugs are pretty sticky so we would have to spray the fronts of our cars and scrub them off with a rag. We didn’t do a full car wash everyday but if you don’t get the lovebugs off quickly they can embed in your paint. It’s pretty annoying but it doesn’t last too long
Hi Melanie, my family and I are considering moving to the Land O Lakes region and we have a few things holding us to stay in our current state NJ. My parents biggest concern is finding jobs in the Tampa area because they only have a high school diploma. Is finding a job that we can survive on without a degree in Tampa possible? If so what ideas would you have? Thank you for all of the videos they really do help with understanding the area! Take Care and stay safe during these times
I recommended to anyone who wants new york styled pie and from the area Joeys new york styled pizza shop in trinity on little rd is to die for love that place lol. Btw i love amalie arena thats where the bolts play as a diehard islanders fan i go to the bolts vs isles games when they come to Florida at least once every year
Just stay away from ponds or anywhere there is water(canals or lakes). You will be fine if you go to Clearwater Beach as I have yet to see alligators there.
boxing fanatic Great question! Lots of factors go into that decision. If I boiled it down to one sentence I’d say: Tampa has more of a city feel and Clearwater has more of a beach feel. Depends on how you are going to spend your days and what you like to do in your free time. Lots of people from California calling me these days...come on down!
Want to skip ahead? Here are the topics we touched on:
0:00 Intro
0:55 Why choose Tampa?
1:35 Florida offers year round outdoor living
2:17 Traffic & commuting in Tampa
3:35 Lower cost of living in Florida? State income tax, housing options, auto insurance
4:39 Home prices - how much do you get for your money?
5:51 How easy is it to meet people in Tampa?
6:35 Things to do, outdoor activities
7:15 Golf courses outside Tampa city limits
7:55 Bad drivers in Florida?
8:28 Weather & hurricanes
8:57 Bugs & alligators
9:36 Florida man news stories
10:15 Tampa food & restaurants
11:00 Sports, concerts, entertainment
Hi Melanie my name is Rose I am a realtor in Orlando for approx 17 years. My daughter and I are moving to Tampa and looking for rentals and need some place good for my daughter and I. My daughter needs to be close to USF/UT area. I am a single senior and looking for an area where I can join some groups to meet people. Can you help recommend rental areas or purchase areas. I need help! Would love to chest! My email is agentrose63@gmail.com
Hello Melanie, me and my girlfriend are flying into Tampa for the weekend. We’re coming from the metro-Detroit area and looking to rent or buy. Can you help? Are you available this weekend? My email address is myraiders@hotmail.com
As far as commuting, two major no-no's of you can help it. (1) Do *NOT* work/live on opposite sides of downtown Tampa. Traffic in all directions absolutely stinks in all directions inbound and outbound during commute hours, there are no alternate routes to avoid it, and that's when traffic is "normal," nevermind if there's a breakdown or accident. (2) Do *NOT* work/live on opposite sides of the bay. Same issues. Even when traffic is "normal" it's a soul sucking commute, and if there's an accident or breakdown, 2-4+ hours just got added to your commute.
It's not all doom & gloom though. Just follow the those two rules, live & work on the same side of downtown and/or same side of the bay, and commuting will never even register on your mind as an issue.
Looking forward to moving to Tampa .
Melanie is one of the best 💯 Realtor in Tampa. She is friendly, honest and very efficient. She helped me to buy my first house in tampa. Julia from NY.
Aww thank you so much Julia! I hope you have been well over the last couple of months 🥰
I moved here a year ago and Im loving it
What do you like most? I’m thinking of moving there myself
What are the safest areas? For someone who is looking to rent?
I follow you..🤓
Tampa bay area will be my destiny....Under lots of future planning, I will move there after 2 years....!!!
Great video. It's been several years since I've lived in Tampa, and it's always nice to hear a perspective from someone who has lived in other cities along the east coast.
Thanks for the great video about Tampa guys. After living in Ft. Lauderdale for 28 years I can attest to the overcrowding and insane traffic that is just too much to deal with now in the southeast coast amongst other things. I've visited the Tampa area twice in the last couple of years and soon going to be relocating there. This was a good and informative video and only confirmed what I saw and experienced when I visited. Thanks for posting this!
Went to high school in St Pete and college at University of Florida and then I worked up in the panhandle before I had to move away... I have been gone for about 20 years. I have missed it every single day. I agree with Todd that having to hide away eight months out of the year or shovel snow is enough to make you want to go back to Florida. I'll take the heat any day. Planning on moving back down and I'm trying to decide on St Pete or Tampa or the east coast of Florida. I believe I want the Gulf side just because I love the Gulf. But I can't seem to decide between St Pete and Tampa. Thanks for the great video, you have helped answer some of the questions I had...at least about Tampa. All of your videos are fantastic. By the way as far as people thinking the state is too hot or the hurricanes are bad or there are too many alligators or the people are crazy, I kind of let them think that so that they don't crowd the state too much and can save it for us, but I know that doesn't work really well for a realtor. 😄😂
Go Gators. Move on back!
Hit the nail on the head at 1:46 I love the heat and humidity! I moved for that reason alone. I rather be hot than cold and nice scraping
Thank you so much for posting videos like this. I'm moving to Tampa next year from SoCal so I hope the transition won't be too different for me. I really appreciate all the advice and insight you guys have to offer
It’s our pleasure! So happy we could help!
@Michael especially right now when everything is covered in soot!
@Michael I'm in north OC. I have some friends out in IE and there definitely is a noticeable difference but not really any improvements.I would stick to trying another state than trying to make it work here. I feel like it's only gonna get worse, especially with the election coming up. Hell, with the way things seem to be going, sign me up for the Mars mission lol. We're in for a bumpy ride
🤫 Don't let everyone know how great Tampa really is. Jokes aside, love the content your putting out there showing the beauty of Tampa. Born and raised in Bay area (so I'm a Tampon 😂) and its the perfect place that caters to everyone no matter how old you are or where your from.
tampon..... 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
This sounds really happy. I like that there’s transplants from other places and also I would like if I could find people from other countries who are from UK or France or Australia, I heard Greek good! Yes!
ikr i say that to my cousins like lets keep tampa on the hush dont want everyone coming here
I'm a rare Tampa native, so this is really all I know except for a brief stay at UF for college. (Go Gators!!)
I like it here because I need the sunshine to be happy. The biggest con in my opinion is the heat. Like today in June, it was in the mid 90s but humidity index made it feel like 111°! Walking outside felt like walking into a bathroom where someone's taking a piping hot shower.
So you get a kind of reverse cabin fever where you have to stay inside because of the heat. That's just me though. A lot of folks are Northern transplants like this guy and love the heat.
Also, and it's probably like this in every big city, Tampa Bay is hundreds of different neighborhoods and satellite cities. Each neighborhood has a completely different feel, cultural makeup, demographic makeup, etc. So you could visit 10 neighborhoods and feel they have nothing in common except for the weather.
Let me extend a big welcome to anyone who wants to move down here. People are friendly and, like the guy said, most are from other places so it's not full of cliques & the like.
Rent first. Explore the different neighborhoods, and you'll soon find your perfect neighborhood and home here in Tampa Bay!
PS. I feel that a lot of people don't realize before they move down here that while there are a lot of water activities in the city of Tampa, there are no actual beaches! Sometimes brochures will show folks on the beautiful white sand beaches, but they are ALL in Pinellas county. So if you move to Tampa proper, its a 45 minute drive to the beach. Still not too shabby. But if you're wanting to live really close to a beach, you need to look along the west side of Pinellas. And bring your wallet!
Agree. Heat blows. Also a native here. That said, there are technically beaches. Would you want to swim in them? Debateable. Picnic Island has one. Cypress Point Park does too. And there's another on Davis Islands.
My absolute favorite area on the east coast. Lived in Tampa area for 26 years and someday will get to move back. If you love the outdoors this is the place.
I live in buffalo, NY my brother is moving to Lakeland in August so i started looking around the area and found your videos they are so well made and filled with great content. I want to move down to Florida and your videos make me really love Tampa hope to visit in Sept.
From buffalo also, currently trying to move to tampa 🤣
Born and raised Floridian, currently living in Oklahoma for work. OMG do I want to move back lol. The lack of beaches and cuban sandwiches is wearing on my psyche. Just waiting for my lease to be up and I'm going back home!
I hear ya, I’m from Pensacola and currently living in Cincinnati trying everything I can to get back to Florida
I’m from Tulsa, OK originally but currently living in Henderson, NV. I feel so bad for you! That strongly SUCKS! I do wish you the best so that you can move back! A much lower cost of living doesn’t mean that we are really alive at all! I don’t like Oklahoma either and half of my memories over there are things I’m not fond of at all. It’s too boring in Oklahoma!
Cuban sandwiches are a must!
Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida and lived in Tampa for a year! Made lifelong memories and friends. Should have never left and will gladly move back should the right doors open. Tampa will forever be my 2nd home ☀️🥰
I love tampa. Mostly because my daughter and her family are there. Its really a clean beautiful city.
Im so excited to move to Tampa in a few weeks 😍
Hey, me too! Haha June 24th
MadameBeautiful GOOD LUCK AND HAPPY FOR YOU... I’M RIGHT BEHIND YA😁 January 2021🤗🤗
I’m trying to move there November 2020. Were you able to find affordable housing?
Congrats
I’m moving to Tampa too, June 29th!
Plan on moving to Tampa around August 25th!!
Originally from Wisconsin. I'm currently trying out the Dallas area. But, I moved from Wisconsin to get rid of winter. Currently 17 degrees and snow! I'm looking at a May move to Tampa!
Looking forward to the adventure!!!
I enjoyed this video...very well done as usual. :-) Love the Tucker pic! It would be fun if you could work him into a future video again. The video he was in when he kept trying to eat your hair was pretty cute. I've lived in Pinellas County now for 30 years and honestly couldn't imagine living anywhere else. I'm originally from Minnesota so I know about cold! Growing up summer was always my favorite season by far so here I am living in an "endless summer" as it says on the license plates.
Thank you both for your perspectives on living in the Tampa Bay area, great information and summary! I am planning on visiting in about 2 weeks and look forward to checking out the area and things to do!
I grew up in south Tampa in the 60s and 70s. It was middle class back then. I left Tampa in 2010, not so much because I hated it.. Just the traffic got terrible, it's now a city for young adults, definitely not a place to retire to. I live in the panhandle of Florida now, I like it much better as I get older, glad I left Tampa. It's a great city but I will take the slower pace and shorter summers of the panhandle.
Thanks Melanie! You helped my family make the decision to move to the Tampa area. We move in a week and a half!
Cristine Wait Fantastic! Wishing you a smooth transition!
This Video really helped me.
I watch many from several creators in Florida.
I think you have to be honest about what you really need for daily life. What isn’t your Style so to speak. BC a lot of places in Fl seem wonderful w Pros and Cons. I am drawn towards Naples. Knowing there’s no public transportation is a deal breaker for me. And if I must drive, I prefer not to much traffic. If I want more synergy and entertainment. I can visit certain areas. I’m in California
Everyone I know of has or are moving to FL. I’m learning the difference between Southside to Miami vs Miami Beach to Panhandle, Clearwater etc..
Thanks for doing these Videos
It helps to hear how other “Transplants” think about their FL lifestyle. 👍
I miss Tampa a lot. My aunt and uncle lived here for 25 years and I visited annually. I still have family but they live outside of Clearwater. Wish I could come back soon for a little visit. Miss the accents, and people, sun and sand, and palm trees.
Great video! We are looking to relocate from Buffalo, NY in the near future.
We were thinking more central FL, but who knows maybe we will visit the Tampa area before we make the big move 🙂
Dont come here unless you are a Republican. This state is only great because Republicans built it.Seriously
The Cuban sangwitch at the Bodega in St. Pete's is phenominal!
i live and work downtown Tampa.. i always called Tampa the best kept secret... i love it here for so many reasons
Loved your interview, very good questions asked with very good concised and to the point, through answers. Thank You.
I visit Tampa every year for Yankees spring training. If I ever decide to leave Kansas, it would be for Tampa. One thing about restaurants there I've noticed are all the amazing breweries that have opened up.
Wow just in time, I'm really considering Tampa. Best youtuber out there making videos on what it's like :) thank you Melanie!!!
Thanks Thomas! Made my day 😊
Visiting this summer from Alaska. Looking to trade in my mountains and snow for palm trees and beaches!
Traffic in Tampa is horrible. As someone who moved here from New York I had to adjust to the length of the red lights. Some lights are a 2-3 minute wait. A normal 15 minute drive will take 30 minutes It took me about 4 years to stop complaining about it. Also the driving here is bad. The slow drivers block the left lane causing everyone to change lanes hence one of the reasons we have so many accidents. Other than that I LOVE Tampa and do not miss the cold at allllllllll.
I just love your Energy, I was close to moving to Tampa last year, but moved to Miami. If I ever leave South Florida I would choose the Tampa Bay Area.
Thanks Anthony! Would love to have you up here in Tampa when you decide to leave Miami!
you do not like the Broward county area ?
@@The1ByTheSea I like Broward as well, but if I ever leave South Florida I would move to the Tampa area.
Hi. Do u like Miami alot? Is the cost of living making it tough to live there, would u recommend Tampa over Miami for a guy from NY?
@@jumb0shr1mp6 I recommend either St. Pete beach or Miami. I like both places, but the vibe is so different between the two. There’s a lot of New Yorkers here in Miami. Come visit and when you do take a trip to Fort Lauderdale it’s more affordable compared to Miami.
Good stuff! Thanks for sharing.
Love all the wonderful Insight of Tampa Bay! 🧡
I love you guys together such a great energy ✨ love to see someone that was born in Ohio, currently live in Ohio and moving there next year! So cool thank you
Tampa native. I want a better light rail system. I live next to rail tracks and i never see any commercial or transport trains. Only freight. We have existing infastructure all we need is some rennovations like in ybor for an amazing light rail system! It will put a large relief on the traffic. I know myself will use it aswell.
Hi Melanie, thanks for the video. I currently live in San Diego and looking to move out ASAP. Been here 20 years and I'm ready for change. Been researching states and cities that meet my political, economic and recreational needs; Tampa seems like a top choice.
You will never find a comparable climate, but No tyrants like Gavin Gruesome in FL. I have good friends near USD, and they are moving to Florida, if Gavin is not recalled. The reduction in taxes will be welcome! I think you will like Tampa.
@@jdhjimbo Whether aside, FL beats CA in every aspect. I have the freedom to conduct my personal business without state interference. I will also have zero, ZERO state income tax! I can carry my firearm, stand my ground and enjoy a version of true capitalism. One year to go here in Commie-fronia. This state is beautiful, has lots too offer; the cost has become unlivable. See ya soon Florida1
@@donniedarko1345 I lived 13 years in CA, and another 5 in Seattle and 1 in Lkrtland, but escaped the Left Coast before the real loons took over! All 3 are gorgeous states, but not fit for a libertarian like myself, to live in. I did miss the weather and scenery some, but blue states are hellholes, and I can imagine the Covid Cult theatrics were miserable to endure in Commiefornia. Newsom and his drunk aunt Nancy are simply awful human beings!! You will love Florida, and all the money you save, and not having to argue with deranged loons every day!
I'm moving back after 11 years. I miss it so much and now my parents retired there a few miles from my sister in Wesley Chapel and I can't wait to be able to hang out with them since they're in their 70's. Cannot wait. Arizona is nice, but the weather is hard on my skin. My lips are always peeling no matter how much water I drink. In Tampa my skin was always nice and it glistened oddly enough like in Twilight. lol So excited to get back.
Great content.... moved here a year ago and know what it’s like!!
I couldn’t stop looking at the dog in the back 😆
😂😂
Def thinking of moving to Tampa or right outside of it from MA. I lived in NC a while back & loved it. MA is just too expensive for a single gal. And yes MA car ins is ridiculously expensive. Going to rent to make sure I like it before I make a perm decision
Take me with you. I'm in Western Massachusetts.
May I suggest visiting with Jenna (many tattoos) at the 2001 Odyssey on Dale Mabry, just north of 275! It's a great club, clean and friendly staff. Jenna is my favorite for several years!
I move back to Tampa in 2 days and I’m here watching videos about Tampa like I haven’t lived there before but it’s been years I moved out of Tampa in 2013 and I’m moving back and it’s the first time I’m going to be living BY MYSELF in Tampa
@Been Here it’s great I love it here
I have purchased renovated and sold two to three hundred homes in Northern NJ. A month ago I flew to Tampa and met with a realtor to see if there’s opportunity to do this. Unfortunately it seems like Tampa is no different then the rest of the country. Prices are high, No deals.
This video came right on time, I am currently in the process of looking at houses in Land O Lakes & Odessa. Would like to move within the next few months, however that is dependent on a job :(
Two very popular areas! Fingers crossed that you get the job 🤞🏼
Both from Ohio! Lots of Ohio escapees in Florida.
I had a Friend who left the Tampa area for Wooster, Ohio. Said he had to go that far north to find America!
Lots of Ohio escapees,Michigan escapees,Pennsylvania escapees,New York escapees:lots of people from the Upper Midwest and Mid Atlantic area of the country .
@@jason60chev gee,I wonder if he lived in Miami...lol...You only have to go to Broward county to find ,some sense of America...lol
Great video Melanie. My husband & I are back and forth between Tampa & Orlando. Your boyfriend says everything my husband says in regards to why Tampa is awesome. We're coming down from SC too, but looking to rent first, do you assist with rentals too?? - Kim
Hi Melanie👋🏻. I love your videos. You’ve answered a lot of my questions. Would you please do a video focusing on 55 plus communities in the Tampa area?
Hi Evelyn-I think that’s a great idea. I’ll work on it!
Can’t wait to move to Tampa , So looking forward to it !!!
Me to I’m waiting for My stimulus check to start looking forward 😁
We have been here for a little over 2 weeks now and love the environment!
He is my spirit animal😂 “so is the weather bad?” Uhhh NOPE😂 I love Hot weather🙌🏽
Thanks Melanie for all your awesome videos. Your videos have truly been invaluable while we planned to move here😊
I am back in a small town in GA and I HATE IT!! People here are so closed off and know each other and are not up to meet new people. I’ve never been able to make friends here or find a girl here. That was NEVER a problem in Florida. I lived in Orlando but I want to be somewhere closer to the beach.
Love your content! We love the tampa bay area as a whole. Do you have a favorite spot?
Great informative video. Curious where he moved to...
My husband and I want to move to Tampa in a few years with our two young kids. We know pretty much nothing about the area other than the fact we want to live there lol. I sure hope you’re still around the area doing your realtor thing because I just adore you and have every intention of calling you up when the time comes. Oh and we currently live in Green Bay, WI.......brrrrr.
Well, we have occasional bug issues and bad drivers from all around America who move here, for awhile, here in Northern Virginia. So that makes me feel better when I consider moving to Tampa. It makes me think we can handle that just fine.
We are living in Pittsburgh, PA and hate it. Trying to get to Tampa ASAP.
I moved to Tampa in March and I absolutely love it. I've lived in Ponce, PR; Honolulu, Columbia, MD; Leesburg, VA; Alexandria, VA; Tucson, AZ; Kissimmee, FL; and Pensacola, FL. Honolulu was awesome, but I rather live in Tampa than in a small little island.
What was your experience like in Arizona? I moved here and I have mixed feelings about making this state my home.
So helpful! Thanks so much. 🤍 You guys were awesome 😊
I'm from Philly, PA; I don't think FL has bad drivers at all!!! I think NJ & NY have horrible drivers, but I'm quite comfortable with FL drivers. I'd like to know more about these road tolls though.
Thanks！Very informative. Can you do a vedio about medical facilities in Tampa? I think it is the central concern for most retirees who want to move to FL.
I miss Tampa everyday 💕
I have my one and only job offer in Tampa, Florida. Since it is my only offer, and I graduate soon, I will have to take it. It’s indifferent for me because I have lived in California for years and have made amazing friends there who I will miss dearly. However I’m happy to start my professional career. This is a big move and change for me..I won’t know anyone at all, I’ll be totally alone! I’m usually good with making friends but I’ve been in school my whole life! I’m pretty nervous about how I’ll meet people.. I mean it’s a bit weird to go to a bar alone but I won’t know anybody! Idk how to meet people my age outside of college as I played a sport and always easily made friends through the team. It’s gonna be a huge huge huge change. We’ll see
Could you please add a link to the mountain bike trails he's talking about? I'm an AK amputee from Michigan, I'm sick of being cooped up during the winter myself lol
I move to Tampa in 5 days!! I could cry I’m so excited!!! 😍
Welcome Courtney!!
How are you liking it so far, Courtney? My wife and I might move down to Tampa from Charlotte for a potential job opportunity.
@@Painfulwhale360 we absolutely love it here!! The people here are also extremely nice for the most part. We feel very at home since day 1
My moms family is in Tampa Bay but more in new port richey geographically so thanks for the extra help lol. We currently live in commack on long island in Suffolk county and hope to move down to tampa bay this summer particularly in the new port richey/ trinity area. They love the 24 hr warmth the fact that pasco is all republican and everyone they meet is friendly and always willing to help not to mention amazing schools and much more job opportunities then long island the only thing that's the same is local taxes and that's basically it and price of groceries takeout gas etc is way lower then west Islip in Suffolk where they used to be. Thanks again for the educational content
Regards
Andrew
PS my grandparents were first to move they left for tarpon springs in 1989 then in 2000 they bought land in trinity and closed on their house in 2002 and lived there ever since, my aunt lisa also lives in trinity but my other aunt lives in Clearwater they were originally from palm harbor but moved to Clearwater in 2019. My dads side is in palm beach county lake worth to be exact my uncle was first to move in 1995 then my granddad in 1998 but moved to ocala and lastly my aunt in 2000 and my uncle moved next door to my aunt in 2001 so they're still there after all these years lol. My granddad sadly deceased in 2015 and his condo was sold in 2017 after being vacant and abandoned for 2 years
Thank you for this information ✅
Hey there, I am moving to Tampa in the fall. Love your videos they are super helpful. I am younger though about 23. It would be great if you could do a video for young adults moving to Tampa. Jobs, social life, living costs (apartments, renting, and such). I think that would be a great video.
I think that’s a great idea! I will try to find a younger-than-me person to do it with 😊
I can’t wait to move to tampa this summer!!
I currently live in Illinois. I am a diabled veteran. Illinois allows disabled vets an exemption for property taxes. Does Florida allow for this exemption? Great videos!
Car insurance was a complete shocker to me when I moved. The one thing I hadn’t considered of course.
Why is auto insurance so expensive in Tampa?
@@Mark-tb1zq I never could get a straight answer. Some said because Florida requires PIP, some said high level of DUI’s and some said so many from out of state and lots of accidents.
Thanks so much!!!! coming from Minnesota, this was very helpful
You are very welcome!
Great Video!!!! Really helpful!!!
I went to Tampa bay in August it was great especially the beach it was day trip. I went to Orlando for 6 days
Tariq Vlogs what beach did you go to
Thank you for the information. I would like to ask, how is living in tampa for musicians?
thankyou for sharing where moving in 1 year to tampa
What is the name of the Greek restaurant they mentioned? Heading to St Pete tomorrow and Greek food is my fav!
I’m planning to buy a house in the Tampa are within the next couple of months! I’d love to have you as our realtor!!
Campbells on Camera Thanks! Send me an email and let me know what you are looking for! Matkinson@smithandassociates.com
I’m curious what your boyfriend does for a living that allows him to pick wherever he wants to live in Florida.
I love this video! I would love to move to Tampa Florida! Love y’all!
what about sinkholes?
Thank you guys. I can wait to move there
Great content! I am looking for a safe n developing community around Tampa to move in. Are there any areas with high rate of crimes should I avoid? Your video is amazing!
That's all the reasons why I'm moving down from the north
Great video keep em coming
When you say you wash your car everyday, do you mean you go to a car wash or can you just spray down your car with a hose and that will get rid of the love bugs??
Hi Hailey! The lovebugs are pretty sticky so we would have to spray the fronts of our cars and scrub them off with a rag. We didn’t do a full car wash everyday but if you don’t get the lovebugs off quickly they can embed in your paint. It’s pretty annoying but it doesn’t last too long
Hi Melanie, my family and I are considering moving to the Land O Lakes region and we have a few things holding us to stay in our current state NJ. My parents biggest concern is finding jobs in the Tampa area because they only have a high school diploma. Is finding a job that we can survive on without a degree in Tampa possible? If so what ideas would you have? Thank you for all of the videos they really do help with understanding the area! Take Care and stay safe during these times
I recommended to anyone who wants new york styled pie and from the area Joeys new york styled pizza shop in trinity on little rd is to die for love that place lol. Btw i love amalie arena thats where the bolts play as a diehard islanders fan i go to the bolts vs isles games when they come to Florida at least once every year
What is the best area to start looking for a home?
Great video, nice to see your love, seems like a great guy. We can’t wait to meet with you again and finally put some roots down.
Marci D Thanks Marci!!
I am so excited to be moving to Tampa! We're moving down from Michigan!
Fantastic! You’re going to love the winters!
I have been looking into moving there from Los Angeles. Do they have a lot of snakes and alligators in houses? Is it safe to walk my dog?
Just stay away from ponds or anywhere there is water(canals or lakes). You will be fine if you go to Clearwater Beach as I have yet to see alligators there.
Be sure to check your toilet for snakes before you sit.
And don't live in an area with sink holes.
If you can do it! I moved there for work for 5 years and loved it! I want to go back!
My family is moving to Tampa Bay area from San Diego CA next month
Are there senior discounts on home taxes?
Same type of perspective for St Pete?
I live in Northern California the Bay Area I wanna move to Florida where should I move to Tampa or Clearwater ?
boxing fanatic Great question! Lots of factors go into that decision. If I boiled it down to one sentence I’d say: Tampa has more of a city feel and Clearwater has more of a beach feel. Depends on how you are going to spend your days and what you like to do in your free time. Lots of people from California calling me these days...come on down!
Melanie Loves Tampa Bay definitely soon thank you
How’s the cost of living compared to Houston Texas
Haha Im living in LA... it was funny the traffic question. Hope i can move to Tampa in a few months
hello from MA hoping to move to Tampa soon
I want to move by the end of August but my parents are scared for me with Coronavirus going on. What is your recommendation?