Lithia

Welcome to Lithia

Peaceful and scenic suburb outside of Tampa 

Lithia is one of the most stunning and picturesque suburbs in all of Hillsborough County. From blue watering holes to open green spaces, you are bound to come across a beautiful view that will leave you breathless. This quiet and peaceful community has a rich history in agriculture. Its A+ schools draw in families of all sizes and the warm community is what keeps residents around. Lined with gorgeous classic homes and beautiful yards, Lithia is an excellent place to live under the Florida sunshine.

What to Love

History & Heritage

Lithia, FL, tucked within Hillsborough County, boasts a rich heritage that reflects both rural charm and evolving suburban sophistication. The area’s name is derived from Lithia Springs, a natural spring rich in lithium carbonate that was once believed to offer health benefits—sparking early interest in the region during the late 19th century. Settlement began with cattle ranchers and phosphate miners in the late 1800s, as Lithia became a waypoint in Florida’s agricultural and mining corridor.

One of the landmark developments in Lithia's modern transformation is the FishHawk Ranch community—planned in the early 2000s by Newland Communities, a leading developer known for blending nature with upscale suburban living. The design of FishHawk Ranch prioritized eco-conscious planning and family-centric amenities, earning it Florida’s first “green-certified” community designation.

Lithia's early development was shaped by agricultural pioneers and landowners who built estates and citrus groves across the landscape. While no single founder is credited, many of Lithia's roads still bear the names of these early families, quietly preserving their legacy.

Local Culture

Lithia exudes a wholesome, family-focused culture with a deep appreciation for nature, education, and community connection. The area strikes a unique balance between suburban convenience and rural tranquility, attracting families, professionals, and nature lovers alike.

Art and community events play an integral role in local life. The FishHawk Arts Council, formed by local volunteers, promotes visual and performing arts throughout the community—sponsoring events such as art walks, seasonal showcases, and student competitions. Similarly, Park Square in the heart of FishHawk Ranch frequently hosts family movie nights, live music, food truck festivals, and farmers markets, bringing neighbors together in a lively yet relaxed setting.

Lithia is also known for its active nonprofit scene. Organizations like Seeds of Hope, founded by a local mother-daughter duo, blend philanthropy with youth volunteerism—offering food distribution, community support, and student leadership programs. The area’s strong sense of service is further evident in school-led drives, church initiatives, and youth mentorship networks that are deeply woven into the local fabric.

At its core, Lithia’s culture is shaped by its people: down-to-earth, engaged, and forward-thinking, all while remaining grounded in the natural beauty and history that define the region.

Local Attractions

Lithia is a haven for those who cherish the outdoors, offering a blend of untouched natural beauty and thoughtfully designed recreational spaces. Chief among these is Lithia Springs Park, a beloved local gem known for its crystal-clear spring that feeds into the Alafia River. With picnic areas, nature trails, and opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and wildlife spotting, the park draws both residents and nature enthusiasts from across Hillsborough County.

Adjacent to Lithia is the expansive Alafia River State Park, a former phosphate mine turned into one of Florida’s top-rated destinations for mountain biking. The park features over 20 miles of rugged trails, horseback riding paths, and serene fishing lakes—making it a central attraction for adventure seekers.

For those who prefer a more polished outdoor experience, River Hills Country Club offers a scenic 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, and a refined clubhouse nestled among mature oaks and manicured greens. While technically located in nearby Valrico, it serves many Lithia residents looking for upscale recreation.

Also notable is FishHawk Sports Complex, which hosts youth soccer, baseball, and football leagues throughout the year—emphasizing Lithia’s strong community and family-first identity.

Dining & Entertainment

While Lithia maintains a suburban-rural charm, its dining scene surprises with quality and character. Within FishHawk Ranch, you'll find a curated mix of local eateries and elevated casual fare. Park Square Social, a trendy gastropub in the heart of FishHawk, is a favorite for craft cocktails, small plates, and weekly live music under the stars. Just steps away, Outpost Tap House + Tavern offers a more rustic vibe, known for its Florida-inspired comfort food, rotating beer taps, and welcoming atmosphere.

For upscale dining, locals often head to The Landing Bar & Grill, perched near FishHawk Blvd. It blends sophisticated seafood dishes with steakhouse favorites and lush outdoor seating, ideal for date nights or sunset dinners.

Although Lithia doesn’t have a traditional theater district, it’s within close proximity to Tampa’s premier entertainment hubs. However, for local charm, Art Monkey Emporium in FishHawk Park Square doubles as a ceramic painting studio and dessert café, creating a cozy venue for both artistic expression and sweet indulgence.

As Lithia grows, so does its cultural scene—anchored not by skyscrapers, but by community-centered experiences, artisan businesses, and a laid-back luxury that quietly defines its lifestyle.

Parks & Recreation

Lithia is deeply connected to nature, making it a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Its lush environment is laced with trails, springs, and preserved lands that encourage an active, al fresco lifestyle.

At the heart of it all is Alafia River State Park, a massive 6,000-acre park famed for its challenging mountain biking trails—rated among the best in Florida. But biking isn’t all it offers. Hikers can explore scenic loops through pine flatwoods and hardwood forests, while equestrians have access to dedicated horseback riding trails that meander past lakes and rolling hills. The park’s serene campsites and fishing ponds also attract weekenders seeking a rustic retreat.

Closer to home, Lithia Springs Park features beach-style swimming access to the spring itself—maintained at a refreshingly cool 72 degrees year-round. It’s perfect for families looking for a summer splash or a shaded riverside picnic beneath ancient oak canopies.

Within residential areas like FishHawk Ranch, miles of walking, jogging, and biking trails wind through protected wetlands and nature preserves. Residents enjoy access to multiple neighborhood parks, splash pads, tennis courts, and even a community skate park, reinforcing Lithia’s reputation as an outdoor-friendly, health-conscious community.

Commute and Accessibility

Lithia offers excellent accessibility for commuters and travelers, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a balance between a peaceful suburban lifestyle and proximity to urban centers. The area is well-connected by major roads and highways, including:

• FishHawk Boulevard: This main thoroughfare runs through Lithia, providing direct access to local neighborhoods and connecting to key routes like Boyette Road and Lithia-Pinecrest Road.
• I-75: Just a short drive from Lithia, Interstate 75 offers seamless north-south connectivity, enabling residents to reach Tampa, Sarasota, and other major cities in the region.
• US-301: This highway serves as an alternative route for accessing nearby areas like Riverview and Brandon.

For those working in Tampa’s downtown core or other commercial hubs, the commute typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Public transportation options are limited in Lithia, but carpooling and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are commonly utilized by residents.

Lithia also benefits from its proximity to Tampa International Airport, which is about 40 miles away and easily reachable via I-75 and the Selmon Expressway. This accessibility makes Lithia convenient for frequent travelers and professionals with business in other states or countries.

In addition, the area’s biking and walking trails within communities like FishHawk Ranch make local commuting eco-friendly and enjoyable, promoting an active lifestyle.

Real Estate in Lithia

Lithia’s real estate market offers a compelling blend of luxury, family-friendliness, and long-term value—making it one of Hillsborough County’s most sought-after suburban destinations. The area is best known for the master-planned FishHawk Ranch community, which features a wide range of properties from stylish townhomes and single-family homes to custom estate residences.

Buyers will find architecturally diverse homes set on tree-lined streets, often with access to top-tier amenities like resort-style pools, clubhouses, fitness centers, nature trails, and A-rated schools. Whether you're seeking a starter home or an executive-level estate, Lithia offers thoughtful options across various price points.

Real estate in Lithia is characterized by high demand and strong resale value, thanks to its school district, lifestyle offerings, and proximity to Tampa. Many homes are built by renowned developers such as Homes by WestBay, David Weekley Homes, and Taylor Morrison, ensuring quality construction and upscale finishes.

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Architectural Styles

The architectural landscape in Lithia reflects a blend of traditional elegance and modern functionality, designed to harmonize with its lush surroundings. In FishHawk Ranch and its adjacent neighborhoods, homes often showcase Craftsman, Florida Contemporary, and Mediterranean Revival styles—marked by gabled roofs, stucco facades, decorative stonework, and inviting front porches.

Builders like Arthur Rutenberg Homes and Homes by WestBay have brought in thoughtfully designed custom homes that elevate curb appeal while maintaining a strong indoor-outdoor connection. You'll find open floor plans with vaulted ceilings, shiplap paneling, and oversized lanais, reflecting both Southern charm and upscale finishes.

Newer phases of development lean into transitional architecture, blending clean lines, neutral palettes, and minimalist detailing—perfect for buyers seeking modern design in a suburban setting. Meanwhile, estate homes in gated enclaves often boast Tuscan or Coastal-inspired design elements, with private courtyards, outdoor kitchens, and dramatic entryways.

Architectural diversity is not only an aesthetic strength in Lithia—it’s also a selling point, giving buyers the ability to choose a style that matches their taste and lifestyle.

Most Coveted Streets & Estates

Within Lithia, certain pockets stand out for their exclusivity, custom homes, and larger lot sizes. Among the most prestigious areas:

• The Preserve at FishHawk Ranch: A gated enclave of luxury estates surrounded by conservation land. These homes often exceed 4,000 sq ft and are custom-built, offering privacy and proximity to nature trails.
• Dorman Road Corridor: A semi-rural strip with estate-style properties on multi-acre lots, ideal for those who want space, seclusion, or equestrian amenities.
• Bridgecrest Drive & Osprey Ridge: Known for quiet cul-de-sacs and larger executive homes, many with views of ponds or greenbelts, making them favorites among growing families and retirees alike.
• Starling at FishHawk: One of the newer micro-neighborhoods within the greater FishHawk community, offering both luxury townhomes and single-family homes with access to exclusive clubhouses and top-tier amenities.

These areas are often referred to by locals as “The Ranch Core” (FishHawk’s heart) or “The Preserve Loop”, referring to the premium conservation-lined homes at the edge of the community.

Schools

Families are drawn to Lithia not just for its lifestyle, but for its top-tier educational offerings—arguably some of the best in Hillsborough County. The area is served by the Hillsborough County Public Schools system, with a particular concentration of highly rated institutions within the FishHawk Ranch community.

Among the standouts is Newsome High School, consistently ranked among Florida’s top public high schools for academic performance, AP course offerings, and college readiness. Randall Middle School and FishHawk Creek Elementary also earn high marks for their dedicated faculty, enrichment programs, and strong parent involvement.

For families seeking private education, St. Stephen Catholic School and Foundation Christian Academy offer faith-based learning with a focus on academic excellence and character development. Additionally, nearby Bell Shoals Academy is a popular choice for K–8 education with a reputation for academic rigor and small class sizes.

Lithia’s schools consistently earn “A” ratings from the Florida Department of Education and are a key reason many families choose to relocate to the area. With robust extracurriculars, athletic programs, and community engagement, the educational environment here is designed to nurture well-rounded, high-achieving students.

Who is Lithia For?

Lithia is ideal for those seeking a peaceful, nature-connected lifestyle without sacrificing access to urban opportunities. It’s especially attractive to:

• Young families drawn to the area’s A-rated schools, abundant parks, and family-centric community culture.
• Military families, particularly those stationed at MacDill Air Force Base, who benefit from the suburban calm and supportive relocation networks.
• Outdoor enthusiasts and retirees who appreciate the natural beauty, trails, and springs, while still enjoying neighborhood amenities like golf, tennis, and clubs.
• Remote workers and professionals who want space, quiet, and modern homes—with access to downtown Tampa in under an hour.
• Luxury buyers and custom home seekers looking for gated estates, conservation views, and architectural sophistication without the bustle of bigger cities.

Lithia’s unique mix of environmental serenity and high-quality planning makes it a destination for those who don’t just want a house—but a lifestyle rooted in community, wellness, and lasting value.

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