Quick Answer
Where is Bloomingdale FL and what is it like?
Bloomingdale is a well-established community in Brandon FL along Bloomingdale Avenue, known for mature trees, no CDD fees, homes from $300K-$500K, and walkable access to restaurants and shopping. It’s one of Brandon’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Browse the Brandon neighborhoods map, explore Brandon, and search Brandon homes for sale.
Bloomingdale in Brandon FL is one of the most established master-planned communities in eastern Hillsborough County – a sprawling residential area anchored along Bloomingdale Avenue between Brandon and the Valrico/Riverview corridor. Developed primarily in the 1980s and 1990s, Bloomingdale FL homes are known for mature oak canopies, generous lot sizes, well-regarded public schools, and a level of neighborhood infrastructure that newer communities are still trying to replicate. The area encompasses multiple subdivisions – Bloomingdale Oaks, Bloomingdale Hills, Heather Lakes, Bell Shoals, and several others – all sharing the Bloomingdale identity and the 33596 ZIP code. I’ve sold homes throughout this community for years, and buyers consistently tell me the same thing: Bloomingdale offers a combination of location, value, and livability that’s hard to match in the Tampa Bay suburbs. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Whether you’re relocating to the Tampa Bay area, comparing Brandon vs. Riverview vs. Valrico, or narrowing your search to a specific established neighborhood, this guide breaks down the full picture of living in Bloomingdale – home prices, subdivisions, schools, commute times, amenities, and the honest pros and cons from an agent who works this market every day.
Where Exactly Is Bloomingdale FL?
Bloomingdale is an unincorporated community in Hillsborough County, situated along the Bloomingdale Avenue corridor between Brandon proper to the northwest and the Riverview/Valrico areas to the south and east. It’s not a city – it falls under Hillsborough County jurisdiction and is served by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. The community’s primary ZIP code is 33596, and the name “Bloomingdale” comes directly from Bloomingdale Avenue, the main east-west thoroughfare that runs through the heart of the area.
Here’s how Bloomingdale relates to its surroundings:
- North/Northwest: Brandon proper – the commercial core with Westfield Brandon mall, restaurants, and the SR-60 corridor
- South: Riverview – the rapidly growing suburb along U.S. 301 and the Boyette Road corridor
- East: Valrico – the more semi-rural residential area with larger lots and the Newsome High School zone
- West/Southwest: The I-75 corridor and connections to the Selmon Expressway toward downtown Tampa
Geographically, Bloomingdale sits in a prime position. You’re close enough to Brandon’s commercial infrastructure that errands are quick and convenient, but the residential streets feel distinctly separated from the strip malls and traffic of Brandon Boulevard. Bell Shoals Road runs north-south through the eastern portion of Bloomingdale, connecting the community to both Riverview and the Valrico/Lithia corridor. And I-75 is only minutes west, giving you efficient access to downtown Tampa, the Westshore business district, and Tampa International Airport.
What Defines Bloomingdale as a Community?
Bloomingdale isn’t a single subdivision with one entrance gate and one HOA – it’s a collection of interconnected neighborhoods that were developed during one of eastern Hillsborough County’s most significant growth periods. The majority of homes in Bloomingdale were built between the mid-1980s and the late 1990s, with some pockets extending into the early 2000s. This means the community has had decades to mature – and that maturity is one of its biggest assets.
What does that maturity look like in practice? Established tree canopies that provide genuine shade – not the saplings you get in a new construction neighborhood. Landscaping that’s had 30+ years to fill in. Infrastructure that’s been tested and maintained over decades – roads, drainage, sidewalks, community pools. Neighbors who’ve been there for years and actually know each other. Bloomingdale has a settled-in quality that newer developments in Riverview or the Boyette corridor simply haven’t had time to develop yet.
The trade-off, of course, is that these are not brand-new homes. Many properties in Bloomingdale still have original roofs (though most have been replaced at least once), original kitchens, and original floor plans from the era. Buyers who want move-in-ready modern finishes will either need to find an updated home or budget for renovations. I’ll get into the specifics of that in the pros and cons section.
Bloomingdale FL Real Estate Overview
The Bloomingdale area encompasses several distinct subdivisions, each with its own character, price range, and HOA. Here’s a breakdown of the major sections and what you can expect in each. For the most current pricing, call me at (813) 733-7907 – inventory and prices shift constantly.
Bloomingdale Oaks
One of the original Bloomingdale subdivisions, Bloomingdale Oaks features homes primarily built in the late 1980s. You’ll find 3- to 4-bedroom single-family homes in the 1,400 to 2,200 square foot range, mostly single-story concrete block construction with 2-car garages. Lots here are typically a quarter-acre to a third-acre. The mature landscaping is a genuine selling point – towering oaks line the streets and provide the kind of shade and curb appeal that new construction can’t offer. Prices in Bloomingdale Oaks generally run from the low $300s to the mid-$400s.
Bloomingdale Hills
Bloomingdale Hills tends to have slightly larger homes than Bloomingdale Oaks, with more two-story floor plans and square footage typically ranging from 1,800 to 2,800 square feet. Construction dates run from the late 1980s through the mid-1990s. You’ll find 4- to 5-bedroom homes here, many with community pool access and sidewalk-lined streets. The subdivision has a well-maintained look with consistent upkeep standards. Prices generally range from the mid-$300s to the low $500s depending on size, condition, and whether the home has been updated.
Heather Lakes
Heather Lakes is one of Bloomingdale’s more desirable subsections, featuring pond and lake views in several homesites. Homes here were built mostly in the early to mid-1990s and tend to be on the larger side – 2,000 to 3,000 square feet with 4 to 5 bedrooms. The water features add both aesthetics and value, and homes with direct lake views command a premium. Expect prices in the $375K to $525K range, with the best lake-view lots pushing higher.
Bell Shoals Area
The Bell Shoals corridor within Bloomingdale includes several pockets of homes along and near Bell Shoals Road. These homes benefit from proximity to the Bell Shoals commercial corridor – Publix, restaurants, medical offices, and retail are within a short drive or even walking distance in some cases. Homes here vary more in age and style, with construction dates spanning the late 1980s through the early 2000s. Prices range from the low $300s for smaller, original-condition homes to the low $500s for larger updated properties.
Nature’s Way and Other Sections
Bloomingdale also includes smaller pockets like Nature’s Way, Bloomingdale Trails, and sections along Natures Way Boulevard. These areas share the same general character – established homes from the 1980s-1990s era, mature landscaping, and access to community amenities. Prices in these sections generally fall in the $325K to $475K range. The variety across Bloomingdale’s many subsections means there’s usually something available at most price points within the broader community.
Price Ranges by Subdivision
| Subdivision | Typical Sq Ft | Year Built Range | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomingdale Oaks | 1,400 – 2,200 | 1985 – 1992 | $300K – $440K | Mature oaks, original Bloomingdale section |
| Bloomingdale Hills | 1,800 – 2,800 | 1988 – 1996 | $350K – $500K | Larger floor plans, community pool access |
| Heather Lakes | 2,000 – 3,000 | 1990 – 1997 | $375K – $525K | Lake/pond views, premium lots |
| Bell Shoals Area | 1,400 – 2,600 | 1987 – 2002 | $300K – $500K | Close to shopping, varied styles |
| Nature’s Way / Other | 1,400 – 2,400 | 1985 – 1998 | $325K – $475K | Established neighborhoods, mature lots |
Note: Prices based on Stellar MLS data and Hillsborough County Property Appraiser records. Individual home prices vary based on condition, updates, lot size, and specific location. For a broader look at area pricing, see my cost of living guide for the Brandon area.
HOA Structure in Bloomingdale FL
One of the most common questions I get about Bloomingdale is about the HOA situation – and it’s a fair question, because it’s not as straightforward as a single master-planned community with one governing body.
Bloomingdale is made up of multiple smaller HOAs, each managing its own subdivision or section within the broader community. This means HOA fees, rules, and enforcement can vary from one street to the next. Here’s what you need to know:
- HOA Fees: Most Bloomingdale HOAs charge between $50 and $150 per month, depending on the specific subdivision and the amenities included. Some of the smaller sections have annual assessments as low as $200-$400 per year instead of monthly dues.
- What’s Covered: Common area maintenance, community pool upkeep (where applicable), landscaping of entrances and medians, and deed restriction enforcement. Some HOAs also cover exterior maintenance items like perimeter fencing.
- CDD Fees: Most sections of Bloomingdale do not have CDD (Community Development District) fees. This is a significant financial advantage over newer communities in Riverview and Lithia where CDD fees of $100-$250/month are standard on top of HOA dues.
- Deed Restrictions: Standard Hillsborough County subdivision restrictions apply – no commercial vehicles in driveways, lawn maintenance requirements, no unapproved structures, exterior paint color approval, etc. Enforcement varies by HOA, but most Bloomingdale HOAs are moderately active in maintaining community standards without being overbearing.
When I work with buyers in Bloomingdale, I always pull the specific HOA documents for the subdivision they’re considering. The fees, rules, and financial health of each HOA can differ, and it’s important to know exactly what you’re signing up for before making an offer. If you’re a first-time buyer, understanding these costs upfront is especially critical for budgeting your total monthly housing expense.
Amenities in the Bloomingdale Area
Bloomingdale’s amenities reflect its status as a mature, well-established community. These aren’t the flashy resort-style amenity centers you find in newer master-planned developments – they’re practical, well-maintained facilities that residents actually use on a regular basis.
Bloomingdale Regional Library
The Bloomingdale Regional Library on Bell Shoals Road is a significant community resource. It’s one of the larger branches in the Hillsborough County Public Library system, offering meeting rooms, children’s programs, computer access, and a solid collection. The library serves as an informal community gathering point and hosts regular events throughout the year.
Parks and Green Space
Bloomingdale has several parks and recreational facilities that serve the community:
- Bloomingdale Park: A Hillsborough County park with athletic fields, playground equipment, a walking trail, picnic pavilions, and open green space
- Providence Road Park: Located nearby with additional playground facilities and open areas
- Bell Shoals Baptist Church Trail System: A well-maintained trail network along Bell Shoals Road that’s popular with walkers and joggers
- Neighborhood green spaces: Many of Bloomingdale’s individual subdivisions have their own pocket parks, retention ponds with walking paths, and common areas
Community Pools
Several Bloomingdale subdivisions have their own community swimming pools, maintained by the respective HOAs. These are typically neighborhood-scale pools – not the water parks you find at FishHawk or Alafia – but they’re clean, well-maintained, and convenient. Pool access is usually included in the HOA dues for the subdivisions that have them.
Alafia River State Park
While not technically within Bloomingdale, Alafia River State Park is only about a 15-minute drive south. It offers some of the best mountain biking trails in the Tampa Bay area, along with hiking, camping, and equestrian trails. Residents who enjoy outdoor recreation consider this a major plus of the Bloomingdale location.
Schools Serving the Bloomingdale Area
Schools are one of the primary reasons buyers target Bloomingdale. The area is served by several well-established Hillsborough County public schools with strong track records. For a deeper dive into all school options in the broader area, check out my guide to the best schools in Brandon FL.
High School
Bloomingdale High School is the primary high school serving the Bloomingdale community. Located on Bloomingdale Avenue, Bloomingdale High has been serving the area since 1987 and has established a strong reputation across academics, athletics, and extracurricular programs. The school offers Advanced Placement courses, career-focused academies, and competitive athletic programs. Bloomingdale High is one of the consistently well-regarded high schools in the Hillsborough County system.
Some homes on the eastern edges of Bloomingdale may fall within the Newsome High School attendance zone, which is another top-tier Hillsborough County high school. School zone boundaries are determined by exact home address in Hillsborough County, so I always verify the specific school assignment for any property my clients are considering.
Middle School
Burns Middle School is the primary middle school serving Bloomingdale. Burns has a strong academic program and feeds into Bloomingdale High School. The school offers accelerated academic programs and a range of extracurricular activities. It’s been serving the community since the late 1980s and has built a solid reputation with the area’s residents.
Elementary Schools
Several elementary schools serve the Bloomingdale area, with specific assignments depending on your home’s address:
- Alafia Elementary School: Located on Bell Shoals Road, serving the southern portions of Bloomingdale
- Bloomingdale Elementary (Bell Shoals Elementary): Serving central Bloomingdale neighborhoods
- Stowers Elementary: Serving portions of the Bloomingdale area near the Brandon border
All of these are established schools with years of history in the community. One advantage of Bloomingdale’s maturity is that these schools have had time to develop strong programs, experienced staff, and community support systems that benefit students.
Important note: Hillsborough County determines school zones by exact home address, and zone boundaries can change. I always confirm the current school assignment for every property my clients are considering – this is especially critical in areas like Bloomingdale where boundaries for multiple schools intersect.
Commute and Transportation from Bloomingdale
Bloomingdale’s location gives you solid access to the major transportation corridors that connect eastern Hillsborough County to the rest of the Tampa Bay metro. Here’s the commute breakdown:
Key Roads
- Bloomingdale Avenue: The main east-west corridor running through the community, connecting to Brandon’s commercial areas and providing access to I-75
- Bell Shoals Road: The primary north-south corridor through eastern Bloomingdale, connecting to both Riverview (south) and Valrico/SR-60 (north)
- I-75: Accessible within 5-10 minutes from most Bloomingdale homes, providing direct routes north to I-4 and south toward Sarasota/Fort Myers
- Selmon Expressway (SR 618): The toll expressway that runs into downtown Tampa – your fastest route for downtown and Westshore commuters
- Crosstown Connector: Links I-75 to the Selmon Expressway, making the Tampa commute more efficient
Commute Times
| Destination | Distance | Off-Peak Drive Time | Rush Hour Drive Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Tampa | 18-22 miles | 25-35 minutes | 40-55 minutes |
| Westshore Business District | 16-20 miles | 22-30 minutes | 35-50 minutes |
| Tampa International Airport | 22-26 miles | 30-40 minutes | 45-60 minutes |
| MacDill Air Force Base | 20-24 miles | 30-40 minutes | 45-60 minutes |
| Brandon Town Center / Westfield | 5-8 miles | 10-15 minutes | 15-20 minutes |
| St. Petersburg | 35-40 miles | 40-50 minutes | 55-75 minutes |
The Selmon Expressway is the game-changer for Bloomingdale commuters headed into Tampa. Yes, it’s a toll road – you’ll want a Su Pass or Uni transponder – but it consistently saves 10-15 minutes compared to surface streets during peak hours. If you work downtown or in the Westshore/Harbour Island area, the Selmon is your best friend.
One honest note about traffic: Bloomingdale Avenue itself can get congested during school drop-off and pick-up times, and the intersection of Bloomingdale and Bell Shoals can back up during rush hour. It’s not gridlock, but it’s something to be aware of if your daily commute takes you through that intersection.
Shopping, Dining, and Everyday Conveniences
One of Bloomingdale’s practical advantages is that you don’t have to drive far for daily errands. The area has its own commercial infrastructure that’s developed alongside the residential community.
Bloomingdale Square and Nearby Retail
Bloomingdale Square on Bloomingdale Avenue is a primary shopping center for the community, with a mix of retail, restaurants, and services. Along the Bloomingdale Avenue and Bell Shoals Road corridors, you’ll find:
- Grocery: Publix, Wi -Dixie, and Walmart Neighborhood Market within the Bloomingdale area; a full-size Walmart Supercenter nearby in Brandon
- Dining: A mix of local restaurants and chain options along both Bloomingdale Avenue and Bell Shoals Road – everything from casual pizza and Mexican spots to sit-down restaurants
- Medical: Multiple urgent care facilities, dental offices, and medical practices along the Bell Shoals corridor; AdventHealth and HCA Florida hospitals are within a 10-15 minute drive
- Banking and Services: Major banks, UPS Store, dry cleaners, hair salons, and the full range of suburban services you’d expect
- Fitness: Several gyms and fitness studios in the area, including national chains and local options
Proximity to Brandon’s Major Retail
For bigger shopping trips, Bloomingdale is only 10-15 minutes from the heart of Brandon’s retail corridor. Westfield Brandon (the mall), Target, Costco, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and the full range of big-box retail along SR-60 are all an easy drive north. You get the convenience of being close to everything without living in the middle of the commercial strip.
Honest Pros and Cons of Living in Bloomingdale FL
I give my clients straight answers, so here’s my honest assessment of what works and what doesn’t about living in Bloomingdale. Every neighborhood has trade-offs, and understanding them upfront makes for better decisions.
Pros of Bloomingdale FL
- Mature tree canopy and landscaping: This is the single biggest aesthetic advantage Bloomingdale has over newer communities. The 30-40 year old oaks, palms, and landscaping create a lush, shaded environment that new construction neighborhoods won’t have for decades. Yards feel established, streets feel tree-lined, and the overall character of the neighborhood benefits immensely from this maturity.
- Generous lot sizes: Most Bloomingdale homes sit on quarter-acre to third-acre lots – significantly larger than what you’ll find in newer Riverview or Brandon developments where lots are often 5,000-6,000 square feet. More yard means more space for outdoor living, pools, and privacy from neighbors.
- No CDD fees: This is a major financial advantage. Newer communities in Riverview, Lithia, and the Boyette corridor typically charge $100-$250/month in CDD fees on top of HOA dues. Over a 30-year mortgage, that’s $36,000 to $90,000 in fees that Bloomingdale homeowners don’t pay. That savings adds up fast.
- Strong, established school zones: Bloomingdale High School, Burns Middle School, and the area’s elementary schools have decades of history and established reputations. You’re not gambling on a brand-new school that hasn’t established its programs yet.
- Location: The Bloomingdale corridor sits in a sweet spot between Brandon’s commercial conveniences, I-75 highway access, and the quieter residential areas of Valrico and Riverview. You’re centrally located without being in the middle of the commercial strip.
- Lower price per square foot: Compared to newer construction in FishHawk, the Boyette corridor, or Watergrass, Bloomingdale generally offers more home for your dollar. You’re paying for established infrastructure and real square footage – not amenity centers and brand-new finishes you could replicate for less.
- Established community infrastructure: Roads, drainage, sidewalks, community pools, the regional library, parks – all of this has been built, tested, and maintained over decades. There are no construction zones, no roads being built, and no “coming soon” amenities that might take years to materialize.
- Concrete block construction: Nearly all Bloomingdale homes are concrete block construction, which is the standard that Florida buyers prefer. Some newer communities in other areas use frame construction, which doesn’t perform as well in Florida’s climate.
Cons of Bloomingdale FL
- Older homes that may need updates: This is the most common concern, and it’s legitimate. Many Bloomingdale homes still have original kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and fixtures from the 1980s and 1990s. If you want a modern, move-in-ready home with quartz countertops and luxury vinyl plank flooring, you’ll either need to find one that’s already been renovated or plan to invest in updates yourself.
- Aging infrastructure in some homes: Depending on the specific property, you may be looking at homes with original plumbing, original electrical panels, single-pane windows, or older HVAC systems. These are items that work fine until they don’t – and replacement costs can be significant. Home inspections are especially critical in this age range of homes.
- Roof age and insurance implications: Florida insurance companies have become increasingly strict about roof age. Many Bloomingdale homes have roofs that are approaching or past the 15-20 year threshold where insurers start requiring replacement or refusing coverage. A roof replacement on a typical Bloomingdale home can run $12,000 to $25,000, and this should be factored into your purchase decision. Check out my Florida homestead exemption guide for ways to offset some of these ownership costs.
- Traffic on Bloomingdale Avenue: Bloomingdale Avenue is a busy road, especially during school hours and evening rush hour. If your home is near the main corridor, you’ll deal with traffic noise and congestion that residents in quieter, deeper subdivisions don’t experience.
- No resort-style amenities: If you’re comparing Bloomingdale to FishHawk Ranch or newer master-planned communities, you won’t find a 10,000 square foot clubhouse, water slides, fitness centers, or 40 miles of trails. Bloomingdale’s amenities are functional and community-scale – pools, parks, the library – not the amenity package that attracts buyers to premium-priced new communities.
- Multiple HOAs with inconsistent management: Because Bloomingdale is governed by numerous smaller HOAs rather than one master association, the quality of management, enforcement, and community maintenance can vary from one section to the next. Some HOAs are well-run and responsive; others are less organized. You need to research the specific HOA for any subdivision you’re considering.
- Older floor plans: Home design has evolved significantly since the 1980s-1990s. Many Bloomingdale floor plans feature closed-off kitchens, formal living and dining rooms that many buyers no longer want, smaller owner’s suites, and layouts that don’t reflect today’s open-concept preferences. Renovating floor plans is possible but adds cost.
- Limited walkability: While Bloomingdale has sidewalks in most subdivisions, the overall area is car-dependent. You can walk to the neighborhood pool or a nearby park, but grocery shopping, dining, and most errands require driving. This is typical of Tampa Bay suburbs but worth noting if walkability is important to you.
How Does Bloomingdale Compare to Nearby Communities?
Buyers in this part of Hillsborough County almost always compare several areas before making a decision. Here’s how Bloomingdale stacks up against the most commonly compared communities. For more detail on some of these, check out my guides on Diamond Hill in Valrico and moving to Riverview.
| Factor | Bloomingdale | FishHawk Ranch | Diamond Hill (Valrico) | Riverview | Brandon Proper |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $300K – $525K | $400K – $750K+ | $310K – $550K | $280K – $500K | $250K – $425K |
| Year Built | 1985 – 2000 | 2001 – Present | Late 1980s – Early 2000s | 2005 – Present | 1970s – 2000s |
| Typical Lot Size | 0.20 – 0.35 acre | 0.15 – 0.50 acre | 0.20 – 0.50 acre | 0.10 – 0.20 acre | 0.12 – 0.25 acre |
| HOA Fees | $50 – $150/month | $150 – $250/month | $100 – $300/year | $50 – $150/month | $0 – $75/month |
| CDD Fees | Generally none | $100 – $250/month | None | $100 – $200/month | Generally none |
| Total Monthly Fees | $50 – $150/month | $250 – $500/month | ~$10 – $25/month | $150 – $350/month | $0 – $75/month |
| School Quality | A/B (Bloomingdale HS zone) | A (Newsome HS zone) | A/B (Newsome/Bloomingdale) | B/A (varies by zone) | B/A (varies by zone) |
| Amenities | Community pools, parks, library | Resort-style (pools, trails, fitness) | Minimal | Varies by subdivision | Varies; county parks |
| Tree Canopy / Character | Mature, established | Maturing (20+ years) | Mature, established | Young / still developing | Mixed; some mature areas |
| Home Condition | May need updates | Newer to modern | May need updates | Newer construction | Varies widely |
The bottom line: Bloomingdale offers the best combination of established character, reasonable monthly costs, and proven school zones in the area. If you want resort amenities and new construction, FishHawk delivers but at a higher total cost. If you want the absolute lowest entry price, Riverview and Brandon proper have more budget-friendly options. If you want the lowest total monthly carrying costs, Diamond Hill in Valrico is hard to beat. Bloomingdale sits in the middle as the balanced, established choice.
Is Bloomingdale FL a Safe Place to Live?
Safety is always a top concern for buyers, and Bloomingdale performs well on this front. The community falls under the jurisdiction of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the 33596 ZIP code – which covers most of Bloomingdale – consistently reports crime statistics that are below the county average. Bloomingdale’s residential streets have low through-traffic, and the established nature of the community means neighbors tend to know each other and watch out for their streets.
That said, no area is crime-free, and I always recommend checking the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office crime mapping tool for the most current data on any specific address you’re considering. For a broader look at safety in the area, read my guide on whether Brandon FL is safe.
Flood Zones and Insurance in Bloomingdale
Flood zone status matters in Florida, and it’s something I verify for every property my clients consider. Most of Bloomingdale sits on relatively well-drained land and is not within a FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Area. However, properties near retention ponds, low-lying areas, or drainage channels may carry different flood zone classifications.
The bigger insurance consideration in Bloomingdale is roof age. Florida’s insurance market has tightened significantly, and carriers are increasingly requiring roof inspections or outright refusing to write policies on homes with roofs older than 15-20 years. Many Bloomingdale homes fall right in that range, so factoring in the potential cost of a roof replacement is important when evaluating a purchase. I always advise my clients to get a four-point inspection early in the process so there are no insurance surprises at closing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bloomingdale Brandon FL
Is Bloomingdale FL a good place to live?
Yes. Bloomingdale is one of the most established residential communities in the Brandon/Valrico area of Hillsborough County. It offers mature tree canopies, generous lot sizes, well-regarded public schools (including Bloomingdale High School), multiple community pools and parks, and a central location between Brandon’s commercial conveniences and I-75 highway access. The absence of CDD fees keeps total monthly costs lower than most newer communities. The main consideration is that homes were built in the 1980s-1990s and some may need updates, but for buyers who value established character and proven infrastructure, Bloomingdale consistently delivers.
What ZIP code is Bloomingdale FL?
Bloomingdale’s primary ZIP code is 33596. This ZIP code covers the core of the Bloomingdale community along the Bloomingdale Avenue corridor and the surrounding residential subdivisions. Some homes on the edges of Bloomingdale may carry adjacent ZIP codes (33594 for Valrico or 33578 for Brandon), but 33596 is the ZIP most closely associated with the Bloomingdale community.
What school zone is Bloomingdale FL in?
Most of Bloomingdale is zoned for Bloomingdale High School, Burns Middle School, and one of several area elementary schools including Alafia Elementary and Bell Shoals Elementary. Some homes on the eastern edges of the community may be zoned for Newsome High School. Hillsborough County determines school assignments by exact home address, so I always verify the specific school zone for any property my clients are considering. This is critical because boundaries can shift even within the same subdivision.
How much do homes cost in Bloomingdale FL?
Home prices in Bloomingdale generally range from the low $300s to the mid-$500s, with most sales falling in the $350,000-$475,000 range. The specific price depends on subdivision, square footage, lot size, condition, and whether the home has been updated. Smaller 3-bedroom homes in original condition can be found in the $300,000-$375,000 range, while larger, updated 4-5 bedroom homes in premium sections like Heather Lakes can reach $500,000-$525,000+. For the most current pricing, contact me at (813) 733-7907.
Does Bloomingdale FL have an HOA?
Bloomingdale has multiple HOAs – the community is not governed by a single master association. Each subdivision within Bloomingdale has its own HOA with its own fees, rules, and management. Monthly HOA fees typically range from $50 to $150, and some smaller sections charge annual assessments of $200-$400 instead. Most sections of Bloomingdale do not have CDD fees, which is a significant cost advantage over newer communities. I always pull the specific HOA documents for any subdivision a buyer is considering.
Is Bloomingdale FL in a flood zone?
Most of Bloomingdale is not within a FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Area. However, properties near retention ponds, low-lying areas, or drainage features may carry different designations. Flood zone status is determined on a property-by-property basis and should be verified before making any purchase. Even if a property is outside a designated flood zone, Florida’s weather can be unpredictable, and many homeowners opt for flood insurance regardless.
How far is Bloomingdale FL from downtown Tampa?
Bloomingdale is approximately 18-22 miles east of downtown Tampa. During off-peak hours, the drive takes roughly 25-35 minutes. During rush hour (7-9 AM and 4-6:30 PM), expect 40-55 minutes depending on your route and traffic conditions. The Selmon Expressway toll road is the fastest option and can save 10-15 minutes during peak times. Tampa International Airport is roughly 30-45 minutes from Bloomingdale depending on traffic.
What is the difference between Bloomingdale and FishHawk Ranch?
Bloomingdale and FishHawk Ranch represent two different eras of suburban development. Bloomingdale is an established community built in the 1980s-1990s with mature landscaping, no CDD fees, and home prices in the $300K-$525K range. FishHawk Ranch is a newer master-planned community (2001-present) with resort-style amenities, 40+ miles of trails, and homes priced from $400K to $750K+. The key trade-off is that FishHawk’s amenities come with combined HOA and CDD fees of $250-$500/month, while Bloomingdale’s total monthly HOA fees are typically $50-$150. Over a 30-year mortgage, that fee difference adds up to tens of thousands of dollars.
Ready to Explore Homes in Bloomingdale FL?
If Bloomingdale sounds like the right fit for your next move, I’d love to help you take the next step. Whether you’re ready to schedule showings, need to sell your current home first, or just want to ask questions about specific subdivisions within Bloomingdale, I’m here with the same honest, no-pressure approach you’ve been reading in this guide.
I’m Barrett Henry with RE/MAX Collective, and I’ve been helping buyers and sellers throughout Bloomingdale, Brandon, Valrico, and the greater Tampa Bay area. I know this market, I know these neighborhoods, and I’ll give you the straight answers you need to make a confident decision.
Here’s how to reach me:
- Direct: (813) 733-7907
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: nowtb.com
No pressure, no obligation – just honest answers about Bloomingdale real estate from someone who works this market every day. Let’s find the right home for you.
Related Guides You Might Find Helpful
- Brandon vs. Riverview vs. Valrico: Which Is Right for You?
- Diamond Hill Valrico FL: Complete Neighborhood Guide
- Moving to Riverview FL: What You Need to Know
- Best Schools in Brandon FL
- Florida Homestead Exemption Guide
- First-Time Home Buyer Guide for Brandon FL
- Is Brandon FL Safe?
- Cost of Living in Brandon FL
Sources: Hillsborough County Property Appraiser, Hillsborough County School District, Florida Department of Education school grades, GreatSchools.org, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office crime data, Stellar MLS data, U.S. Census Bureau, FEMA Flood Map Service Center, Bloomingdale community HOA records. Prices, school ratings, HOA details, and commute estimates are subject to change. Last updated March 2026.
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