Listing Description
Port Richey, Florida: Community Overview
Port Richey, Florida, is a small coastal city in Pasco County, located along Florida’s Gulf Coast, about 35 miles northwest of Tampa. Known for affordable waterfront living, a laid-back lifestyle, and strong boating and fishing culture, Port Richey is a popular destination for retirees, water enthusiasts, and those seeking a quieter alternative to larger Florida cities.
With easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, nearby beaches, and major highways, Port Richey offers a blend of suburban convenience, waterfront recreation, and a relaxed lifestyle.
Lifestyle & Community
Port Richey offers a relaxed, waterfront lifestyle with a strong sense of community.
Waterfront Living – Many homes are along canals, the Pithlachascotee River (Cotee River), and the Gulf of Mexico.
Boating & Fishing Culture – The city is a haven for boaters, anglers, and water sports enthusiasts.
Affordable Coastal Living – Home prices are lower than in nearby Clearwater or St. Pete.
Quiet & Laid-Back Atmosphere – Less crowded than Tampa or Clearwater, making it ideal for retirees and families.
Proximity to Major Cities – Tampa, St. Pete, and Clearwater are all within an hour’s drive.
Strong Sense of Community – Local events, outdoor markets, and community activities bring residents together.
Port Richey is a great choice for those looking for an affordable, relaxed coastal lifestyle with access to city amenities.
Real Estate & Housing
Port Richey offers a mix of waterfront homes, suburban neighborhoods, and new developments at affordable prices compared to other Gulf Coast cities.
Waterfront Homes & Canal Properties – Found in neighborhoods like Harbor Isles, West Port, and Gulf Highlands.
Suburban & Single-Family Homes – Available in Jasmine Lakes, Regency Park, and Embassy Hills.
55+ Retirement Communities – Includes Timber Oaks, Gulf Harbors, and Holiday City.
New Developments & Townhomes – Growing in West Port and Orchid Lake Village.
Median Home Prices:
Single-Family Homes: $250K – $450K
Waterfront & Luxury Estates: $500K – $1.5M+
Condos & Townhomes: $175K – $350K
With lower home prices than other waterfront cities in Florida, Port Richey is an attractive option for homebuyers and investors.
Education & Schools
Port Richey is part of the Pasco County School District, which offers public, charter, and private schools.
Top Public Schools:
Chasco Elementary School
Fox Hollow Elementary School
Chasco Middle School
Fivay High School
Private & Charter Schools:
Genesis Preparatory School
Dayspring Academy
Bishop Larkin Catholic School
Though Port Richey itself has a small school district, nearby New Port Richey and Hudson offer additional highly rated schools and learning options.
Shopping, Dining, & Entertainment
Port Richey has a variety of shopping and dining options, with bigger malls and outlets in nearby Tampa and Clearwater.
Shopping Centers & Malls:
Gulf View Square Mall – Features big-box stores and dining options.
Coastal Landing Shopping Center – Includes Publix, Ross, and Marshalls.
Tampa Premium Outlets (30 minutes away) – High-end outlet shopping.
Dining & Local Favorites:
Whiskey Joe’s Bar & Grill – A waterfront restaurant with seafood and tropical drinks.
Gill Dawg Tiki Bar & Grill – A popular waterfront spot with live music and outdoor dining.
Catches Waterfront Grille – Known for fresh seafood and sunset views.
Harold Seltzer’s Steakhouse – A classic steakhouse with a strong local following.
Entertainment & Nightlife:
Sims Park (New Port Richey) – Hosts concerts, festivals, and farmer’s markets.
Tampa’s Ybor City & Downtown (45 minutes away) – Offers nightlife, bars, and major events.
Hard Rock Casino Tampa (50 minutes away) – A top gaming and entertainment destination.
Port Richey is more relaxed compared to Tampa or Clearwater, but offers waterfront dining, live music, and easy access to major entertainment hubs.
Outdoor Recreation & Parks
Port Richey is a paradise for outdoor lovers, with boating, fishing, and waterfront parks.
Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park – Offers kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Sims Park (New Port Richey) – A riverfront park with trails, a playground, and an amphitheater.
Robert K. Rees Memorial Park – A Gulf-front park with a sandy beach and boardwalk.
James E. Grey Preserve – A beautiful nature preserve with walking trails and birdwatching.
Pithlachascotee River (Cotee River) – A scenic river perfect for boating and fishing.
With year-round warm weather and access to the Gulf, Port Richey is an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.
Healthcare & Medical Facilities
Port Richey has access to top-rated hospitals and medical centers in Pasco County and Tampa.
HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital – A full-service hospital with specialized heart and stroke care.
Medical Center of Trinity – Offers comprehensive emergency and specialty services.
Tampa General Hospital (TGH) (45 minutes away) – One of the best hospitals in Florida.
With local hospitals and easy access to Tampa’s world-class healthcare, residents have a wide range of medical options.
Transportation & Commuting
Port Richey is car-dependent, but offers good highway access for commuting.
US-19 – The main highway running through Port Richey, connecting to Clearwater and St. Pete.
Suncoast Parkway (FL-589) – A direct toll road to Tampa (40-50 minutes).
Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 45 minutes away, offering domestic and international flights.
Public Transit – Limited Pasco County bus services are available.
Many residents commute to Tampa, Clearwater, or St. Pete for work, while others work remotely or in local industries like healthcare, tourism, and retail.
Employment & Economy
Port Richey has a service-based economy, with jobs in healthcare, retail, and hospitality.
Major Employers in Port Richey:
BayCare & HCA Florida Hospitals (Healthcare)
Pasco County School District (Education)
Publix & Walmart Supercenters (Retail)
Eco-Tourism & Fishing Industry (Local businesses)
Many residents commute to Tampa or Clearwater for work in finance, tech, and corporate industries.
Community Events & Festivals
Port Richey has several community events throughout the year, celebrating its coastal culture.
Cotee River Seafood Festival – A seafood and live music event in nearby New Port Richey.
Chasco Fiesta – A historic festival with parades, concerts, and boat races.
Christmas Boat Parade – A holiday tradition with decorated boats along the river.
Port Richey Farmers Market – A weekly event featuring fresh produce and local crafts.
Conclusion
Port Richey, Florida, is an affordable waterfront city, offering a laid-back lifestyle, outdoor recreation, and easy access to Tampa and Clearwater. Whether you're looking for a retirement home, a vacation getaway, or a quiet coastal town, Port Richey provides a great mix of affordability, community, and Gulf Coast living.
_original.jpeg)
