Tampa vs Miami: Which Is Better To Live In?

If you’re considering a move to Florida, you may be torn about where exactly to live. Miami and Tampa are two obvious choices if you want access to beaches and plenty to do. As two of the largest cities in Florida, both have a diverse population - and lots of entertainment.

While there is a lot to love about both Tampa and Miami, there are some major differences between the two cities. Miami is a larger, more densely-packed city with a famed nightlife. Tampa is more spread out, focusing more on outdoor recreation than Miami. For many, Tampa is a better choice, with great neighborhoods and suburbs for families, retirees, and singles of all ages.

At Eaton Realty, we help clients buy and sell homes throughout Hillsborough County. If you’re interested in all the greater Tampa region offers, we will work with you to help you find the home of your dreams. Reach out today to talk to a Tampa real estate agent about your West Central Florida property search.

Tampa vs. Miami: Where Is the Best Place to Live?

The choice of where to live is inherently personal - and oftentimes, something that we don’t have a lot of control over due to jobs or family obligations. Yet, if you are free to choose, you may wonder where exactly the best place in Florida is to live. Read on for a head-to-head comparison of two of the largest cities in the state: Miami and Tampa.

Cost of Living

There is no doubt that Miami is a more expensive place to live. When it comes to housing, the median sale price in December 2023 was $570,000. By comparison, the median sale price for a home in Tampa was $414,000. Similarly, the average monthly rent in Miami is $2,451 per month, compared to $1,923 in Tampa.

Tampa has an overall cost of living that is the same as the national average. Residents of Tampa pay less for housing and utilities but more for groceries. Transportation costs are roughly the same in Tampa as the national average.

Miami has a cost of living 21% higher than the national average. This includes 47% higher housing costs, 6% higher utility costs, 20% higher grocery costs, and 8% higher transportation expenses.

If you want to make your dollar go further, then Tampa may be your better choice. It may be easier to buy a home in Tampa and afford more recreational activities, given the much lower cost of living.

Population

Miami is the second-largest city in Florida, with an estimated population of 449,541. It is a fairly young city, with 16.3% of the population over age 65 and 16.5% under the age of 18. It is also a very diverse city, with 72.3% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino, 14.1% as Black, and 11.9% as white. 57.9% of all Miami residents were born outside of the United States.

Tampa is the third-largest city in Florida, with an estimated population of 398,173 people. Like Miami, it is a young city, with just 13% of all residents aged 65 or older and 20.8% under 18. It is also diverse, with 44.1% of the population identifying as white, 26.7% identifying as Hispanic or Latino, and 21.8% of the population identifying as Black. 18.4% of the population of Tampa is foreign-born.

Both cities have relatively young, diverse populations. Tampa’s demographics skew slightly younger, while Miami is more diverse than Tampa. However, Miami’s population is larger than Tampa’s, and the population density is significantly higher. If you want a smaller, less-crowded city, then Tampa might be a better choice.

Jobs and Economy

Both Miami and Tampa have strong economies. Accordingto U.S. census data, 65.7% of all residents of Miami aged 16 or older are employed in the civilian workforce. In Tampa, 65.1% of all people in the same age category are employed.

The median household income in Tampa is higher than Miami’s, at $66,802 compared to $54,858. However, Miami has more employers, with 17,541 companies, compared to 12,425 in Tampa. Miami has strong financial, international trade, media, and tourism sectors and a flourishing art scene. Tampa also has a robust economy, with major industries including shipping, health care, finance, technology, and defense (with MacDill Air Force Base located nearby).

Both cities have thriving job markets. Either Tampa or Miami will be a great choice if you’re looking for a city with a strong economy - although if you are specialized in a particular field, such as technology, then a city like Tampa may be a better option.

Beaches

One of the reasons that many people choose to move to Florida is the chance to go to the beach whenever they want. When it comes to beaches, there are some significant differences between Tampa and Miami.

Miami is directly on the ocean. It has oceanfront resorts, complete with white sand beaches and sparkling water. Its beaches are truly a scene - a place to show off your tiniest swimsuit.

Tampa isn’t right on the ocean, but a fairly short drive will get you to fantastic Gulf Coast beaches like St. Pete or Clearwater - some named the top 10 in the world! The water is gentle here, with soft sands. It also tends to have a quieter and more family-friendly vibe. If that is more your scene, then Tampa is probably a better pick for beaches.

Things to Do

In addition to its beaches, Miami is famed for its nightlife, shopping, and museums. If you are looking for fantastic restaurants and an amazing club scene, then Miami is the place to be. It also has professional sports and easy access to the beach.

Tampa also has professional sports, plus its own (less glitzy) nightlife. There are many opportunities for outdoor recreation in Tampa, including boating, fishing, golfing, and strolling along the Tampa Riverwalk. Busch Gardens is nearby, as are four great local beaches (Picnic Island, Ben T. Davis, Cypress Point, and Davis Islands).

Both cities have lots of options when it comes to entertainment - although the vibes are quite different. Miami is all about glamor, while Tampa tends to be more laid-back and family-friendly.

Looking for a House in Tampa? Give Eaton Realty a Call

Miami is an incredible city and a wonderful place to live. However, given its glitzy style and high prices, it isn’t the best choice for everyone. Tampa is much more laid back, with great job opportunities and no shortage of things to do.

At Eaton Realty, a big part of our job involves listening to our clients. We don’t try to push you into a house - or a city - that isn’t right for you or your family. Instead, our Tampa Realtors work with you to find the best home in the best neighborhood for you.

If you are looking to buy, sell, or rent a house in or around Tampa, we can help. We also provide comprehensive Tampa property management services if you are looking to purchase an investment property in Hillsborough County. Learn more by filling out our online contact form, or call us at 813-672-8022 to talk to a member of our real estate team.

How Does Tampa Compare To Other Florida Cities? 

Considering moving to other cities? We've created more comparisons, so you can compare Tampa to other major cities throughout Florida. 

• Tampa Vs. Jacksonville
• Tampa Vs. St. Petersburg
• Tampa Vs. Orlando