At some point, people have started taking it for granted that Tampa Bay is one of the hottest places to move in the United States. But the sheer number of people and publications listing Tampa Bay as among the best places to live in the U.S. has reached its highest level in the past year.

None of this surprises us at Good Greek Moving & Storage. As a company established in Florida – and as official movers of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Rays, and Tampa Bay Rowdies – we know firsthand the many advantages this state offers its residents. As a Tampa moving company, we’ve handled an increasing number of moves to the Tampa Bay area, including people relocating to Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, Pasco County, and other areas around the region.

Best Place Rankings for Tampa Bay

Here’s a roundup of the different rankings that feature Tampa, other cities in the area, or Tampa Bay as a whole.

If you’re new to reading about Tampa, the city has a population of about 395,000 and is the biggest city in the area. But Tampa Bay, much like South Florida, includes many cities, towns, and villages and has a population of 3.2 million people. It’s also considered part of the unofficial “megaregion” of Central Florida that extends along Interstate 4 from Greater Orlando to Tampa Bay and is home to more than 8 million people (although with plenty of room to spread out!).

The following focuses on Tampa and other Tampa Bay cities that have ranked highly in recent lists.

Dave Ramsey

On his list of the best places to live in Florida, famous financial advisor Dave Ramsey listed Tampa at No. 6 and the Virginia Park neighborhood as one of the most affordable in the state. He wrote that in Tampa “you get the best of both worlds—one world, of course, referring to Disney World, which is only a short trip away. And the other world meaning the laid-back beach lifestyle of the Tampa Bay area—which connects to the Gulf of Mexico.”

Money Magazine

Money magazine ranked Tampa as the 9th best place to live in the nation, calling it a “rare combination of action-packed and affordable.” In addition to offering affordable housing, they pointed out that Tampa offers great nightlife for young professionals, plenty of sports teams to follow, and an area “bursting with culture.” They also called out Tampa’s famous Taco Bus, which “was dishing burritos out of its yellow school bus way before food trucks were cool.”

U.S. News and World Report

U.S. News ranked Tampa as the 39th best city to live in the U.S. for 2022-2023, giving it high marks for quality of life, value, desirability and the job market. Tampa also ranked at No. 6 on the safest places to live list. Sarasota, also considered part of Tampa Bay, ranked at No. 9. By the way, this list, considered among the most thorough lists, included the 150 most populous metro areas in the country.

Niche

Niche, a website that provides information on cities across the country, ranked Tampa at No. 39 on the best places to live in America list for 2022, giving the city high rankings for schools, nightlife, diversity, and being “good for families.”

Bankrate

Financial website Bankrate placed Tampa at No. 5 on the Best Places to Live in America list. They also pointed out the affordability factor, as well as having nearly 80 colleges, universities and technical schools, and high-profile companies in the area, including Raymond James, Citigroup, and USAA.

Finally, there are the people, themselves. Tampa ranked No.15 in the U.S. News list of places people are moving to in the greatest numbers. Sarasota ranked at No. 3 on the list. The Tampa Bay area’s population as a whole grew 6.67 percent between 2016 and 2021.

If you’re living somewhere else and thinking of moving to Tampa, these rankings may help you feel justified in your interest in the area.

Are You Planning to Relocate to Tampa? Call (561) 683-1313 to Speak with a Relocation Specialist Now 

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Despite its reputation as a great place to have a party, not all of Miami is like South Beach on a Saturday night. Miami offers many benefits to families, including plenty of attractions for kids, a diverse culture, many beautiful public parks, and great neighborhoods for families.

The key to family living in Miami and Dade County is knowing what type of lifestyle you want and knowing where to look. The area has plenty to offer families, including the neighborhoods listed below.

Those searching for a place to move in the Miami area will also want to find the best mover for their relocation to South Florida. You may also want to check out some of the pros and cons of moving to South Florida.

Family Attractions in Miami

Before getting to the neighborhoods, families who are considering a move to Miami should know what the city and surrounding Dade County offer for kids. For example, Miami has more than 147 public parks, playgrounds, recreation areas, and gardens.

As for attractions, Miami and the surrounding areas have the Miami Children’s Museum, Miami Seaquarium, Crandon Park Amusement Center, Flamingo Gardens, Monkey Jungle, the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair, and much more.

For parents looking for a diverse community to raise their kids, few places offer a more diverse culture than Miami. As with many cities in Florida, the people who live in Miami-Dade aren’t necessarily from Miami-Dade. That makes for an interesting mix of cultural attractions, events, restaurants, and neighborhoods. South Florida is home to immigrants from across the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, as well as people from across the United States. It also has a large LGBT population.

And, of course, there are the beaches along the South Florida coast that rank among the best in the world.

Miami Neighborhoods for Families

While this list isn’t all-inclusive, these are some of the best neighborhoods for families in Miami. It’s also helpful to look at the latest real estate listings to see what homes are available.

Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove was one of Miami’s first neighborhoods, and it remains one of its most popular. Locals often refer to the upscale neighborhood simply as The Grove. It’s known for its tropical trees and foliage – it’s one of the greenest areas in all of Miami-Dade County – and its homes in a variety of styles, many of them mid-century moderns or Caribbean-style bungalows.

Coconut Grove Attractions

Attractions in and around Coconut Grove include the Italian-style villa that is now the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a popular tourist attraction. There’s great shopping and charming cafes in Coconut Grove, as well as playgrounds and great views at David T. Kennedy Park.

Coconut Grove Schools

Private schools in Coconut Grove include Carrollton and Ransom. The neighborhood also is home to Coconut Grove Montessori School, Frances S. Tucker Elementary, and George Washington Carver Middle School.

Coral Gables

Coral Gables, which is about 20 minutes away from downtown Miami, is technically its own city but is one of the best neighborhoods for families in Dade County. It’s perhaps best known to outsiders (and sports fans) as home to the University of Miami. Many homes in the area are known for their Old Spanish and Mediterranean architecture. Like nearby Coconut Grove, Coral Gables is also known for its lush landscaping.

Coral Gables Attractions

Attractions in Coral Gables include the Montgomery Botanical Center and more than 140 restaurants and gourmet shops. Coral Gables is also known for its arts and theater, including the Actors’ Playhouse at Miracle Theater which puts on productions for audiences of all ages. As the kids get older, they’ll come to appreciate the art house films they can see at the Gables Cinema.

Coral Gables Schools

Schools in the area include Saint Hugh, Saint Stephen’s, Coconut Grove Montessori, the Vanguard School, LaSalle High School, Coconut Grove Elementary, Frances S. Tucker Elementary, and George W. Carver Elementary Middle Schools.

Brickell

Downtown Miami has been transformed in the last decade, and Brickell is one of the reasons. Located at the southern end of downtown, Brickell’s skyline is starting to look a bit like the southern tip of Manhattan. Brickell is home to Miami’s financial district, which is one of the biggest in the country. Many people who live in Brickell choose to make the many gleaming condo towers rising in the area their new home.

Brickell Attractions

Kids will enjoy the Frost Museum of Science, which includes a wildlife center, a planetarium, and a 500,000-gallon aquarium. For kids who love art, the Perez Art Museum focuses on contemporary pieces. Brickell also is next to the Rickenbacker Causeway which leads a short distance to Key Biscayne.

Brickell Schools

Schools in Brickell include Southside Elementary School, Citrus Grove Middle School, Miami High School, Key Point Academy, and KLA Schools of Brickell.

Pinecrest

Pinecrest is a suburb (officially a village) southwest of downtown Miami. The community always ranks highly among the best-rated suburban neighborhoods in South Florida. It’s a magnet for both young professionals and families.

Pinecrest Attractions

Much of what happens in Pinecrest is built around families, including plenty of parks and green space, hundreds of restaurants, and Pinecrest Gardens, a botanical garden where families can go for a leisurely walk.

Pinecrest Schools

Pinecrest is known for highly rated schools, including Pinecrest Elementary School, Palmetto Elementary, Palmetto Middle School and Palmetto High School.

These represent four of the best Miami neighborhoods for families. Families also have the choice of buying in places just outside Miami, including Kendall, Weston, and other suburban communities in northern Dade County and Broward County. For families, there are plenty of great choices in one of the most exciting and beautiful areas of the country.

Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Cuba, and Mexico, all with different cultures and customs. The city also has a substantial Bahamian, Jamaican, and Haitian population there as well, among other nationalities. And Miami’s LGBT population is pretty large as well, all making for rich experiences that children can learn from.

Considering A Move To Miami? Contact A Total Relocation Specialist Now At (561) 683-1313.

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Living in Florida has always been a popular choice for Americans (and many Europeans and Latin Americans) who want mild winters, low taxes and great beaches. But in recent years, moving to Florida has reached new heights of popularity.

The numbers are impressive. For example, between July 2020 and July 2021, the state added 211,305 residents. Florida ranked as the No. 1 state for net migration – the number of people moving in vs. the number moving out – in 2020 and 2021.

There’s no sign of the trend slowing, either. The number of people moving to Florida in the first few months of 2022 is even higher than the rate in 2021.

Why Are People Moving to Florida?

It’s easy to see why so many people want to move to South Florida and other parts of the Sunshine State. While every person has their own moving story, almost everyone benefits from the following aspects of living in Florida.

• Zero state income tax
• Some of the best-rated beaches in the world
• Low property tax rates
• More entertainment options than just about anywhere else
• A culture that blends the best of the U.S., Latin America, and Europe
• Huge events all year round
• If you enjoy water-related activities, it’s the best place to be
• Being able to say the following and mean it: “I will never have to shovel snow again”

Florida also features some of the fastest-growing cities in the nation, where job opportunities, affordable neighborhoods, great restaurants, and a laid-back, tropical, or sub-tropical lifestyle await new residents. Those cities include Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, St Petersburg, Orlando, and Jacksonville.

States People Leave to Live in Florida

Where are all of these people coming from? It’s no surprise to Floridians (or New Yorkers) that numbers from the U.S. Census Bureau show more people leave New York to live in Florida than any other state. There’s always been a strong connection between the two states, with many New Yorkers vacationing in Florida and some eventually making a permanent home there. That number has grown in recent years.

But Americans from many other states are also starting to choose Florida in higher numbers.

Here are the top states people are leaving to move to Florida, using census bureau data.

• New York. The number of New Yorkers moving to Florida reached 57,488. That’s nothing new, as New Yorkers have come to Florida since the late 18th century. Even black and white Hollywood movies such as “It Happened One Night” and “Some Like It Hot ” revolved around people “running away” from New York for Florida. In reality, New Yorkers enjoy lower taxes, warm weather, and a business-friendly environment.
• Georgia. In 2019 alone, 49,681 people moved from Georgia to Florida. Why make such a relatively short move? Because Georgians want to escape high state income taxes and enjoy the job opportunities in every major city in Florida.
• Pennsylvania. Like New Yorkers, the 34,965 people who made the move from Pennsylvania to Florida likely wanted to escape higher taxes and harsh winter weather. Like New York, Pennsylvania – the nation’s fifth-biggest state – has lost population in recent years.
• Ohio. In Ohio, 30,335 decided to leave the Buckeye State and make the move to Florida. The Midwest is another area where many people have migrated to Florida. The Tampa Bay area is especially a popular destination for many Midwesterners who are drawn to the growing economy in the Tampa Bay area (and the many great sports options).
• California. If any state on the list is a surprise, it’s California, a state most people associate with a place people move to rather than a place they leave. Data shows that 28,628 people moved from California to Florida. It makes sense for Californians who want a warm climate without the high taxes.
• New Jersey. In 2019, 28,222 people moved from New Jersey to Florida. Many did so for the very same reasons that people moved from New York – weather, taxes, lower cost of living, and more affordable homes and rentals.
• North Carolina. Like the people in Georgia, North Carolinians benefit from living close to Florida – 28,207 moved south in 2019.
• Texas. In 2019, 26,174 left Texas for Florida. The states share many common attributes in terms of taxes and cost of living. However, many make the move because of a new job, retirement, or to live closer to more (and better) beaches than they have in Texas.

Are You Considering Relocating to Florida? Call (561) 683-1313 to Speak with a Relocation Specialist Today

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If you’re thinking about moving to Tampa Bay, you want to learn all about moving to Tampa and the many advantages the area offers. There are many reasons people want to move to the area, including the entertainment options. That includes a ton of successful sports teams.

In the past few years, Tampa Bay sports fans have seen their teams reach the World Series, Super Bowl, Stanley Cup Finals, and the USL Championship Final. It’s led to the nickname “Champa Bay” and a lot of attention for an area that already is the hottest housing market in the nation, according to Zillow.

For those who want to learn all about moving to Tampa, including the sports options, the following list will get you started. It’s yet another reason Tampa is attracting new residents from big cities across the nation.

Professional Sports in Tampa Bay

The Tampa Bay area has teams in three of the nation’s major professional sports, as well as a soccer team in the second tier of the U.S. soccer pyramid.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The National Football League’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, two-time Super Bowl champions, have made Tampa home since their founding in 1976. The Bucs play at Raymond James Stadium on Dale Mabry Highway, just across the street from the New York Yankees’ spring training home, Steinbrenner Field (also home to the Yankees’ Florida State minor league team). With the addition of quarterback Tom Brady, the team has become perennial contenders in the NFC.  Good Greek Moving & Storage is proud to be the official mover of the Tampa Bay Bucs.

Tampa Bay Lightning

The National Hockey League’s Tampa Bay Lightning, three-time Stanley Cup winners, have played in Tampa since the team’s founding in 1992. The Lightning play at Amalie Arena in downtown Tampa is an area that has seen a lot of growth in recent years, with both residential and commercial housing expanding in recent years. The Bolts have seen some of their biggest success in recent years, winning back-to-back championships in 2020 and 2021.

Tampa Bay Rays

Major League Baseball’s Tampa Bay Rays, two-time American League champions, have played in St. Petersburg since the team’s first season in 1998. They play at Tropicana Field in downtown St. Petersburg, although the team is expected to move to a new stadium after the 2027 season, and the Rays owner expects the team to stay in Tampa Bay. The team has become one of the most innovative in baseball, leading the way in the use of data analytics and new approaches to the game. They compete in an American League East Division with a payroll that is just a fraction of what teams such as the Yankees and Boston Red Sox spend.  Good Greek is proud to be the official mover of the Rays.

Tampa Bay Rowdies

The Tampa Bay Rowdies, two-time champions, have played in different incarnations in the Tampa Bay area since the 1970s. The current club first took the pitch in 2010 and has played in the USL Championship league since 2017. They won the Eastern Conference championship in both 2020 and 2021 and won championships in 2012 and 2020. The first incarnation of the Rowdies won the 1975 North American Soccer League championship. They play their games at Al Lang Stadium in downtown St. Petersburg. They also boast one of the more well-known supporter’s clubs in the league, Ralph’s Mob.

College and Minor League Sports in Tampa Bay

If you enjoy college sports, then there are plenty of options, as well.

• The University of South Florida. The USF Bulls sports teams play for the biggest public university in the Tampa Bay area and compete in the American Athletic Conference. Known as the Bulls, the university supports men’s and women’s teams in many different sports, including football, soccer, baseball, softball, and more.
• The University of Tampa. Located in downtown Tampa, this private university has sports teams that compete in the Sunshine State Conference. Known as the Spartans, the school’s various men’s and women’s teams have won 19 NCAA Division II titles.
• The area also is home to several minor league baseball teams that play in the Florida State League: Clearwater Threshers (Philadelphia Phillies), Dunedin Blue Jays (Toronto Blue Jays), and Tampa Tarpons (Yankees). They also host the spring training for the Phillies, Blue Jays, and Yankees.

These are some of the sports options you’ll want to know about as you learn all about moving to Tampa Bay. It’s an area known for its job opportunities, restaurants, beaches, and amusement parks. Now, it’s also known for great sports teams.

MOVING TO TAMPA? CALL (561) 683-1313 TO SPEAK WITH A TAMPA RELOCATION SPECIALIST NOW

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Those who still think of Fort Lauderdale primarily as a haven for spring breakers are seriously behind the times. Not only has the area become a center for business and job opportunities, but it’s also more family-friendly than ever before.

The real estate options in Fort Lauderdale continue to grow as more people learn about everything Fort Lauderdale has to offer. It’s a city that has become one of the most popular relocation destinations in a state filled with them.

For families interested in Florida, Fort Lauderdale should rank high on the list of cities to consider.

Reasons Why Families Move to Fort Lauderdale

If you’re thinking about making the move to Fort Lauderdale, welcome to a large and growing group of savvy people. Moving with a family is a big decision to make. You want to weigh all the important factors. The following looks at some of the factors that have made families choose Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale Parks and Recreation Centers

Going to the park is a frequent event for many families if there are good parks available. Fort Lauderdale has many of them.

• Hugh Taylor Birch State Park: This park between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean has a peaceful environment, with plenty of walking paths to enjoy nature and spot wildlife, including the gopher tortoise. The park also has a boat ramp on the Intercoastal.
• Fort Lauderdale Beach Park: Not only is the park on the Atlantic Ocean, but it also features a full basketball court, boat ramp, grills, outdoor showers, picnic tables, a playground, restrooms, and a volleyball court.
• Colee Hammock Park: This waterfront park is known for its good fishing and plenty of picnic tables. It also offers nice water views.
• Esplanade Park: Part of the city’s Riverwalk Park walking route, it’s also home to a ton of events each year at its waterfront garden and amphitheater.
• Secret Woods Nature Center: This 56-acre park offers great walking trails, a butterfly garden, and plenty of areas for the whole family to explore together. The park is the first in the state dedicated to an urban wilderness area.

Fort Lauderdale Beaches

Most families have to travel many miles once a year to spend a vacation at the beach. By choosing to live in Fort Lauderdale, you have the option of traveling just a short distance to great beaches on any weekend you like. Some of the most popular in Fort Lauderdale include the following.

• Fort Lauderdale Beach. White sand, palm trees, and excellent shopping and dining options await visitors to this seven-mile stretch of beach.
• Hollywood Beach. South of Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood Beach is a dog-friendly beach that attracts people from across South Florida.
• Dania Beach. A quiet beach that is perfect for families. It also has a popular fishing pier.
• Pompano Beach. Just north of Fort Lauderdale, this is another family-friendly, quiet beach that is (relatively) away from the crowds.

Great Healthcare

The good healthcare options in Fort Lauderdale also make it attractive to families and one of the main reasons people move to Fort Lauderdale. Part of the reason for this is that one segment of the Fort Lauderdale population is older residents. It’s also a city that puts an emphasis on good health and plenty of outdoor activities that allow people to get exercise. The lifestyle in Fort Lauderdale is typically very relaxed and laid back – another plus for everyone’s health.

Great Diversity

Parents in the 21st century increasingly want their children exposed to people of different races, ethnic origins, and cultures. Fort Lauderdale offers plenty of diversity, For example, 30% of the population comes from outside the U.S. More than 100 different languages are spoken in Fort Lauderdale and throughout Broward County. No matter where you come from, you will find a group to connect with quickly.

Fort Lauderdale School Choices

Fort Lauderdale also offers a variety of good schools for families to choose from. Five of the best schools in the city, according to Great Schools, are:

• Bayview Elementary School
• Harbordale Elementary School
• Floranada Elementary School
• Virginia Shuman Young Elementary School
• Sunland Park Academy

Some of the best high schools include Cypress Bay High School, College Academy at Broward College, Pompano Beach High School, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, and West Broward High School.

These are some of the reasons families are moving to Fort Lauderdale. It’s a great South Florida city with plenty to offer both parents and their children.

Are You Considering Moving Your Family to Fort Lauderdale? Give Us A Call at (561) 683-1313 and Speak with A Relocation Specialist Today!

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Tampa Bay continues to grow rapidly. From the bustling downtowns of Tampa and St. Petersburg to the quiet, leafy avenues of neighborhoods such as Westchase, Carrollwood, Hyde Park, Old Northeast, and Palma Ceia, the area has become a magnet for retirees and young professionals alike.

If you’re reading this because you want to know about moving to Tampa Bay, you are far from alone. Even with the rapid growth in the past two decades, Tampa and the surrounding area still have the feeling of getting in on something relatively early. That’s why businesses and individuals continue to make Tampa Bay their home.

A Popular Destination

More people than ever are moving to Tampa Bay because of the weather, job opportunities, lifestyle, and proximity to a unique mix of fantastic beaches, amusement parks, and restaurants.

But people also want to know about moving to Tampa Bay in terms of what it’s actually like living there. Here’s some insight into five key areas.

Tampa Bay Growth

Signs of growth are everywhere. If you have not visited Tampa in a few years, you might not recognize the place. Downtown has especially undergone a transformation, with the addition of more residential living, including the Water Street Tampa project. In areas such as Seminole Heights north of downtown Tampa, you’ll see construction cranes everywhere. Downtown St. Petersburg also is undergoing a transformation, with new residential and commercial projects planned for the area around Tropicana Field.

That is not likely to end anytime soon. Zillow ranked the Tampa Bay housing market the hottest in the country for 2022, passing Austin, Texas, as well as big growth cities in the southeast, including Jacksonville, Charlotte, and Raleigh. The trend is clear, people are moving to Tampa every day for a variety of reasons.

Tampa Bay Neighborhoods

All the growth has not impacted one of the Tampa Bay area’s biggest strengths: great neighborhoods. Because Tampa Bay is so big, you can find an area that suits your tastes and needs. It just will take a bit of searching because there’s a lot to consider.

The downtown areas of Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater are all worth looking into for urban living (although all three are much greener and smaller than what someone from Chicago or any big city in the Northeast is used to seeing). Old Northeast and Roser Park near downtown St. Petersburg and Hyde Park, Palma Ceia, and Davis Islands near downtown Tampa also provide the charm of older homes and (in some cases) brick streets.

For more affordable homes in the suburban areas, Tampa Bay offers a wide variety of choices, each with good schools, safe streets, great parks, and plenty of shady trees. They include:

• Carrollwood
• Forest Hills
• Westchase
• Tampa Heights
• Northdale
• Tampa Palms
• Kenwood
• Euclid St. Paul’s

That’s just scratching the surface. There are also satellite communities that are still close to the city centers, especially by big-city standards. They include Land O’Lakes, Brandon, Wesley Chapel, Pinellas Park, and Seminole.

Tampa Bay Restaurants

You’re going to eat well when you eat out. With the influx of so many new people from around the country and the world, the food scene in Tampa Bay has greatly expanded in recent years. And it was already good. You’ll find a mix of old and new favorites, including Columbia Restaurant (where you can still catch a flamenco dancers show), Wright’s Gourmet House, Bern’s Steakhouse, Bella’s Italian Cafe, Oystercatchers, Datz Tampa, Frenchy’s Rockaway Grille on the beach in Clearwater, Udele, On Swann, La Segunda Bakery (for breakfast or a Cuban sandwich), West Tampa Sandwich Shop, Byblos and Bayshore Mediterranean Grille.

Again, consider this a “scratching the surface” list for those new to the area. There are hundreds of restaurants and food trucks to check out in Tampa Bay.

Tampa Bay Diversity

Tampa Bay also has grown remarkably diverse in the 21st century. For example, Florida has one of the highest populations of Arab Americans, and Tampa Bay is home for many of them. There are also many immigrants from the Caribbean islands, Europe and South America – almost 18 percent of Tampa’s population is from another country. There are also large populations of American-born residents who are Black, Hispanic, and Asian.

This wonderful mix of people leads to a great diversity of restaurants, cultural attractions, and music in Tampa Bay. It’s a true melting pot of people from everywhere.

Tampa Bay Taxes

There are no state income taxes in Florida. That’s always something worth learning when you want to know about moving to Tampa Bay or anywhere in the Sunshine State. Also, if you buy a home in Tampa Bay, you qualify for the Homestead Exemption which allows you to apply a $25,000 exemption to your home’s first $50,000 in assessed value. This applies to all taxes.

These are just some of the many things you will experience when you move to Tampa Bay. if you want to learn about Tampa and the surrounding areas, check out more information on moving to the Bay area.

IF YOU ARE MOVING TO TAMPA GIVE US A CALL NOW AT (561) 683-1313.

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If you still think of St. Petersburg as a retirement community on Florida’s Gulf Coast, you’re quite a few years behind the times. While it experienced its first boom after World War II as a haven for seniors, the current boom is for entirely different reasons.

St. Petersburg has become one of the most dynamic cities in Florida, offering a cosmopolitan culture, a strong arts scene, and a gorgeous subtropical locale. People move to the city because it has a vibe unlike most places in the U.S., and even in Florida itself. Laid-back, beautiful and charming, it’s also quietly become a destination for businesses, tech workers, and creatives.

The city shares many of the attractions of other cities in Florida such as West Palm Beach and Jacksonville. They include great weather, easy access to beautiful beaches, a short drive to the most famous amusement parks in the world, a low cost of living compared to other large metro areas, and no state income tax.

But St. Petersburg also stands out for its own unique combination of characteristics, and not just it’s average 361 days of sunshine each year. The city still almost feels like a secret, a great place to live that many have not yet discovered. That is changing rapidly. Here are some reasons why.

St. Petersburg Is Part of a Thriving Tampa Bay Area

People outside of Florida understandably get confused about Tampa Bay and the cities it contains. While the area is often referred to as Tampa Bay, it actually consists of three major cities: Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater. Rather than one giant urban core surrounded by suburbs, Tampa Bay is spread out across a large region.

St. Petersburg and Clearwater are in Pinellas County, a peninsula between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Tampa is on the other side of the bay. The area also features many smaller communities with their own distinctive environments. In Pinellas County alone, other notable towns include Dunedin, Pinellas Park, Tarpon Springs, Safety Harbor, Seminole, Belleair, Gulfport, and many beach communities.

St. Petersburg is part of this dynamic area, including a growing downtown, great neighborhoods, and good schools. People who live there have easy access to all areas in the region. As a whole, 3.1 million people live in the Tampa Bay region. It’s become one of the most popular areas of the country, with an estimated 150 people moving to Tampa Bay every day.

The Beach Life

Of all the cities in the Tampa Bay region, St. Petersburg has the biggest collection of the best beaches. St. Petersburg and Clearwater join together to promote the 35 miles of beaches in the area, which is why you will see “St. Petersburg/Clearwater” on commercials and advertisements. You’re not going to notice much when you cross from one municipality into another, including the small beach town of St. Pete Beach. Beaches in the area include:

• Clearwater Beach
• St. Pete Beach
• Madeira Beach
• Indian Rocks Beach
• Sunset Beach
• Honeymoon Island
• Redington Shores
• Treasure Island
• Pass-a-Grille Beach
• Fort De Soto Park
• Caladesi Island State Park

Each has its own look and feel, as well as interesting shops, restaurants, bars, and attractions. Newcomers to the area can spend a lot of time just enjoying different beaches every weekend.

It’s Becoming a Hub For Creatives

St. Petersburg has always drawn writers. Jack Kerouac lived in St. Petersburg and John D. MacDonald was just down the road in Sarasota. More recently, author Dennis Lehane called St. Petersburg home and Tim Dorsey lives just across the bay in Tampa.

But it’s also become a haven for visual artists, performers, actors, and those associated with the film industry. MovieMaker Magazine named St. Petersburg as one of the top places in the country for moviemakers in 2022.

John Collins, founding executive director of the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance, told Atlanta magazine that those in creative industries have moved in large numbers to St. Petersburg. “It’s been a sea change,” he said. “The number of performers, writers, and visual artists who have moved to this area has increased by more than fifty percent in ten years. We’ve found ourselves with one of the largest concentrations of artists in the Southeast.”

St. Petersburg Has a Growing Tech Business Scene

Every city wants to claim that it is the next Silicon Valley or a hot spot for tech companies. St. Petersburg has one of the better claims to those boosts, although the city accomplished this in a relatively quiet way when compared to marketing campaigns in other cities. Here are a few examples.

Dynasty Financial Services moved its headquarters from New York City to St. Petersburg in 2019. The company’s CEO said it wasn’t just about the business advantages, including a great tech workforce in the area, but also the fact that company employees loved the quality of life in Florida. The company now plans to build a new, 36-story building in downtown St. Petersburg for its new headquarters.

CrossBorder Solutions, a $1 billion firm and global leader in tech-driven tax solutions, also has announced it will move its headquarters from New York City to St. Petersburg. According to the Tampa Bay Business Journal, the new company CEO said, “We speak all the time to our venture capital and institutional backers. And they said right away that St. Pete, the Tampa Bay area, is where a lot of software companies seem to be heading, especially from the Midwest and the West Coast.”

San Francisco-based CodeBoxx recently moved to St. Petersburg. The company CEO called St. Petersburg the “new Austin,” according to the business journal, adding, “That’s how I see it, so I want to be ahead of the curve.”

A Great Arts and Cultural Scene

St. Petersburg has built strong art and cultural scene over the years. The city has seven different arts districts, numerous arts festivals, live entertainment, and plenty of arts-related events. Museums in the city include the following:

The Dalí Museum

The building, located downtown near the Duke Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theater, is a masterpiece of surrealist architecture. Inside you’ll find thousands of paintings, sculptures, sketches, and other works that make up the largest collection of Dali’s work in the world.

The Chihuly Collection

In another interesting architectural feature of downtown St. Petersburg, the Morean Center’s Chihuly Collection features a 20-foot pink crystal sculpture at the entrance. The space is the first to offer Chihuly’s unique art in a building designed specifically to showcase his work. Standouts at the museum include the Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier, designed for the museum, as well as popular series, works such as Macchia, Ikebana, Niijima Floats, Persians, and Tumbleweeds.

St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts

Located on Beach Drive in the heart of downtown, the St Petersburg MFA offers a large collection of artistic works. Highlights include workers from Claude Monet, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Willem De Kooning, as well as a large photography collection.

Taken together, these factors have helped make St. Petersburg an increasingly popular destination for young professionals, relocating families, tech industry workers, and those in creative fields. It’s a growing, dynamic city that showcases the best of what Florida offers new residents.

Relocating to St. Petersburg? Contact A Relocation Specialist At (561) 683-1313 Today

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Florida is booming, even by Florida standards. Long a magnet for vacationers and retirees, Florida now is adding new residents at a historic pace. More than 2.7 million moved to Florida in the last decade, pushing its population to more than 21 million, making it the third-most populous state in the country.

Many of those are business owners relocating to the Sunshine State. Local leaders have noted an increase in the number of companies focusing on tech, banking, and finance moving into Miami and Dade County. But it also includes plenty of small business owners.

Miami has become one of the hottest of all the Florida business hotspots. John Boyd, the CEO of The Boyd Company, recently told Business Insider that Miami is “one of the hottest new tech hubs in North America today.” Even the popular sandwich chain Subway has started to move jobs from its Connecticut headquarters to Miami.

But you don’t have to own a bank, a tech company or a nationwide food chain to benefit from moving your business to Miami. Here are the top five reasons to move your business to Magic City, no matter what type of business you run.

Business-Friendly Tax Structure

Much is made of the lack of state income tax in Florida, as well as no inheritance or intangibles tax. They certainly provide a big boost to businesses that want to attract skilled workers who enjoy having more money in their pocket. But Miami also offers corporate and sales tax rates that are low when compared to other states. As the current Miami mayor said in an interview, the high tax rates in other states are a “tremendous disincentive to be productive” and the tax laws in Miami always attract entrepreneurs, innovators, and industry leaders. WalletHub recently ranked Miami (again) among the top cities in the country to start a business.

High Quality of Life

Miami is known for having one of the best climates and some of the most pristine beaches in the United States. Miami also boasts one of the best cultural scenes in the world, with world-class art museums, performing arts, filmmakers, writers, and musicians. It also has every possible cuisine available in restaurants throughout Miami and Dade County. Few places offer can match the quality of life available in Miami. That fact has made Miami attractive to talented people for many years, especially now in the age of remote workers. The same can be said of business owners who have the advantage of choosing where they live.

A Growing Tech Sector

Many cities around the country claim to be the next Silicon Valley. That became the hot take on Miami starting in 2020. The truth is, there is only one Silicon Valley. But that hasn’t stopped Miami from emerging as a magnet for tech businesses and workers. For example, the Boston tech consultant firm Nucleus Research opened an office in Miami in 2020, giving employees the option to work in Boston or Miami. Within a few months, the majority of the staff voted to work in Miami. Tech investor and venture capitalist David Blumberg has moved from San Francisco to Miami. Keith Rabois, who helped launch Square, LinkedIn, Yelp, and PayPal, is moving to Miami, as is Shutterstock founder Jon Oringer, who is starting a new fund to invest in Miami startups. Clearly, there’s a shift in tech jobs to Miami.

Doorway to Latin America

Depending on the type of business, some entrepreneurs come to Miami because it provides them access to the growing markets in the Caribbean and Central and South America. Miami offers a diverse work culture and also serves as a gateway into Latin America, offering the chance for international expansion into potentially lucrative markets.

A Deep and Growing Talent Pool

Miami attracts professionals from across the United States – particularly the northeast – and Latin America. People who speak both English and Spanish are the norm, not the exception. Miami and the surrounding area are home to businesses in aerospace, life sciences, healthcare, hospitality and tourism, and information technology. That’s led to a diverse and growing pool of talented workers. They’ve also created a huge marketplace for new businesses.

These five factors are helping Miami and Dade County attract more businesses to locate there. The business-friendly tax structure alone would attract many. But with the added bonus of everything Miami has to offer, it’s easy to why the city continues to rank among the best locations for smart business owners

Are you considering relocating your business? If so connect with a relocation specialist today by calling (561) 683-1313.

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Are you thinking about making a move to Fort Lauderdale? You’re not alone. Once the little brother city to Miami, Fort Lauderdale has stepped out of the shadows to attract thousands of new residents and stake its claim as one of the best cities in Florida to live.

It’s not hard to find a lot of reasons to move to Fort Lauderdale. While images of beaches, palm trees, and ocean waves spring to mind just hearing the city’s name, Fort Lauderdale is about far more.

Why People Move to Fort Lauderdale

But keep in mind these are far from all the reasons. Some people move to Fort Lauderdale because of family, spouses, significant others, or a new job – and then congratulate themselves on how lucky they got. But if you’re looking for reasons to choose Fort Lauderdale as your new hometown as opposed to somewhere else, the following will give you a good place to get started.

Fantastic Fort Lauderdale Neighborhoods

Fort Lauderdale offers neighborhoods for whatever kind of living you prefer. There are urban lofts and townhouses, tree-lined streets that wind through neighborhoods of single-family homes in Fort Lauderdale, large apartment buildings, quaint bungalows in historic districts, and condos at the beach. The city offers above-average schools near safe neighborhoods for families, and retirement communities for seniors. It’s difficult to think of a city that does a better job on mixing housing options for people at whatever phase of life they find themselves in.

So Many Restaurant Options

As part of culturally diverse South Florida, Fort Lauderdale attracts chefs from around the world. Residents enjoy many options, from gourmet restaurants and gastro pubs to tapas rooms. In terms of cuisine, Fort Lauderdale offers excellent spots to enjoy Chinese, Vietnamese, Spanish, Thai, Cuban, Mexican, and American, including many options for vegans and vegetarians. The city also has a big craft beer scene, including Fat Tap Beer Bar & Eatery, Craft Beer Cellar, Tap 42, and the Funky Buddha Brewery.

Fort Lauderdale Has A Vibrant Art Scene

South Florida attracts artists and Fort Lauderdale is one of the main magnets in the area. The FATVillage art district – once a warehouse district – now sports murals on its border and an extremely popular and long-running art walk (FAT stands for Flagler Arts & Technology). The new Mass District offers another attractive option for live music, art and local breweries. The city also hosts Art & Design week in January, during which homes along the city’s many intercoastal canals host open art exhibits.

The Venice of North America

No one is going to mistake Florida for Italy. But Fort Lauderdale has 500 miles of meandering canals throughout the city, so it’s not a nickname lightly given. Yes, you can even take a gondola ride and do some sightseeing. One of the best known, Las Olas Gondola Rides, offers tours of the city seven days a week with professional gondoliers. It’s an aspect of Fort Lauderdale that many outside the area may not know about it, but it’s part of the fabric of the city.

Fort Lauderdale is an Outdoor Playground

One of the nicest things about Fort Lauderdale is that residents there understand the importance of relaxing. It’s a sunny, laid-back vibe. Two reasons for that are the average temperature year around – 75.5 degrees – and the 246 days of sunshine each year. Places such as Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and Riverwalk Linear Park give residents the chance to enjoy the lush tropical landscape. You won’t find a place with more water sport options, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing. You can also parasail at the beach. Love golf? Welcome to paradise. There are four golf courses within Fort Lauderdale (including a municipal course) and 90 courses within 20 miles of the city. 90!

Love the Nightlife

Miami is legendary for its nightlife, but Fort Lauderdale has plenty to offer, too. Most of it is on and around Las Olas Boulevard. Once the haven of spring breakers looking for cheap booze, this area is moving toward a more sophisticated vibe. This is probably a good place to note that while Fort Lauderdale certainly offers plenty of fun, city residents and leaders long ago stopped it from being the “wild” spring break destination many made it, although plenty of spring breakers still come. In fact, even Miami now looks to Fort Lauderdale for advice on how to create a safer, saner spring break.

A Strong Jobs Market

Many people come to Fort Lauderdale for employment. The city and surrounding area offer many jobs in healthcare, professional services, education, retail, manufacturing, and technology. The 20 biggest employers in the area, other than K-12 schools and government, include SFN Group, AutoNation, MEDNAX, Citrix Systems, Extended Stay America, Spirit Airlines, Broward Health, Kaplan educational services, and Nova Southeastern University.

Fort Lauderdale Has Some of the Best Beaches in the World

This easily could be No. 1. But it’s interesting to consider that on top of everything else on this list, Fort Lauderdale also has stellar, world-class beaches with crystal clear water. That’s not a combination you find in many places.

No State Income Tax

No state income tax means more money in your pocket. It’s that simple. Now you may better understand all the headlines you see about people fleeing New York and other high-tax cities for the sunny climes of Florida.

Those are nine reasons to move to Fort Lauderdale, but they are far from the only reasons to move to Fort Lauderdale. For example, we haven’t even mentioned the museums (like the collection of post-World War II avant-garde artists at the NSU Art Museum) or Butterfly World. But you get the idea. Fort Lauderdale provides its residents a unique, gorgeous place to live. No wonder so many people want to join them. Like you.

Are You Considering A Move To Fort Lauderdale? Call A Relocation Specialist Today (561) 683-1313

The post 9 Reasons to Move To Fort Lauderdale appeared first on Good Greek Moving & Storage.

If you’ve just moved to Greenville or you are going there on vacation, congratulations. You’ve found a spot that is still relatively unknown and not overrun with residents and tourists. You’ve also picked a spot that offers many great ways to spend your free time.

The following lists nine things to do in Greenville. You’ll find even more once you get to know the place. And don’t forget to ask around – the locals not only know the place well but also are more than happy to share what they know with you.

There’s a reason they have a reputation for friendliness.

1. Falls Park on the Reedy

The park is right in downtown Greenville. Inside, you’ll find shady walking trails, beautiful stonework, picnic areas, waterfalls, gardens, and public art. The 32-acre park is connected throughout by a cantilevered, curved pedestrian suspension bridge. It also includes the famed Liberty Bridge. A recent addition is the Pendrick Gardens at the park’s main entrance. It’s built around the theme of sunflowers and has a new pedestrian bridge. Local shops, craft beer pubs, and many restaurants surround the park.

2. Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail

Opened in 2009, this 22-mile trail runs from the Blue Ridge Escarpment through Greenville. The trail is designed for bicycling, walking, and jogging. It winds along the Reedy River and offers a healthy way to enjoy the beauty of Greenville. You can rent a bike for use on the trail.

3. The Peace Center

This performing arts venue is the home of the Greenville Symphony Orchestra, the Greenville Chorale, two ballet companies, and the South Carolina Children’s Theater. It also has touring Broadway shows, concerts, comedy acts, and musicals. The Peace Center features a 2,100-seat concert venue, a 400-seat theater, and an outdoor amphitheater.

4. Paris Mountain State Park

Just a few miles north of Greenville, Paris Mountain State Park offers camping, biking trails, walking trails, a lodge, cabins, picnic areas, and much more, all surrounded by incredible lush scenery. The bathhouse and lodge are on the National Registry of Historic Places.

5. Greenville County Museum of Art

Closed for construction until early 2022, the Greenville County of Museum of Art is definitely worth a visit once it reopens. It’s home to the largest collection of watercolors by American artist Andrew Wyeth. It also has a pottery collection from enslaved artist David Drake and the largest collection of art by South Carolina artist William H. Johnson outside of the Smithsonian. The museum focuses on American artists with a connection to the South.

6. Bob Jones University Museum and Gallery

The Bob Jones University Museum and Gallery offers one of the biggest collections of paintings of Old Masters that you can see in the United States. The collection of religious paintings includes works by Rubens, Tintoretto, and Van Dyck. This museum is also currently closed, with plans to open at a new location near downtown Greenville.

6. Runway Park at GMU

This is a must for plane-loving kids. The park is close to the Greenville Downtown Airport. While watching planes take off and land, kids can have fun on a large playground visually anchored by a Cessna mounted on a tall pole. The park also offers educational information about aviation on placards throughout the park.

7. Six and Twenty Distillery

This “grain to glass” distillery uses all locally sourced ingredients to make its premium spirits. You can tour the distillery, and try samples of their product, in its location on Perry Avenue in Greenville. There’s also a gift shop and cocktail bar.

8. The Children’s Museum of the Upstate

This is one of the first children’s museums in the United States to become affiliated with the Smithsonian. It has 80,000 square feet and 21 exhibit galleries, all aimed at children. The exhibits focus on the humanities, environment, health, nutrition, community engagement, and other topics.

9. Poinsett Bridge

Visiting the Poinsett Bridge gives you a chance to enjoy nature while also getting to see history. The stone bridge, which includes a pointed, 14-foot Gothic arch, sits at the heart of forested area northeast of Greenville. Built-in 1820, the bridge still stands as originally constructed over Little Gap Creek. Experts believe it was designed by Robert Mills, who also designed the Washington Monument. Most visitors enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the unspoiled nature of this historic site.

These nine places can get you off to a great start if you just moved to Greenville and want to explore the area. If you’re visiting, they can fill up your itinerary for many days. Take the time to enjoy all the peaceful beauty Greenville and the surrounding area offer.

Planning A Move To South Carolina?  Good Greek Greenville is Your Total Relocation Solution, Learn More Now!

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