Are you ready to purchase a new home in Riverview? Located in Hillsborough County, Riverview is a mid-sized city with a low crime and poverty rate and reasonable cost of living. With a competitive and highly sought-after real estate market, Riverview is a great place to settle down.
Due to its livability rating and prestigious reputation, the Riverview real estate market is in high demand. Riverview is a great option if you want to settle down in a location with something for everyone.
Before you buy a home, here’s your complete guide to Riverview real estate.
History
Founded in 1885 on the Alafia River’s North shore, Riverview was originally home to 1830s settlers who arrived on the Southside of the river.
Formerly known as Peru, an indigenous name for “straight part of the river,” this area was one of the oldest settlements in central Florida until it was absorbed by Riverview in the 1940s.
The first recorded Riverview settler was Benjamin Moody, a man who brought six motherless children from Tampa to settle on the Southside of the Alafia River in 1842.
A devout Methodist, Moody was an adventurer and Indian fighter known as the “Father of Southern Methodism.” In 1846, Moody built a small log church at the base of his yard. Along with L.G. Lesley’s Lesley Chapel, Riverview is home to two of the oldest churches in the United States.
In 1893, the area’s first school was built inside the Peru Baptist Church, which began the population of what’s now known as Riverview. A bridge was then constructed from sections of a bridge that once spanned the Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa.
In the early 1940s, the Riverview name came into existence when the post office sought to relieve mail confusion.
The history of Riverview’s commerce ranges from cattle and logging to citrus and “orange fever” and phosphate mining throughout the 1800s.
Today, Riverview is home to 100 tropical fish farms.
Popular Home Types/Styles
If you’re looking for the right home, you need to look beyond the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you require. Before contacting your realtor, decide on what style of home best suits you and your family.
Riverview, FL, consists of six neighborhoods with home prices ranging drastically based on your location. It features various styles of homes to fit a wide range of buyers' needs.
The most popular include:
Ranch-Style Homes
First built in California in the 1930s, ranch-style houses are prevalent throughout most of Florida. Characterized by their long, single-story structure, open floor plans, and low roofs, these homes make an excellent option for families of all sizes. The exterior is typically made from stucco, brick, wood, or stones. Sliding doors, large windows, and attached lanais are major selling points.
Ranch-style homes are a great option if you’re looking for inexpensive, affordable real estate with a modern look and natural light. They boast larger living spaces and simpler designs and are easier to clean and maintain.
Craftsmen Homes
Born in the 1800s, Craftsman homes are credited to the British industrial revolution and the Arts and Crafts Movement, which rejected mass production in favor of handcrafted works of art.
These homes have a lot of character and offer a comfortable and cozy feel that is true to the American style.
Craftsman-style homes are marked by inviting covered porches, triangular roofs, overhanging eaves, muted tones, dormer windows, and more.
Many have large fireplaces and built-in nooks, adding style and comfort to your living space. They emphasize both functionality and simplicity.
Estates
More prominent neighborhoods in Riverview are home to several large estates.
They appear to be in the middle of nowhere, yet close to everything, many located directly on the Alafia River.
These mansion-style homes combine private seclusion with peaceful serenity, giving homeowners the best of both worlds.
Tastefully constructed, Riverview estates feature beautifully landscaped yards with circular driveways and various ornamental palms.
Their large entries give a hint of luxury as you’re introduced to a fortress of thick walls and multiple rooms.
Most Riverview estates have multi-car garages, grand foyers, private dens or offices, and gorgeous kitchens. You’ll have everything you need and want if you can get your hands on one of these properties.
Average Home Prices
As of May 1st, 2022, the median listing home price was $406,500, a 33.5% increase year-over-year.
The median listing home price per square foot was $201, with the median sold price of $402,500.
The Riverview real estate market is hot, with a Redfin Compete Score of 90, and the average time houses are listed on the market is only six days!
So, if you have your sites on a piece of real estate you like, it’s best to act quickly.
Population Numbers
According to the US Census Bureau, Riverview’s 2020 estimated population is 107,396.
Popular Restaurants in Riverview
Riverview is home to a diverse food scene that highlights flavors from all parts of the world, from Thailand to Italy. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a newcomer, here are some of the best spots to satisfy your food cravings:
Fred’s Market Restaurant:
Established in 1998, Fred’s Market Restaurant is one of the most popular Riverview eats. It features delicious comfort food that’s made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. It’s a great lunch spot and offers an extensive buffet of thoughtfully prepared dishes.Stein and Vine
Stein and Vine isn’t located directly in Riverview, but it’s a quick 15-minute drive to Brandon, FL. The restaurant features exquisite Southern dishes in a casual yet refined atmosphere. There’s truly something for everyone here with impressive dishes that range from juicy burgers to tasty tacos.CALI
CALI is one of Riverview’s top-rated restaurants, serving New American cuisine with dishes like wraps and pizza. It also has a chic ambiance that is an excellent attraction for date night or dinner with friends.Little Habana Cafe
If you’re looking for authentic Cuban food, Little Habana Cafe is your spot. Start your day with their delicious brunch, grab an infamous sandwich for lunch, or enjoy the cozy atmosphere for family dinner.Italian Kitchen Grill and Cafe
Are you looking for some hearty Italian dishes? Locals and tourists love the innovative pasta dishes and fresh seafood plates at the Italian Kitchen Grill and Cafe. The restaurant offers excellent service and a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a classy meal in your favorite city.East Coast Pizza
One of the best places to eat in Riverview is East Coast Pizza. You’ll find a wide selection of Italian favorites, from their infamous pizza to calzones and grinders.China Fun
China Fun is the spot for a unique and flavorful taste of Chinese cuisine. Situated along Big Bend Road, the restaurant serves authentic dishes that will satisfy your Asian food cravings.Brandon Burgers
Causal comfort food is the theme of Brandon’s Burgers. You’ll get a tasty selection of dishes from burgers to chicken tenders and even creamy milkshakes. It’s a perfect spot for the whole family.Caffe Italia
If fine dining is your vibe, Caffe Italia is sure to impress. You’ll love their authentic Italian menu with dishes prepared by a seasoned chef straight from Italy. The restaurant has a sophisticated vibe that makes it an excellent place for work meetings, date nights, and milestone celebrations.Tuk Tuk Thai Fusion Restaurant
Tuk Tuk Thai Fusion brings the flavors of Thailand to Riverview with a menu filled with authentic Thai dishes. If you want to try something different, you’ll love the food and the modern-chic ambiance you get at this Thai-inspired Riverview favorite.
Weather/Climate
Riverview has a humid subtropical climate, with its two primary seasons being hot and wet seasons.
Riverview is a sunny place to live, with an average of 205 sunny days reported a year. The summer high is around 91 degrees in July, with a winter low in January at approximately 50 degrees.
Riverview, FL, does not see any snow, but they average 51 inches of rain per year.
Schools and Universities
According to Great Schools, Riverview has some of the top-rated public charter schools.
Riverview Elementary Schools fall above average Nationally.
Riverview Middle also falls in the above-average range, with Riverview High Schools falling in the average to the above-average range.
Universities in Riverview, FL, within close vicinity to the city, include:
- Hillsborough Community College
- Rasmussen University
- Southern University, Tampa
- Schiller International University
- University of South Florida
- The University of Tampa
Top Employers
Zippia ranks the following companies and organizations as the area’s top 5 workplaces for 2022:
The five largest employers include:
- AT&T
- Walmart
- Target
- Lowe’s
- Starbucks
Local Industries
Riverview was known for its commerce diversity in the 1800s, with local industries ranging from cattle and logging to phosphate mining.
Today, Riverview is even more diverse with the top local industries trade, including:
- Mixed Freight
- Electronics
- Pharmaceuticals
- Motorized Vehicles
- Miscellaneous Manufacturing Production
- Machinery
- Precision Instruments
- Textiles/Leather
Service industries employing the highest number of Riverview residents include:
- Healthcare and Social Assistance
- Retail Trade
- Finance and Insurance
- Educational Services
- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- Administrative and Support and Waste Management Services
- Accommodation and Food Services
- Construction
- Manufacturing
New Businesses Coming to the Area
Riverview continues to grow in local business opportunities. While the resurrection of new restaurants is the most common commercial growth in the area, other businesses are on the rise. Here’s a look at up and coming companies to watch for in the area:
- Flavas Jamaican Grill
- Dunkin Donuts Riverview
- Burger King
- Winn-Dixie
- Culver’s
- Brandon Healthplex
- iFLY
- Goodrich Theater
Things to Do
According to the Riverview Chamber of Commerce, the top things to do in the area include:
- Visit the manatee sanctuary at Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center.
- Explore the history of the circus with a trip to the International Independent Showman’s Museum. You’ll see the first Ferris wheels in the country and have a chance to view thousands of rare photographs of carnivals, circuses, carnival games, and other memorabilia.
- Stop by the Riverview Sandwich Shop to chat with the locals and grab some great home-style food.
- Enjoy traditional or specialty bowling at The Alley. It doubles as a comedy club once a month and is home to the Tin Pan Alley Arcade and a restaurant.
- Go bird watching at the mouth of the Alafia River at Bird Island Sanctuary.
- USA BMX Riverview offers lessons and meets for athletes of all ages and proficiency levels for the adventure seeker. If fast-track biking isn’t your thing, it’s always fun to watch!
- Check out the largest skate park in the Country, The Brandon Skate Park.
Theaters
Explore the local performing arts theater, Riverview Performing Arts Center.
Gyms
If you want to stay active, look up one of the popular health clubs in Riverview, including:
- BayCare Fitness Center
- Shapes Fitness for Women
- Riverview Fit Body Boot Camp
- Campo Family YMCA
- Hillsborough Country Parks and Recreation
Museums
While there are no museums located directly in Riverview, you can check out some well-known museums in neighboring Tampa. Some great choices for a rainy day visit include:
- Museum of Science and Industry
- Veterans Memorial Park and Museum
- Glazer Children’s Museum
- Henry B. Plant Museum
- Tampa Museum of Art
- Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
- Tampa Firefighters Museum
- Phoenix Glass Studio and Gott Glass Gallery
Shopping Centers
Riverview offers great shopping opportunities, from large retail corporations to unique specialty shops. Explore a list of some of the best shopping options here.
Sports Venues
If you are an avid sports fan, you’ll have to head to Tampa to see a professional game. Some of the most famous Tampa stadiums and arenas include:
- Amalie Arena- Home of the NHL Tampa Bay Lightning and AFL Tampa Bay Storm teams
- Steinbrenner Field- Host of the MLB New York Yankees spring games and Florida State League Tampa Yankees
- Raymond James Stadium- Home of the NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg- Home of the MLB Tampa Bay Rays
Trails (Hiking and Biking)
Are you looking to explore the great outdoors and hit some great trails in Riverview? Check out the Friends of Alafia website for some fun events along the Alafia River.
Local Events
Check out a wide variety of upcoming local events here.
Landmarks
In addition to its unique specialty shopping and a long list of local events, Riverview is also known for the following landmarks:
- St. Matthew’s Anglican Church
- Showmen's Museum
- Bell Creek Nature Preserve
- St. Stephen Catholic Church
Crime
According to Neighborhood Scout, Riverview, FL, is safer than 57% of United States cities.
Riverview has a crime rate of 10 crimes per 1,000 residents. You can find an interactive crime map here.
Exploring the Possibility of Buying A Home in Riverview, FL?
Now that you know the ins and outs of Riverview, it’s time to explore the local market.
As experts in Riverview real estate, we’re here to help you find a neighborhood that fits your needs.
Our brokerage specializes in residential and commercial sales in Riverview and surrounding areas. We’d love to help you explore the area and find your perfect property.
Contact me to discuss your options and discover the opportunities waiting for you in beautiful Riverview.