Discover 20 Charming and Affordable Suburbs along Florida's Nature Coast

Looking to move close to Tampa but without the steep price tag? Look no further than Florida's Nature Coast, a stretch of paradise along the Gulf of Mexico, with easy access to Tampa via I-75 and the Suncoast Parkway. Discover 20 charming suburbs along Florida's Nature Coast within easy reach of Tampa that offer the perfect blend of natural beauty, affordability, and proximity to city amenities.

 Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate investor, these communities offer a range of homes to fit any budget. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the best-kept secrets in Florida real estate. 

Pasco County: 

1. Wesley Chapel - This rapidly growing suburb is located just 30 minutes from Tampa and offers a mix of new construction and established neighborhoods, as well as great schools and a variety of shopping and dining options. Avg. sales price: $433,029 

2. Lutz - This charming suburb is known for its tree-lined streets, great schools, and easy access to Tampa's amenities, including the University of South Florida and Busch Gardens. Avg. sales price: $397,504 

3. Odessa - Located on the shores of Lake Keystone, Odessa offers beautiful waterfront properties and a peaceful, rural setting, while still being just 30 minutes from Tampa. Avg. sales price: $619,405 

4. Land O' Lakes - Known for its abundance of lakes and parks, this suburban community is just 30 minutes from Tampa and offers a mix of newer and more established neighborhoods. Avg. sales price: $447,590 

5. Trinity - This rapidly growing community is located just 30 minutes from Tampa and offers a mix of newer and more established neighborhoods, as well as great schools and easy access to the Gulf of Mexico. Avg. sales price: $538,145 

6. Tarpon Springs - Known for its Greek heritage and sponge diving industry, Tarpon Springs is just 45 minutes from Tampa and offers a mix of historic homes and newer developments, as well as easy access to the Gulf of Mexico. Avg. sales price: $468,154

7. Hudson - This waterfront community is just 45 minutes from Tampa and offers a mix of waterfront properties and established neighborhoods, as well as easy access to the Gulf of Mexico. Avg. sales price: $287,903 

8. Port Richey - Located just 45 minutes from Tampa, Port Richey offers a mix of waterfront properties and established neighborhoods, as well as plenty of shopping and dining options. Avg. sales price: $255,838 

9. New Port Richey - This charming community is just 45 minutes from Tampa and offers a mix of historic homes, newer developments, and plenty of shopping and dining options, as well as easy access to the Gulf of Mexico. Avg. sales price: $340,076 

10. Hudson Beach - A quaint waterfront community known for its stunning sunsets, white sand beach, and excellent fishing opportunities. With its laid-back atmosphere and charming local shops and restaurants, Hudson Beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.  Avg. sales price: $329,848

Stats from Stellar MLS. Average residential home sales prices for homes in Pasco County. March 1-31, 2023.

Hernando County:

11. Spring Hill - This rapidly growing suburb is located just 45 minutes from Tampa and offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condos, as well as great schools and plenty of shopping and dining options. Spring Hill is a popular suburban area with a diverse range of homes, from modest starter homes to luxurious estates. It offers easy access to Tampa via the Suncoast Parkway and is also home to many parks and outdoor recreational areas.  Avg. sales price: $308,629 

12. Brooksville - This charming town is located just 45 minutes from Tampa and offers a mix of historic homes and new developments, as well as easy access to both Tampa and the Gulf of Mexico. Avg. sales price: $291,947 

13. Weeki Wachee - Known for its crystal clear springs and mermaid shows, Weeki Wachee is just 1 hour from Tampa and offers a mix of waterfront properties and established neighborhoods. Avg. sales price: $327,110 

14. Hernando Beach - This waterfront community is just 1 hour from Tampa and offers a mix of waterfront properties and established neighborhoods, as well as easy access to the Gulf of Mexico. Avg. sales price: $593,333

Stats from Flex (Hernando) MLS. Average residential home sales prices for homes in Hernando County. March 1-31, 2023.

Citrus County:

15. Crystal River - Known as the "gem of the Nature Coast," Crystal River is a popular waterfront community with a mix of historic homes and newer developments. It's known for its natural beauty, including the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, and its excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Avg. sales price: $272,250 

16. Homosassa - Another popular waterfront community, Homosassa is known for its crystal clear springs and abundant wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and more. It offers a mix of single-family homes and active adult communities. Avg. sales price: $302,700 

17. Inverness - The county seat of Citrus County, Inverness is a charming town with a historic downtown area and plenty of shopping and dining options. It offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condos. Avg. sales price: $267,500 

18. Floral City - This small town is known for its historic charm and peaceful, countryside setting. It offers a mix of historic homes and newer developments, as well as easy access to the Withlacoochee State Trail for hiking and biking. Avg. sales price: $326,500

19. Beverly Hills - This established community offers a mix of single-family homes and active adult communities, as well as plenty of green space and recreational opportunities. It's located just a short drive from both Crystal River and Inverness. Avg. sales price: $231,600 

20. Citrus Springs - This upscale community offers a mix of single-family homes, villas, and condos, as well as several golf courses and other amenities. It's located just a short drive from both Crystal River and Inverness, making it a great option for those looking for a more luxurious lifestyle. Avg. sales price: $232,689

Final thoughts

The Nature Coast of Florida offers an abundance of affordable and attractive suburbs, all within an hour and a half of Tampa. From waterfront towns in Hernando County, to the crystal clear springs of Citrus County, there's something for everyone looking to make Florida their home.

If you're looking to buy or sell a home along the Nature Coast, I'd love to help you make your dream a reality. As a local realtor with 6 years of full-time experience, I'm well-versed in the unique charms and opportunities offered by each of these suburbs.

Give me a call to discover the benefits of working with a team of local professionals, who truly care about your success!