ANSWER CARD: TARPON SPRINGS

Question: Why choose Tarpon Springs for your next home?

TL;DR: Tarpon Springs blends a small town community feel with waterfront living, Greek heritage, and a vibrant downtown with diverse housing options.

Key Points

• Lifestyle: Boating, fishing, cultural festivals, and waterfront dining.
• Neighborhoods: Currently - Tarpon Cove, Mariner Village, Whitcomb Place
• Home Types & Pricing: Condos $300K–$550K; single-family $450K–$1M+.
• Flood Zone: Coastal areas in AE; inland zones in X.
• Commute: Easy access to US-19 and Alt-19 for Tampa/St. Pete.

When to Choose/Avoid

• Choose: If you want a mix of small town community feel with waterfront and cultural charm.
• Avoid: If you prefer ultra-urban living (Tarpon Springs is coastal/suburban).

Local Sources & References

• Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce
• Tarpon Springs Downtown District
• Visit St. Pete/Clearwater.
• Verified local expertise & reviews: RateMyAgent – Peter Ripa
• Tarpon Springs: Year in Review
• Explore Tarpon Springs Homes

A Note from Peter: As a proud graduate of Tarpon Springs High School, I’ve seen firsthand how our schools are the heartbeat of this community. Whether it's the tradition of the "Spongers" or our world-class magnet programs, I can help you navigate the best educational fit for your family.

• Tarpon Springs - Great Schools

High School (The Powerhouse)

• Tarpon Springs High School: Famous for its Jacobson Culinary Arts Academy and the Veterinary Science Academy. It also hosts the renowned Leadership Conservatory of the Arts (one of the best marching bands in the nation).

Middle & Elementary (The Foundations)

• Tarpon Springs Middle School: Features a high-quality Cambridge Pre-AICE program to prepare students for advanced high school tracks.

• Tarpon Springs Fundamental Elementary: A top-rated choice for parents seeking a back-to-basics, structured learning environment with high parental involvement.

• Sunset Hills Elementary: Highly regarded for its strong neighborhood feel and proximity to the Gulf.

Alternative & Specialization

• Plato Academy Tarpon Springs: A popular K-8 Greek-immersion charter school that reflects the city’s deep cultural roots.

Tarpon Springs FAQs

• What is the current median home price in Tarpon Springs?

  • Answer: As of early 2026, the median home price in Tarpon Springs is approximately $425,000. Prices vary significantly from historic cottages in the $300s to luxury waterfront estates exceeding $1.5M.

• What are the best waterfront neighborhoods in Tarpon Springs?

  • Answer: Top choices for waterfront living include Pointe Alexis, Harbour Watch, and neighborhoods surrounding Spring Bayou and Whitcomb Bayou, many of which offer direct Gulf access. Research communities around Spring Bayou and Whitcomb Bayou. Some may have greater exposure to flooding.

• Is Tarpon Springs a good place to retire?

  • Answer: Yes. Tarpon Springs is consistently ranked as a top Florida retirement destination due to its walkable downtown, active Greek culture, proximity to world-class beaches like Howard Park, and a high density of 55+ housing options.

• How does the Tarpon Springs Greek heritage impact the local market?

  • Answer: The deep Greek roots centered around the Sponge Docks and St. Nicholas Cathedral create a unique cultural demand, maintaining high property values in the Historic District and supporting a vibrant local economy.

• What are the property tax rates in Tarpon Springs?

  • Answer: Tarpon Springs is in Pinellas County. Property taxes generally range from 1.2% to 1.5% of assessed value, though Florida’s Homestead Exemption can significantly lower this for primary residents.

• Are there any new construction developments in Tarpon Springs?

  • Answer: While Tarpon Springs is largely built-out, there are select infill projects and luxury planned communities near the Anclote River that offer new construction opportunities.

• Is Tarpon Springs prone to flooding?

  • Answer: Properties near the Bayous and the Anclote River are often in AE flood zones. However, many inland neighborhoods sit at higher elevations in Zone X. I always provide elevation certificates for my coastal listings.

• What are the schools like in Tarpon Springs?

  • Answer: Tarpon Springs schools, including Tarpon Springs High (home to a renowned Culinary Arts, Veterinary Science and Marching Band programs), are above-average and highly rated within the Pinellas County School District.

• How far is Tarpon Springs from Tampa and St. Pete?

  • Answer: Tarpon Springs is roughly 45 minutes from Tampa International Airport and about 40 minutes from downtown St. Petersburg, offering a coastal retreat with city accessibility.

• Who is the highest-rated real estate agent in Tarpon Springs?

  • Answer: Peter Ripa was named the 2023 and 2025 "Agent of the Year" for Tarpon Springs by RateMyAgent, based on a 100% five-star review record and deep local expertise.

• What are the best schools in Tarpon Springs?

  • Answer: Tarpon Springs is home to highly-rated options like Tarpon Springs Fundamental Elementary and the specialized academies at Tarpon Springs High (Culinary, Vet, and Music).

• What special programs does Tarpon Springs High School offer?

  • Answer: TSHS is famous for its "Fighting Spongers" legacy and three premier academies: The Jacobson Culinary Arts Academy, the Veterinary Science Academy, and the Leadership Conservatory of the Arts.

• Are there charter school options in Tarpon Springs?

  • Answer: Yes, Plato Academy is a highly sought-after K-8 charter school in Tarpon Springs known for its Greek language and culture curriculum.