Finding your place and settling in at a new duty station is something military families are used to doing. But when searching for a home in your new city, there are many things to consider, like where other military families live, the local traffic patterns, and, ultimately, what kind of lifestyle you want.
How close to the base do you want to be? Do you want to stay within your BAH, or are you open to expanding the budget a bit? Do you want to live in the bustling city or a spacious suburb where you can stretch your legs? Chances are, you’ve asked yourself these questions already. However, each military move and duty station is different from the last, and your needs may fluctuate.
The good news is the Tampa area offers diverse options suiting a variety of needs. Keep reading to learn about the area as you begin your search for MacDill AFB homes for sale or rent.
Get to Know Tampa
Nestled on the Gulf Coast of the Sunshine State, Tampa is a vibrant city with easy water access and something for everyone in the family.
Outdoor Adventurers
There's a million ways to keep cool during the summer. You can easily rent a boat for water activities, go saltwater fishing, or relax on the beach with your toes in the sand.
Sports Fans
If beach life isn’t your idea of a good time, don’t worry. While it's a popular pastime, it doesn't define this city. This cultural area offers more than sand and sunshine. Clothe yourself in the local spirit and head to the stadiums to cheer on the Tampa Bay Rays and Buccaneers.
Families with Kids
And if you're looking to make lasting memories with kids, take advantage of all the family-friendly attractions around the city. Busch Gardens, Lowry Park Zoo, and the Florida Aquarium are just a few to get you started.
Foodies
Let’s not forget about the yummy food here. The sheer number of Cuban eateries in the area will likely please and enlighten your palate. Besito Mexican Restaurant, Angry Pepper, Rick’s Beef, and Mamas Kitchen are great spots to start your two to three-year food tour.
History Buffs
History buffs will feel right at home in historic Ybor City. Full of Old World charm and museums, restaurants, and local merchants, this area is worth a visit, even if you’re not seeking a blast from the past.
Community Seekers
Tampa hosts community events year-round. The most memorable is the annual Gasparilla Pirate Fest. This event brings hundreds of ships through Tampa Bay to downtown. People come to enjoy a pirate-themed day around the invasion of legendary pirate Jose Gaspar. It’s fun, it’s family-friendly, and you don’t want to miss it!
Note: If you’re looking for a weekend getaway, the kids will be happy to learn that Disney World is a mere hour and a half away.
Eager to learn more about the area? Be sure to grab our free Military Family Guide to MacDill AFB below.
About MacDill Air Force Base
MacDill Air Force Base is home to the 6th Air Mobility Wing and includes the 6th Operations Group, the 6th Maintenance Group, the 6th Mission Support Group, and the 6th Medical Group.
In addition to the 6th Air Mobility Wing, MacDill is also home to 28 mission partners, including the:
- U.S. Central Command
- U.S. Special Operations Command
- Joint Communication Support Element
- 927th Air Refueling Wing
- U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command
Where to Live Near MacDill AFB
There are many options when it comes to looking for MacDill AFB homes for rent or sale. With each city neighborhood and suburb offering a unique culture, it's best to understand what each one offers and go from there.
South Tampa
Adjacent to MacDill AFB, South Tampa provides the ultimate convenience to the base, offering a short commute and easy access to base amenities.
With playgrounds, kid gyms, a swim school, and more, this area can be a good fit for families with children of any age.
Things to do in South Tampa:
- Hyde Park Village: This charming gathering place is the perfect way to get involved with the local community. Packed full of events, eateries, and shops, it’s an outing that appeals to the social members of the family.
- Tampa Bay Charter Tour Boat: Head out on the water to see the bay from a different perspective. Book a tour or rent it out and host a private party.
- Bayshore Boulevard: Put on your walking shoes and hit the world’s longest sidewalk. With views of the bay and a cup of coffee in hand, you’ll likely find this trip out of the house rejuvenating.
Photo by THIERRY EIDENWEIL from Getty Images via Canva.com
Apollo Beach
Apollo Beach is popular among families because of the good school ratings, quantity of parks and playgrounds, and things to do nearby. It’s approximately 40 minutes from MacDill AFB, depending on traffic. You won't need to look far for entertainment; community events and outings are abundant.
Things to do in Apollo Beach:
- Apollo Beach Nature Preserve: Get some sun at the Apollo Beach Nature Preserve and enjoy a quieter, less crowded stretch of beach.
- The Manatee Viewing Center: Observing manatees and learning from educational exhibits at this viewing center will make this a recurrent outing in your routine.
- Fishing charters: Sign up for an adventure and book an inshore charter!
Brandon
If you're looking for a nice, more affordable family-friendly suburb outside Tampa, consider Brandon. Though the commute to base is approximately 35 minutes depending on traffic, you may find it a fair trade for Brandon’s quieter atmosphere.
Things to do in Brandon:
- Hillsborough County Fair: With all kinds of events, livestock, and food, this festive outing is sure to be a family favorite.
- Westfield Brandon: What’s not to love about this famous shopping mall? Whether you’re looking for a solo trip out of the house, gathering up the family, or planning a date night, Westfield is a great destination for food, shopping, and entertainment.
- Bertha and Tony Saladino Park: Get some fresh air at the Bertha and Tony Saladino Park where you can hit the basketball court, let the dog play for hours at the 2.6 acre dog park, and run the kids wild at the playground.
Lithia
If separation between work and home is sacred to you and you’re up for a longer commute (about 50 minutes depending on traffic), then Lithia might be the perfect fit for you. The fresh air and space in the suburbs could be a welcome contrast to the busy work environment and bustle of Tampa city life.
But it’s quiet for a reason. Instead of attractions to keep you busy, there’s a ton of space to run free and breathe fresh air.
Things to do in Lithia:
- Alafia River State Park: Set your inner outdoor adventurer free at Alafia River State Park. With everything from mountain biking to hiking, canoeing, fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, and more, this plot of land will keep you coming back.
- Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park: If you’re looking for a more grassy area to explore, then head to Alderman’s Ford. Enjoy the same outdoor activities that you love, then take a walk on the boardwalk to the gigantic cypress and oaks trees.
There are so many areas to explore near MacDill AFB, each one a little different from the next, so be sure to take your time researching, exploring, and getting to know the area so you find the right fit for you.
And when you’re ready to look at specific MacDill AFB homes for sale or for rent, start your search with MilitaryByOwner!
