Photo by Chalo Garcia on Unsplash
For instance, how close or far from base do you want to be? Do you want to stay within your BAH, or is it okay to expand 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. But because each military move and duty station are different, your needs and your answers will change.
But not to fear! If you're due to PCS to MacDill AFB, we’re here to help you get to know the neighborhoods. Keep reading to learn what area might be the right fit for you as you get you started on your house hunt.
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 lovers, families looking to entertain the kids, foodies, history buffs, and more.
You’ll find a million ways to keep cool during the summer. Gas up the boat and head out for a day on the water, bait your hook and see what you can catch for dinner, or dig your toes in the sand and relax at the beach.
If beach life isn’t your idea of a good time, don’t worry! This cultural city offers more than sand and sunshine. Clothe yourself in local spirit and head to the stadiums to cheer on the Tampa Bay Rays and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Parents, make your kid’s day and take advantage of all the family-friendly attractions around the city like Busch Gardens, Lowry Park Zoo, and the Florida Aquarium!
And 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.
If you’re a history buff, then you’ll 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 in search of a history lesson.
Want to know something truly unique about Tampa? 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: All that said, 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 download our free Military Guide to MacDill AFBTampa’s greatest military presence is located in South Tampa at MacDill Air Force Base. MacDill 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 U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command.
According to the MacDill AFB site:
"The presence of these two unified commands and other mission partners creates a unique multi-service community at MacDill, with all branches of the armed forces represented.”
For this reason, the MacDill community is referred to as Team MacDill. There are a few great neighborhood options for military families stationed at MacDill AFB. Whether you’re looking for the bustling city life, or a more remote lifestyle, Tampa has it.
If you’re looking for close proximity to base and a short commute, then South Tampa is for you. Adjacent to MacDill AFB, this area provides the ultimate in convenience to base.
With playgrounds, kid gyms, a swim school, and more, this area is great for families with children of any age.
Bayshore Blvd image via ebyabe
Things to do in South Tampa:
Apollo Beach is one of the best places to live in the area. It’s popular among families because of the above average school ratings, large number of parks and playgrounds, and things to do nearby. It’s approximately 40 minutes from MacDill AFB (depending on traffic). And there are so many outings with the community that you won’t have to run around the city to find entertainment.
Things to do in Apollo Beach:
Perhaps you're looking for a nice, more affordable family-friendly suburb outside Tampa? Look for a home in Brandon! Though the commute to base is a bit longer (approximately 35 minutes depending on traffic), you may find it a fair trade for Brandon’s quieter atmosphere.
Things to do in Brandon:
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. There aren’t a whole lot of attractions to go see. Instead, there’s a ton of space to run free and breathe fresh air.
Things to do in Lithia:
There are so many areas to explore in the Tampa area, 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.