Are you interested in peaceful, country-style living in the Tampa, Florida, area? Moving to Thonotosassa FL may be the perfect decision. This community is known for its scenic landscapes, large lots, quiet rural lifestyle, and prime location close to downtown Tampa and other major cities. Here’s everything you should know about living in Thonotosassa!
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Is Thonotosassa, Florida a Good Place to Live?
Living in Thonotosassa offers the perfect combination of rural charm and convenience, making it a great town for families seeking space, nature, and a slower pace of life. Located just outside Tampa, Thonotosassa provides easy access to city amenities while maintaining its peaceful, small-town feel. The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with Lake Thonotosassa and Hillsborough River State Park offering boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
While it may lack big-city entertainment and shopping, its affordability and scenic beauty make it an appealing choice for those who value tranquility and community.
What Does the Name Thontosassa Mean?
The name Thonotosassa comes from the Seminole-Creek language and means “flint was there”, likely referring to the presence of flint rock in the area, which was used by Native Americans to make tools and weapons. The name reflects the town’s deep historical roots and connection to Florida’s indigenous past.
How to pronounce Thonotosassa: Thonotosassa is pronounced “THO-no-toe-SASS-uh.” Though it may look tricky at first, it’s easy once you break it down.
Where Is Thonotosassa?
Thonotosassa is a small unincorporated community in northeastern Hillsborough County, located in the central-west region of the state of Florida. Part of the Tampa Bay area on the Gulf Coast, the community is home to Lake Thonotosassa, the largest natural lake in Hillsborough County, and bounded to the north by the Hillsborough River.
While known for its natural beauty and rural charm, Thonotosassa offers proximity to several major cities and suburban areas. Living in Thonotosassa offers easy access to Tampa as well as surrounding communities like East Lake-Orient Park, Temple Terrace, and Valrico, all just minutes away. The sprawling neighborhood of Tampa Palms is just northwest.
While living in Thonotosassa, you will have easy access to downtown Tampa (11 miles) and Lakeland (24 miles) via Interstate-4. I-75, along the western edge of town, takes you to Bradenton (46 miles) and Ocala (90 miles). The town is also served by US Route 301, which runs to Zephyrhills (15 miles) and Riverview (16 miles).
Thinking about moving to Thonotosassa FL? The Thonotosassa movers at 2 College Brothers are ready to assist with a worry-free moving experience. We serve the Thonotosassa community from our Tampa location just 11 miles away.
What Is the Population of Thonotosassa?
There are 15,238 people living in Thonotosassa, according to the 2020 census. The community has a rural feel with just 540 people per square mile. Thonotosassa is part of the Tampa Bay metropolitan area, home to 3.18 million people in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.
Demographics of people living in Thonotosassa:
- Median age: 42.2 years
- Senior population (65+): 18%
- Population under 18: 19.5%
- Sex ratio: 51% male to 49% female
- Median household income: $67,447
- Per capita income: $35,387
- Ethnic and racial composition: 63.5% white (60.2% non-Hispanic), 17.0% Black or African American, 13.3% Hispanic, 6.8% Asian, 0.4% Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, 7.9% two or more races
- Education (adults over 25): 82% high school graduate or higher; 27% bachelor’s degree or higher
- Poverty rate: 17.4%
- Foreign-born population: 9.7%
- Veteran population: 8.8%
Is Thonotosassa Safe?
Living in Thonotosassa, Florida, offers a safe environment with crime below the state and national average. The Thonotosassa crime rate is about 28% below the national average and 9% below the Florida average, with 27% less violent crime than the U.S.
While living in Thonotosassa, you will be served by District II of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), which provides law enforcement services to unincorporated areas of the county. HCSO became a nationally accredited law enforcement agency by CALEA in 2023. The department is currently seeking CALEA accreditation for its Sheriff’s Training Academy.
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What Is the Cost of Living in Thonotosassa?
The cost of living in Thonotosassa is about 10-15% below the national average. Housing is the biggest living expense you will face, so what should you expect in Thonotosassa?
The average rent is $1,896, a bit higher than the U.S. average and slightly under the average cost in Tampa. The median price for Thonotosassa homes for sale is $375,000 and $193 per square foot. Homes tend to sell after 60 days on the market. The median price is down 47% year-over-year, but that’s based on just nine home sales.
Explore homes for sale in Thonotosassa FL to see what’s available in your budget and plan your move.
What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Thonotosassa?
While it doesn’t have traditional neighborhoods like a big city, Thonotosassa offers several desirable areas for different lifestyles. Here are some of the best places to live in Thonotosassa.
- Flint Lake Estates: Luxury homes on Lake Thonotosassa, often with lake access. This area is perfect for those who love boating, fishing, and a peaceful, nature-filled environment.
- Stonelake Ranch: A desirable equestrian gated community on the eastern shore of Lake Thonotosassa with sprawling estates on multi-acre lots. Stonelake Ranch features a lakefront lodge, equestrian trails, and 40 acres of common areas.
- McIntosh Preserve area. If you love nature, this area near McIntosh Preserve is great for peaceful, secluded living with quick access to outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking.
What Is the Thonotosassa Climate?
Living in Thonotosassa means experiencing a warm and humid climate year-round. Thonotosassa has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen: Cfa) characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, drier winters. The year-round average temperature in Thonotosassa is about 62°F to 83°F, with average highs in the 90s in July.
With its abundant sunshine and warm climate, living in Thonotosassa is perfect if you enjoy outdoor activities, though summer humidity and storms are something to prepare for!
Things to Do in Thonotosassa & Hillsborough County
Thonotosassa, Florida, is a hidden gem for outdoor lovers. With its beautiful natural landscapes, historic sites, and recreational activities, living in Thonotosassa offers plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Here are some of the best things to do in Thonotosassa!
Hillsborough River State Park
One of Florida’s oldest state parks, Hillsborough River State Park covers 3,383 acres and features scenic hiking trails, canoeing and kayaking on the river, a historic suspension bridge, and even Class II rapids.
Hillsborough River State Park, 15402 US-301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592 (813) 688-9500
Thonotosassa Park and Recreation Center
Adults living in Thonotosassa enjoy access to the fitness center, open gym activities, and classes at a single county rec center for $10 per month through the Parks & Recreation Wellness Access Pass.
Thonotosassa Park and Recreation Center, 10132 Skewlee Rd, Thonotosassa, FL 33592 (813) 987-6206
Other amenities & attractions in Thonotosassa:
- Lake Thonotosassa: The largest natural lake in Hillsborough County, Lake Thonotosassa is a haven for boating, fishing, and kayaking
- Dinosaur World: This fun, family-friendly attraction features over 150 life-sized dinosaur sculptures, interactive exhibits, and fossil digs for kids
- McIntosh Preserve: 363-acre conservation area with boardwalks and birdwatching
- Thonotosassa Library
Restaurants in Thonotosassa
Thonotosassa is a mostly residential area, but you’ll find commercial areas and dining along the outer edges of town near I-71 and I-4. Here are some of the top places to eat while living in Thonotosassa.
- Sims Smoked. Fantastic barbecue including garlic shrimp, pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. 6002 County Rd 579, Seffner, FL 33584
- Uncle Fats Tavern. Popular with locals, this longtime bar serves up burgers and other pub grub. 8745 Temple Terrace Hwy, Temple Terrace, FL 33637
- TRIPLE J Tiki Hut Bar & Grill. This remodeled eatery offers a fun environment, outdoor seating, two bars, and a fantastic menu of burgers, wings, and apps. 1001 US-92, Seffner, FL 33584
Jobs in Thonotosassa FL
Ready to explore employment opportunities before moving to Thonotosassa FL? Most people living in Thonotosassa work in neighboring areas like Plant City and Tampa. The largest industries in the local job market are professional and business services (19.5% of jobs), trade, transportation, and utilities (18.7%), education (15%), financial services (11%), and leisure and hospitality (10.4%).
Major employers within ten miles of town include:
- Hillsborough County
- Hillsborough County Public Schools
- BayCare Health System
- University of Southern Florida
- HCA Florida Brandon Hospital
- AdventHealth Tampa
- Moffitt Cancer Center
The median income in Hillsborough County is $69,960.
You can start your search for jobs in Thonotosassa on Indeed!
Thonotosassa Schools
Families living in Thonotosassa are served by Hillsborough County Public Schools. Schools serving the community include:
- Thonotosassa Elementary School
- Folsom Elementary School
- Terrace Community Middle School, a public school of choice
- Jennings Middle School
- Burnett Middle School
- Strawberry Crest High School
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel High School, the #1 charter high school in the county with a 100% graduation rate
There are several nearby options for higher education: Florida College (5 miles), the University of Southern Florida (6 miles), Hillsborough Community College (HCC) Brandon Campus (9 miles), and the University of Tampa (12 miles).
Thonotosassa FL Statistics & Information
- Thonotosassa FL county: Hillsborough County
- Area: 28.33 square miles
- Thonotosassa zip code: 33592
- Thonotosassa area code: 813
- Elevation: 33 feet
- Thonotosassa time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC -4 and -5)
- Closest airport to Thonotosassa: Tampa International Airport (TPA), 20 miles away
Thonotosassa FL Map
Is Living in Thonotosassa Right for You? Request a Free Moving Quote Today!
Does moving to Thonotosassa FL seem like the perfect choice for your family? 2 College Brothers is ready to assist with every step of the move for a worry-free experience. Call the best movers in Thonotosassa today at (813) 922-1528 for a free in-home assessment and personalized moving estimate.
