What County is Valrico FL Located In?

Valrico, FL, is located in Hillsborough County and has evolved from a small agricultural community in the early 20th century to a suburban retreat.

Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, sprawling houses, and reputable schools, Valrico offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience due to its proximity to Tampa and neighboring cities like Brandon and Bloomingdale.

Valrico is a friendly town with community events and diverse local businesses, including junk removal companies such as Junk It Today.

This article explores the diverse aspects of Valrico, providing a glimpse into the life and preparedness in this flourishing Florida community.

Where is Valrico, FL?

Valrico is nestled in east-central Hillsborough County, Florida, approximately 14 miles east of Tampa and 26 miles west of Bartow via State Road 60.

Its strategic location near major highways like State Road 60 and Interstate 75 facilitates easy access to neighboring cities and attractions.

The town is bordered to the west by Brandon, to the southwest by Bloomingdale, and to the south by FishHawk, creating a network of suburban communities.

The infrastructure in Valrico supports a comfortable suburban lifestyle. State Road 60, running east-west through Valrico, connects it to Tampa and Brandon, while Interstate 75, located just west of Valrico, provides north-south access to other parts of Florida.

The road network is complemented by well-maintained public facilities and utilities, ensuring a high standard of living.

Valrico’s neighboring towns and cities each have their unique charm and offerings:

Brandon: A suburban community to the west with a population of approximately 103,000.
Bloomingdale: Situated to the southwest, Bloomingdale is a smaller suburban community with a population of around 23,000.
FishHawk: A master-planned community to the south of Valrico, housing about 14,000 residents.

Valrico’s geographical layout and infrastructural setup contribute to its appeal as a residential choice for families and individuals seeking a balance of suburban living with easy access to urban amenities.

Is Valrico, FL, a Good Place to Live?

Absolutely YES! Valrico, FL, is often regarded as a good place to live due to its family-friendly atmosphere, variety of housing options, and access to well-rated schools within the Hillsborough County Public Schools system.

The town also boasts a range of recreational facilities and amenities, although the cost of living is slightly higher than the Florida average, primarily driven by housing costs.

Living Conditions

Valrico is recognized for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it desirable for families and young professionals. The cost of living here is slightly above the Florida average, with a score of 103/100, primarily due to the housing costs.

Housing

The housing market in Valrico is diverse, offering a range of options from single-family homes and townhouses to apartments.

The average price of homes sold is $443,490, with a homeownership rate of approximately 77%.

Rental prices vary based on the size and location of the unit, typically ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 per month.

Education

Education strongly suits Valrico, with the Hillsborough County Public Schools system serving the area. Several highly-rated schools in Valrico, including Alafia Elementary School, Bell Creek Academy, and Bloomingdale High School, contribute to the town’s appeal for families.

Amenities and Recreational Facilities

Residents have access to a variety of amenities and recreational facilities. Parks like Stearns Road Park, Buckhorn Park, and Alderman’s Ford Nature Preserve offer spaces for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.

The Valrico Recreation Center, Sydney Dover Trails, and the Bloomingdale Golfers Club also provide sports and leisure activities venues.

The blend of housing options, reputable schools, recreational facilities, and a family-friendly environment makes Valrico a comfortable and appealing place to live.

Is Valrico Safe?

Yes, Valrico is considered a safe place to live, with crime rates lower than many neighboring areas.

The local law enforcement, community watch, and neighborhood safety programs contribute significantly to maintaining safety and security in the area.

Source	Statistic	Description
NeighborhoodScout	1 in 861	Chance of being a victim of violent crime
	1 in 175	Chance of being a victim of property crime
CrimeGrade.org	91st Percentile	Valrico is safer than 91% of cities
BestPlaces.net	21.6	Valrico’s violent crime rate compared to the US average of 22.7
AreaVibes	20% lower	Valrico’s crime rates compared to the national average
	13% lower	Valrico’s violent crime rates compared to the national average

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office provides various services, including community policing and crime prevention programs.

Various community safety programs like the Valrico Neighborhood Watch further enhance the security in the region.

What to Do in Valrico, FL?

Valrico offers a blend of outdoor adventures, community events, and nearby attractions, making it a lively place for both residents and visitors.

Here are some of the activities and attractions you can enjoy in Valrico:

Parks and Outdoor Activities:

Stearns Road Park, Buckhorn Park, and Alderman’s Ford Nature Preserve: Ideal for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

Events and Festivals:

Valrico Village Christmas Parade, Bloomingdale High School Craft Fair, and Valrico Sunday Market showcase local culture, crafts, and food.

Sports Facilities and Clubs:

The Hitting Academy Brandon and Stingray Sailing Club: There are also equestrian centers like Almost Heaven Farm and CPonies for sports enthusiasts.

Dining:

The Stein & Vine, The Fish Hawk, and The Landing Bar & Grill: These eateries offer a range of culinary experiences.

Shopping:

Valrico Commons: A popular shopping center with various stores and restaurants.

Nearby Attractions:

Walt Disney World Resort, LEGOLAND Florida Resort, and Universal Orlando Resort: A short drive away for a fun-filled day out.

Family-Friendly Activities:

Lolo’s Play-Place and Nature’s Discovery: Great spots for children to learn and play.

Nature Trails and Beaches:

Alderman’s Ford Nature Preserve and Lithia Springs Park: Explore the natural beauty of Valrico, or drive to nearby Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach for a day on the sand.

Cultural Attractions:

While Valrico itself has limited cultural attractions, nearby Tampa offers theaters, galleries, and museums like the Tampa Theatre and the Tampa Museum of Art.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or someone seeking family-friendly activities, Valrico has something to offer to everyone.

What is Valrico Mainly Known For?

Valrico is primarily known for its family-friendly atmosphere, good schools, and outdoor recreational activities.

The community boasts sprawling houses with luxurious features like pools and two-car garages, making it desirable for young professionals and families.

Although with a relatively short history, the area has seen significant growth and development, transforming from a small agricultural community to a thriving suburban area.

Is Valrico an Evacuation Zone?

Yes, Valrico is part of Hillsborough County, Florida, which has designated evacuation zones due to its vulnerability to natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires.

The county has evacuation zones labeled from A to F, with Zone A being the most vulnerable.

Residents can determine their specific evacuation zone using the Hillsborough County Office of Emergency Management’s Hurricane Evacuation Assessment Tool (HEAT).

The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Office of Emergency Management provides emergency services and preparedness resources to help residents prepare, respond, and recover from potential natural or man-made disasters.

Is Valrico a Flood Zone?

Yes, Valrico is situated in an area prone to flooding, especially during the hurricane season. Hillsborough County, where Valrico is located, has several flood zones identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Residents can check their flood zone designation through Hillsborough County’s official website or FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center. (Flood Zone Viewer)

It’s advisable for residents to be prepared and to consider flood insurance to mitigate potential financial risks associated with flooding events.

How Far is Valrico From Tampa, FL?

Valrico is approximately 14-16 miles east of Tampa, Florida, making it convenient for individuals looking to reside near a larger city.

The proximity allows residents and visitors to easily commute to Tampa for work, entertainment, or other activities while enjoying Valrico’s quieter and family-friendly atmosphere.

The journey between the two locations can be quickly made via State Road 60, providing direct access to the heart of Tampa.

How Far is Valrico From The Beach?

The closest beach to Valrico is Clearwater Beach, approximately 40 miles west of Valrico.

The drive to Clearwater Beach typically takes around an hour, making it a feasible day trip for residents and visitors.

Besides Clearwater Beach, other nearby beaches include St. Pete Beach and the beaches along Tampa Bay, all offering a change of scenery and a chance to enjoy Florida’s beautiful coastlines.

What Timezone is Valrico In?

Valrico, Florida is situated in the Eastern Time Zone (ET). This timezone is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5) during Standard Time and 4 hours behind (UTC-4) during Daylight Saving Time when the clocks are set forward by one hour.

Conclusion

Valrico, nestled in Hillsborough County, Florida, emerges as a family-centric locale boasting a blend of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and a sense of community.

Its proximity to Tampa and other vibrant cities and its relatively safe environment add to its appeal for both residents and visitors.

While the threat of natural disasters like hurricanes and floods is real, the preparedness and resources provided by local authorities ensure a level of safety and readiness.

The range of housing options, reputable schools, and local events further enrich the living experience in Valrico.

Whether you’re drawn to its outdoor offerings, educational opportunities, or the serene suburban lifestyle, Valrico holds a promise of a balanced and rewarding living experience.

References:

https://www.ospreyobserver.com/local-history/history-of-valrico/
https://activerain.com/blogsview/1663729/what-is-the-history-behind-valrico–fl–
https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Valrico,_Florida
https://www.tfdsupplies.com/blogs/local-historical-events/7-pieces-of-history-near-valrico-fl-1
https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/why-do-they-call-it-that-valrico-and-bartow/67-388160711
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tampa_Bay_area