West Tampa is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Tampa. Originally, it was an independent city until 1925, when it was annexed by Tampa. Located in southwest Tampa, West Tampa is home to a diverse population and many unique restaurants and shops. Its vibrant history is reflected in the unique architecture of the neighborhood.
Throughout the years, the community has experienced a transformation. In the 1960s, an increasing number of Cuban residents moved to the area. This was a result of the Cuban revolution and the decline of Ybor City. While some of these communities have become prosperous, others remain underdeveloped and decaying. Browse Next Article
After the financial crisis of 2008, crime rates in West Tampa have decreased. Property values are up nearly 20 percent since the crash. The area is also convenient to downtown Tampa and the Tampa International Airport. In addition to the new residential developments, a Louisiana company recently purchased a former cigar factory for $1.4 million and plans to turn it into a boutique hotel.
In the early 2000s, the West Tampa library received a $2 million facelift. But the community’s hopes for a new post office were never realized. Plans to restore the Centro Espanol social club fell through and the Tampa-Hillsborough Urban League ceased to function. The 1912 building stood vacant for years. But in 2006, developer Michael Turanchik realized the neighborhood was ready for revitalization. Inttown Homes constructed 55 shotgun-style houses within the National Historic District.
In the mid-1920s, West Tampa was a bustling neighborhood populated by cigar makers. The city was home to several large cigar factories, including Morgan Cigars, A. Santaella, Monne Brothers, and O’Halloran. By the end of the 20th century, the region boasted over 100 cigar factories of varying sizes. More Info
Located in the heart of Tampa, West Tampa is close to many attractions, including downtown Tampa and the historic SoHo neighborhood. It has a mix of historic homes, Florida-style bungalows, and new construction. The area also provides easy access to MacDill Air Force Base and the Leroy Selmon Crosstown Expressway.
Bayshore Boulevard offers spectacular views of Tampa Bay and the Tampa City Skyline. The area is also one of the lowest-cost neighborhoods in Tampa. Residents can also enjoy Cypress Point Park. A nearby causeway leads to Clearwater and one of the world’s best beaches. In addition, Westshore is home to the Tampa International Airport.
Many of West Tampa’s homes are on the National Register of Historic Places. The area combines old and new with trendy restaurants and cafes. Renting in the area is a good option for families with children. There are a variety of options available in West Tampa, from historic homes to modern apartments. While the housing market is hot, rental prices are still low.