Overview
South Pasadena is located in Pinellas County, Florida, seven miles west of St. Petersburg. It is also a part of the Tampa Bay area. Its warm weather and scenic locale have made it an exceptional option for retirees. Besides that, the city offers a comfortable lifestyle and plenty of outdoor adventures and amenities.
Climate & Geography
Situated on the Gulf Coast of Central Florida, South Pasadena is home to a humid subtropical climate that is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters with no snowfall. On average, residents can expect about 51 inches of rain and 243 sunny days throughout each year.
The city’s coastal location provides access to plenty of beaches and nature areas, with scenic waterfronts and fascinating greenery.
Recreation, Culture & Entertainment
South Pasadena is home to plenty of local businesses, restaurants, and a friendly atmosphere. There are also many opportunities to get outside and enjoy the warm weather, including taking a trip down Pinellas Trail and visiting the state parks and nature preserves. Aside from relaxing on the beach, there is La Costa Charters which offers fun ways to explore the city’s lakes with boat tours, water sports, and more.
South Pasadena’s proximity to the two major cities of St. Petersburg and Tampa, allow residents the chance to experience world-class amenities and miles of beaches, all within driving distance. Residents can visit the Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo, and Raymond James Stadium, home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Cost of Living & Taxes
The cost of living in South Pasadena is only slightly higher than national averages, with a median home cost about the same as that in the rest of the U.S.
Florida is one of the most tax-friendly states in the country. The state does not tax Social Security benefits or inheritance income. There is also no state income tax, which means even more tax savings for retirees when compared to other states. The Florida sales tax rate is 6 percent, and the combined sales tax rate for South Pasadena is 7 percent.
Health Care
The Tampa metro area ranks in the top 100 communities in Gallup’s Well-Being Index.
There are five highly rated hospitals and medical centers within a 15-mile radius of South Pasadena. In Tampa, there are several more high performing hospitals, including two which are nationally ranked by U.S News: Tampa General Hospital and Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute.