Relocating to Valrico, FL — Complete Guide
Moving to Florida from out of state? Valrico is one of the best-kept secrets in the Tampa Bay area. No state income tax, strong schools, affordable homes, and a pace of life that actually lets you enjoy it. Here's everything you need to know before you make the move.
Why people relocate to Valrico
Valrico sits about 20 minutes east of downtown Tampa in unincorporated Hillsborough County. It is not a city — it is a census-designated place, which means no city government, no city taxes, and fewer layers of bureaucracy. Most people who move here come from states like New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Ohio, California, and Connecticut. The reasons are consistent: lower cost of living, no state income tax, better weather, and homes that cost half of what they sold in their previous market.
Cost of living compared to other states
Florida has no state income tax. That alone saves most relocating families $5,000 to $20,000+ per year depending on income. Here is how Valrico compares on housing:
Property taxes in Hillsborough County run about 1.1% to 1.3% of assessed value before homestead exemption. After homestead, your assessed value increase is capped at 3% per year — a significant benefit for long-term homeowners. Groceries, utilities, and insurance are roughly average for Florida. Homeowners insurance has gone up statewide, but Valrico is inland with no flood zone issues for most properties, which keeps premiums lower than coastal areas.
School quality
Valrico is served by Hillsborough County Public Schools. The two main high school zones are Bloomingdale High School (33596) and Newsome High School (33594). Both are well-regarded. Newsome consistently ranks among the top public high schools in Hillsborough County. Elementary and middle school options include Alafia Elementary, Buckhorn Elementary, Randall Middle, and Burns Middle. Several private and charter school options exist in the area as well. School zoning is the single biggest factor in Valrico home values — a home in Newsome zone typically commands a premium over comparable homes in other zones. Read the full school zone guide for details.
Neighborhoods by lifestyle
Families with kids
Bloomingdale, Buckhorn Preserve, Arista — strong school zones, sidewalks, community pools, and plenty of families in the same stage of life.
Move-up buyers
River Hills, Crestwood Estates, Diamond Hill — larger lots, higher price points ($500K–$1.2M+), and a more rural feel while still being close to everything.
First-time buyers
Valri Park, Twin Lakes, Savannah Landings — entry-level pricing ($275K–$375K) with solid bones and manageable HOA fees.
Retirees and downsizers
Single-story homes throughout Valrico, plus nearby 55+ communities like Sun City Center and Valencia Lakes. No state income tax makes Florida especially attractive for retirement income. See the 55+ communities guide.
Investors
Kings Mill townhomes, Savannah Landings, Valri Park — lower entry points with strong rental demand from MacDill AFB families and young professionals.
What to expect when you get here
The heat and humidity are real
May through September is hot. Average highs are 90°F+ with humidity that makes it feel like 100°F. Air conditioning is not optional — it runs year-round. The upside: mild winters with highs in the 70s from November through March. Most people adjust within one season.
Afternoon storms are normal
From June through September, expect a thunderstorm almost every afternoon around 3-4pm. They are usually short, intense, and over in 30 minutes. Lightning is frequent — Florida is the lightning capital of the US. You learn to plan around it.
Hurricane season runs June through November
Valrico is 30+ miles inland, which significantly reduces hurricane risk compared to coastal areas. Storm surge is not a concern here. Wind and power outages are the main risks. Most Valrico homes are built to current Florida building codes, which are among the strongest in the country.
Bugs are part of life
Palmetto bugs (large cockroaches), mosquitoes, fire ants, and love bugs are all normal. Quarterly pest control is standard for most homeowners. Screened-in lanais and pool cages are a Florida essential — they keep the bugs out while you enjoy the outdoors.
You will need a car
Valrico is suburban. Public transit is limited. Most families have two vehicles. Commute times to downtown Tampa are 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. Brandon and Riverview shopping is 5-10 minutes away.
How to buy a Valrico home from out of state
Barrett Henry works with out-of-state buyers regularly. Here is the typical timeline:
1. Initial call
We talk about your budget, timeline, must-haves, and deal-breakers. Barrett sends you a custom MLS search based on your criteria.
2. Virtual tours
Barrett does live FaceTime or Zoom walkthroughs of any home you want to see. He shows you what the listing photos do not — the neighborhood, the street, the noise level, the condition up close.
3. Narrow your list
Most out-of-state buyers narrow to 3-5 serious contenders before flying in for a visit.
4. Visit and tour in person
You fly in for 2-3 days and see your top picks in person. Most buyers make a decision during this trip.
5. Offer and contract
Barrett handles the offer, negotiation, inspections, and closing coordination. Florida allows remote closings — you may not need to fly back for closing.
Relocation FAQ
Is Valrico FL a safe place to live?
Yes. Valrico is an unincorporated community in eastern Hillsborough County with low crime rates compared to Tampa and Brandon. Most neighborhoods are quiet, family-oriented subdivisions with active HOAs and good lighting.
How far is Valrico from Tampa and the beaches?
Downtown Tampa is about 20-25 miles west (25-40 minute drive). Clearwater Beach is about 55 miles (roughly 1 hour). Anna Maria Island is about 50 miles south. You are close enough for weekend beach trips but far enough to avoid coastal insurance premiums.
Can I buy a home in Valrico without visiting first?
Yes. Barrett does virtual tours and can handle the entire process remotely. However, most buyers prefer to visit at least once before closing. Florida allows remote closings through mobile notary services.
What is the best time of year to move to Valrico?
Most relocations happen between March and June. The market is most active in spring. If you can, avoid moving in July or August — it is the hottest and most humid time of year. Winter (November through February) offers the most pleasant weather and sometimes better deals on homes.
Planning a move to Valrico?
Barrett Henry has helped dozens of families relocate to Valrico from out of state. Virtual tours, remote closings, and honest advice about every neighborhood. Call or text anytime.
Call (813) 733-7907Email BarrettReady to Make the Move?
Barrett Henry, REALTOR® with REMAX Collective, has 23+ years of real estate experience and works with out-of-state buyers every month. Virtual tours, remote closings, and straight talk about what to expect.