Welcome to Valrico, FL
Nestled in the heart of Hillsborough County, Valrico offers the perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. This unincorporated community has become a magnet for families and professionals seeking spacious homes, excellent schools, and a genuine sense of community—all while maintaining easy access to Tampa’s bustling job market and cultural attractions.
📍 Valrico, FL at a Glance
- Population: 36,774
- Location: 15 miles east of downtown Tampa in Hillsborough County
- Incorporated: Unincorporated community (established 1890s)
- Known For: Family-friendly neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and proximity to both urban amenities and natural preserves
🔗 Dive Deeper into Valrico
💸 Cost & Budget
🏘️ Housing & Lifestyle
🚍 Utilities & Transportation
🏙️ City Comparisons
🔍 In-Depth Relocation Overview
🗳️ Politics & Civic Life
As part of Hillsborough County, Valrico reflects the area’s purple political landscape, with residents showing diverse political viewpoints. The community is actively engaged through various homeowners associations and the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, which serves Valrico businesses and residents.
🚓 Crime & Safety
Valrico maintains lower crime rates than the national average, with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office providing dedicated patrol services. The community’s family-oriented neighborhoods and active neighborhood watch programs contribute to residents feeling secure in their homes and on local streets.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
Local favorites include Fred’s Market Restaurant for Southern comfort food, Stein & Vine for gastropub fare, and La Septima Cafe for authentic Cuban cuisine. The nearby Brandon area expands options with Westfield Brandon mall and additional dining choices along State Road 60.
🏛️ Local Government
As an unincorporated area, Valrico is governed by the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners. Residents receive county services including water, sewer, and waste management, while enjoying lower tax rates than incorporated municipalities.
🚍 Transportation
Most residents rely on personal vehicles, with easy access to I-75 and I-4 providing quick routes to Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Orlando. State Road 60 (Brandon Boulevard) serves as the main commercial corridor. HART bus service offers limited routes, primarily connecting to Brandon and Tampa.
🏘️ Housing & Real Estate
Valrico’s housing market features predominantly single-family homes ranging from $300,000 to $600,000, with many properties sitting on larger lots than typical suburban developments. Popular neighborhoods include Bloomingdale, FishHawk Ranch, and Buckhorn Estates, offering various amenities from golf courses to community pools.
🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life
Lithia Springs Park offers natural spring swimming and hiking trails, while Edward Medard Park provides camping, fishing, and a beach area. The nearby Alafia River State Park attracts mountain bikers from across Florida with its challenging trails built on reclaimed phosphate mining land.
💼 Job Market
With a median household income of $82,000, Valrico residents typically commute to Tampa for employment in healthcare, finance, and technology sectors. Major nearby employers include Tampa General Hospital, BayCare Health System, and MacDill Air Force Base. The area also supports a growing number of remote workers attracted to its residential appeal.
🧑🏫 Education
Valrico is served by highly-rated Hillsborough County Public Schools, including Newsome High School and Randall Middle School. Private options include Bell Shoals Baptist Academy and Valrico Academy. The area’s schools consistently score above district and state averages, making education a primary draw for families.
🌞 Climate & Weather
Valrico enjoys a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers (average high 90°F) and mild winters (average low 52°F). The rainy season runs from June through September, bringing afternoon thunderstorms. Hurricane season requires preparation, though direct hits are infrequent.
💬 Community Sentiment
Residents praise Valrico’s family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and “small-town feel” despite its proximity to Tampa. Common concerns include increasing traffic on main roads and the need for more local entertainment options. Overall, the community maintains strong satisfaction ratings, with many families choosing to stay for generations.
✨ Why People Are Moving to Valrico
Valrico continues to attract newcomers seeking the ideal balance of suburban comfort and urban accessibility. With top-tier schools, affordable housing compared to Tampa proper, and a strong sense of community, it’s no wonder families and professionals are choosing to call Valrico home. The area’s natural beauty, from oak-lined streets to nearby springs and parks, combined with its strategic location for commuters, makes Valrico a smart choice for those ready to enjoy the best of Florida living without the hustle of city life.