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<p>Tampa is an absolute gem of a city, with fabulous weather, access to outdoor recreation, and plenty of things to see and do. Yet city living isn’t for everyone. Fortunately, Tampa has many amazing <a href="/blog/buying/most-affordable-tampa-suburbs">suburbs</a>, including <a href="/city/plant-city">Plant City</a>.</p>
<p>Plant City is located about 20 miles east of Tampa. With a population of approximately <a href="https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/plantcitycityflorida/PST045224">40,000</a> people, it offers a slower pace of life. It is also very family-friendly, with affordable housing options and a lower cost of living compared to many other Tampa suburbs.</p>
<p>At Eaton Realty, we help both <a href="/buy">buyers</a> and <a href="/rent">renters</a> as they search for a home in West Central Florida. We take the time to listen to our clients to understand what they are looking for in a house and a community before beginning our search. <a href="/contact-us">Reach out</a> today to discuss your Plant City home search with a member of our real estate team.</p>
<p class="phone-cta-button primary"><a href="tel:813-672-8022">Find The Perfect Community In Hillsborough County For You. Speak To A Knowledgeable Local Realtor › 813-672-8022</a></p>
<h2>All About Plant City</h2>
<p>First established in the 1800s as Ichepuckesassa, Plant City has grown and evolved - and changed names - over time. It was first renamed Cork after the hometown of the area’s postmaster. Eventually, it was named Plant City after <a href="https://www.plantmuseum.com/about/henry-b-plant-bio">Henry B. Plant</a>, the railroad developer whose South Florida Railroad was crucial to the development of the region.</p>
<p>Plant City began as a more rural area that was known for its agriculture. To this day, Plant City is still known for its world-famous strawberries. It is considered the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. Plant City still hosts the Florida Strawberry Festival each winter.</p>
<p>One of the key features of Plant City is its access to green spaces. It is a very family-friendly area, with lots to do, including outdoor recreation. There are many parks scattered throughout town. It is also close to the Alafia River State Park and the Hillsborough River State Park, where residents can hike, fish, camp, and paddle.</p>
<h2>Pros and Cons of Living in Plant City</h2>
<p>Plant City is close enough to Tampa to make it possible to live there and commute to the city for work or play. It is far more affordable than many Tampa suburbs, with homes on larger lots and more green space than more densely-packed suburbs. Read on to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of living in Plant City.</p>
<h3>Pros of Living In Plant City</h3>
<h4>Lower Cost of Living</h4>
<p>The median household income in Plant City is $64,536. This number is below the median income for all of Florida, which is $67,917. However, the cost of living in Plant City is 11% lower than the national average.</p>
<p>In Plant City, healthcare, housing, and utility costs are less than the national average, while groceries and transportation costs are slightly above the national average. Perhaps most importantly for house hunters, housing costs are 11% below the national average in Plant City. The median home price in Plant City is $337,751, while the median rent is $1,027. Energy bills average $198.87 per month, while gas averages out to $3.44 per gallon.</p>
<p>Groceries are slightly more expensive in Plant City. While the costs may vary based on market conditions, you may spend:</p>
<ul>
<li>$4.07 for a loaf of bread</li>
<li>$4.79 for a gallon of milk</li>
<li>$3.55 for a carton of eggs</li>
<li>$.74 for a bunch of bananas</li>
<li>$5.67 for a hamburger</li>
</ul>
<p>In sum, a lower cost of living is a big advantage of living in Plant City. While groceries may cost you slightly more than the national average, you will spend less on almost everything else, including major expenses like housing, healthcare, and utilities.&nbsp;</p>
<h4>Warm Weather</h4>
<p>Given its location in West Central Florida, it isn’t surprising that Plant City has a warm, subtropical climate. You can expect hot and humid weather in the summer and relatively mild, warm temperatures throughout the rest of the year. Plant City does get a lot of rain, and like all of Hillsborough County, it is at risk of hurricanes and tropical storms.&nbsp;</p>
<p>For most people, the weather in Plant City probably falls into the “pro” column. If you want to live in the Tampa area, then you know that you will deal with pretty hot, sticky summers and hurricanes in the fall. The trade-off is absolutely gorgeous weather throughout most of the year, enabling you to get outside and enjoy all of the natural beauty of West Central Florida.</p>
<h4>Strong Economy</h4>
<p>65.5% of Plant City’s adult population is in the civilian labor force. There are also 1,111 businesses within the city. Because there are so many employers right in town, it is very possible to work directly in Plant City. Alternatively, you might find a job in Tampa and enjoy a reasonable commute.</p>
<h4>Good Schools</h4>
<p>Plant City is part of the Hillsborough County School District. It has multiple public schools, including Bryan Elementary, Burney Elementary, Cork Elementary, Knights Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Springhead Elementary, Stonewall Jackson Elementary, Trapnell Elementary, Walden Lake Elementary, and Woodrow Wilson Elementary. Students then attend three middle schools - Marshall, Tomlin, or Turkey Creek Middle Schools - and one of two high schools - Plant City or Durant High Schools. There are also multiple private schools in Plant City, including Evangelical Presbyterian Church Learning Center, Faith Christian Academy of Plant City, Advantage Academy of Hillsborough, and First Presbyterian Learning Center.</p>
<p>Plant City is known for having great public and private schools. It is also home to the Quintilla Geer Bruton Memorial Library, which is part of the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative.</p>
<h4>Plenty of Things to Do</h4>
<p>Plant City is home to many great parks. This includes the McIntosh Preserve, the Edward Medard Conservation Park, McCall Park, the Collins Street Mural Park, and the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex. In addition, the Alafia River State Park and the Hillsborough River State Park are a relatively short drive away.</p>
<p>
Plant City also has other fun things to do, such as visiting Dinosaur World, the Bing Rooming House African American Museum, or the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum. There are some great restaurants in Plant City, plus a monthly food truck rally at McCall Park. Beyond Plant City, the many attractions of Tampa are a short drive away, such as Busch Gardens, professional sporting events, ZooTampa, and the Florida Aquarium.&nbsp;</p>
<h4>Diverse Population</h4>
<p>According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were an estimated 43,046 people living in Plant City in 2024. 14.1% of the population is aged 65 or older, while 22.3% of residents are under the age of 18.</p>
<p>Plant City is a fairly diverse city. 60.5% of the city is white, while 33.4% is Hispanic or Latino. 14.9% of the residents of Plant City are Black. 15.2% of all residents are foreign-born.</p>
<p>Plant City has a fairly young, diverse population. If living in this type of area is important to you, then Plant City might be a great choice for a place to rent or buy a house.</p>
<h3>Cons Of Living In Plant City</h3>
<h4>Little Nightlife</h4>
<p>Plant City has grown considerably since its days as a largely agricultural town. However, it still has a quieter, more laid-back vibe. If you want to live in a place that is close to bars, nightclubs, and other hotspots, Plant City might not be the best option. However, if you want to live in a more sedate area and drive into the city when you want to blow off some steam, then Plant City is a great choice.</p>
<h4>Heavy Traffic</h4>
<p>Plant City still has a relatively small population of around 40,000 people. This makes driving in and around the town pretty easy. But if you plan to commute to Tampa, you will have to account for traffic and congestion. I-4 runs right through the northern part of Plant City, making it easy to hop onto the highway to get to town. Depending on the time that you leave, however, it could take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to get into Tampa.</p>
<h4>Hurricane Risk</h4>
<p>Because it is in West Central Florida, there is always a risk of hurricanes and tropical storms in Plant City. Although it is further inland than Tampa, there is still a likelihood of strong winds and flooding from these storms. In fact, in 2024, Hurricane Milton caused significant flooding and property damage in Plant City. These risks are common throughout Hillsborough County, but should be considered if you want to move to the region.</p>
<h2>Should You Move to Plant City?</h2>
<p>Plant City has a lot to offer. It is close to the city, yet far enough away that it isn’t hard to get to green spaces. It is also significantly more affordable than many other suburbs, offering a slower pace of life and a relaxed atmosphere.</p>
<p>Eaton Realty strives to help our clients find the right home in the right community for them. We work with our clients to truly understand what they want and need in a home and then offer our suggestions based on our decades of experience in the industry and region. We also represent <a href="/sell">sellers</a> who are looking to list their Plant City homes, and can help you both sell your home and find a new place to live.</p>
<p>
If you want to buy, sell, or rent a house in Plant City, our real estate agents can help. We can also assist you with <a href="/tampa-property-management">property management services</a> if you own or want to buy an investment property in Plant City. Learn more by filling out our <a href="/contact-us">online contact form</a> or calling us at <a href="tel:813-672-8022">813-672-8022</a> to talk to a member of our real estate team.</p>


Plant City

The Pros & Cons Of Living In Plant City, FL

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<p>When was the last time your property got a fresh coat of paint? If you’re like many homeowners or landlords, you may think of painting as a cosmetic update—something to boost curb appeal or make a property feel newer. But paint does much more than just improve appearances. It's actually one of the most important forms of preventative maintenance you can invest in.</p>
<h2>The Importance Of Exterior Paint</h2>
<p>Especially for stucco homes, paint acts as a waterproofing barrier. Over time, stucco can develop hairline cracks. If those aren’t sealed and covered by a strong, intact paint layer, water can penetrate the surface. That leads to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Rusting of the lath and fasteners beneath the stucco</li>
<li>Compromised structural integrity</li>
<li>Eventual stucco failure, which is expensive to repair</li>
<li>Water damage inside the walls, potentially leading to mold and rot</li>
</ul>
<h2>Average Lifespan Of Exterior Paint In Florida</h2>
<p>In Florida, the average lifespan of exterior paint tends to be shorter than the national average due to the state’s hot, humid, and sunny climate. While high-quality exterior <a href="https://bluenotepainting.com/how-many-years-before-you-repaint-a-house">paint in milder regions can last 7 to 10 years</a>, homes in Florida often need a fresh coat every 5 to 7 years—sometimes even sooner in areas with intense sun exposure, coastal salt air, or heavy storms. The combination of heat, humidity, salt, and rain accelerates fading, chalking, and peeling, making regular repainting an essential part of home maintenance in the Sunshine State.</p>
<h2>Factors That Affect The Lifespan Of Exterior Paint&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Several factors unique to Florida’s environment can impact how long exterior paint holds up. Considering these factors in relation to your own home can help you the right paint and application method to help your paint job last longer.</p>
<h3>Harsh Sun and UV Exposure</h3>
<p>Florida’s strong sunlight is one of the biggest culprits behind fading and deterioration of exterior paint. UV rays break down paint binders over time, leading to color fading and surface degradation, especially for dark or vibrant colors.</p>
<h3>Humidity and Moisture</h3>
<p>Florida’s high humidity can cause paint to bubble, blister, and peel. Constant moisture also promotes mildew and mold growth on siding, particularly in shaded or poorly ventilated areas.</p>
<h3>Salt Air in Coastal Areas</h3>
<p>For homes near the coast, salt spray can corrode paint and speed up wear, requiring more frequent repainting.</p>
<h3>Rain and Tropical Storms</h3>
<p>Frequent rain showers, storms, and hurricanes can erode paint surfaces, leaving the home’s exterior more vulnerable to damage.</p>
<h3>Quality of Paint and Application</h3>
<p>Investing in premium paints designed for Florida’s climate—such as those with UV blockers, mildew resistance, and flexible, weatherproof formulations—can help extend paint life. A professional paint job with proper surface prep, primer, and multiple coats also adds durability.</p>
<h3>Color Choice</h3>
<p>Lighter colors reflect more heat and are less prone to fading than darker shades, which absorb more sunlight and degrade faster under Florida’s harsh sun.</p>
<h2>Signs A House Needs A Fresh Coat Of Exterior Paint</h2>
<p>Florida’s climate can cause exterior paint to deteriorate quickly, so it’s important to know when it’s time to repaint. There are several telltale signs you can look for to help you determine if it's time for a new coat of paint:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Fading and Dullness:</strong> Bright Florida sun causes colors to fade and lose vibrancy faster than in cooler regions. If your paint looks dull or washed out, it’s time for a refresh.</li>
<li><strong>Peeling, Bubbling, or Cracking: </strong>These issues indicate the paint’s protective barrier has failed, exposing your home to moisture damage, mold, and rot.</li>
<li><strong>Mildew and Mold Growth:</strong> Black, green, or brown stains, especially in shaded or damp areas, are a sign that the paint is no longer protecting your siding from Florida’s humidity.</li>
<li><strong>Chalking:</strong> If you run your hand over the surface and a powdery residue comes off, the paint has started to break down.</li>
<li><strong>Exposed Wood or Stucco:</strong> Any bare patches on siding, trim, or stucco need to be addressed quickly to prevent water intrusion and structural damage.</li>
</ul>
<p>If you see any of these signs, it’s time to plan for a fresh coat of paint to protect your property from Florida’s intense weather and keep it looking its best.</p>
<h2>What Insurance Won’t Tell You</h2>
<p>Here’s the kicker: damage caused by neglect or deferred maintenance isn’t covered by homeowners insurance. That means if your home has water damage due to worn-out paint or cracking stucco that wasn't addressed in time, your claim will likely be denied—and you'll foot the bill.</p>
<p>We've seen it happen. A home that simply needed an easy exterior paint job ended up requiring thousands more in stucco and framing repairs, all out-of-pocket, because the problem went unaddressed for too long.</p>
<h2>Preventative Maintenance Saves You Money</h2>
<p>Yes, painting costs money—but it’s a small investment compared to the cost of major repairs or denied insurance claims. It also:</p>
<ul>
<li>Helps you avoid vacancy issues with tenants</li>
<li>Shows your property is cared for and well-maintained</li>
<li>Maintains or even increases your property’s value</li>
</ul>
<h2>We’ve Got You Covered</h2>
<p>At Eaton Realty, our Property Management team performs regular inspections throughout the time we manage your home. We’re trained to spot early signs of wear—like cracking stucco or fading paint—so you don’t miss an important opportunity to protect your investment. We also have a network of trusted vendors who can take care of painting and other maintenance work quickly and professionally.</p>
<p>Bottom line: A paint job may feel optional—but the cost of skipping it could be far higher than you think.<br>
Have questions or want a professional opinion on whether it’s time to repaint? <a href="/contact-us">Reach out to our Property Management team today.</a></p>


How Often Should You Paint Your Home's Exterior?

How Often Should You Paint The Exterior Of Your House In Florida?

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<p>If you own real estate in Florida, you are probably well aware of the value of homeowners’ insurance. When it comes to your rental properties, you might be on the fence about buying landlord insurance. While it isn’t required under Florida law, it might be required per your mortgage, and it is still a good idea.</p>
<p>Landlord insurance in Florida costs around $2,800 a year on average, or $233 per month. This number could be higher or lower depending on factors like additional coverage, the size and value of your rental property, and where the property is located. As experienced Tampa <a href="/tampa-property-management">property managers</a>, we can help you budget for landlord insurance to protect your investment.</p>
<p>Eaton Realty is a full-service real estate company based in Lithia, Florida. We help <a href="/buy">buyers</a>, <a href="/sell">sellers</a>, landlords, and <a href="/rent">tenants</a> with their Hillsborough County real estate needs, including first-class property management services. Reach out today to <a href="/contact-us">talk to a team member</a> about our property management services in West Central Florida.</p>
<p class="phone-cta-button primary"><a href="tel:813-672-8022">Manage Your Property Better With Expert Guidance. Speak To An Experienced Property Manager › 813-672-8022</a></p>
<h2>Why Is Landlord Insurance Necessary?</h2>
<p>In Florida, landlord insurance is not required by law. In other words, it is perfectly legal to own a rental property and not carry insurance. That being said, almost every landlord will purchase insurance on their rental properties for several reasons.</p>
<p>First, if the purchase of the property was financed, then the mortgage terms will almost certainly require landlord insurance. The reason why is simple: banks want to protect their investment. If a borrower defaults on their mortgage, they want to be able to foreclose on the property - which they won’t be able to do if the property is destroyed and there is no insurance.</p>
<p>Second, property insurance just makes sense. For a relatively minimal cost, you are protected from all types of potential issues. Coverage typically includes:</p>
<ul>
<li>Dwelling coverage, which protects the structure of the building itself</li>
<li>Other structures coverage for any outbuildings that are not connected to the building itself</li>
<li>Liability coverage that will pay for legal, medical, and repair bills if a person is injured or their property is damaged on or because of your property</li>
<li>Loss of rent coverage if your rental unit cannot be leased out due to a covered peril.</li>
</ul>
<p>For example, consider a situation where a large palm tree on your property fell down during a tropical storm, smashing into the neighbor’s roof. Your landlord insurance would cover the cost of repairing the neighbor’s house.</p>
<p>Landlord insurance would also pay for situations such as a slip-and-fall accident on your property. If a tenant has a guest over and that guest falls on a broken stair, you could be liable for their injuries. Landlord insurance would provide a lawyer to defend the personal injury claim, plus pay any settlement or verdict at trial.</p>
<p>Given Florida’s extreme weather, landlord insurance on its own might not be enough. Many policies exclude specific weather events like flooding. You might need to purchase separate <a href="https://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance">flood insurance</a>.</p>
<h2>What Factors Influence the Cost of Landlord Insurance?</h2>
<p>Landlord insurance <a href="https://www.iii.org/article/coverage-for-renting-out-your-home#:~:text=Landlord%20policies%20generally%20cost%20about,landlord%20or%20rental%20dwelling%20policy.">costs about 25% more than homeowners’ insurance</a> on average. This is due to increased coverage, such as loss of rental income for a covered peril. It also reflects the reality that rental properties are a bit more of a risk than owner-occupied properties.</p>
<p>In Florida, the average cost of landlord insurance in Florida is $2,860 annually. This number could be significantly higher or lower, based on certain factors.</p>
<h3>Property Value and Size</h3>
<p>The value and size of a rental property affect the cost of insurance because a more expensive property will cost more to replace. Property insurance typically bases coverage on the replacement cost of the dwelling. This is the amount that it would cost to either rebuild or repair the building in the event of damage or destruction.</p>
<p>Landlord insurance usually is not based on the fair market value of the home. However, the value of the home will affect the replacement cost. For example, a large single-family home will typically cost more to rebuild - and will also cost more on the open market - than a small dwelling. In this way, property value and size impact your landlord insurance costs.</p>
<h3>Location</h3>
<p>The location of your rental property will also affect the cost of your landlord insurance. Generally, insurance companies will charge higher rates for properties that are located in areas that are prone to natural disasters like hurricanes, tropical storms, and flooding. For West Central Florida, this means that a policy will likely cost more than a policy for a similar property inland would cost.</p>
<p>Insurance companies also evaluate other factors related to location when setting costs. This can include everything from proximity to a fire hydrant to the crime rate for the neighborhood. The company uses complex algorithms to make these determinations.</p>
<h3>Property Features</h3>
<p>Certain features on your rental property may both make the unit more attractive to tenants and affect the cost of your landlord insurance. For example, if the property has a pool or a separate garage, your insurance costs will likely be higher (and tenants will also be more inclined to want to rent your property).</p>
<p>Some features might make your landlord insurance cost go down. If you have installed security features on your property, such as a fenced-in yard or a security system, then this might reduce your total coverage costs.</p>
<h3>Property Age</h3>
<p>The age and overall condition of your property will affect how much your insurance premium is as a landlord. Generally, if your house is older and/or in poor repair, then the chances of making a claim are higher. This will typically lead to a higher insurance premium.</p>
<h3>Type of Coverage</h3>
<p>The type and amount of coverage that you select will influence its cost. There are many endorsements that you can add to your landlord insurance, such as coverage for vandalism and personal property that you may have stored at the rental unit. Any increase in coverage will lead to a higher annual premium.</p>
<h3>Deductible Amount</h3>
<p>Typically, your premium rate is inversely related to your deductible. In other words, if your deductible (the amount you are responsible for paying if you make a claim) is higher, then your premium will be lower, and vice versa. If you are able to cover a higher deductible, then it may be worth the cost savings of a lower annual premium.</p>
<h3>Number of Rental Units and Claim History</h3>
<p>Many insurance companies offer a discount if you bundle your insurance policies. This means that insuring multiple rental properties through a single insurance company can reduce the cost of your insurance premiums.</p>
<p>At the same time, your claim history with that company can increase your premiums. Generally, premiums go up when you make a claim. If you have made previous claims, then you can expect your rates to go up accordingly.</p>
<h3>Tenants</h3>
<p>Insurance companies will consider the type of tenants you have when setting a rate for your policy. Having long-term tenants usually means that they will take better care of the property, which reduces the risk of a claim. Short-term tenants are more likely to damage the property, which can lead to higher insurance premiums.</p>
<p>Ultimately, while landlord insurance is an additional expense, most property owners believe that it is a smart choice to protect their investments. Our experienced property managers can factor the cost of landlord insurance into your budget so that you can account for it when tracking profits and losses. Our Tampa real estate agents can also help you find a rental property that will not only generate solid profits but will be a lower risk when it comes to insurance, which will lead to lower insurance premiums.</p>
<h2>Work with a Top-Rated Tampa Property Management Team</h2>
<p>If you own a rental property, then getting landlord insurance can protect you from any number of perils. It can even pay you rental income for a period of time if your property can’t be rented due to something like a fire or storm damage. This expense should be considered as part of your broader decision about making an investment in a rental property.</p>
<p>Eaton Realty is a <a href="/tampa-property-management/tampa">Tampa property management company</a> that helps landlords manage properties throughout Hillsborough County, Florida. We offer comprehensive, high-quality property management services and are certified by the National Association of Residential Property Managers. We can help you with every aspect of the process, from finding a great rental property to buy to managing the day-to-day details of owning a rental unit. To learn more about our property management services, fill out our <a href="/contact-us">online contact form</a> or call our office at <a href="tel:813-672-8022">813-672-8022</a>.</p>


Florida Landlord Insurance

How Much Does Landlord Insurance Cost In Florida?

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<p>In the Tampa area, you have a lot of choices when it comes to <a href="/blog/buying/most-affordable-tampa-suburbs">suburbs</a>, many of which offer greater affordability and a slower-paced lifestyle. South of Tampa, <a href="/city/gibsonton">Gibsonton</a> is a great example of a wonderful Tampa suburb. This small community is just 12 miles from Tampa and has so much to offer.</p>
<p>Famed as a winter home for circus and carnival entertainers, Gibsonton has a rich history. It is located along the Alafia River and Hillsborough Bay, giving residents plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. It is also an affordable place to live, with a cost of living that is 10% lower than the national average.</p>
<p>At Eaton Realty, we work with people who are looking to <a href="/buy">buy</a> or <a href="/rent">rent</a> a home in Hillsborough County, Florida. With decadesof experience in West Central Florida real estate, we have gotten to know many of the charming towns in and around Tampa. Our goal is to work collaboratively with our clients so that we find the perfect home - in the perfect community - for them. Reach out today to <a href="/contact-us">talk to a member of our real estate team</a> about your search for a home in Gibsonton.</p>
<p class="phone-cta-button primary"><a href="tel:813-672-8022">Considering Moving To Gibsonton? Speak With A Local Realtor To Learn More About The Area › 813-672-8022</a></p>
<h2>All About Gibsonton</h2>
<p>Located just 12 miles from Tampa along U.S. Route 41, Gibsonton is a town of <a href="https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/gibsontoncdpflorida/HSG010223">approximately 18,500 people</a> in Hillsborough County. It was founded in 1884 by James Gibson, Sr, from Alabama. By the 1940s, it had achieved fame as a sideshow wintering town, where people who worked in the carnival and circus industry would spend the offseason. Given that Ringling Brothers was headquartered in nearby Sarasota, Gibsonton was a convenient place for many entertainers to spend the winter.</p>
<p>Gibsonton - also referred to as Gibtown - was once known as the <a href="https://www.islands.com/1735662/secret-magical-florida-gibsonton-town-exciting-attractions-once-called-america-weirdest-carnival/">oddest town</a> in America. During the winter months, it became known as a “Carny Town,” where people who traveled with the circus spent the winter. The town’s daily life reflected that reality.</p>
<p>The post office had extra low counters for smaller individuals, while the local beer hall had special chairs for “fat ladies” and the tallest men. The Giant and his wife, the Half-Woman, ran the fire department, a campsite, and a bakeshop. A pair of Siamese twin sisters ran a fruit stand. Other famous residents included Percilla the Monkey Girl, the Lobster Boy, and the Anatomical Wonder.</p>
<p>Gibsonton had special zoning regulations so that residents could keep and train exotic animals in their yards. Residents were also allowed to keep circus trailers on their lawns. While relatively small in size - about 15 square miles - Gibsonton was home to 3 factories that manufactured Ferris wheels and carousels.</p>
<p>While the circus and carnival industry has waned, Gibsonton remains a charming small town. Reflecting its heritage, it is the location of the International Independent Showmen’s Association (aka the <a href="https://gibtownshowmensclub.com/">Gibtown Showmen’s Club</a>). Founded in 1966, this club has more than 4,500 members - all people involved in the outdoor amusement industry.</p>
<p>The Association operates a museum, the Gibtown International Independent Showmen’s Museum, which features exhibits showcasing carnival items from across the United States, highlighting the rich history of carnivals. The museum even has one of the first Ferris wheels in the United States, carnie trailers, and outfits from famous carnival stars such as Gypsy Rose Lee. Gibsonton also still hosts the largest trade show in the carnival industry, with exhibits featuring food supplies and equipment, rides, concession trailers, novelty items, electrical supplies, and insurance companies.</p>
<p>Although Gibtown is no longer the carnival hotspot that it once was, it is still a great place to live. It is bordered on the north by the Alafia River, with many smaller creeks and tributaries running through the town. It is also perfectly situated between Highway 41 and I-75, making it easy to commute to many places in West Central Florida.</p>
<h2>Pros and Cons of Living in Gibsonton</h2>
<p>Even though carnivals and circuses aren’t as popular as they were in the past, Gibsonton is still a wonderful place to live. Its location at the mouth of the Alafia Bay and adjacent to Hillsborough Bay makes it a great option for anyone who loves water sports. Read on to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of living in Gibsonton.</p>
<h3>Pros of Living In Gibsonton</h3>
<h4>Lower Cost of Living</h4>
<p>The median household income in Gibsonton is $74,049. This number is slightly above the median income for all of Florida, which is $71,711. As a bonus, the cost of living in Gibsonton is 10% lower than the national average.</p>
<p>In Gibtown, healthcare, housing, and utility costs are less than the national average, while groceries cost 2% more and transportation costs 1% more. The median home price in Gibsonton is $354,586, while the median rent is $1,078. Energy bills average $198.87 per month, while gas averages $3.44 per gallon.</p>
<p>Groceries are slightly more expensive in Gibsonton than in other parts of the country. If you’re going to the store, you can expect to spend:</p>
<ul>
<li>$4.04 for a loaf of bread</li>
<li>$4.79 for a gallon of milk</li>
<li>$3.55 for a carton of eggs</li>
<li>$.74 for a bunch of bananas</li>
<li>$5.67 for a hamburger</li>
</ul>
<p>While you might pay a bit more for groceries and transportation in Gibsonton, the cost of almost everything else is significantly lower. This includes major expenses like housing, which is 29% lower than the national average, and healthcare (8%) lower. For this reason, the cost of living is a big plus to living in Gibsonton.</p>
<h4>Warm Weather</h4>
<p>Given its location in West Central Florida, Gibsonton has a humid subtropical climate. You can expect the weather to be hot and humid in the summer, but cooler and mild during the rest of the year. This means that you can enjoy outdoor activities throughout most of the year..</p>
<p>For most people, this type of climate is a big advantage. If you are moving to Florida - or already live here - then you likely already know what to expect from summer in the Sunshine State. The lack of snow - and the potential to swim, golf, and fish practically year-round - is a huge benefit.</p>
<h4>Strong Economy</h4>
<p>66.8% of Gibsonton’s adult population is in the civilian labor force. There are also 272 businesses within the city. Many people in Gibsonton work in nearby cities and towns. Given that Tampa is a relatively quick commute, it isn’t surprising that many residents of Gibtown work in the city.</p>
<p>If you want to work where you live, Gibsonton might not be the best option (unless you can work from home). But if you are OK with a short commute, then this town might be a great choice (particularly given its low cost of living).</p>
<h4>Good Schools</h4>
<p>Gibsonton is part of the Hillsborough County School District. It has multiple public schools, including Gibsonton Elementary School, Corr Elementary School, Eisenhower Middle School, and East Bay High School.</p>
<p>Hillsborough County Public Schools are known for their low student-to-teacher ratio of 18 to 1, as well as overall excellence.</p>
<h4>Plenty Of Outdoor Recreation Activities</h4>
<p>Gibsonton is located at the mouth of the Alafia River and alongside Hillsborough Bay, both of which offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. You can visit the Jeanie and Pete Johnson Nature Preserve, J.B. Gibson Park, or Gardenville Beach to explore nature. You could also spend time on the water - either on the Bay, the Alafia River, or one of its many tributaries.</p>
<p>Of course, Gibsonton is close to a lot of other fun activities. It’s an easy drive to Tampa as well as many Gulf beaches. It is ideally situated to take advantage of all that West Central Florida has to offer.</p>
<h4>Diverse Population</h4>
<p>According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were 18,566 people living in Gibsonton in 2020. 8.4% of the population is aged 65 or older, while 30.7% of residents are under the age of 18.</p>
<p>Gibsonton is also fairly diverse. 47.1% of the city is white, while 38% is Hispanic or Latino. 17.4% of the residents of Gibsonton are Black. 15.4% of all residents are foreign-born.</p>
<p>If a diverse local population is important to you, Gibsonton is a good choice for a place to live. Its population also skews younger, and a fair percentage of the residents were born outside of the United States</p>
<h3>Cons Of Living In Gibsonton</h3>
<h4>Slower Pace</h4>
<p>Although Gibsonton is no longer a town primarily for circus performers to spend their winter relaxing, it still has a much slower pace of life. If you want to live close to the city - but not directly in it - then Gibsonton can be a great option. When you live here, you will have the benefit of being close to all that Tampa has to offer, while still being far enough away to have a quiet lifestyle.</p>
<h4>A Long Commute to Tampa</h4>
<p>Driving in Gibsonton isn’t bad - in fact, it is pretty easy to get around town. However, if you plan to drive to Tampa for work or for fun, you will have to take traffic into account. Both I-75 and Highway 41 can get congested. Depending on the time of day that you travel, you can expect your commute to downtown Tampa to take anywhere from 30 to 40 minutes to travel just 12 miles.</p>
<h4>High Hurricane Risk</h4>
<p>Given its location in West Central Florida, Gibsonton is at high risk for hurricanes and tropical storms. It is also at risk for extreme winds and storm surge. While Gibsonton has not historically been directly hit by hurricanes, in recent years, issues related to hurricanes, like storm surge causing the Alafia River to rise and heavy winds, have caused damage. This is typical for the area, but you should be prepared to deal with hurricane season if you move to Gibsonton.</p>
<h2>Should You Move to Gibsonton?</h2>
<p>Gibsonton is a great community with a lot of natural beauty and history. While the circus no longer dominates the town, it is still a big part of life in Gibtown - from the museum to circus-themed restaurants and the annual trade show. It is also a great value if you want to live on the water, all while enjoying a low cost of living, a diverse population, and great schools.</p>
<p>At Eaton Realty, we work to help our clients find the perfect home in the best community for them. From our first meeting, we will listen carefully to your wants and needs before helping you narrow down a list of places to live, and then finding a house that meets both your needs and your budget.</p>
<p>If you want to buy, sell, or rent a house in Gibsonton, our real estate agents are here to help. We can also assist you with <a href="/tampa-property-management">property management services</a> if you own or are looking to purchase an investment property in the area. Learn more by filling out our <a href="/contact-us">online contact form</a> or calling us at <a href="tel:813-672-8022">813-672-8022</a> to talk to a member of our real estate team.</p>


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