Brandon/Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County encompasses several vibrant and distinct areas, including Tampa, Temple Terrace, Plant City, and numerous unincorporated communities. Tampa serves as the county seat and largest city, while each area offers its unique character and amenities. Brandon is another major community in the county, drawing residents who desire access to Tampa without the city's hustle and bustle.

Learn more about Hillsborough County communities.

Hillsborough County is highly family-friendly, featuring top-rated schools like Plant High School and Berkeley Preparatory School. Brandon High is another A-rated choice in the Hillsborough County Public Schools. The area boasts numerous parks, including the popular Lettuce Lake Conservation Park and family-oriented attractions like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Communities like Riverview and Wimauma offer suburban living, while Plant City adds small-town charm with family-friendly events.

The county offers diverse culinary experiences, particularly in Tampa's food scene. Local favorites include Ulele, located along the riverfront in Tampa, which offers a unique dining experience with its Florida-inspired cuisine, including fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. In Riverview, Fred's Market Restaurant is known for its Southern-style comfort food and buffet-style meals, offering a hearty selection of dishes. For a taste of Mexico in Wimauma, SOL Mexican Cocina's tacos and margaritas are perfect for a relaxed evening. The diverse food scene across the county truly reflects its rich cultural mix, offering something for everyone.

Hillsborough County’s HART system provides bus service throughout the county, while the TECO Line Streetcar connects downtown Tampa to Ybor City. The county also features extensive highways and the Selmon Expressway for convenient commuting.

Residents enjoy numerous outdoor spaces, including walking the Tampa Riverwalk, hiking or paddleboarding at the Little Manatee River State Park, kayaking the Alafia River, and exploring trails in Riverview. Plant City hosts seasonal outdoor events, and parks are plentiful throughout the county. Hillsborough maintains over 60 parks and preserves, perfect for hiking, cycling, and water activities.

Very! The county features numerous dog parks, including Logan Gate Dog Park, Apollo Beach Dog Park, and Saladino Dog Park. There are also several pet-friendly parks throughout the county, perfect for morning strolls or evening jogs. Many restaurants with outdoor seating, like Taqueria Guanajuato, welcome pets, and there are several pet-friendly breweries like Coppertail Brewing Co. throughout the county. If you're seeking pet-friendly apartments for rent in Hillsborough County, Greystar has several options for you and your four-legged friend. Edge at Brandon is an excellent choice for those looking to join the growing vibrancy of Brandon's community alongside their pup.

The International Plaza and Bay Street offer upscale shopping, while Hyde Park Village features boutique and luxury lifestyle shops. Plant City's historic downtown hosts a unique collection of local shops, including Fringe and Redwood Boutique, two charming women's clothing stores, and Collins Street Junction, an antique haven. For a more traditional shopping experience, Brandon Exchange carries many brands and shops to choose from.

Hillsborough is full of different cultural scenes and opportunities. Must-visits include Tampa’s museums and theaters, like the Tampa Museum of Art and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Not to mention Plant City’s Strawberry Festival, Riverview’s community events, and the many local art shows and traditions between! Brandon's Seafood Festival is another local favorite, celebrating the cuisine of Tampa Bay. Residents of apartments in Hillsborough County have access to some of Florida's most unique cultural hubs and activities.

Yes! Outside of Tampa, the city's neighboring communities provide young professionals with access to the city while maintaining a sense of suburban calm. The University of South Florida adds to the area's youthful energy, drawing students, recent grads, and grad students into the area. Young professionals looking to find more budget-friendly apartments near Tampa may choose to settle in neighborhoods outside of Tampa, like Mango, Brandon, and Palm River-Clair Mel, where the cost of living is slightly lower.

While in neighboring counties, residents enjoy easy access to award-winning beaches. Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach are just a short drive away. While Hillsborough isn’t directly on the Gulf, the coastline is easily accessible for day trips.