When looking for a house in Tampa, it’s not hard to find one that abuts a manmade lake. With the water table as high as it is in Florida, creating lakes are a routine part of creating housing. But if you’re looking for a home that is near a “true” body of water—to dock your boat, go kayaking, or just enjoy water views—the Tampa area has many neighborhoods that feature rivers, lakes, and of course, the ocean. The best part is you don’t have to be rich to afford property in some of them. While many of these areas fall outside the city limits, they are still close enough to be good choices for more modest budgets.

South Tampa

Waterfront homes in Florida

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For those adamant about staying within the city limits, South Tampa is an excellent choice. Even homes located directly on the desirable Bayshore Boulevard can be purchased for less than $400,000, many with views of the bay and access to the extra-wide sidewalks on the boulevard. If you don’t mind being a short walk away from the ocean, prices drop dramatically. The best part is you won’t have to spend time and money commuting long distances if you work in Downtown Tampa.

Dana Shores

Waterfront home in Florida

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While it’s a bit pricier and smaller than South Tampa, Dana Shores also offers waterfront property within the city that is close to Downtown. While large homes directly on the water can cost as much as $1 million, smaller homes can be purchased for under $500,000. If you’re lucky and don’t mind buying an older and smaller home, you may be able to pick one up for under $200,000. And, if being close to the bay isn’t enough to tout the benefits of location, location, location, the neighborhood is also close to the tony Westshore District and Tampa International Airport.

St. Petersburg

Aerial view of waterfront home in St. Petersburg

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It’s no accident that when Tampa is discussed, it is often referred to as Tampa/St. Pete. Located just south of Tampa and accessible to the city by bridge, St. Petersburg is intrinsically linked to Tampa and also happens to be surrounded on most sides by water. Those looking for an affordable home located directly on the water or a short distance from it will have many options here. Homebuyers can even find waterfront properties for less than $250,000, which you simply can’t find in other parts of Florida. And the best part of owning a home on the water in the western part of the state are the brilliant sunsets you’ll enjoy.

Clearwater

Aerial view of waterfront Condos in Clearwater

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Similar to St. Petersburg, Clearwater offers homebuyers affordable waterfront housing options with easy access to Tampa. And, like its neighbor to the south, Clearwater has condos priced under $250,000 located right on the water. With its white sand and surf, Clearwater Beach is often cited as one of the best beaches in the state, and therefore attracts tourists and retirees. But if you don’t mind sharing space with those who come from a distance, Clearwater draws high marks for its nightlife and diversity.

Apollo Beach

Waterfront home in Florida

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Though you can easily spend well over $1 million for the largest and best located properties on Apollo Beach, you can also find homes that are priced well under that amount, many of which are also located right on the water. If you’re looking to build your own home, there are also several vacant waterfront sites priced under $300,000. Located south of Tampa, Apollo Beach is still accessible to the city and major shopping centers by I-75, but it offers the peace and serenity residents in more rural areas often find attractive.

Indian Rocks Beach

Waterfront home in Florida

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This three-mile stretch of coastal land, located south of Clearwater and west of Tampa, is home to only a few thousand people. Indian Rocks Beach features a range of condominiums and some single-family homes, most priced under $400,000 and many priced under $300,000. Even if your home isn’t situated directly on the water, the town has 27 beach access points along Gulf Boulevard. It is also home to several retail businesses and quaint restaurants. To be sure, if you chose this location, you’ll have to share space with tourists or those who don’t live here on a full-time basis. But don’t worry. The white sand, blue waters, and spectacular sunsets will make up for it.