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Sunset Park

Sunset Park

Suburban Neighborhood in Tampa, Florida

Hillsborough County 33629

$1,714,462 Average Value
$567 Average Price per Sq Ft
79 Homes For Sale

One of Tampa Bay’s most sought-after tree-canopied suburbs

Hugging the shoreline of Old Tampa Bay, Sunset Park is a fitting name for this South Tampa neighborhood. "We've got the sun, we've got these beautiful old oak trees – it really does feel like living in a park," says Robin Smillie, one of three directors of the Sunset Park Homeowners Association (SPAHA). Grand estates graced with private piers share protected mangroves, while residents are within reach of Hyde Park Village, Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club and all that Tampa offers up and down the main Dale Mabry corridor. SPAHA is active within the neighborhood. Members, including Smillie and Paige Gonzalez, usually get involved in city council meetings and local schools, which are considered some of the best in the Tampa Bay area. Sunset Park is often ranked as one of the top five neighborhoods in Tampa. Smillie, who has lived here since the 1970s, says that, like him, most residents stay for decades and generations. "My neighbor said she'd stay here for the rest of her life, and she just passed away. I guess she really did stick to her word."

Oak-shaded Art Deco and Spanish or Tudor estates on Old Tampa Bay

In 2024, Sunset Park celebrated its 100th anniversary. Sometimes referred to as "Home of the Poets," Sunset Park's residential streets carry names of famous literary figures, including Homer, Tennyson, Dickens and Poe. In the 1950s, developers dredged a cluster of islands – referred to as "fingers" by locals – just wide enough for a cul-de-sac. The canals now undulate between tight rows of custom mansions on one-third-acre lots, often ranging in price between $1 to $6 million. New builds are modern, emphasizing a boxy shape and minimalistic clean lines. "The newer the house, the bigger they get," Smillie says. "Instead of yard space, you get square footage." Older residences are farther inland on half-acre lots and larger than most South Tampa neighborhoods. These properties — often ranch-style, Art Deco, Spanish or Tudor — boast some of the neighborhood's largest oaks. Pricing can range from $800,000 to $2 million. Gonzalez says that homes very rarely become available. "When something becomes available, we let all of our friends know. The house across the street was listed, and I immediately told my good friend about it. She lives there now and just loves it." Because of its sought-after location, property value tends to be recession-proof here and consistently tick upwards.

Street names at the corner in front of home in Sunset Park.
Street names at the corner in front of home in Sunset Park.
Overhead view of rows of grand  estates with private boating docks.
Overhead view of rows of grand estates with private boating docks.
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Desirable HCPS district, A-plus Plant High

Public schools are in the Hillsborough County Public School District, named the No. 2 best district in Tampa by Niche. Kids can start at Mabry Elementary School and move on to Coleman Middle, both earning an A-minus grade on Niche. Older students advance to Plant High, which earns Niche's highest A-plus grade and sports championship-winning girls' volleyball and boys' tennis teams. It is the No. 1 ranked high school in Tampa Bay. Faith-based schools, such as Bayshore Christian and Academy of the Holy Names, are also in the Hillsborough County Public School District.

Biking the sidewalk along Bayshore Boulevard, fishing charters and private piers

The neighborhood's namesake park is set off Old Tampa Bay, offering waterfront views, fishing spots and boat docks. Dundee Park is set to receive additions, such as a boardwalk and kayak launch in the nearby lake. But what sets this South Tampa suburb apart is the century-plus old oak trees that canopy over the streets in Sunset Park. "The trees here are everything," Smillie says. "We had fourteen children living on this street at one time. We blocked it off during the Olympics one year and created our own ball field." Now faded, a white spray-painted first base is still noticeable on the tree across from Smillie's home. Other perks of residing in Sunset Park include proximity to the longest sidewalk in the country on Bayshore Boulevard and the exclusive Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club.

Boats dock at this local boating dock in Sunset Park.
Boats dock at this local boating dock in Sunset Park.
Private ports to dock your boats along the water in Sunset Park.
Private ports to dock your boats along the water in Sunset Park.
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Bucket Bread at Wright's and Henderson Boulevard Shopping Center

Henderson Boulevard Shopping Center offers a cat café, Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse and grocers Target, Sprouts Farmers Market and The Fresh Market. A South Tampa staple, Wright's Gourmet House opened in 1963 and was one of the city's first restaurants to offer frozen meals. Most notable are the sandwiches, which feature the shop's specialty Bucket Bread. The owners bake the bread in a round pan, a style that has inspired copycats. Wright's is also known for its rum cake and other sweet treats. Bay to Bay Boulevard brings residents through Palma Ceia and into SoHo, as well as the outdoor mall Hyde Park Village. Sunset Park is near WestShore Plaza —home to well-known department stores like JCPenney — and International Plaza, known for more high-end brands and a list of dining and entertainment options.

Get a quick snack, some cold ice, or try a new food at the Rainbow Food Market.
Get a quick snack, some cold ice, or try a new food at the Rainbow Food Market.
Health services and medicine available at the local West Shore Pharmacy.
Health services and medicine available at the local West Shore Pharmacy.
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Getting in and around Sunset Park requires a car

Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) bus stops along the main Dale Mabry artery to connect with the Tampa International Airport, 6 miles north. Residents are only 6 miles from Downtown Tampa and 18 miles from downtown St. Petersburg via the Howard Franklin or Gandy bridges. I-275, State Route 92 and The Selmon Expressway are all within 3 miles. Living in South Tampa means proximity to Bayshore Boulevard and its 10-foot-wide sidewalk, which runs 4.5 miles to downtown Tampa. It is the longest continuous sidewalk in the U.S. HCA Florida South Tampa Hospital is under 3 miles east for medical care.

From neighborhood block parties to a pirate invasion during Gasparilla season

Every January, Sunset Park residents look forward to the return of the week-long Gasparilla Pirate Fest. The fest attracts over 500,000 spectators to its parades, which go up and down Bayshore Boulevard, mock pirate invasions and celebratory fireworks. Gasparilla continues to run from January until April and includes additional events like the annual Gasparilla Music Festival. SPAHA hosts regular family-friendly events, such as movies in the park and seasonal block parties.

Weather warnings for Tampa Bay area

In 2024, two back-to-back hurricanes, Helene and Milton, hit Tampa Bay, causing excessive flooding of up to eight feet in Sunset Park. Smillie had never experienced flooding in the neighborhood before Helene and Milton. "You're either staying and repairing your house or selling it as a complete teardown. But the land still sells – an empty lot just sold for a million dollars the other day." Due to new insurance requirements for flooding coverage, the lowest floor elevation, including basements, must be above the base flood elevation (BFE) plus 1 foot.

Corrine Fizer
Written By
Corrine Fizer
David Hall
Photography Contributed By
David Hall
Benji Anklam
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Benji Anklam

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Rhea Shoop, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Parks in this Area

Transit

Airport

Tampa International

12 min drive

Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime Sunset Park US
Homicide 1 4
Sexual Assault 1 4
Assault with Weapon 1 4
Robbery 1 4
Burglary 3 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 1 4
Larceny 3 4
Crime Score 2 4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

Demographics and Home Trends

Home Trends

Median Price (12 Mo)
$1,008,000
Median Single Family Price
$1,375,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$567
Number of Homes for Sale
79
Last 12 months Home Sales
86
Months of Supply
11.00
Median List Price
$1,550,000
Median Discount From 1st List Price
9%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-16%

Home Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
1,331
Median Year Built
1962
Avg. Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
3,154
Significantly above the national average
1,935
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,986
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
10,454

Open Houses

  • Saturday, Apr 26
    12 - 2pm

    3105 S Schiller St, Tampa, FL 33629

    $3,599,999

    • 6 Beds
    • 6.5 Baths
    • 5,628 Sq Ft
    • 3105 S Schiller St
    • New 28 days ago

    This custom-built block home, completed in 2021 by Legion Construction, epitomizes modern luxury & the best of Florida living. Situated in the highly coveted neighborhood of Sunset Park, this home boasts 6 bedrooms, 6.5 baths, office, & game/theater room, gym. With over 5,600 sq ft of thoughtfully crafted living space, every detail showcases sophistication & functionality. Upon entering the house

    Kamilla Altunyan KELLER WILLIAMS TAMPA CENTRAL

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  • Saturday, Apr 26
    11am - 4pm

    4911 W Melrose Ave S, Tampa, FL 33629

    $2,850,000

    • 6 Beds
    • 6 Baths
    • 4,843 Sq Ft
    • 4911 W Melrose Ave S

    NO WATER DAMAGE FROM HURRICANE HELENE OR MILTON! Welcome to your waterfront oasis in the heart of South Tampa, where Mediterranean elegance meets modern luxury. This impeccable two-story pool home is situated on a corner lot and offers an impressive array of features and amenities across its expansive 4,843 square feet of living space. Approaching the home, you'll be greeted by lush landscaping,

    Jac Smith KELLER WILLIAMS ST PETE REALTY

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  • Sunday, Apr 27
    12 - 2pm

    4610 W Browning Ave, Tampa, FL 33629

    $2,075,000

    • 5 Beds
    • 5.5 Baths
    • 4,485 Sq Ft
    • 4610 W Browning Ave

    PRICE REDUCTION...The possibilities at endless at 4610 W Browning Ave, a beautiful 5-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom residence nestled in the heart of South Tampa's Sunset Park neighborhood. Built in 1999 and partially remodeled in 2021, this expansive 4,485 square-foot home offers a harmonious blend of classic elegance and modern amenities. Upon entering the home, you will be flanked by a spacious home

    Jane Geddes KELLER WILLIAMS SOUTH TAMPA

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Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Rhea Shoop, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Average Home Value




Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
3,978
Median Age
44
Population Density
8 ppl/acre
Population under 18
25.6%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
17.7%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$191,373
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$206,306

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
97.1%
College Graduates
75.6%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
42.3%
Significantly above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
74.2%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
50''
Average Winter Low Temperature
53°F
Average Summer High Temperature
91°F
Annual Snowfall
0''

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®

46 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®

26 / 100

Minimal Transit

Transit Score®

0 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
NEIGHBORHOOD
Sunset Park