Price
Location
Home Type
More About Plant City
Plant City in Hillsborough County is often described as the “sweet spot” of Central Florida—literally. Known as the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, it offers a blend of historic charm and modern growth that is increasingly hard to find in the bustling Tampa Bay area.
The Lifestyle
Q: What is the “vibe” of Plant City?
A: It’s a “15-minute city” with a sleepy, Southern soul. While nearby Tampa and Orlando are high-energy, Plant City retains an agricultural, close-knit feel. You’ll find historic brick streets, local diners like Fred’s Market, and a community where people actually know their neighbors.
Q: What attractions are available?
A: While agriculture is the heart of the city, there’s plenty of life. The annual Florida Strawberry Festival is a massive 11-day event with headline concerts and carnival rides. For daily life, there’s a walkable downtown, the Dinosaur World theme park for kids, and the McIntosh Preserve for hiking and birdwatching.
The Location & Logistics
Q: Is it a good spot for commuters?
A: Yes. Plant City is strategically located right off I-4. You are roughly 25 minutes from downtown Tampa and about 60-70 minutes from Orlando’s theme parks. It’s a popular choice for people who work in the city but want to come home to a quieter, more affordable environment.
Q: How is the cost of living compared to Tampa?
A: Generally more affordable. As of 2026, housing costs in Plant City remain about 10-15% lower than in the heart of Tampa. While prices are rising due to new developments, you can still find more “house for your buck” or larger lots of land here than in the neighboring suburbs of Brandon or Riverview.
Living in Hillsborough County offers a high-value Florida lifestyle:
-
Strong Economy: A top-three Florida county for job growth, specifically in healthcare, fintech, and cybersecurity (major hubs for Tampa General and JPMorgan Chase).
-
Ideal Location: You are centrally located with easy access to I-4 and I-75. It’s a 30-minute drive to top-tier beaches (Clearwater/St. Pete) and 90 minutes to Orlando’s theme parks.
-
Diverse Lifestyles: Choose between the high-energy urban core of Water Street, historic vibes in Ybor City, or family-centric suburbs like Westchase and Plant City.
-
Year-Round Recreation: Over 240 days of sunshine and 700+ miles of trails and waterways for kayaking, golfing, and hiking.
If the location of these communities is not your ideal location, Maronda Homes is also building: