Buyers from Chicago and its suburbs often arrive with a clear idea of what they want: water, sun, and a shorter winter. The question is which water and which part of the bay. This guide covers taxes, flights, neighborhoods, and the Florida details that differ from Illinois.
Taxes and domicile
Florida has no state income tax. Illinois taxes residents on income, so the savings depend on your income and on establishing Florida as your domicile. Read establishing Florida domicile and confirm the details with a tax advisor. Property tax works differently too: Florida applies a homestead exemption and a 3% cap on assessed value growth for a primary residence. Read how Florida property taxes work for relocating buyers.
Flights
Chicago is the second-largest destination market from Tampa International Airport, with nonstop flights to both O’Hare and Midway. Neighborhoods close to the airport include Beach Park, Sunset Park, Culbreath Isles, Westchase, and Carrollwood. Read homes near Tampa International Airport.
Where Chicago buyers land
- Lakefront to bayfront: buyers who lived near Lake Michigan often look at Bayshore Beautiful, Davis Islands, Snell Isle, and the waterfront guide.
- Walkable neighborhoods: Hyde Park, Seminole Heights, and the Old Northeast, with bungalows that will look familiar to buyers from Chicago’s older neighborhoods. See Craftsman and bungalow homes.
- Suburban and gated: Westchase, Carrollwood, Avila, and Cheval.
- Beach towns: the Tampa Bay beaches, about 40 minutes west of Tampa.
What changes from Illinois
- Hurricane season runs June through November. Impact windows, roof age, and elevation affect both safety and the insurance quote. Read impact windows vs. shutters and closing during hurricane season.
- Flood insurance is a separate policy. Read how to read a flood zone.
- No basements. Plan storage in the garage, attic, or a larger footprint.
- Some suburbs carry CDD fees. Read CDD fees in Tampa Bay.
- Title companies, not attorneys, usually close. Read title insurance in Florida.
To plan a move, call or text Shane at 813-205-5430 or use the contact page. Back to relocating to Tampa Bay.
Frequently asked questions
Are there nonstop flights from Tampa to Chicago?
Yes. Chicago is the second-largest destination market from Tampa International Airport, with nonstop service to O’Hare and Midway on several airlines.
How do Tampa property taxes compare with Illinois?
Florida has no state property tax; counties, school districts, and cities set the rates. A primary residence gets a homestead exemption and a cap on assessed value growth. Compare the actual tax bill for a specific home, because the cap resets when a home sells.
Should I rent first when moving from Chicago?
Many buyers do, for six to twelve months, to learn the commutes and the summer. Others buy right away to start the homestead and Save Our Homes clock. Read renting first vs. buying right away.