A fast-growing area of Tampa Bay that's kept its rural vibe
Halfway down the Florida peninsula, the flourishing suburb of Riverview sits about 14 miles south of Tampa. With beaches to the west and acres of nature preserves to the east, homebuyers flock to the Hillsborough County community for its central location, top-ranked schools and outdoor recreation, plus proximity to major employers and Tampa entertainment. “It’s relaxed with access to adventure,” says Jeff Gould, local resident and broker of Jeffrey Gould Real Estate. “It pushes you out of all the hustle and bustle but keeps you close enough to get into Tampa fairly quickly." The area's humble roots include logging, cattle ranching, citrus farming, phosphate mining and poultry farming. However, as the city of Tampa became more densely populated, people escaped northward — a move still happening today. Riverview is now home to 108,000 people, an increase of 12% since 2020. "It's one of the fastest growing areas in the Tampa region, attracting families and first-time homebuyers,” says Natasha McCormick, Realtor with LPT Realty. “A lot of active military families live there because of the affordability." MacDill Air Force Base, about 20 miles away, serves as one of the area's largest employers, along with Hillsborough County Public Schools and the growing health care industry, including St. Joseph’s Hospital-South, regularly ranked one of the Top 100 hospitals in the country by Fortune.
Many Riverview residents live in the area to take advantage of water access.
Great Palm River Point is not too far from downtown Tampa.
Newer construction single-family homes are the most prevalent in Riverview.
St. Josephs Hospital is one of the larger employers near Riverview.
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Surrounded by nature preserves, rivers and beaches
Founded in 1885, Riverview is named for its location along the banks of the Alafia River, which flows through the north side of town. The 477-acre Bell Creek Nature Preserve sits in the heart of town, with a greenway, boat ramps, hiking trails and spots for fishing. Triple Creek Nature Preserve encompasses Riverview’s southeastern edge, connecting to the Rhodine Scrub and Balm-Boyette Scrub preserves, creating an extensive hiking trail network stretching almost 10 miles. Mountain biking is especially popular at 5,700-acre Balm-Boyette Preserve. Alafia River State Park, 12 miles east, offers several lakes for boating and fishing, over 20 miles of rugged mountain biking trails, equestrian trails and natural paths. Apollo Beach Preserve, 12 miles south, is a popular spot for fun on the bay, with a sandy beach, an observation tower and shoreline fishing. Meanwhile, the beaches of St. Pete are 43 miles west, less than an hour without traffic. In total, Hillsborough County has over 20 conservation parks and 63,000 acres of nature preserves, plus the largest number of sports complexes in Florida, with more than 290 facilities.
Triple Creek Nature Preserve is one of several nature preserves that Riverview residents enjoy.
Many embark on kayaks along the water in Apollo Beach to enjoy the day.
There area certainly areas in Apollo Beach to feel secluded.
The Bloomingdale neighborhood has the Bloomingdale Sports Complex which is very popular.
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A mix of custom homes, lakefront million-dollar mansions and rural farm properties
Riverview features custom homes in gated subdivisions, sprawling rural farm properties, Florida-style bungalows, townhouses and manufactured homes. “There’s newly built homes and decent-sized properties at affordable prices,” McCormick says. Houses stay on the market for an average of 52 days, with a median home sale price in October 2024 of $408,000, up 0.8% from the previous year and 10% lower than Tampa. The community has a mix of newer construction and more established homes dating to the late 1970s. On the outskirts, the popular rural neighborhood of Boyette is home to Boyette Springs Park and two nature preserves. Off Interstate 75 in Riverview’s northwestern corner, lakefront properties are priced up to the high-$500,000s in scenic Lake St. Charles, where homes surround a 70-acre lake with its own park, playground and trails. Properties along the Alafia River are among the largest and most expensive in the area, listing between $1 million and $2 million. Moss Landing and Manors at Forest Glen are two sought-after gated subdivisions, with custom and large Craftsman-style houses surrounding the Bell Creek Nature Preserve. The 55-plus Pleasant Living subdivision offers manufactured homes ranging from the low-$30,000s for a two-bedroom to the high-$100,000s for a three-bedroom.
This iconic home in Riverview sits on a lovely lot with nice landscaping.
Beautiful, more traditional homes will be seen as you travel around Riverview.
Riverfront living is an option in Riverview.
There are many subdivisions in Riverview with larger, split-level homes.
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Home to the second-best school district in the Tampa area
Hillsborough County Public Schools serve 225,000 students in the third-largest district in Florida. The school system receives a B-plus from Niche, which ranks it the second-best district in Tampa. The area is also home to numerous private and charter options. Hillsborough Community College has a satellite campus less than 3 miles north, and the University of South Florida — the 20th-best public university in the country, according to Niche — is 17 miles away.
Frost Elementary is conveniently located in Great Palm River Point.
RAMS, in Riverview, provides a nurturing environment that fosters maximum student achievement.
Giunta Middle School, in Great Palm River Point, embraces a collaborative learning philosophy.
Catch a game at the USF Yuengling Center in the University Square neighborhood.
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A museum to explore unique memorabilia and oddities from American carnivals
Most shopping and dining options are along Interstate 75, Route 301 and Bloomingdale Avenue. The community offers a mix of big-box stores, grocery chains, national franchises and locally owned favorites like the waterfront Tiki Docks Riverview. Brandon Mall, 5 miles away, features department stores, restaurant chains and boutiques. The International Independent Showmen’s Museum is a unique community staple, highlighting the heritage of American carnivals with exhibits and memorabilia like show wagons, old fun houses and one of the first Ferris wheels in the country.
Winthrop Town Centre is in the heart of Bloomingdale Hills.
The seared Ahi tuna at Tiki Docks in RIverview is mouthwatering!
The Riverview Fresh Market is a popular place to stock up on fresh groceries.
Admire the antique rides at the Showmen's Museum in Gibsonton.
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Fairs and strawberry festivals
The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, 13 miles east, hosts an 11-day fair in November and the Tampa Bay Festival of Lights in December. In neighboring Tampa, the Florida State Fair is held every February. Ten miles away, Plant City’s Florida Strawberry Festival is one of the biggest celebrations in the state. Held every February since 1930, the 11-day event draws half a million people a year and features big-name musical acts and an array of strawberry foods.
Sunny days and a subtropical climate, but hurricane risk
Riverview has Florida's typical subtropical climate: humid summers, mild winters and an average of 248 sunny days annually. The region is also at high risk for extreme winds and hurricanes, especially from June to November. Hillsborough County offers a downloadable Disaster Preparedness Guide, updated yearly to include preparation tips, flood maps and important contact information. The community has several houses of worship, including St. Stephen Catholic Church, Chabad of Brandon & SouthShore, and First Baptist Church of Riverview, a historic landmark since 1883.
Well-known for its natural spring FishHawk offers a great spot for swimming.
Great Palm River Point is nestled along the Alafia River at its southernmost point.
The FishHawk Ranch neighborhood has many amenities.
The First Baptist Church of Riverview, built in 1883, is in the heart of Riverview.
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13 miles from downtown Tampa; future plans for revitalization
Interstate 75 runs along Riverview’s western edge, connecting to the broader region, and U.S. Route 301 leads to the city’s east side. Downtown Tampa is 13 miles, St. Petersburg is 37 and Tampa International Airport is 20. Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority provides public transportation for the area, including a route from South County near the community college to Brandon Mall. In 2021, Hillsborough County adopted a community plan for Riverview that includes creating a riverfront district, a downtown hub, and improved walkability and pathways for schools and parks.
Great Palm River Point has quick access to other parts of the area.
Residents of Westshore have very easy access to Tampa International Airport.
Downtown Tampa is about 13 miles from the city of Riverview
US 301 allows convenient access to Bloomingdale and surrounding areas with ease.
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Written By
Amy David
Photography Contributed By
Raif Fluker
Video By
TJ Wengert
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Sarai Heikkinen,
an experienced agent in this area.
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
On average, homes in Riverview, FL sell after 86 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Riverview, FL over the last 12 months is $380,000, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
*** New Roof, New HVAC, 2 New Showers, New Garage Door opener **** Welcome to your dream home in the sought-after South Pointe Community! No CDD. Low HOA ($61.44). This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers comfort, style, and peace of mind with major updates already done for you — including a brand-new roof and energy-efficient HVAC unit installed in April 2025. Both
Experience true Florida living on this oversized lot with separate in-law/home office building in the sought-after Shadow Run community!If you’ve been searching for a move-in ready home on over 0.75 acres of fully fenced land, this property delivers the space, privacy, and lifestyle Florida is known for.This spacious 3/2+ home includes a separate in-law suite/home office building, perfect
Cedar Key I -This Cedar Key I is Ready Now! Thoughtfully designed with both style and comfort in mind, this home showcases Maddox Painted Harbor cabinetry with a warm wood finish, Frost Whte MSI 3CM Quartz countertops, and beautiful Nutmeg LVP flooring throughout the main living areas.With 3,276 square feet of well planned living space, this home offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a 3
Welcome to this beautifully updated pool home, featuring a newer roof, AC, exterior and interior paint, bathrooms, bedroom floors, light fixtures, hardware, and more. Step outside to a true backyard oasis featuring a heated saltwater pool, newer hot tub, screened-in lanai with pavers, built-in speakers, full fencing, and thoughtful landscaping. This home is conveniently situated adjacent to a
Welcome Home! This renovated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom end-unit townhome in St. Charles Place is move-in ready. The home features fresh paint, new carpet, and marble-look tile flooring throughout the main level, along with an open floor plan.The updated kitchen includes quartz countertops with an island, stainless steel appliances, a tiled backsplash, a pantry, and under-stair storage. Large
Welcome to your dream home! Step inside and be greeted by an abundance of natural light streaming through thoughtfully placed windows, filling the space with warmth and energy. The soft, neutral tones throughout create an inviting and timeless feel, ready to complement any style. The spacious kitchen is perfect for cooking and entertaining, offering generous counter space and plenty of storage.
Pond & Preserve Views, This Charming 4-Bed 3-Bath Home has been beautifully maintained since 2008. Lennar home is located in Peaceful Shady Creek Preserve. Nestled on a quiet lot backing to a natural preserve pond, there are no back neighbors—just serene water and wildlife views. Spanning approximately 1,949 sq ft of living area, this single-story residence offers a smart, open layout with split
INVESTOR SPECIAL! 3 SEPARATE RENTALS ON ONE 1 ACRE PROPERTY. Rare income opportunity in the heart of Riverview! The property includes a 3BR, 2BA single-family home, a separate 1BR 1BA unit plus an additional 3BR, 2BA dwelling in the rear of the property. While the land appreciates, you can enjoy rental monthly income or create your dream space with room to grow. Perfect for investing in a
Priced to sell! Don’t miss this opportunity to own a home in a desirable location in Riverview, FL.Step through the stunning double glass-pane doors into this beautifully maintained home in a highly desirable neighborhood. The formal living and dining rooms feature vaulted ceilings, floating vinyl plank flooring, and abundant natural light. The open-concept layout flows seamlessly into the
ENERGY-EFFICIENT 3BR/2BA HOME WITH SOLAR & HURRICANE-PROOF WINDOWS– ONLY $20/MONTH ELECTRIC! Step into comfort, safety, and modern efficiency in this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom, 1,980 sq. ft. home in the desirable 33578 area. Designed for low-maintenance living, this home boasts: Solar Power System: Electric bills average just $20/month! New Hurricane-Proof Windows (2025):
MOVE-IN READY, POOL-READY SOLAR HOME in the highly desirable Reserve at Pradera community of Riverview. This beautifully upgraded two story single family home offers over 2,600 square feet, 5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and a 2 car garage, delivering the perfect combination of modern design, energy efficiency, and functional living space. Built in 2022, this spacious open concept floor plan
$5,000 towards closing cost with the right proposal. Step into this beautifully maintained, move-in-ready lake home and experience the perfect blend of comfort, charm, and community. Start your mornings with coffee in your lush backyard garden while taking in peaceful lake views and end your day with some of the most breathtaking Florida sunsets.This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers the
Your Dream Home Awaits in Riverview! Step into this beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence, where modern comfort meets everyday convenience in one of Riverview’s most desirable neighborhoods. From the moment you enter, you’ll be welcomed by an open and airy floor plan, stylish finishes, and spaces thoughtfully crafted for both relaxation and entertaining. The bright living area flows
Welcome to 11504 Harlan Eddy Court, a well-maintained home offering the space, layout, and location you are looking for! This home features a functional floor plan designed for comfortable everyday living and easy entertaining. The kitchen offers ample cabinet and counter space and opens to the main living areas, keeping everyone connected whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet night
**This house comes with a REDUCED RATE through the seller's preferred lender. This is a lender-paid rate buydown that reduces the buyer's interest rate and monthly payment.**New roof to be placed prior to closing**Welcome to a warm and elegant executive home nestled on a peaceful cul-de-sac in the highly sought-after gated community of WaterLeaf. With almost 3,300 square feet of beautifully
Situated on an oversized pie-shaped lot, the home boasts excellent curb appeal and welcomes you into a spacious, light-filled floor plan. Fresh neutral paint, laminate flooring, and abundant natural light create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout. At the heart of the home is a beautifully appointed gourmet kitchen, perfect for the home chef. Highlights include granite countertops and
Beautiful Townhome for Rent – Lucaya Resort-Style Community, Riverview ? Welcome to this stunning 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome featuring a versatile den/office that can serve as a 3rd bedroom. Nestled within the desirable Lucaya Resort-Style gated community, this home combines modern comfort with everyday convenience. The first floor boasts elegant laminate flooring, a bright open-concept living
Spacious 3 bed, 2.5 bath, 2 story, end unit Townhouse nestled in the quiet community of St. Charles Place with no backdoor neighbors. Featuring beautiful wood-look tile floors and nicely painted throughout. Downstairs you will find an open floor plan with Kitchen/Dining area combo, oversized Living Area, and a half bath. All 3 bedrooms are located on the second floor. The master bedroom located
Currently offering up to 2 months free on select units! Prices, availability, and promotions are subject to change. Multiple floor plans available. Days on market is not specific to this current plan listed. Discover an Unforgettable Living ExperienceExplore an extraordinary rental town home neighborhood that goes beyond the ordinary. LAttitude 27 Riverview is dedicated to providing you with
Currently offering up to 2 months free on select units! Prices, availability, and promotions are subject to change. Multiple floor plans available. Days on market is not specific to this current plan listed. Discover an Unforgettable Living ExperienceExplore an extraordinary rental town home neighborhood that goes beyond the ordinary. LAttitude 27 Riverview is dedicated to providing you with
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom townhome located in Riverview. This spacious two-story home features a covered front porch entry and a one-car garage with additional driveway parking.Inside, you’ll find an open and inviting layout with tile flooring throughout the main living areas. The kitchen overlooks the living and dining space and offers granite
MOVE-IN-READY! This 3 bedroom 2 bath, 2nd-floor condo, perfectly located in a gated Riverview community has new carpet, fresh paint, new washer dryer combo, and a professional cleaning. The kitchen features a breakfast bar, pantry, ample oak cabinetry, SS appliances include french door refrigerator with ice/water, dishwasher, flat top range, and built-in microwave, all overlooking the
Spacious & Modern 3-Bedroom, 2.5-Bathroom Home in Riverview, FL – Built in 2022! Welcome to your future home in the heart of Riverview! This stunning two-story residence, built in 2022, offers over 2,300 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. With 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage, this home is perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy modern comfort with
Welcome to The Whitt- brand new luxury apartments now leasing in the sought-after Simmons Loop/Marana area. Discover one, two, and three-bedroom homes with modern style and resort-inspired amenities, including a sparkling pool and lush green spaces. Enjoy nearby favorites like Donovan's Meatery and Tiki Docks River Bar & Grill, plus outdoor escapes at Bell Creek Nature Preserve and entertainment
Welcome home to your next chapter at 6817 Breezy Palm Drive. This stunning end unit townhome is nestled within the secure and quiet gated community of Eagle Palms, offering a wonderful maintenance free lifestyle where you can spend your weekends relaxing by the community pool rather than worrying about yard work. This super spacious home greets you with a massive living room upon entry that flows
Your new home at Sentosa Riverview offers it all from luxury amenities to upscale finishes. Take a splash in the resort-style pool, work up a sweat in the state-of-the-art fitness center, or sip a cup of coffee and relax in one of our many resident lounges. Whatever your mood, you’ll find your fit at Sentosa Riverview.
Welcome to this beautiful home located in the resort-style community of Triple Creek, zoned for highly sought-after Sumner High School.This spacious and thoughtfully designed home features 4 bedrooms (secondary en-suite), 3 full bathrooms, and a dedicated office, providing the flexibility today’s buyers need for working from home, guests, or additional living space. The open-concept floor
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