Living in Orlando vs. Tampa

Tampa and Orlando have been two of the fastest growing cities in the country. With so many similarities, how does someone choose between the two? Today I took a drive down I4 to see a friend who's called Tampa home for over 20 years. We'll compare the two cities. The food, the real estate, the job market, and much more! Where would you like to call home?
Thinking about moving to Florida (Orlando, Tampa, or beyond)? We'd love to help. Email me at [e-mail]
#orlandoflorida #orlandoflorida #tampaflorida
Ken Pozek is a real estate agent in Florida. License number BK3313335

[@528alexg]

Grew up in Orlando, went to UCF and moved to Tampa after graduating. Lived here since 2018 which is right when it started to see lots of development (still undergoing as well). The amount of growth Tampa has seen is insane. Most people have realized and discovered that Tampa is an up and coming city and offers a ton without having to go far, it’s also 30 mins away from St. Pete which offers a lot and it’s closer to nicer beaches. Overall, my preference is Tampa and I’ve loved living here since I moved here. I’d also say most friends that come to visit from Orlando also love Tampa but have said it’s too expensive to move here now but would if they could.

[@brunoflmg]

The housing market in Orlando is a lot more expensive nowadays.

[@528alexg]

@@brunoflmg I agree. But look at any house in the South Tampa region or desirable neighborhoods near downtown area. Orlando and Tampa have similar markets though.

[@realtv101]

In my opinion Tampa is the best overall city to live in Florida... It has a mixture of everything unlike the other cities In Florida.

[@DanielReyes-zu8em]

Definitely.

[@amandad5208]

I wholeheartedly agree.

[@cojo5054]

St. Petersburg right next to it as well which imo is my favorite lol

[@Blaze6432]

Not to mention the beautiful west coast sunset

[@mikeyg4072]

🤮

[@dawnfoens8794]

My parents moved us to Tampa from Toronto when I was 5. I moved to Orlando 3 years ago and I'd say hands down Orlando is amazing. I don't regret the move.

[@chrisaltvater]

I live in Lakeland and work in Tampa. Lakeland is in between Tampa and Orlando. Every time I consider taking a job in Orlando, I listen to the morning traffic reports to change my mind.

[@bigkahunaburger5185]

I just love that the cities are so close. If we can get that I-4 traffic between the cities figured out and maybe even get that train going between the cities, it can be possible to live and work in either city and experience both consistently.

[@tylerkriesel8590]

Brightline is gonna have a train going 125mph through each city

[@amandad5208]

We could've had a train. Blame Rick Scott, he squashed it. He turned down federal funds all because it came from Obama.

[@tylerkriesel8590]

@@amandad5208 ya good thing brightline are building one now.

[@Blaze6432]

@@tylerkriesel8590 Between Tampa and Orlando, I don't believe will be 125, I think that figure is only suppose to be between Orlando to South Florida. But it will be at least 4 years before we see that project completed for Tampa :(

[@tylerkriesel8590]

@@Blaze6432 it will be 125 to Tampa. It’s gonna be dedicated, grade separated track. just like Orlando to coaco. They were even talking about it doing 150mph from Orlando to Tampa. The only reason it go’s slower, is when it has to cross roads at grade.

[@PatrickVerst]

Intriguing! I have lived in both Tampa and Orlando, and I personally disagree with many of these, but especially the weather and the food. I think Tampa generally has the better food scene, being that so much of the seafood is more fresh than what you find in Orlando. In recent years, Orlando has actually been far more affected by hurricanes than Tampa has in regards to power outages. In addition, the summers are slightly less hot and the winters are slightly less cool in Tampa...Tampa has a slightly more mild climate thanks to the Gulf. Great video, even if I do strongly disagree with some of your points 😊

[@fortyfour6626]

I agree with you. Lived both places. Tampa also has a more blue collar feel to me….which I personally like

[@jackochilli]

Agree, that I disagree with some of his points but very cool video overall!

[@TheStoicBlueprint]

Thank you I agree. And it gets wayy hotter inland

[@C1K450]

@@fortyfour6626Orlando is slowly starting to get that glitz and glamour crowd. Probably transplants from Miami, New York, and Los Angeles are moving here.

[@BlackSaiyan24]

Both Orlando and Tampa are amazing. And the fact they are so close makes the entire region an awesome place to be. In a few years they will legit be one super region, like the Bay Area in California.

[@elguapo90]

Lakeland is exploding in growth too and its in between Orlando and Tampa so it will complete the I4 urban corridor basically in a decade or two

[@kennynoel2863]

I like Orlando but I couldn't deal with the traffic. It is one of the world's most visited cities and the traffic got old quick. With Tampa, you're getting essentially 3 cities in one (Clearwater, St. Pete, Tampa) so there is always something to do. Tampa is close enough to Orlando that I could still visit it for its downtown, entertainment, and theme parks on the weekend without having to deal with the traffic everyday.

[@DanielReyes-zu8em]

Having lived in central Florida for a few years now, I can say that Tampa bay shits all over Orlando. First of all, you have 2 major cities in the Tampa Bay metro: Tampa and St. Petersburg. St. Petersburg alone has the greatest downtown of any major Florida city; the nightlife, restaurants, bars, clubs, the pier...and on and on... Orlando can't compare. Next you have 30 miles of world class beaches that line the Gulf of Mexico, from Pass-a-Grille to Clearwater Beach and everything in between. Then you have great suburbs and hot neighborhoods throughout like Dunedin, Safety Harbor, Old North East, South Tampa, Hyde Park, Soho, Ybor city...etc.. Tampa also has one of the largest construction projects in Florida history currently rising: Water Street. Downtown Tampa is transforming right before our eyes... Tampa Bay just provides you with that classic Florida experience of white sand beaches, a large bay, a growing population, a great nightlife...etc..etc... Orlando is a great town, but it's a letdown after spending so much time in Tampa Bay.

[@toddcampbell9128]

Downtown St. Pete is a foodie mecca.

[@DanielReyes-zu8em]

@@toddcampbell9128 - Definitely!

[@chrisinhotwater1582]

I have live in Tampa for 45+ years and go to Orland two to three times a month. Put simply Orland is for Tourist, Tampa is a Business city. I would pick Tampa to live in and Orland to visit.

[@kurdi98k]

I like the Orlando area. Lower insurance premiums, lower cost of life, disney, universal, diversity, less weather disasters, fast train on its way.

[@ATAY81]

Both are great. Really depends on what you are looking for and what stage in life you are in. I lived in Orlando for almost 20 years and now live approximately 25 minutes just outside of Tampa. I will say there is a lot more traffic in Orlando. If you like theme parks, Orlando is a better option. If you like the beaches, entertainment, and sports, then Tampa would be it. Tampa is my choice.

[@TheSportsandFilmFellowship]

I have been to Tampa numerous times it’s really nice. Burns steakhouse is really good! Worth the money. But living in Orlando now, the food scene is out of this world. Great video

[@kenpozek]

It’s sort of insane how much good food we have here! Covid definitely took a swing at the quality of service, but the variety is pretty great

[@528alexg]

I’ve lived in both cities. There’s more options in Orlando but can’t sleep on Tampa. Both cities have amazing food scenes.

[@genelle7200]

21 years is a long time living in Tampa but you should have asked someone who has grown up here and whose family is from here in order to get a more wider range of comparison of Tampa. There are tons of different areas and things to do outside of downtown.

[@l2xsniper1]

Everything south of Tampa toward Sarasota is growing a lot as well. Sarasota will likely be another big connector as a developing city with suburbs to connect to Tampa with i-75.

[@Tommaso77777]

"Seafood, it is for me"! Whatever I see I eat :) ! Thank's Ken, good comparison!

[@williebrown6075]

I’m so happy y’all like Orlando. Move to Orlando and stop moving here to Tampa because we are BEYOND full😭! Thanks - management

[@tonyverastudio]

Ken, excelente comparación documentada.👌🏻

[@DanielReyes-zu8em]

Tampa Bay...and it's not even close.

[@greggperez2124]

I was born and raised in Otown. I recently have been going to Tampa for small family vacation and we think its great! We love both but Otown is home for us. I think food is good in Tampa but Orlando has really improved in recent years which over take Tampa. But the Armature is a great spot!

[@dracoreptox4380]

Interesting upload. I’m currently in Ouahu, HI and can’t wait to move out to a more diverse place, with more job opportunities than what you see here. Tampa sounds like my personal winner.

[@jayohhbeats4886]

Yes please EVERYONE move to Orlando! Leave Tampa alone. Thank you!

[@MrOrlandobob2]

Great info

[@Fistfulofdollarsinthedicegame]

I have lived in both cities, love them both, but I must admit I enjoy Tampa a lot more

[@528alexg]

Same here. Fully agree

[@jayohhbeats4886]

Didn’t even mention the history and culture of Tampa. Orlando has none of that. Stay in Orlando everyone and thank Walter Disney for your city.

[@JosephHoolihan]

I used to hate it when people would say "There's nothing to do in Orlando!" and my response was always "you can do just about anything and everything that doesn't involve snow". Orlando is a great place for it all.... but Tampa area does have the sports and beaches.

[@obijuankenobi420]

Which one is less hot ?

[@kenpozek]

So much to do in Orlando! Honestly, hard to keep up

[@JosephHoolihan]

@@obijuankenobi420 Ive thought about this and remember it being super hot in Orlando because it seemed like you didnt get that ocean breeze like you do in Tampa. Temps may be the same/ similar but with the breeze I think it feels cooler in the Bay area. What you think @kenpozek ?

[@obijuankenobi420]

@@JosephHoolihan That makes sense. Looking into moving to Florida but I keep seeing horror stories about the heat/humidity.

[@DanielReyes-zu8em]

You hit the nail on the head. Both metros have tons to do...but the fact that Tampa Bay is really a twin cities metro (St. Petersburg), and it's by the Gulf and a bay, give it the edge up. St. Petersburgs downtown alone is the most integrated and lively downtown of any major Florida city. Nothing in Orlando compares. Tampa Bay just offers more.

[@kristianFL]

Just move to Orlampa. 😅

[@kenpozek]

Aka Lakeland lol

[@magiccheeseball]

Great video! Tampa is great everything you mentioned plus more but just my opinion Orlando is better I agree a person's age would make a difference more retirees and snowbirds on the gulf coast and Tampa area seems like more younger people go to East Coast beaches better surfing and being able to drive on some of the beaches

[@Alex-us2iu]

Any comments about public schools in general, orlando vs tampa ?

[@tobiashillsjr8420]

I from Tampa Bay born and raised all of my life

[@joelvogt2355]

Do a Miami vs Orlando! 😁

[@brianhenderson9470]

Lived in Tampa Bay for 20 years and 5 years Orlando. Retired now in Ocala. Both are winners.

[@taylorrowe2002]

I am from Tampa (Lithia) but I go to college at UCF. UCF is definitely the biggest sports team in Orlando, especially for Football and the success of UCF Football. There is also of course Professional Sports Teams like the Orlando Magic and the Orlando City FC. Also though Northeast Orlando--Alafaya, Oviedo, etc. feels like a different city and is almost like centered on UCF so UCF feels like it's in a college town and it definitely has a college town vibe at least in that part of East Orlando. Downtown Orlando might be different and it's especially different once you get around the theme parks like Disney which is actually 45 minutes from UCF. Orlando feels a lot more spread out than Tampa for sure. I personally haven't been to downtown Orlando because I usually just hang around campus though.

[@robertsestito6821]

This...all of it

[@kenpozek]

Did you see my UCF video? It’d make you proud

[@headmarble1]

In horizons west there is a new large retail building going up next to publix. Do you know what it is going to be?

[@michaelfreitag7563]

We moved to Lakeland as it is in between both cities and we can easily tap into each location. Dillon is helping us close on a home in the historic area east of Lake Morton. It is beautiful here and cheaper to live than the 'big city.' Some time ago, you noted in one of your videos that the I-4 expansion may grow the Lakeland market and economy within the next 5 years. Can you do an update on living here and what you think the future looks like?

[@robynaronna9381]

Tampa has dodged hurricane 🌀 effects more than orlando My sister lives in Orlando and would come down to bunker at our house in Tampa Additionally Tampa is very prepared for hurricanes. Weeks after Ian passed Orlando was still suffering

[@mr2d2]

I couldn’t decide between the two… So I moved to Lakeland… A short drive to either city 🤣

[@stillwaters4097]

It really comes down to what’s important to you. I prefer Orlando. You get the best of both worlds in Orlando.

[@juans3728]

By reviewing the population status of both Tampa seems to be the oldest of the two and a higher count in population and this s why Tampa has a lot more to offer while Orlando being the new kid in the block will grow and become the new hot spot for companies to move to and an increase of people to live and work in Orlando.

[@jljljjljlj7529]

Tampa does have The Oxford Exchange for a restaurant. Not saying its a better food scene in total, but that place is awesome. I would and do drive to Tampa for breakfast there.

[@ms.fortune2957]

My My has downtown Tampa grown since I lived there. I noticed you only showed downtown. Is that still the only business recreational area outside of South Dale Mabry where the stadiums are?

[@PatriotMike-sb9oj]

No the Westshore Financial District between Tampa International Airport and Dale Mabry Highway last time I looked actually has more commercial office space than downtown Tampa. They're about 5 miles spart.

[@Kyle-il9ye]

Born and bred from Tampa. When the hell did it become so expensive?? Insightful video.

[@supermanclarkkent6084]

When people started moving here

[@sonomabob9043]

Retirees driving up home prices.

[@billmoyer3254]

Neither, lived six decades in Central Florida/Orlando, and am happy to have escaped the gridlock traffic hellholes both have become. Sports/Fine Dining do not equate to quality of life. I understand if you are young and moved from elsewhere, but that is the essence of the deal killer for me. The hordes of folks moving in are destroying the once relaxed lifestyle that was possible for everyone.

[@brandongoldman]

Tampa has come so far over the years, even since I moved away in 2014. I always find it funny when people say if you want the beach, move to Tampa. Depending on where in Tampa you are, you're probably at least an hour away to the St. Pete Beach or Clearwater Beach area -- and I-275 traffic is worse than Disney traffic!

[@kcovert3]

Disagree too on a lot said. Should think TampaBay instead of just Tampa because you're living in a tri-city area surrounding the huge bay. Lots more industries here like medical and technical not mentioned. I think Orlando has gotten way more hurricanes than TampaBay in last 175 years.

[@jamesskeen3392]

I LIVED IN TAMPA AND WORKED IN ORLANDO FOR 10 YEARS! CENTRAL FLORIDA ROCKS! 👍❤️

[@jamesskeen3392]

I WORK IN THE ENTERTAINMENT FIELD! 👍

[@TheOhbenni]

It's feel like more older people drive on the US 19 than the city of Orlando

[@craigkellner8357]

Tampa!

[@johnsneade2995]

Only problem with both areas is the cost of housing has risen sharply in the last few years but wages have not. My company expected me to take a 25% pay cut to relocate

[@taurinrowe8310]

You forgot to talk about and compare traffic and commutes between the two cities. If I were moving there that is a very important info to know

[@heigh-hojourneys4946]

Ken, I keep hearing about all the Olympus delays…can you make a new video regarding Olympus here in Clermont

[@kenpozek]

That’s on my list for sure! Will do

[@timmyyee8982]

Hurricane risk is lower in Orlando than in Tampa since it is inland vs on the bay. Just look at Hillsborough evacuation zones. But having said that Orlando has had worse luck recently with getting hit with hurricanes in the last 30 years. When it comes to Downtown in Florida St.Pete is one of the best in the state.

[@amandad5208]

Tampa hasn't taken a direct hit from a hurricane in decades upon decades. Meanwhile, Charley, Irma, Ian, and Nicole rolled right over Orlando. And that's just off the top of my head in recent memory.

[@tooblessedtobestressed1538]

How about flipping a coin!!! Excellent video

[@laurentruong]

Moving to Tampa b/c of the tech industry there. Significantly better than Orlando on that front, and best city in Florida overall if you're looking at going into tech. (: Note: Born and raised in Orlando. Definitely prefer the bay over the O.

[@hobbytowntampa]

Tampa is wonderful

[@nickbryantfyi]

I grew up in Tampa and went to Uni in Orlando. I have also lived in St. Pete and Gainesville. I think St. Pete and Gainesville are superior - St. Pete if you are an art person, spiritual person, vegan or hippie. Gainesville if you are a hipster, hippie, spiritual person or a punk or a startup techie. Orlando if you are a techie who wants to work for big companies, if you like surfing, more liberal. Tampa if you are a preppy person, work in finance, like motorboats etc. Of all my places, my condo in DT Orlando was the most coveted on couch surfing. There are tons of international tourists stopping in Orlando and Miami exclusively, they almost never visit TPA... so if you're interested in hosting couch surfers, Orlando. Also, can't say enough good things about UCF's STEM programs. You do get funneled into Military contractors in the Orlando region, which kinda sucks. Orlando's people are infinitely nerdier than TPA people. I would preface any interest in moving to Florida with: ARE YOU POSITIVE you can handle Florida's humidity? Because summer is no freaking joke. I'm writing this as it's 80F in late Nov all week. During summer it's absolutely muggy as shit. There are not that many cool startups or tech companies in Florida, not actually legit ones. There are plenty of small shops but they're generally lower tier than you'd get in a town like Chicago, Seattle, Denver. I have tried so hard over the years to enjoy FL, but I can't get past how nasty the weather is and how there are no mountains. Bleh. Enjoy my home state, you can have it!

[@GusGus1996]

I call bull shit on the weather. Most of the hurricanes have hit Orlando and not tampa

[@edtravelbug]

I think if someone has to be within 15 minutes of a beach then of course Tampa is the choice over Orlando. I have had a chance to live in both and I prefer Orlando for a few specific reasons. I look for what I really want to do in my day to day when I venture outside the house = The gym, awesome quantity and variety of foodie/dinning experiences when I am not cooking at home and finally "other" experiences. Orlando is way out and ahead of Tampa in food/dinning experiences but the actual other experiences that I do the most strongly favors Orlando. Football, Baseball vs Soccer and all of that is nice but personally that is a once a year event for me to go to so if I do decide to go to a TB Buc game an hour drive from Orlando is fine. Now if I went to every Hockey game or Baseball game versus OC Lions Soccer that would be a major consideration but I do not. The beach ? = Nice and I like to go to the beaches on both coasts but that is maybe 6 times a year tops. So what draws me to Orlando = nothing beats yearly passes to Universal or Disney and the ability to go to places like Epcot during the Food and Wine and Concert events or the flower and garden events. This will easily take up 10-20 times of visits a year and these are mostly unplanned so being close to the parks allows quick and easy access to the things I like to do the most. If I want to go to a Hockey game I will have repurchased a good seat at least a month in advance and then simply plan an hour drive to go see it in Tampa. One last thing = I feel there are much better pocket neighborhoods scattered throughout the Orlando area than in Tampa. Winter Garden, Winter Park, etc = I just like that vibe better. Living in Oakland Park and being able to hop on my Golf Cart for a one mile drive to park in downtown Winter Garden is simply unreal. But again all of the above is just my personal preference.

[@BrogeKilrain]

Run your demographics and crime stats no matter where u want to go

[@kenpozek]

True. I’m not allowed to talk about crime as a realtor. It’s a licensing thing. But you always wanna know what you’re getting yourself into.

[@fattestedtravel]

@@kenpozek wait you can’t discuss a primary issue to your business????

[@shakurbarnes]

even though Tampa is nice , Orlando has my pick it offers more theme parks and entertainment, and for more I want to transfer to ucf so the networking opportunities I would have in Orlando I think would be better

[@chrisc1044]

I live in Orlando for 33 years and I've been in Tampa for 2 and I spent a small fortune to move out here I'm going to tell you the truth it is beautiful in Tampa but if you're single and your thirties and forties don't move here Orlando's market of singles is way better I haven't been to a bar yet that I haven't ran into a Tourist or a married woman at least hundred times I had a friend a long time ago that was from this side of town and used to check their left hand I never had that problem in Orlando

[@lzydreamignworld]

1. Job 2. Schools 3. Safety--- if you consider these 3 priorities, which city do you pick?

[@jamiegrasso4365]

I pick on the other side of the bridge St. Pete Pinellas county Clearwater

[@jackkk9211]

Orlando hands down, you have theme parks, away from the coastal area but not too far, so you won't get Hurricane surge.

[@mollyh8410]

Orlando got flooding with Ian

[@jackkk9211]

@@mollyh8410 yes but no wind damage

[@pures1n]

Jeez the results you gave are super bias LOL. Tampa has much much better weather being near the coast. Summers are not absolutely dreadful there. Orlando's airport is better than Tampa's because of how many 1 way connections you get. BUT tampa's airport is actually really good too. After living in both I'd still pick Tampa over Orlando 100% summer is just nasty in Orlando that I never want to experience that again.

[@ashleysullivan3411]

Tampa airport ranks above Orlando in all other catagories

[@FloridaCatholicGuy]

Tampa hasn’t had a direct hit from a hurricane in over 50 years.

[@tylerkriesel8590]

*101 years.

[@GODHATESADOPTION]

Palm Beach allllll the way 561!!! Been in Tampa and Orlanda have family in both spots but I prefer East coast living! Tampa beaches suck! I love sugar sand tho. Orlando is land locked. Juno beach is #1.

[@nioxianlerma9201]

Lakeland is in the middle here .Why not both?

[@JerryGs-Cards]

Here's a good summary statement...If you are looking for a more "white bread" area with more tourists than residents but love theme parks...Orlando is for you. If you love the water, a bit more eclectic vibe, and not nearly the amount of tourists, Tampa is for you. Also of note, if you want decent pizza and a good Cuban Sandwich...forget about Orlando. Tampa has surprisingly good pizza and is, arguably, the birthplace of the Cuban Sandwich.

[@magiccheeseball]

There's not many tourists in Orlando though outside of the tourist District except for maybe a few here and there at a mall or something many areas get pretty much no tourists

[@JerryGs-Cards]

@@magiccheeseball There are certain times of year the entire Ocalla/Orlando are seems to be a parking lot.

[@magiccheeseball]

@@JerryGs-Cards yes traffic is bad but I've never noticed it changing anytime during the year it's always bad of it could be heavier in theme park areas during holidays

[@brunoflmg]

I lived in Orlando from 2016 to 2020, Miami from 2020 to 2022, and Tampa since november 2022... here's my honest reviews: - Orlando is too crowded (traffic jams everywhere) and it's housing marketing is getting crazy expensive including rent. - Miami is too expensive. You'll probably live there renting forever. Too much party and scammers everywhere. They mostly speak spanish papá! Good place if you're in your 20s - 30s. - Tampa is the way to go. Not crazy like Miami, not too family alike as in Orlando, way less tourists. St Pete and Clearwater looks like a huge retirement community though. The winner is.... Tampa!

[@shannonbrophy3687]

The host was pro Orlando biased from the begging. Tampa is better than Orlando for weather due to the breeze from the water versus stagnant heat. Also, Tampa is better for traffic whereas, in Orlando, 12 miles takes 30-45 minutes.

[@nimaperception]

Ken, we really like Tampa; however, we are moving to Orlando because it is better for our life style. Thank you for sharing the great debate!

[@kenpozek]

Agreed! Tampa is awesome. Orlando just fit us better :)

[@star_platinum2821]

I got your mailer the other day

[@kenpozek]

Hiya

[@farmergeorge6885]

Realtors: Orlando ✅ Tampa ❌ 😉 Happy Thanksgiving!

[@antoinelee-thomas9536]

I think you're right. Depending on what you want more, if you want the beaches, the sports, etc... you go to Tampa. If you want theme parks, entertainment, etc... you go to Orlando. Although Orlando doesn't have any beaches specifically, if you still want to go to some good beaches not far from Orlando, there's Cocoa Beach and Melbourne Beach. Are they as nice as St. Pete Beach and/or Clearwater Beach? No. Are they good beaches nonetheless? Yes. Who complains about the beach? The beach is the beach. Now if anyone wants to go to even nicer beaches, you go to Sarasota Beach or Siesta Key Beach, but that's an entirely separate video in itself. If the choice between Orlando and Tampa is still tough, my suggestion is to move in the middle. Lakeland, FL. You got your drive for the beaches and sports halfway along the way down I-4 south and west and you got your theme parks and entertainment halfway along the way up I-4 north and east. You can't go wrong with being in the middle and having the best of both worlds.

[@fernandonava6745]

Totally agree with you...and the traffic in Orlando is a nigthmare

[@tooblessedtobestressed1538]

I want to ask you something is it worth it to buy a season pass to Disney

[@kenpozek]

I think so. We’re there all the time tho. Totally your call

[@Terp305]

Orlando

[@LuisRodriguez-tm1ld]

You should of mentioned airport. Orlando has access to practically the whole planet non stop , I like Tampa but good flight connection is important

[@kenpozek]

Wholly agree! And mco is getting better and better.

[@fortyfour6626]

I’ve lived in both. I now live outside Lakeland. Tampa was better for me personally. Orlando had too many entitled tourists. Being in between is perfect. Tamlando Orlampa …..whatever. Really can’t lose anywhere in central Florida

[@dcole1933]

Neither I prefer a much less crowded environment. Space coast or treasure coast all the way

[@TBagr]

The fact that you gave Dining to Orlando over Tampa shows that you don’t really know the substance of each category. Orlando dining is about feeding the tourists that go to the parks. Tampa has such deep roots in Spanish food culture as well as the local spots. “Good” food isn’t about a Michelin star. And your rationale of Orlando having better weather is simply unreasonable. The last named storm that came through, started on the east coast and went right into Orlando. Almost none of it affected Tampa. Your lack of knowledge is on display for everyone to see here and I hope nobody takes your advice seriously.

[@biggamer8655]

I was baffled when this man said Orlando over Tampa on the food scale, this man should try and take a stroll through Ybor or some of the historical areas.

[@kenpozek]

Orlando has 2x more Michelin restaurants. There’s 50% more 4 and 5 star restaurants according to every single travel site. I’m not including Clearwater or st Pete in Tampa. The same way I didn’t include winter park, winter garden, or the dozen other suburbs with great spots in Orlando. This wasn’t a bias category. It’s backed up with the fact Orlando is the tourism capital of the world. And as such, has significantly more fine dining opportunities over Tampa.

[@TBagr]

@@kenpozek 1. The overwhelming majority of residents don’t dine at or care about a Michelin star restaurant for the reason that the price is generally too high and the food isn’t something that people would eat regularly either. 2. Having a Michelin star doesn’t then translate to food that people enjoy. 3. Your whole scale was generally based on affordability and value but fine dining at that level is much much more expensive than great restaurants that don’t have a MS. 4. Ybor city, Seminole Heights, Carrollwood and other areas are in Tampa and have amazing food. 5. I guess you’re conceding the weather issue because clearly your reasoning was ridiculous.

[@kenpozek]

Nah I’d still take Orlando over Tampa for weather. Maybe you forgot Hurricane Irma sucked the water out of the bay and that Tampa gets pounded vs. the tropical storms we get here in Orlando. We’re insulated. Tampa isn’t. The literal 1-3 degree difference in the summer or winter doesn’t make much of a difference for most people. Orlando wins.

[@TBagr]

@@kenpozek So what that the storm sucked the water out of the bay? That had no negative effect on homes at all. Tampa pounded by tropical storms? The last 2 named storms that just came through recently, had a much greater impact on Orlando area than Tampa area. Tampa has not had a significant storm in many many years. I have no problem with people having a preference for whatever their reasons may be but your reasoning and logic is demonstrably incorrect on several points. You’re losing credit by the second with each futile “reason”.

[@BryantBaudelaire]

As far as weather, I think Tampa has better weather because Orlando is more hot and humid than Tampa because Orlando is built on a swamp. Tampa is safer than Orlando in my opinion.

[@ashleysullivan3411]

Dude, you are biased is my first thought. And, you are not knowlegable about the hurricane issue. We have the gulf stream winds which protect us. Also you mentined defense industry obviously you guys have nothing which matches MacDill Airforce Base or what we call CentCom (Central Command) for U.S. Forces around the world. And, keep in mind Tampa has the busiest maritime port in all of Florida and the East Cost. It also has Cruise ships as an industry wheras Orlando is land locked. The downtowns are not equal either. Tampa is in the mist of a 3-4 billion dollar revitalization of 55 acreas. You cant find that much contigenous land in Orlando. Plus the Wrox project will began development in several years another large parcel development. Tampa is an insurance, healthcare, cyber security and finance giant when it comes to industry in addition to logistics. Tampa is better known for digital currency, fintech and IT than Orlando. As far as entertainment goes outside of theme parks Orlando doesn't have much else when it comes to nightlife and adult entertainment.. And, check your statistics according to Zillow, the largestnet migration of population to Tampa is Orlando and Miami. And, it's laughable that you would compare our beaches with your lakes don't do that it's embarrassing for you.

[@LavaDesert]

If it was not for the Oceanfront Cafes and homes i'de take Orlando metro over Tampa. Plus it's easier to find nice cheap Condo steals in Orlando, talking under 200K.

[@philchristmas4071]

I've lived in both but I prefer Orlando. However we really need to do something about the height restrictions on highrises because of Orlando executive. Much bigger cities have airports downtown and build way taller skyscrapers.

[@mollyh8410]

No ... Ruin the beauty of the city ... Low buildings are better. You can choose to live elsewhere ... Just come into people home towns and want things the way you want it

[@philchristmas4071]

@@mollyh8410 I'm from here. Also how does a 500-700 ft skyline hurt the city. It would add more beauty with the architecture. Just design better looking buildings.

[@mollyh8410]

@@philchristmas4071 sad that all of the beauty and nature is disappearing. No one askef residents how they feel on these kinds of posts, just people like this guy wanting to change everything. I recall lots of now lost nature which is sad.

[@philchristmas4071]

@@mollyh8410 I 100% agree with you on that. Being a Floridian my whole life, I've watched a lot of Florida lose its beautiful nature. Luckily North Florida hasn't been changed as much. This is also why I support more dense building and higher highrises. I would rather see Florida grow up instead of out. Honestly I would rather see a 60 story highrise full of people instead of a couple of new subdivisions.

[@njv1234]

You didn’t cover transportation, which Orlando wins. SunRail, I-4 Ultimate, MCO expansion, and Brightline. Orlando wins there

[@star_platinum2821]

the problem with the river walk is there is no security or police walking on it , I picked orlando to be close to disney, I dont need tampas sports teams I have my NY teams that I still love

[@kenpozek]

Oh! That’s a great point. Most people stick with their team.

[@ashleysullivan3411]

then go back to NY

[@just_ice7464]

Number one PROBLEM with Tampa sports.

[@kenpozek]

@@just_ice7464 why is it a problem?

[@terrancecooley3165]

Tampa hands down....

[@kenpozek]

Why do you say that?

[@terrancecooley3165]

@@kenpozek I like tampa because it sit by the ocean like new york. Plus tampa florida look and feel like a real city. It have beautiful skyscrapers. I like tampa skyscrapers then Orlando skyscrapers. now when it come down to doing more activities I give that to Orlando.

[@DanielReyes-zu8em]

100%. After living here I've really seen the difference. Tampa Bay is far, far better.

[@isaiahcochran1446]

I will say as an LGBTQIA individual the community seems bigger in Orlando. Even gays who come over from Tampa have commented on that. Which is true Orlando is 4th right now for sex same sex couples in the country. Lots of similarities. Coming from Ohio, I like the beach but don’t need to live on it. I feel Orlando is going to keep growing and growing. Likely these two will end up like San Fran and San Jose

[@cliffordwilliams8286]

So what you are saying is the Polk County is the winner because it has access to both Orlando and Tampa.....

[@andrewbarry3062]

What numbers are you using to show that Orlando real estate is cheaper? I’ve seen the opposite..

[@kenpozek]

From the local realtor mls stats they put out

[@jessicafaith7852]

I live in Tampa and Riverwalk is sketchy after dark. Berns is overrated I prefer Charlies. Lithia is a 40 minute drive with traffic to downtown Tampa over an hour from the beach.

[@Zebrowsky79]

Fish hawk is nice and not sketchy after dark

[@ashleysullivan3411]

Tampa is not an hour to the beach unless you are going to Clearwater. St. Pete Beach is mostly highway

[@shebacastro4729]

I looked at Tampa and Orlando. Orlando way better and that's not even counting the Disney Bubble. And the beach isn't that far away

[@bijoujohnson]

Or just pick Lakeland!

[@kenpozek]

Eventually the two cities will connect through Lakeland!

[@jeffc1347]

As a long time Orlando person with family in Tampa here are my observations. -Orlando has a lot of Puerto Ricans and a strong gay culture because their main employers are entertainment and hospitality. Tampa has a lot of rednecks and old people. Clearwater is full of scientologists. -Crime in both Orlando and Tampa is really bad so you need to do your research on the neighborhood you are moving to. It surprises a lot of people to think that crime is bad in the family entertainment capital of the world, but once you leave the berms of Disney/Universal locals call it "warlando" for a reason. Most of the newer developments in both cities are basically cut-off suburbs so they don't have as big of a problem but if you are moving to Orlando proper it is a huge problem. -Tampa does have a good zoo, aquarium, and Busch Gardens, which is a very formidable lineup of attractions, but obviously it pales in comparison to Orlando's attractions. Orlando has a lot of family-oriented entertainment options but since they cater to the whole world they are prohibitively expensive. You can easily drive between Tampa and Orlando for day or weekend trips. Tampa definitely has Orlando beat in the casino, strip club, and beaches category, however. -UCF is better than USF in every way and i'm not just saying that because i'm a UCF alum .USF is a dump compared to UCF (visit both and see if you disagree with me) and UCF has way more programs of study. -Hurricanes are obviously a much bigger threat in Tampa than Orlando. There are some places in Orlando that got flooded really bad from Irma and Ian so you need to do your research. Also I found it funny that the first thing they talk about is sports of all things, as if that should have any direct impact on people's lives. Tampa has NFL, NHL, and MLB (for now) teams while Orlando has NBA and MLS teams. So you can easily be fans of ALL the teams between Tampa and Orlando and still only have your "1 team" for each sport...and you can easily drive between the two cities for games.

[@markglynn813]

Tampa also has a very rich history compared to Orlando. Orlando was built by Micky Mouse. Make a video on the history or the two metro areas.

[@chrismoody5977]

I prefer Lakeland over both I the get best of all worlds 🤣👌🏾💯

[@kenpozek]

Orlampa coming soon

[@billstieh3193]

One last thing Orange county IE Orlando absolutely sucks. But again I reiterate I'm from St Petersburg

[@JohnCash001]

I made the mistake of moving to Miami, I think Tampa is better..

[@kylehawley4436]

To say weather is a no brainier is pretty silly. Tampa has temperatures 10 degrees cooler during the summer and 10 degrees warmer in the winter due to being on the coast. Hurricanes are scary in Tampa if you haven’t lived through them or look at history. I’m not saying a Hurricane couldn’t hit Tampa, but since we’re only taking about Tampa and not St Pete, the threat of a direct hit is diminished by Pinellas and Manatee counties as well as history. For whatever reason, Tampa does not sustain direct hits from hurricanes. Entertainment wise, you’d have to REALLY love them parks to choose Orlando over Tampa. You are 30 minutes away from a sunset after work at the beach, boating in the gulf, kayaking on rivers or the intercostal, etc. etc. You are 80-95 minutes away from all of Orlando’s theme parks. Conversely, Orlando really isn’t known for its natural beauty, and unless you can take work off during the offseason, the greatness of Disney and Universal are greatly diminished by long lines and crowds. It’s great to go every once in awhile, but the vast majority of Floridians choose not to go to Orlando’s theme parks on a regular basis. Orlando is great to visit. I can’t think of why I’d sacrifice the beach, Bay, and vibe of the west coast for being closer to theme parks. Just my 2 cents. P.S. I’m quite sure the majority of Orlando’s restaurants are catered towards tourists. How many corporate restaurants and chains make up Orlando’s food scene? I’m actually curious Thanks for the video