Finding a home with acreage close to Tampa sounds impossible — until you look at Valrico, FL. While most Tampa Bay suburbs have been carved into quarter-acre lots, pockets of Valrico (especially in ZIP code 33596) still offer 1-acre, 2-acre, and even 5+ acre properties with the privacy and space that buyers from rural areas and those seeking room to spread out are looking for. Here is what you need to know about buying land and homes with acreage in Valrico.
Where Are the Larger Lots in Valrico?
Valrico's acreage properties are concentrated in specific areas:
- Eastern Valrico (33596): The further east you go in Valrico, toward Plant City and the Hillsborough-Polk county line, the larger the lots get. This area has agricultural zoning that allows for larger parcels, hobby farms, and equestrian properties
- South Valrico: Areas near Lithia and the Alafia River corridor have pockets of larger lots with mature oaks and natural privacy
- Unplatted parcels: Some Valrico properties sit on original unplatted land that was never subdivided. These parcels offer the most space but may require additional due diligence on zoning, utilities, and development potential
Properties with acreage in Valrico are rare compared to the suburban subdivisions that make up most of the housing stock. When they hit the market, they tend to sell quickly — especially properties with existing homes that are move-in ready.
What Can You Do with Acreage in Valrico?
Hillsborough County zoning determines what you can do with your property. Depending on the zoning classification, acreage properties in Valrico may allow:
- Agriculture: Small-scale farming, vegetable gardens, fruit groves, and raising chickens or other small livestock
- Equestrian use: Horse properties are available in Valrico's more rural pockets, with enough land for pasture and barn structures
- Accessory structures: Workshops, detached garages, barns, and storage buildings (subject to county setback and size requirements)
- Privacy: A buffer of trees and space between you and your neighbors that is impossible to achieve in a typical subdivision
- Future development: Some larger parcels may be subdividable depending on zoning, which can add significant long-term investment value
Barrett Henry helps buyers navigate Hillsborough County zoning to ensure the property supports their intended use before they make an offer.
How Much Do Acreage Properties Cost in Valrico?
Pricing for acreage properties in Valrico depends heavily on whether the land is improved (has a home) or vacant:
- Homes on 1-2 acres: $450,000-$700,000+ depending on home size, condition, and location
- Homes on 3-5+ acres: $600,000-$1,000,000+ — these are increasingly rare and command premium prices
- Vacant land (1-5 acres): $100,000-$350,000+ depending on zoning, road access, utility availability, and proximity to developed areas
Compared to buying equivalent acreage in Pasco or Polk counties, Valrico commands a premium. But you gain proximity to Tampa (25-35 minutes), superior Hillsborough County schools, and a community infrastructure that more rural areas lack.
Looking for Space in Valrico?
Barrett Henry tracks acreage listings across Valrico and eastern Hillsborough County. These properties move fast — set up a custom search with Barrett to get notified the moment a property with land hits the MLS.
What Should Buyers Consider with Acreage Properties?
Buying a home with acreage in Valrico requires different due diligence than a typical subdivision purchase:
- Well and septic: Many acreage properties are on private well and septic systems rather than county water and sewer. Budget for a well inspection, septic inspection, and water quality test as part of your due diligence
- Flood zones: Larger parcels may span multiple flood zones. The home site might be in Zone X while a portion of the acreage falls in Zone AE. Barrett verifies the flood zone for both the structure and the overall parcel
- Road access: Some acreage properties are accessed via private or unpaved roads. Verify maintenance responsibility and easement rights before purchasing
- Insurance: Acreage properties, especially those with older homes or agricultural structures, may have different insurance requirements. Fencing, outbuildings, and livestock may need separate coverage
- Property taxes: Larger parcels may qualify for agricultural exemption (greenbelt) if the land is used for bona fide agricultural purposes, which can significantly reduce property taxes. See the Valrico property tax guide for details
Can I Build on Vacant Land in Valrico?
Yes, but the process is more involved than buying an existing home. Building on vacant land in Valrico requires:
- Verifying zoning and obtaining building permits from Hillsborough County
- Arranging for site preparation, including clearing, grading, and potentially filling
- Connecting utilities or installing well and septic systems
- Securing a construction loan (different from a traditional mortgage) or paying cash
- Hiring a licensed general contractor and navigating the county inspection process
Barrett can connect you with builders experienced in custom construction on acreage in the Valrico area. If you are considering building, use the mortgage calculator to estimate monthly payments at various price points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there homes with acreage for sale in Valrico FL?
Yes, though they are limited and sell quickly. Acreage properties in Valrico are concentrated in eastern Valrico (ZIP code 33596) and southern Valrico near Lithia. Properties range from 1-acre lots with homes to 5+ acre parcels with agricultural zoning. Contact Barrett Henry to set up a custom search for acreage listings.
How much does an acre of land cost in Valrico FL?
Vacant land in Valrico ranges from approximately $100,000 to $350,000+ per acre depending on zoning, road access, utility availability, and location. Improved properties (with existing homes) on 1-2 acres typically range from $450,000 to $700,000+.
Can I have horses in Valrico FL?
Yes, in areas with appropriate zoning. Parts of eastern Valrico (33596) have agricultural or rural residential zoning that permits horses and other livestock. You will need sufficient acreage for pasture and setbacks from neighboring properties. Barrett can identify horse-friendly properties in the Valrico area.
Do acreage properties in Valrico have city water and sewer?
Many do not. Acreage properties in Valrico, especially those in more rural eastern areas, often rely on private wells and septic systems. This is normal for larger parcels and works well when properly maintained. Barrett includes well and septic inspections as part of the due diligence process for every acreage purchase.
