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Welcome to Tampa, FL, a city renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning waterfront, and idyllic year-round weather. If you’re in the market for a luxury home in this thriving city, get ready to discover an array of exceptional features and amenities that will leave you captivated. 

Whether you’re considering living in Tampa or currently looking at homes for sale in the city, Tampa’s luxury real estate market offers a diverse range of lavish homes, each boasting unique attributes that cater to the discerning tastes of potential homebuyers. From waterfront properties with private docks and panoramic views to expansive outdoor living spaces, cutting-edge smart home technologies, and luxurious interiors, this Redfin article unveils the extraordinary features that make luxury homes in Tampa truly stand out. Join us as we delve into the world of luxury home features in Tampa, where your dream residence awaits.

1. Waterfront property

One of the most coveted home features in Tampa is waterfront property. Living on the water offers a unique and desirable lifestyle that perfectly captures the essence of this coastal city. Whether it’s a residence situated directly on the waterfront or one with breathtaking water views, this feature instantly adds a touch of tranquility to any luxury home. Imagine waking up to stunning sunrises over the glistening waves, enjoying the gentle sea breeze from your own backyard, and having easy access to various water activities right from your doorstep. 

Folding doors that provide unobstructed water views are a popular feature to create a sense of openness and connection to the natural environment. These expansive doors seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living spaces, allowing residents to enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding waterways. 

2. New or updated homes

While the city embraces its charming historic architecture, there is a growing demand for modern amenities and contemporary design. New or recently updated homes offer the advantage of modern construction techniques, energy-efficient features, and the latest advancements in home technology.

These homes often boast open floor plans, gourmet kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances, luxurious master suites, and upgraded finishes throughout. From sleek finishes to smart home automation systems, every detail is carefully curated to meet the needs and preferences of today’s discerning homebuyers. 

3. Boat dock

Another sought-after home feature in Tampa, Florida, is a boat dock with a lift. For those who enjoy boating and water sports, having a private dock with a lift adds convenience, security, and endless opportunities for aquatic adventures. When you’re not using the boat, you can use a lift to safely store your boat out of the water, protecting it from the elements and minimizing maintenance. 

4. High-end finishes

In the luxury real estate market, there are several additional features and amenities that can truly elevate a home listing, setting it apart from other properties. High-end finishes, such as unique marble, granite, or quartz, add a touch of luxury to the home. These additional features and amenities not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to an elevated living experience.

5. Newly remodeled kitchen

A luxury home feature that is quickly gaining popularity among homebuyers for Redfin Premier listings is a newly remodeled kitchen. In today’s real estate market, the kitchen has evolved into more than just a space for meal preparation—it’s the heart of the home and a focal point for socializing and entertaining. 

A newly remodeled kitchen offers a fresh and modern aesthetic, with sleek countertops, high-end appliances, and custom cabinetry that exudes both style and functionality. It provides a seamless blend of form and function, catering to the needs and desires of discerning homeowners. With open-concept layouts, ample storage, and innovative design elements, these remodeled kitchens are perfect for hosting gatherings and creating culinary masterpieces. 

6. Pool and spa

One of the quintessential luxury home features in Tampa is a pool and/or spa, often accompanied by a spacious lanai. The city’s warm climate and abundant sunshine make outdoor living a year-round delight, and a pool and spa area serves as a private oasis within your own property. Whether you prefer to take dips in the pool, relax in the spa, or simply bask in the sun on poolside loungers, a pool and spa offers endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation. 

The addition of a lanai, a covered outdoor area, provides shade and protection from the elements while allowing you to enjoy the poolside ambiance. It serves as an extension of the living space, perfect for relaxing with a book, entertaining guests, or simply unwinding with family and friends. 

7. Gated communities

Homebuyers in Tampa who are seeking exclusivity, security, and a sense of community often gravitate towards gated communities, especially those situated within prestigious golf communities. 

A gated entry provides an extra layer of privacy and peace of mind, allowing residents to enjoy a heightened sense of security. Within these gated communities, golf enthusiasts have the advantage of convenient access to meticulously designed golf courses, where they can perfect their swing and indulge in their passion for the sport. Additionally, these communities often boast a range of amenities such as clubhouses, fitness centers, swimming pools, and tennis courts, providing a resort-like lifestyle right at your doorstep. 

Top neighborhoods with luxury home features in Tampa

Notable neighborhoods that boast luxury home features include Belleair Beach, Belleair Bluffs, and Belleair Shore, as well as Palm Harbor. These areas are renowned for their exquisite residences and amenities that elevate the standard of luxury living. Bellaire Beach offers an exclusive coastal lifestyle with stunning waterfront properties, pristine beaches, and panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Bellaire Bluffs exudes elegance with its tree-lined streets, upscale homes, and close proximity to boutique shops and fine dining. Bellaire Shores boasts a picturesque setting along the Intracoastal Waterway, offering residents unparalleled waterfront living and access to boating and fishing. Palm Harbor, known for its serene natural beauty and golf course communities, provides a tranquil retreat while still being conveniently located near shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. 

Homebuyers are willing to pay premium prices to live in these neighborhoods, and Belleair Shore, in particular, had a median sale price of $5.92 million in December 2022, about 14x the median sale price of in Tampa.

A final note on luxury home features in Tampa

It’s no surprise that proximity to the water is a defining factor of luxury for many homes in Tampa. While it’s common for homes in Pinellas County to be situated on or near the water, what truly adds to the charm and allure is the fact that not all waterfront homes are created equal. The diversity in locations within the county ensures that each property holds its own unique appeal. 

Some luxury homes may boast direct waterfront access, offering breathtaking views and easy navigation for boating enthusiasts. Others may be nestled in peaceful inland neighborhoods, where residents can still enjoy the coastal lifestyle and the beauty of nearby waterways. The variety of options means that luxury can be found in different settings, catering to the preferences and desires of discerning homebuyers. Whether it’s the tranquility of a waterfront retreat or the proximity to the water’s edge, Tampa offers a range of options that contribute to the overall charm and exclusivity of luxury living in the area.

 A local Redfin Premier agent will provide invaluable insights into the market, including an in-depth understanding of the neighborhoods, pricing trends, and available luxury properties. 

Source: redfin.com

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At first glance, the contrast of the natural setting with the steel-and-concrete structure at 53 Major Lockwood Lane in Pound Ridge, NY, might seem strange.

But there’s actually a very good reason for the aesthetic of the innovative property, which was recently listed for the first time at $1,199,000.

“This is a passive solar home, so it was situated on the land to maximize sunlight at all times of year,” says listing agent Betsy Ronel. “It was designed by the renowned environmental architect, Michael Kwartler and completed in 1981.”

A “passive” solar home is one that has windows, walls, and floors made to collect, store, reflect, and distribute solar energy for a year-round temperate interior.

This particular private, sun-filled oasis offers three bedrooms, an office, loftlike living spaces, an open kitchen, and an entire wall of windows.

53 Major Lockwood Lane

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Window wall

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Interior views

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Living room

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Dining room

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One of three bedrooms

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One of 2.5 bathrooms

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Forest trails 

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The home’s thoughtful design is optimized for natural light and year-round views. Plentiful custom windows face the surrounding 5-acre, forested property, which comes with access rights to the adjacent Hawkins Lake. And the serene space isn’t far from other recreational pursuits.

Plus, Pound Ridge is known as a “creator’s haven,” Ronel notes. “Residents here get the best of it all: privacy and quiet yet access to everything.”

In this case, “everything” includes chic shops and restaurants in the downtown area, as well as ample outdoor adventures, annual events, and other local activities. Several major train stations and retail destinations are also within 20 miles of Pound Ridge.

“This town appeals to all walks of life,” Ronel says. “Artist, scientist, maker, equestrian, people watcher, small towner, weekender, full timer, families, and singletons of all ages and backgrounds enjoy it here.”

Source: realtor.com

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Living in Tennessee has tons of perks, from enjoying the dynamic music scene in Nashville to the delicious Southern cuisine. But, if bigger, better-known cities like Nashville and Memphis are out of your budget, you may want to turn your attention to Knoxville.

Located in the eastern part of the state along the Tennessee River, this city of around 192,648 has a rich history, higher education and access to the spectacular great outdoors of the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In the revitalized downtown area, residents and visitors can shop, dine, drink craft beer and explore while surrounded by 19th-century buildings.

As the home of the University of Tennessee’s flagship campus, Knoxville has a distinct college-town feel with active arts and culture. Thanks to the local U of T Volunteers sports teams, collegiate athletics are a big deal here, as well. Finally, being the gateway to the nearby national park and the Appalachian Mountains makes Knoxville a great base camp for outdoor adventures from canoeing to hiking. With all these accolades, it’s no wonder that Knoxville ranks as one of the best places to live in Tennessee.

Furthermore, Knoxville boasts an affordable cost of living that’s appealing to everyone from students to families. With an overall cost of living that’s 16.8 percent lower than the national average, it’s even one of Tennessee’s most affordable major cities to live in. Let’s dive into the different cost of living expenses here to see if Knoxville could be the right fit for your budget and lifestyle.

Knoxville housing prices

At 31.7 percent below the national average, housing prices in Knoxville are among the most affordable in the state. The cost of housing here is down 1.6 percent from last year. In comparison, housing costs in the capital city of Nashville are 4.4 percent higher than the national average.

But, those low housing costs are clearly catching people’s attention. Both the rental and homeowning markets have seen significant growth over the past year. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is up 20 percent from last year to $1,310. Two-bedroom rental rates are up 30 percent to $1,474. While rates remain reasonable for now, that could change with the steady upward growth.

If you want to own a house in Knoxville, prices are also on the rise. The median sale price for a house here is $319,900, which is 23.1 percent higher than last year. For context, the national median sale price for a house is $406,074.

Food prices

One of the best parts of living in a Southern state is the fantastic food, and Knoxville is no exception. At restaurants around town, you can enjoy Tenneessee’s signature state barbecue, as well as other Southern staples like rich mac and cheese, collard greens, fried chicken and fried green tomatoes.

Along with the affordable housing, broke college students and budget-savvy families living in Knoxville will find that food costs here are also on the low side. Food prices are 9.6 percent below the national average, which is 1.6 percent higher than last year.

To put those figures into perspective, let’s look at the average food costs of some basic grocery items. Picking up a dozen eggs costs $1.80, a half-gallon of milk is $2.31 and a loaf of bread is $3.80. Proteins come out to $4.19 for a pound of ground beef and $12.98 for a nice steak.

Although Knoxville has some of the lowest food prices compared to the national average, individual prices in different cities are actually pretty similar. In Nashville, whose food prices are 4.4 percent below the national average, a dozen eggs are one cent cheaper at $1.79. A half-gallon of milk goes down to $2.22, but a pound of ground beef is more expensive at $5.33.

Utility prices

Of all the different cost of living categories, the cost of utilities in Knoxville is the closest to the national average, falling just 3.6 percent below. This is just 0.2 percent less than last year.

So, why are utility prices some of the highest cost of living expenses here? During the hot and humid summer months, those air conditioning units definitely get a workout. While winters are chilly and generally mild, it actually can get cold enough for snow to fall. So, Knoxville sees all four seasons, which leads to variations in utility usage throughout the year. But, in general, the average monthly energy bill is around $167.86.

Utility prices in Knoxville are actually among the most expensive in the state. In Nashville, the average monthly energy bill is $138.74 and utility costs are 10.7 percent below the national average. One of the few towns with higher utility prices than Knoxville is Morristown, which is one percent above the national average. There, the average monthly energy bill is $175.45.

Transportation prices

With a low walk score of 30 and an even lower bike score of 28, it’s a good idea to have a car when living in Knoxville. Not only does this make it easier to get around, but you can easily head out of town for adventures in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and other parts of the scenic and the wild Appalachian Mountains. Some areas like downtown and the college campus are great to explore on foot, though.

Similar to other cost-of-living areas, transportation costs here are lower than the national average at 7.8 percent. This has gone up over the past year by 6.3 percent.

One benefit of having a car in Knoxville and Tennessee, in general, is that there are no toll roads. If you don’t want to use a car to get around Knoxville, you can use the local Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) bus system. Residents have 23 different routes to choose from that crisscross both the city center and branch out to the surrounding areas. A one-way pass costs $1, a full-day pass is $2 and a monthly 30-day pass costs $30.

Residents can also take advantage of the free trolley that offers rides around downtown Knoxville and the University of Tennessee campus area.

Healthcare prices

At 8.4 percent below the national average, healthcare costs in Knoxville are on the more affordable side. Rates here are down 0.4 percent from the previous year. Many other major Tennessee cities are in a similar ballpark. Nashville is 10 percent below the national average and Memphis is 9.4 percent below. Cookeville is 15 percent below the national average, so Knoxville sits nicely in the middle for healthcare costs. The university also has a well-regarded health sciences program.

It’s important to note that since healthcare needs vary by person and insurance, the average costs of different healthcare services in Knoxville won’t always apply to everyone. Your costs are higher or lower depending on your needs. For a rough overview, though, going to the doctor’s office for a check-up is $112. Getting your teeth checked out at the dentist is around $91.60 and having an eye appointment at the optometrist is $91.

For over-the-counter meds like ibuprofen, expect to pay around $9.38. If you need prescription medications, you’ll definitely want the benefit of having insurance since average prescriptions cost around $510.10.

Compared to other Tennessee cities, healthcare costs in Knoxville are pretty middle-ground. A doctor’s visit in Nashville is $99.14. But in Jackson, heading to the doctor’s office will set you back $137.33.

Goods and services prices

Living in a fun city like Knoxville, you want to take advantage of everything it has to offer. That means going out to the movies, meeting friends for pizza or doing other things out on the town. That’s where miscellaneous goods and services come into your monthly budget. This area of expense covers everything from fun activities and goods to necessary goods or services you need on a semi-regular basis like getting a haircut.

Goods and services are one of the lowest cost of living areas in Knoxville, falling 13.7 percent below the national average. This is 0.1 percent lower than last year, so prices have remained pretty consistent over the past year. In comparison, goods and services in Nashville are only 4.5 percent below the national average.

Getting your haircut in Knoxville is around $16 compared to $21.80 in Nashville. Movie tickets come out to $11.06 and taking your clothes to the dry cleaners sets you back $15.45.

Taxes in Knoxville

In Tennessee, the general state sales tax is 7 percent. Counties and cities have the option to add an additional local sales tax on top of the statewide rate. In Knoxville, the sales tax is 9.25. To put that in perspective, say you spend $1,000 throwing a giant backyard barbecue party. You’ll pay an additional $92.50 in sales tax.

Other cities in Tennessee have higher sales taxes, though. The highest sales tax is in Memphis and several other cities at 9.75 percent. The lowest sales tax is 8.5. So, Knoxville sits at a good middle point for sales tax rates.

How much do I need to earn to live in Knoxville?

In order to figure out if you can comfortably afford to live in Knoxville, you need to work backward from your biggest monthly expense. Housing costs like rent are typically your biggest expense each month. To ensure that you still have enough money for other expenses like food and utilities, experts recommend that you only spend 30 percent of your monthly income on rent.

Considering that the average one-bedroom apartment in Knoxville costs $1,299, you’ll need to make $4,330 each month. That comes out to $51,960 annually. The median household income in Knoxville is $41,598, which potentially gives you the option to scope out some of the cooler, more popular neighborhoods to live in.

If you’re unsure what you can afford in rent, use our rent calculator to do some calculations and figure out what fits your budget.

Free things to do

Although Knoxville is overall a fairly affordable place to live, it never hurts to take advantage of fun and free things to do around town.

If you love being outdoors, the Ijams Nature Center on the outskirts of town is a popular option with 10 miles of hiking trails and scenic boardwalks along wetlands and the Tennessee River. The Knoxville Botanical Garden and the University of Tennessee Gardens are other great places to get outdoors and learn about nature for free.

If you prefer more in-town fun, hit up the local farmer’s markets or wander around downtown looking for cool murals. History buffs can dig into genealogy records at the McClung Collection or visit the Marble Springs State Historic Site. The Knoxville Museum of Art also offers free admission to some exhibits.

Living in Knoxville

Whether you’re a sports fan or a nature lover who spends all your time hiking, Knoxville’s blend of mid-sized city fun and outdoor access appeals to a wide range of interests and lifestyles. Top it off with its affordable cost of living and it’s easy to see why everyone from young students to families enjoy the quality of life here.

The Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of October 2022.
Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.

Source: rent.com

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If you’re considering living in Omaha, Nebraska, prepare to experience a city of vibrancy and entertainment. The town boasts an array of unique attractions and experiences that locals and newcomers alike can enjoy. There’s something for everyone, whether it’s savoring exquisite craft cocktails, exploring hidden gems, or immersing yourself in nature.

Whether you’re still considering making the move or you’re already exploring  apartments for rent or homes for sale in Omaha, this Redfin article will showcase a plethora of unique things to do in Omaha.

1. Proof Whiskey Bar and Craft Cocktail Lounge

If you’re a whiskey and craft cocktails fan, Proof Whiskey Bar and Craft Cocktail Lounge is the place to be. The bar offers one of the wildest whiskey collections, nearly guaranteeing you’ll be met with a great drink.

“The bartenders are extremely knowledgeable and are experts at their craft,” say’s Shantel Powers, a photographer with Glam Haven Photography. “Try the Barrel Pick Old Fashioned that comes in a cedar smoked glass for a twist on the classic cocktail.” 

2. Nosh Restaurant and Wine Lounge

Not every high-end meal has to come with high-end prices, which Nosh Restaurant and Wine Lounge owner Erick Neimier aims to deliver. Offering 35 wines by the glass, 150 bottles, and 70 different types of whiskey, there’s something for everyone, no matter your taste buds. 

Neimier describes Nosh as having a friendly, relaxed vibe with comfortable seating. Whether you’re meeting up with friends or family for a relaxing dinner or a quick bite before a concert, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Nosh.

3. Cellar44 Wine Bar 

With its warm and inviting ambiance, Cellar44 Wine Bar offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere where patrons can unwind and savor a remarkable selection of handpicked wines from around the world. Owner Wendy Sutton-Millage shares that “the menu offers a wide range of wines and a food menu featuring charcuterie, signature snack items, and sliders.” On Thursday and Friday nights, Cellar44 comes alive with live music. It’s the perfect place to unwind, sip on your favorite wine, and let the music carry you away into an unforgettable night.

4. Bärchen Beer Garden

Bärchen Beer Garden stands out as a unique thing to do in Omaha for several reasons, including its unique Bavarian-inspired atmosphere with an American twist. 

General manager Marc Emanuel shares that Bärchen has a selection of international beers and quality food. From the menu, Marc recommends trying a burger or chicken sandwich, stating they are “the best in town.” To have the whole experience, order a house-made pretzel or sausage that perfectly complements the diverse beer and cocktail offerings.

5. Dundee Dell

Dundee Dell is a cherished hidden gem in Omaha’s beautiful Dundee neighborhood. Originally founded as the Dundee Delicatessen in 1915, no shortage of history and heritage sets Dundee Dell apart. General manager Marc Emanuel says that their “must-try” menu item is their flavorful and crispy fish and chips, which has garnered a devoted following. 

6. Sofra Creperie

Located in the Inner Rail Food Hall is Sofra Creperie, offering an authentic taste of European cuisine. Michel Thornhill, a web designer with Little Mountain Web Design, suggests trying the Mediterranean crepe, which boasts delicious flavors from cucumbers, tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta, bell peppers, spinach, and a secret sauce.

7. Tasty Pizza 

Minutes from the University of Nebraska and Elmwood Park, discover a campus favorite, Tasty Pizza. Morgan Dorsey, the photographer for MTD Aerial Photography and the University of Nebraska alums, recommends trying the McKenna Macarena, a combination of buffalo chicken and pepperoncini. Tasty Pizza is a must-visit and will “satisfy even the most discerning pizza connoisseur,” says Dorsey.

8. Ollie the Trolley

Ollie the Trolley, an iconic symbol of Omaha, Nebraska, offers a unique way to explore the city’s charm and rich history. This charming, vintage-style trolley provides a nostalgic and picturesque journey through Omaha’s streets, allowing passengers to discover the city’s hidden gems and popular landmarks in comfort and style.

Director of Marketing, Deb Skinner, says Ollie the Trolley offers five public tours complemented with a bloody mary, margaritas, and lessons on the city’s rich history. Take in the sights and sounds on this relaxing tour, and if you’re looking for the perfect way to celebrate an event such as a bachelor or bachelorette party, look no further.

9. Lauritzen Gardens

Beyond the cornfields associated with Omaha, Nebraska, discover the 100-acre Lauritzen Gardens. This Omaha hidden gem offers over 15 unique gardens and exhibits.

Paul Jones of The Gardening Dad blog describes Lauritzen Gardens as a “tropical paradise to be enjoyed on a beautiful summer day or during a cabin-fever winter weekend.” Jones adds that the gardens offer refreshing yoga retreats, spectacular kid activities, educational photography, cocktail hours, and more.

10. Fontenelle Forest

For the occasional escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, look no further than Fontenelle Forest. Local real estate agent Ryan Renner shares that this hidden gem offers miles of walking trails, a raptor refuge, and a rope course. “Coming to Fontenelle Forest feels like you aren’t in the city anymore,” adds Renner.

11. Book Nook Bookstores

A list of unique things to do in Omaha would only be complete with an escape from reality within a book. To experience such, look no further than Book Nook Bookstores. This locally owned bookstore offers a myriad of books, games, movies, and collectibles. So stop in and discover your new favorite author amongst the sea of material.

Source: redfin.com

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Known for the Mississippi River, the state of Mississippi has many riverfront and beachfront cities located along the river and the Gulf Coast. With blue waves and sandy coves, boating and fishing, there are countless amazing Mississippi beach towns to check out. Whether you’re moving to the state or hoping to move to the coast, there’s a beach town for you in Mississippi.

But if you’re not sure where to start on your hunt for the best Mississippi beach town, we’re here to help. Redfin has put together a list of 10 Mississippi beach towns from Biloxi to Pascagoula. Let’s explore some of the state’s top beaches, listed in alphabetical order, and you might just be tempted to move there.

#1: Bay St. Louis

Median home price: $352,000 
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $975 
Bay St. Louis, MS homes for sale
Bay St. Louis, MS apartments for rent

First up on our list is Bay St. Louis, located along the Gulf Coast. Living in Bay St. Louis, you can take a riverboat tour, stroll through downtown, check out the Bay St. Louis Historic L & N Train Depot, or spend the afternoon at Bay St. Louis Beach.

#2: Biloxi

Median home price: $246,000 
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $937 
Biloxi, MS homes for sale
Biloxi, MS apartments for rent

Another one of Mississippi’s great coastal towns to consider buying a home in is Biloxi, where there are about 49,200 residents. There are plenty of beaches to visit like Biloxi Beach and Gulfport Scenic Byway. Living in Biloxi, you’ll want to explore the Deer Island Coastal Preserve, check out some of the museums in town, and stop by the Biloxi Lighthouse.

#3: D’Iberville

Median home price: $334,450 
D’Iberville, MS homes for sale
D’Iberville, MS apartments for rent

Just north of Biloxi is the bayfront town of D’Iberville. With about 13,200 residents living in the city, there are lots of beaches to explore on a sunny Mississippi day like Riverside Park. If you find yourself moving to D’Iberville, make sure to take a fishing charter and check out the charming downtown. 

#4: Gautier

Median home price: $178,000 
Gautier, MS homes for sale
Gautier, MS apartments for rent

Home to beautiful beaches like Graveline Bay Coastal Preserve, there are countless places to spend a beach day in Gautier. With roughly 19,000 residents in Gautier, make sure to also spend the day exploring Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge, stop by some of the historic buildings throughout the town, and dine along the riverfront.

#5: Gulfport

Median home price: $215,000 
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $835 
Gulfport, MS homes for sale
Gulfport, MS apartments for rent

The picturesque coastal town of Gulfport has about 72,100 residents, making it another great option to consider if you’re looking to live by water. In Gulfport, you can take a cruise to historic landmarks like Fort Massachusetts, explore the downtown area, enjoy a beach day at Gulfport Beach, and spend the day at Ocean Adventures Marine Park.

#6: Long Beach

Median home price: $292,450 
Long Beach, MS homes for sale
Long Beach, MS apartments for rent

With roughly 16,860 residents, Long Beach is a great beach town to consider living in. There are lots of activities to do in this coastal city like checking out Long Beach Pier or grabbing a meal along the waterfront, among many other local favorites.

#7: Moss Point

Median home price: $197,500 
Moss Point, MS homes for sale
Moss Point, MS apartments for rent

Next up is Moss Point, located just north of Pascagoula. With a population of roughly 12,000, Moss Point is an amazing coastal town to live in where you can check out waterfront spots like Pascagoula River Audubon Center. Make sure to spend some time exploring the river views once moving to the area.

#8: Ocean Springs

Median home price: $285,000 
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $935 
Ocean Springs, MS homes for sale
Ocean Springs, MS apartments for rent

You’ll find beautiful beaches in Ocean Springs such as Davis Bayou and Ocean Springs Beach, all perfect for soaking up the sun. Be sure to explore the Davis Bayou Area, check out the local shops and restaurants, or hike along one of the nature trails once living in Ocean Springs. 

#9: Pascagoula

Median home price: $136,000 
Pascagoula, MS homes for sale
Pascagoula, MS apartments for rent

Just about 21,800 people live in this city where you’ll find beaches like Pascagoula Beach Park. Other popular things to do in Pascagoula include checking out some of the museums and historic sites, visiting River Park, or fishing at one of the piers.

#10: Pass Christian

Median home price: $256,000 
Pass Christian, MS homes for sale
Pass Christian, MS apartments for rent

The seaside city of Pass Christian has a population of 5,900 and there are lots of beaches to spend time outside at like Pass Christian Beach. You’ll also have plenty of activities to explore during your free time, like take a fishing charter.

Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the beach towns in Mississippi. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during June 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com June 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.

Source: redfin.com

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While you may instantly picture evergreen forests and snow-capped mountains when you think of Washington, the state is also known for its breathtaking beaches. With magnificent waves and rocky coves, kayaking and boating, fishing and whale watching, these idyllic Washington coastal towns are top-tier. There are lots of beachfront towns to check out in Washington, whether you’re moving to the state or hoping to relocate to the coast. 

But if you’re not sure what beach towns in Washington to check out, we’ve got you covered. From Anacortes to the San Juan Islands, Redfin has collected a list of 13 amazing coastal towns in Washington. Let’s explore some of the state’s top beaches, listed in alphabetical order, and you might just be tempted to move there.

#1: Anacortes

Median home price: $795,000 
Anacortes, WA homes for sale
Anacortes, WA apartments for rent

First on our list is Anacortes, located on Fidalgo Island. There are plenty of beaches to explore while living in Anacortes such as Sunset Beach, O Avenue Beach, and Tugboat Beach. If you’re considering moving to this coastal town, make sure to hike one of the trails like Mount Erie Summit Trail or Sugarloaf Mountain Trail, explore downtown Anacortes, or take in the views at Washington Park.

#2: Bellingham

Median home price: $604,850 
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,375 
Bellingham, WA homes for sale
Bellingham, WA apartments for rent

Another one of Washington’s great beach towns to consider buying a home in is Bellingham, home to 92,300 people. There are plenty of beaches to visit like Glass Beach, Little Squalicum Beach, and Marine Park. Living in Bellingham, you’ll want to stroll along the Taylor Dock Boardwalk or hike North Chuckanut Trail, explore the museums, shops, and cafes downtown, and check out the many nature parks and lakes in the city.

#3: Coupeville

Median home price: $670,000 
Coupeville, WA homes for sale
Coupeville, WA apartments for rent

One of the small towns located on Whidbey Island, Coupeville, has just about 2,000 year-round residents. There are lots of beaches to explore on a warm Washington day, like Captain Coupe’s Park. If you find yourself moving to Coupeville, make sure to explore Price Sculpture Forest, check out the charming downtown streets, and drive through the rest of Whidbey Island. 

#4: Long Beach

Median home price: $400,000 
Long Beach, WA homes for sale
Long Beach, WA apartments for rent

Home to beautiful beaches like Long Beach Beach, there are countless places to spend a day at enjoying the Pacific Ocean views. About 1,700 people live in Long Beach, where you can also check out the landmarks like the Basalt Monolith and Gray Whale Sculpture, explore the downtown streets, and visit some of the museums in town.

#5: Moclips

Median home price: $335,000 
Moclips, WA homes for sale
Moclips, WA apartments for rent

The charming beach town of Moclips only has about 50 permanent residents, making it a quiet spot to buy or rent in. In Moclips, you can stroll through the charming town, explore Morocks Beach, or simply take in the views while reading a book.

#6: Oak Harbor

Median home price: $466,000 
Oak Harbor, WA homes for sale
Oak Harbor, WA apartments for rent

The town of Oak Harbor has about 24,700 residents and is a great coastal spot to consider living in. There are lots of activities to do in this coastal city, such as having a beach day at Windjammer Park. You can also check out the restaurants and shops downtown and enjoy time outside at one of the many parks, among many other local favorites.

#7: Ocean Shores

Median home price: $466,500 
Ocean Shores, WA homes for sale
Ocean Shores, WA apartments for rent

With a population of close to 7,100, Ocean Shores is a charming coastal town to live in. There are plenty of beaches to explore – Ocean Shores Beach, North Jetty, and Pacific Beach. If you find yourself moving to Ocean Shores, make sure to hike the Damon Point Trail, grab a meal at a local restaurant, or play a round of golf.

#8: Port Angeles

Median home price: $387,000 
Port Angeles, WA homes for sale
Port Angeles, WA apartments for rent

A charming and historic city in Northwestern Washington is Port Angeles. The city has amazing beaches such as Harborview Park and Hollywood Beach, perfect for a picnic. Living in Port Angeles, be sure to hike the Peabody Creek Trail at the start of the Olympic National Park, check out the pier and all of the local shops and cafes, and take the ferry to Victoria, BC.

#9: Port Townsend

Median home price: $613,000 
Port Townsend, WA homes for sale
Port Townsend, WA apartments for rent

Just about 10,300 people live in Port Townsend where you’ll find beaches like Fort Worden State Park and North Beach County Park. Other attractions in Port Townsend include exploring the historic sites at Fort Worden Historical State Park, strolling through the downtown area to check out the charming Victorian style homes, or taking a boat charter on the water.

#10: Poulsbo

Median home price: $750,000 
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,125 
Poulsbo, WA homes for sale
Poulsbo, WA apartments for rent

This coastal town of Poulsbo has a population of 11,900 and there are lots of beaches to spend time outside at, like Liberty Bay Waterfront Park. Poulsbo is also known by its nickname, “Little Norway,” so you’ll find lots of Norwegian-style buildings throughout the area. There are also plenty of activities to explore during your free time, like spending some time at Liberty Bay Waterfront Park and checking out all the nearby cafes and shops, exploring Poulsbo’s Fish Park, and hiking the Dogfish Creek Trail.

#11: San Juan Islands

Median home price: $790,000 
San Juan Islands, WA homes for sale
San Juan Islands, WA apartments for rent

The San Juan Islands are an archipelago comprising 172 islands and reefs – and there are plenty of coastal towns you may want to call home. From Friday Harbor and Lopez Island to Orcas Island, there are countless places to check out whether you’re looking for a quiet village or a lively port city. There are also numerous beaches like Eagle Cove Beach, Fourth of July Beach, Jackson Beach, Reuben Tarte County Beach, and South Beach. The San Juan Islands have about 17,800 inhabitants and you’ll find many other activities to do like exploring San Juan Island National Historical Park, checking out downtown Friday Harbor, or hopping on the ferry to Canada or one of the other nearby islands.

#12: Sequim

Median home price: $471,000 
Sequim, WA homes for sale
Sequim, WA apartments for rent

There are lots of beaches in Sequim, great for a day outside, like Sequim Bay State Park. If you’re looking for a different activity, be sure to check out all the shops and cafes in downtown Sequim, visit the Purple Haze Lavender Farm, and enjoy a meal by the water. 

#13: Westport

Median home price: $599,000 
Westport, WA homes for sale
Westport, WA apartments for rent

If you decide that Westport is the right coastal town in Washington, there are plenty of beachfront spots to visit, like Westport Light State Park. In this town of 28,100 people, you can also check out the views from the Westport Viewing Tower, take a fishing charter, or visit the Westport Light State Park. 

Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the beach towns in Washington. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during June 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com June 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.

Source: redfin.com

Apache is functioning normally

When moving somewhere new, what’s most important isn’t how big your kitchen is or whether or not your new home has a fireplace. You might value what else you have access to and how quickly you can enjoy those perks. It’s common for renters to look at not only the rental property itself but also what the surrounding area offers: Can you find grocery stores, eateries, shops, bars and office buildings nearby?

People seek those conveniences, but it’s difficult to find all in the same area. That’s where live-work-play communities can come in and offer everything you could need and more—all in one place.

What are live-work-play communities?

Live-work-play communities include housing, stores, office spaces, gyms, dining, schools and other living conveniences for tenants and community members. They make it easy to get everything you need outside of your home, whether it be groceries, a workspace or entertainment, hence the name “live-work-play.” In addition to it being where you live, you can easily pivot to working or relaxing and having fun.

Are live-work-play communities different from mixed-use developments?

Live-work-play communities are the same idea as mixed-use developments—the only thing that’s really different is the term people choose! On top of the easy access to everything you’ll need, these communities typically offer more than one type of housing. They have smaller apartments and townhomes for those that want a little more room and some even have single-family homes for those that want a larger, more private home while being close to the action.

Four benefits of renting in a mixed-use development

Live-work-play communities have plenty of advantages for those living in them. Overall, you’ll find that convenience is the common thread, but let’s dive into some of the specifics.

No commute

When you live close enough to work that you can quickly walk, you’ll reap multiple benefits. Not only is it saving you time, but there’s also the additional advantage of not needing to increase car wear-and-tear or pay for gas or parking, saving you countless fees and maintenance costs over time. Driving less also means you’re reducing your carbon footprint. So, for those that are in the office at all for their job, even with a hybrid work schedule, not having a commute provides both convenience and savings.

Access to entertainment and shopping

When you’ve got restaurants, shopping and other businesses and services right outside your door, you rarely find the need to make your way across town. You may head out for date night or you may just want to pop into a boutique for a few minutes to check it out. Either way, you’re not going through the hassle of heading out to a mall or city center to find what you want.

Easy to make friends

When you’re out and about all the time in the same area, you can quickly make friends with those you see out and about. In the case of a mixed-use neighborhood, you’ll likely see your neighbors frequently while you perform your daily activities. This is especially nice if you’re moving to a new area from out of town and don’t know anyone yet: You’ll find a strong community full of future friends.

Housing needs met at every stage

For some, living in the same area for five or more years sounds appealing, but life circumstances and demands can change drastically over that time. You may not have a partner when moving to an area, but then find someone and want a bigger place to live. And years later, you may decide to have a family.

When it comes to a live-work-play community, you may not need to move more than a minute or two away. You could easily go from a one-bedroom apartment to a three-bedroom townhome in the same location! Mixed-use developments accommodate any age and stage of life.

Three drawbacks of renting in a live-work-play community

Along with the many pros, there are some cons to living in live-work-play developments and neighborhoods. For some, these are entirely negative, but we suggest you consider these cons.

Lack of privacy

When you’re in a close-knit community and within walking distance of almost everything, it means you’re likely going to run into people frequently. Whether you’re on a walk through the park, shopping for food at the grocery store or out at a restaurant, you may not get much privacy and other residents will likely know what’s going on with you all the time, whether you like it or not.

Higher cost

When you’re paying to live in a rental, you’re paying for more than the unit itself—you’re paying for its location and amenities. This means that you’re going to spend more for the convenience of living near co-working spaces and entertainment, so these areas will have a higher cost to live there.

Strict rules

Because a mixed-use development is trying to build and maintain a whole community, it usually means there are many rules to follow. This could be everything from restrictions on house and yard projects (sometimes this can affect your interior design) to who can visit.

It’s difficult to entertain large groups since these communities aren’t always in typical residential areas with lots of street parking, so if you’re one that enjoys having people over all the time, you may find it hard to live the life you want here.

Where are mixed-use communities located?

Mixed-use or live-work-play communities used to only exist in large cities, where there was a higher population and more demand for all-in-one developments. But in more recent years, these developments have started popping up outside of major metros. As remote work grows steadily, you’ll see them emerging in more areas, since those who work remotely often like having everything close to where they live and work.

Are live-work-play communities right for now?

Live-work-play developments have their advantages, so many developers are building them. They serve everyone from young professionals to young families to empty-nesters, because of the unmatched lifestyle perks they offer. Further, they show us what the future might look like for planned communities.

However, these communities aren’t right for everyone. It’s up to you to decide if you really want the convenience of having a residential space right by your office, along with all of the fun and play. Keep in mind that you’re giving up some privacy and control over your living area—which is completely comfortable for some people, but not for others.

Searching for live-work-play developments

If you’re looking for live-work-play developments, it’s easy to start your search online. Since mixed-use communities are booming, you can typically find them in almost any area, especially in cities of all sizes. Most rental websites can point you in the right direction, so take a look at the live-work-play areas near you today!

Morgen Henderson is a writer who grew up in Utah. She lived in the Dominican Republic for a year and a half, where she was involved in humanitarian service. Some of Morgen’s work has appeared in State of Digital, The Next Scoop and TechPatio. In her free time, she loves to travel, bake, master DIY projects and improve her Spanish skills.

Source: rent.com