Tarpon Springs is a city located in Pinellas County, Florida, United States. It is situated on the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 30 miles northwest of downtown Tampa. The city has a population of around 25,000 people and covers an area of approximately 16 square miles.

Tarpon Springs is known for its Greek heritage and is often referred to as the “Sponge Capital of the World.” The city was settled by Greek immigrants in the early 1900s, and the Greek influence can still be seen in the city’s architecture, cuisine, and cultural events.

One of the major attractions in Tarpon Springs is the Sponge Docks, a historic area along the Anclote River where sponge diving boats used to dock. Today, the Sponge Docks are home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums that showcase the city’s Greek heritage and the sponge diving industry.

Other notable attractions in Tarpon Springs include the Tarpon Springs Aquarium, Fred Howard Park, and the Sunset Beach Park. The city also hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the Tarpon Springs Fine Arts Festival, the Greek Independence Day Parade, and the Epiphany Celebration, which is one of the largest such celebrations outside of Greece.

Overall, Tarpon Springs is a charming city with a rich history and culture that is well worth visiting for those interested in Greek heritage, outdoor activities, or just a relaxing vacation on the Gulf Coast

Population:

• Population (2023): 25,872
• Median age (2022): 54
• Residents under 18 (2023): 13.2%
• Residents over 65 (2023): 31.8%
• Population by sex (2023): 47.5% male, 52.5% female
• Homeowners and renters (2022): 79% homeowners, 21% renters
• Married population (2023): 59%
• Population change (2010-2020): Appx. 10% Increase
• Poverty rate compared to the US national average (2022): 10.6% vs average of 11.5%

Demographics (2022):

• White Non Hispanic – 78.5%
• Black Non Hispanic – 6.3%
• Multiracial Hispanic – 4.8%
• White Hispanic – 4.48%
• Multiracial Non Hispanic – 2.5%

*Prices shown are based only on activity for the dates specified

Income:

• Median household income (2022): $63,836
• Avg. per capita income (2022): $49,150

Tax:

• County property tax rate: .94% of a property’s assessed fair market value (2023)
• Combined state and county sales tax rate: 7.5% (2023)

Cost of Living:

• Average cost of living compared to the US national average (2023): Appx. same
• Cost of housing compared to the Florida average (2023): Higher
• Cost of food compared to the US national average (2023): Appx. same
• Cost of healthcare compared to the US national average (2023): 8% Lower
• Cost of utilities compared to the US national average (2023): Appx. same
• Cost of transportation compared to the US national average (2023): Appx. same

Political affiliation based on the 2020 election results:

• Republican – 55.3%
• Democrat 43.4%

Largest 3 employers: Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club, Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, and Florida Hospital North Pinellas (2021)

School ratings: Rated B+ by Niche (2022)

Coastal: Yes

Average low and high temperature: Low 19.25 °C, High 26.75 °C

Fun facts: Tarpon Springs motto is “ visit Greece without leaving Florida “

Location and Amenities:

 

Highways:

• Interstate 19 :
• Interstate 275 (I-275):

International Airports:

• Tampa International Airport (TPA): Approximately 25 miles. The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions but typically takes around 30 – 40 minutes

Universities and Colleges:

• University of South Florida (USF): The main campus is located in Tampa, apx. 25 miles away.

Hospitals:

• Advent Health North Pinellas in Tarpon Springs

Shopping Malls:

• University Mall: Located in Tampa – 25 miles

Major Cities:

• Tampa is the closest major city.

Amenities/attractions:

• Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, Fred Howard Park, Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum, Sunset Beach, and Anclote River Park

Short Term Rental Regulations:

** All short term rental operations in Florida must obtain a business license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation ( DBPR ) and a Florida Department of Revenue Certificate of Sales and Use. ** Short term rental regulations can be subject to change and should always be confirmed with city / towns or county departments.

Restrictions:

• Zoning restrictions may apply

For further details contact – pinellas.gov