Listing Description
Zephyrhills, Florida: Community Overview
Zephyrhills, Florida, is a rapidly growing city in Pasco County, located 30 miles northeast of Tampa. Known as the "City of Pure Water," Zephyrhills is famous for its bottled spring water, skydiving culture, and retirement-friendly communities. With a small-town charm, affordable housing, and easy access to major cities, Zephyrhills is a desirable destination for families, retirees, and professionals.
Location & Accessibility
30 miles from Tampa and 25 miles from Lakeland, making it a prime suburban location.
Close to I-75 and US-301, providing easy access to Orlando, Tampa, and Sarasota.
Zephyrhills Municipal Airport – Supports business and recreational aviation.
Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 40 minutes away – Offers domestic and international flights.
Zephyrhills offers small-town living with convenient access to major metro areas.
Population & Demographics
Population: ~19,000 (city), ~50,000 (metro area).
Median Age: 49.6 years – a mix of retirees, young families, and working professionals.
Growing Population due to affordable housing, suburban expansion, and retirement migration.
Zephyrhills balances a relaxed rural lifestyle with suburban development.
Lifestyle & Community
Zephyrhills offers a relaxed and active lifestyle with a close-knit community.
Retiree-Friendly – Popular 55+ communities and affordable living.
Outdoor & Recreation Focused – Known for skydiving, golf, and parks.
Small-Town Feel with Suburban Growth – A mix of historic charm and new developments.
Proximity to Tampa & Lakeland – Easy access to shopping, healthcare, and entertainment.
Zephyrhills is ideal for those seeking a quiet, affordable Florida lifestyle with easy city access.
Real Estate & Housing
Zephyrhills offers affordable housing with a mix of single-family homes, mobile home parks, and new developments.
Single-Family Homes – Found in Silver Oaks, Zephyr Ridge, and Lake Bernadette.
55+ Communities & Mobile Home Parks – Includes Betmar Acres, Southport Springs, and Grand Horizons.
New Construction & Gated Communities – Expanding in Abbott Park, Silverado, and Chapel Creek.
Golf Course & Lakefront Homes – Located in Lake Jovita and Silverado Golf & Country Club.
Median Home Prices (2024):
Single-Family Homes: $250K – $400K
Luxury & Golf Course Homes: $450K – $800K+
55+ Community Homes & Manufactured Homes: $150K – $300K
Zephyrhills remains one of the most affordable places to live near Tampa, attracting homebuyers and investors.
Education & Schools
Zephyrhills is served by the Pasco County School District, offering public, charter, and private schools.
Top Public Schools:
Zephyrhills High School
Raymond B. Stewart Middle School
West Zephyrhills Elementary School
Woodland Elementary School
Private & Charter Schools:
Heritage Academy
Zephyrhills Christian Academy
East Pasco Adventist Academy
Higher Education Nearby:
Pasco-Hernando State College (East Campus)
University of South Florida (USF) – Tampa (35 minutes away)
Saint Leo University (20 minutes away)
Zephyrhills offers good K-12 education with access to top universities nearby.
Shopping, Dining, & Entertainment
Zephyrhills has local shops, national retailers, and dining options, with larger shopping centers in Wesley Chapel and Tampa.
Shopping Centers & Malls:
Zephyr Commons Shopping Center – Features Publix, Ross, and PetSmart.
Shoppes of Zephyrhills – Includes Walmart, Bealls, and local stores.
Tampa Premium Outlets (Wesley Chapel, 20 minutes away) – Offers high-end designer brands.
Wiregrass Mall (Wesley Chapel, 20 minutes away) – A major shopping and entertainment destination.
Dining & Local Favorites:
Sunrise Eatery – A popular local diner with comfort food.
Manny’s Original Chophouse – A top-rated steakhouse.
The Great Catch – Known for fresh seafood and outdoor seating.
Serendipity Café – A quaint coffee shop and café with a local following.
Entertainment & Nightlife:
Zephyrhills Skydiving Center – One of the top skydiving locations in the U.S..
Silverado Golf & Country Club – A premier golfing destination.
Giraffe Ranch (Dade City, nearby) – A unique safari adventure.
Tampa & Ybor City (40 minutes away) – Offers bars, live music, and major events.
Zephyrhills offers a relaxed social scene with nearby access to big-city entertainment.
Outdoor Recreation & Parks
Zephyrhills is a haven for outdoor lovers, with parks, golf courses, and adventure sports.
Zephyr Park – Features walking trails, picnic areas, and a splash pad.
Skydive City (Zephyrhills) – A major destination for skydiving enthusiasts.
Hillsborough River State Park – Great for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
Lake Bernadette Golf Course – A popular golf destination.
Withlacoochee State Trail – A biking and nature trail.
With year-round warm weather and recreational activities, Zephyrhills is perfect for an active lifestyle.
Healthcare & Medical Facilities
Zephyrhills has top-rated hospitals and healthcare centers, ensuring quality medical care.
AdventHealth Zephyrhills – A full-service hospital with advanced medical care.
BayCare Health System (Nearby in Wesley Chapel) – Offers specialized treatments.
Tampa General Hospital (40 minutes away) – One of Florida’s top-ranked hospitals.
Residents have access to strong healthcare options within Zephyrhills and nearby cities.
Transportation & Commuting
Zephyrhills is car-dependent, but offers good highway access for commuting.
US-301 & I-75 – Provide direct routes to Tampa, Orlando, and Lakeland.
Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 40 minutes away – A major airport for domestic and international flights.
Public Transit – Limited Pasco County bus services available.
Many residents commute to Tampa, Wesley Chapel, or Lakeland for work while enjoying Zephyrhills’ lower cost of living.
Employment & Economy
Zephyrhills’ economy is service-based, with jobs in healthcare, retail, and tourism.
Major Employers in Zephyrhills:
Zephyrhills Bottled Water (Nestlé)
AdventHealth Zephyrhills
Pasco County Schools
Retail & Hospitality Industry
Tampa Bay Commuting Jobs (Nearby)
Many residents work in Zephyrhills or commute to Tampa for higher-paying jobs.
Community Events & Festivals
Zephyrhills has a strong local culture, with events celebrating its history and lifestyle.
Zephyrhills Founders Day Festival – A parade and celebration of the city's heritage.
Skydive City Boogie Events – Special events for skydiving enthusiasts.
Festival of Lights Parade – A holiday tradition with decorated floats and music.
Pasco County Fair (Nearby in Dade City) – A classic Florida fair with rides and entertainment.
Conclusion
Zephyrhills, Florida, is a growing, affordable city, offering a quiet lifestyle, outdoor recreation, and easy access to Tampa. Whether you're looking for a retirement community, a family-friendly neighborhood, or an investment property, Zephyrhills provides the perfect blend of small-town charm and suburban convenience.