Pinellas Park

About Pinellas Park

Pinellas Park is a mid-size city located near Florida's western coast, just a short distance from the Gulf of Mexico. Although most of the city's land currently serves as residential housing, there's also a quaint downtown district with plenty of shops and other attractions. It's not far from the beach, and you're also just a short drive from the major city of Tampa.

The History of Pinellas Park

When you think of foliage in Florida, pine trees probably don't readily spring to mind. However, when the first settlers arrived in the area where Pinellas Park now sits, they found exactly that. Thus, the name of the town and county sprang from the Spanish phrase "punta pinal," or point of pines.

Philadelphia publishing magnate F.A. Davis founded Pinellas Park in 1911. He bought just fewer than 13,000 acres and turned it into its own town. The county separated from Hillsborough in 1912 and has become the most densely populated county in the state.

Things to Do in Pinellas Park

Even though you can easily drive to the big city for arts, culture and entertainment, you certainly don't have to — Pinellas Park has plenty to offer right at home.

The city has gained state-wide recognition for the Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center, which has a 1,500-square-foot stage and a main hall that occupies nearly 5,000 square feet. The venue hosts plays, musicals, concerts and other events, and the auditorium also offers a convenient place for businesses and other organizations to hold private events. The community is home to the Pinellas Park Arts Society, which contributes significantly to keeping local arts and culture alive. Every month, a themed art contest is held in the city, with pieces exhibited in the Parks Station buildings.

The city also hosts a passionate group of auto aficionados, with regular car shows and drag racing open for the public to enjoy. You can also visit the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, where you can explore a large collection of historically-significant vehicles.

Pinellas Park offers plenty of amenities, from supermarkets and restaurants to public parks and gyms. Entertainment venues offer a chance to kick back with family and friends, while the plentiful public transit options help you get around town.

Pinellas Park Schools

The Pinellas County School District manages the public schools of Pinellas Park. There are also a few private schools in the area, offering arts, faith-based and college-prep education paths.

If your professional interests lie in the field of health care, the city's St. Petersburg College Caruth Health Education Center provides study tracks in a number of two-year science degrees. It hosts a fully simulated hospital that provides extensive hands-on experience in many aspects of professional health care.

Resources for Moving to Pinellas Park

Here are a few resources to simplify the moving process:

• Utilities: The city's utilities department will administer your water and sewer services, while Pinellas County Electricy will provide your home with electricity.
• Garbage and Recycling: You will need to contact the city of Pinellas Park to request trash collection services for your new home.
• Transportation: Public transportation is provided by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, including fixed routes and rapid bus transit.

Pinellas Park Housing

Home prices in Pinellas Park have been climbing rapidly, passing the Tampa metropolitan average. However, there are still plenty of budget-friendly options on the market, so it's absolutely possible to find something that fits your needs at a fair price. There are also a number of apartment communities to consider, including many pet-friendly options.