Updated
Perfectly manicured lawns, abundant sidewalks and a welcoming atmosphere are a few of the benefits to settling in Westchase, Florida. Founded in 1990, the Tampa suburb is a master-plan, deed-restricted community. Each of its 29 neighborhoods has a distinct appeal, with a welcoming committee volunteer to help new residents feel right at home.
More than 20,000 people live in the 34,000 homes that comprise the connected neighborhoods. With a median household income of more than $90,000, it has become one of the wealthiest areas in Hillsborough County. Many residents commute to neighboring areas for work, though there are office buildings and retail spaces in West Park Village Center and Westchase Town Center. The Westchase Community Association is an important resource for residents, as are numerous clubs and committees, including the Seniors Group, MOMS Club and the Westchase GirlTalk Group.
Flat fields and swamps define the landscape around the community, nearly all of which was purchased from Thomas Ranch, a working cattle ranch up until the 1980s. The developers left ponds and low-lying swamps intact, creating walkable trails and scenic views for residents to enjoy. Despite its rural roots, Westchase is 10 miles northwest of Tampa and about 30 minutes from St. Petersburg and the beaches. The airport is also a close 20-minute drive.
Westchase offers plenty in the way of entertainment right inside the community. Travel + Leisure named it one of the Coolest Suburbs Worth a Visit in 2010 for the food, drinks and late-night, clean-cut crowd at the village center. The area also houses a public, 18-hole golf course, as well as two swim and tennis centers and communal parks. Movie night in West Park Village Park is always a big draw, though the neighborhood block parties, organized by the neighborhood and village committees, are the premiere social events.
