10 Things to Know About Living in Brandon, FL

Brandon, Florida, is a vibrant suburb located just east of Tampa. This town has a population of 115,330 residents, offering them a comfortable and convenient lifestyle.

With its welcoming community, attractive neighborhoods, and proximity to amenities, Brandon has become a popular choice for individuals and families alike.

Let’s discuss 10 things to know about living in Brandon, FL!

1. Brandon is close to Tampa

One of the biggest advantages of living in Brandon is its prime location. Brandon is approximately 10 miles east of downtown Tampa, making it a desirable location for those who want to live in a quieter suburban area while still having easy access to the amenities and opportunities of a larger metropolitan area.

With its convenient location near major highways, you can easily commute to downtown Tampa and other parts of the Tampa Bay Area. Whether it’s for work, entertainment, or recreation, you can get the best of both worlds. 

2. Shop at Westfield Brandon Mall

Brandon is a shopper’s paradise with an abundance of retail options. The Westfield Brandon Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in the region, offering a wide range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.

The mall features well-known brands and department stores as well as smaller specialty shops, providing a diverse shopping experience. With its central location in Brandon, the Westfield Brandon Mall serves as a major retail hub for the community and attracts shoppers from the surrounding areas. You’ll enjoy shopping here.

3. Brandon has a close-knit community

Brandon is known for its close-knit community, where residents form strong bonds and actively support one another. This sense of community is evident in daily life, with neighbors helping each other and participating in community initiatives.

The town hosts various events throughout the year, including festivals, farmers’ markets, and holiday celebrations, bringing neighbors together and fostering a friendly atmosphere. Also, residents actively participate in community organizations, sports leagues, and charitable initiatives, creating a welcoming environment for newcomers.

4. There are 10 public schools in this town

Brandon provides access to quality education and is home to 10 public schools. The town is served by the Hillsborough County Public Schools system, which includes highly-rated schools at all grade levels.

In addition, there are several private schools and educational institutions in the area, offering you diverse options if you’re seeking alternative education for your kids.

Some of the public schools in this city include Brandon High School, McLane Middle School, Limona Elementary School, and Mintz Elementary School.

5. Visit Rotary Park or Alafia River State Park for outdoor recreation

If you’re a nature enthusiast, you will appreciate the ample opportunities for outdoor recreation in and around Brandon.

Rotary Park is a well-known outdoor recreational area located in the heart of Brandon. It features amenities such as walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it an ideal spot for families and individuals to enjoy outdoor activities and spend time in nature. The park also has sports fields and courts for activities like soccer, baseball, tennis, and basketball.

Another popular spot for outdoor activities is the nearby Alafia River State Park, situated just east of Brandon. It spans over 6,300 acres and is renowned for its mountain biking trails, which cater to riders of various skill levels. Additionally, Alafia River State Park provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, picnicking, and camping that allow you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

6. Proximity to Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is a popular beach destination near Brandon, located approximately 30 miles west of the area. It is renowned for its beautiful white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy various activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding.

The beachfront boardwalk offers shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, while Pier 60 provides stunning sunset views and a nightly celebration. Clearwater Beach offers a convenient and enjoyable beach experience for residents and visitors alike. 

7. Brandon has a thriving sports scene

Brandon’s sports scene is a dynamic and inclusive environment that encompasses a wide range of sports activities and events. It caters to both traditional and emerging sports, organizing and promoting major sporting events that draw massive crowds and create an electric atmosphere.

This town is home to the Brandon Ice Sports Forum, where you can watch ice hockey and figure skating events. For baseball enthusiasts, the spring training facility for the Toronto Blue Jays is located nearby. Additionally, Tampa’s professional sports teams, including the Buccaneers (NFL) and the Lightning (NHL), offer thrilling games just a short drive away.

Inclusivity and diversity are key values here, with a strong emphasis on women’s sports and para-sports. If you love sports, you’ll find plenty to cheer about in Brandon.

8. Presence of quality healthcare facilities

Access to quality healthcare is an essential consideration when choosing a place to live, and Brandon excels in this regard. The town is home to several medical centers, clinics, and specialty hospitals, ensuring that residents have convenient access to top-notch healthcare services.

Also, Brandon’s healthcare centers emphasize preventive care and community health, actively engaging in health education programs and outreach campaigns.

Some of the notable health centers in this area include Brandon Regional Hospital, South Bay Hospital, Brandon Medical Center, Tampa General Hospital, and Brandon Healthplex 

9. The town has a rich cultural heritage

Brandon boasts a rich cultural heritage that encompasses a diverse range of influences and traditions. From its Native American roots to the contributions of different immigrant groups, Brandon embraces its multicultural background and strives to keep its traditions alive.

The area is home to vibrant festivals, art exhibitions, music performances, and culinary experiences that showcase the cultural diversity of the community. Brandon’s rich cultural heritage fosters a sense of belonging and appreciation for the community’s past while embracing the present and future.

Two great events that showcase the town’s cultural heritage include the Brandon Seafood Festival and the Brandon Balloon Classic.

10. Get a job in the city or nearby Tampa

Brandon offers a wide range of job opportunities across various industries, making it a dynamic and thriving employment market. Over the past year, jobs have increased in Brandon by 2.3%, and the area is home to numerous businesses, including retail, healthcare, hospitality, education, technology, and professional services.

Also, the job market in Brandon benefits from its proximity to the Tampa Bay metropolitan area, which provides access to a larger pool of opportunities. With a diverse economy and a growing business landscape, you’re likely to get a good job when you move to this city.

Some of the top employers in this city include Amazon, Topgolf, Brandon Regional Hospital, Publix Super Markets, Bloomin’ Brands Inc., and Rooms To Go.

To Sum it All Up

Living in Brandon, FL, offers a host of advantages, including its convenient location, a strong sense of community, quality education and healthcare facilities, and access to outdoor recreation. You should consider these 10 key aspects of living in this town before making the move to Brandon, FL!