Single, moving from Chicago Loop to Tampa (apartment, to rent)

[chcagosteve]

Hi,
Would love some advice and have some specific info to offer for specific options to research. I just was offered a good relocation option from my company and need to accept by Tuesday.

I'm 42 yo male. currently live in a nice loft in the loop of Chicago. I don't have a car and love the city life. I live by the lake and rely on the bus and train.

My office in Tampa is near the Bucs stadium. I'll likely be given a car, or an allowance, but my preference is for as short a commute to work as possible without sacrificing being safe all the time.

I'm thinking of selling off here, if I can, and renting there. My budget would be 1200-1500 for an apartment/condo to rent.

What could I get for that? What neighborhoods are close to the stadium area, but safe? I also am still young and like to go out and will be looking to socialize and workout by running a few miles near my home.

Any ideas for good neighborhoods, options or other things to consider would really help!

thanks

cs

[chi_tino]

Harbour Island
Davis Islands
Hyde Park/South Howard area

[niccimarlena]

I agree with the above post...South Tampa sounds like the best area for you and you can find a really nice place for that price (very affordable here). I guess you will have to get used to a slower city life, as cars are a must..everything is really spread out in Tampa. You will be around all of the night life in South Tampa area

[tewas]

Condos on Bayshore in South Tampa goes by that much, on the water, 10-15 minutes drive to bucks stadium and 4 mile trail for running/biking. Also if you get place north of Howard and Bayshore, you will be able to walk to bars/pubs in SoHo.

Also check out Channelside although it's not as much fun as Soho, but it would be my second place to look to live in.