Should I move to Tampa or Orlando Florida?

You probably should move to Tampa Bay. In the Orlando vs Tampa Bay competition if you do not have a specific need to move to Orlando then Tampa Bay is by far better and the best parts of Orlando Florida are all within an hour and a half drive on most days.

Tampa FL

Two Competing Central Florida Cities With A Tourism Industry

Competing yes, but both almost polar opposites of the other. Let's look at the benefits of both Tampa and Orlando, their offerings and touch on the cost of living in each. First we will talk about Orlando, and yes I have lived there before for several years. I still often travel there for work.

Orlando Has,

Orlando wins the battle over who has the nest theme parks and the most of them. There is a down side to that and it may not be what you think. The parks are the third largest job market in Orlando and the parks are famous for not paying very much money.

Orlando Attractions

Orlando is an inland city but has Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Sea World Orlando and more theme parks in the area than you can count on both hands. Orlando offers a decent cost of living and average home price in the greater Orlando Metropolitan Area. Some may choose Orlando just for the amusement parks and better public transportation.

Tampa Bay Has,

Tampa has more young professionals and Tampa's economy is better than Orlando's economy. Tampa's location is better with the exception of hurricane season but we have not had a direct hit in 100 years. Tampa has far better professional sports teams and Tampa is a more vibrant city and better tourist destination. Tamps is famous for a thriving job market and is the third largest major city in Florida.

Tampa Bay & Florida's Gulf Coast

Compare Tampa's gulf coast beaches to the ones in Orlando. The Orlando beaches are in the parks and cost a lot of money to visit. Tampa residents can visit the gulf beaches like Clearwater beach and all of the surrounding beaches with only a short drive. These world class beaches can be used for a lower cost than a trip to Volcano Bay and they come with an ocean breeze. When someone asks, where are the best beaches, Orlando never comes to mind.

Downtown Tampa vs Downtown Orlando

Hands down Tampa is the winner. I will take the Tampa Riverwalk any day over Lake Eola in Orlando. Not to mention pirate ships, water taxis and the Bay Rocket. Quite a few people will prefer the Orlando area for their own reasons and not everyone loves beautiful beaches. What else does Tampa offer? Adventure Island, Busch Gardens, The Florida Aquarium, It's own cruise terminal. Tampa residents are very happy here and you will be to.