Lithia, Florida is a peaceful and scenic residential neighborhood in Hillsborough County. It is a perfect combination of small-town charm and modern amenities. Located about 25 miles southeast of downtown Tampa, Lithia was once known as an agricultural land. But now it has become one of the most desirable places in the region to live in. It has lush green landscapes, well-established community, world-class schools, and a nearness to the natural surroundings. All this make it an ideal place for families, professionals, and retirees. 

As compared to some of its larger neighborhoods, this quiet residential area is lesser known. But, it is heaven for those who are looking for an escape from the rat race of metropolitan life. However, its proximity to Tampa also offers immediate access to modern amenities. From the expansive master-planned community of FishHawk Ranch to the serene environments of Lithia Springs, this area has every reason that makes it an ideal place to call home.  

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History of Lithia, Florida

Just like the history of Central Florida, Lithia’s history is also rooted in agricultural background. The land that we call Lithia now, was originally home to Native American tribea. But, then European settlers arrived here back in the 19th century. As the soil of the area is rich and fertile, the early settlers found this place ideal for farming. They used to cultivate crops such as citrus and strawberries. 

In the early 20th century, Lithia was primarily known for its phosphate mining industry. In fact, the name Lithia comes from the discovery of lithium carbonate in the local springs. The Alafia River, which runs through the area, was an important waterway for transportation and industry. Moreover, it is also a source of sustenance for local farmers and miners.

For much of its history, Lithia remained a largely rural and agricultural area. However, in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the community began to transform when the development of a massive, master-planned community, FishHawk Ranch began to start. This has shifted Lithia from just a farmland or a small suburban area shift from farmland to suburbia. As the new homes, schools, parks, and commercial areas were constructed, families who were in search of a quieter and spacious alternative to Tampa started to move here. 

Demographics– Who Are the Residents of Lithia? 

Thanks to the family-friendly atmosphere, highly-rated schools, and multiple recreational activities, Lithia has experienced rapid population growth in recent years. As per the World Population Review’s 2024 report, the population of Lithia is estimated at around 29,000 residents. The community has a relatively young demographic, with a large proportion of families and children.

Age Distribution

  • Children under 18: 25%
  • Adults 18-44: 40%
  • Adults 45-64: 25%
  • Seniors 65 and older: 10%

Lithia is a popular choice for young families, especially the ones with children and teenagers due to which they comprise the major proportion of the population. The area’s strong public school system, ample green spaces, and safe neighborhoods make it an ideal place to raise a family.

Ethnic Composition

While the majority of Lithia’s population is comprised of Black or African Americans, the community has become increasingly diverse in recent years. 

  • Black or African American: 48.54%
  • White: 34.59%
  • Two or more races: 8.82%
  • Other race: 6.14%
  • Asian: 1.8%
  • Native American: 0.12%
  • Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0%

This racial composition depicts that Lithia is a place that openly welcomes people of any race and lets them build their homes and grow. 

Neighborhoods in Lithia, Florida

Lithia is best known for its residential communities, particularly FishHawk Ranch, which is one of the largest and most well-developed master-planned communities in the Tampa Bay area. However, there are several other neighborhoods and communities in the region that all together build Lithia, Florida. 

FishHawk Ranch

Without any question or confusion, FishHawk Ranch is the most prominent and well-known project among all the residential offerings of Lithia. It is an expansive, family-oriented community that is home to miles of walking trails, several community pools, playgrounds, and parks. The residents of FishHawk Ranch are not even required to go outside for any amenity and it has its own schools, shopping centers, and recreational facilities. 

For families with school-age children, FishHawk Ranch is a charm because it is the land of some of the top-rated public schools. Some of the notable schools that have been receiving top ratings from parents and educators in the area include Bevis Elementary School, FishHawk Creek Elementary School, and Newsome High School. 

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Channing Park

Compared to FishHawk, Channing Park is a smaller and quieter community which is located just adjacent to FishHawk Ranch. However, it also has the same facilities such as community pools, parks, and playgrounds. It is usually liked by people who want to avail all facilities but in intimate settings. 

Lithia Ridge

For those seeking a bit more space and privacy, Lithia Ridge is an established neighborhood with larger homes on more expansive lots. The homes are an ideal choice for those who are more into beautiful architecture and a quieter and private lifestyle.  

Hawk’s Point

Located near FishHawk, Hawk’s Point is another popular residential community. It offers a wide range of amenities for families and professionals. Like its neighboring communities, Hawk’s Point also has parks, walking trails, and family-friendly activities throughout the year.

Local Economy and Employment Opportunities

Lithia’s local economy has evolved significantly as the population has grown. While agriculture and phosphate mining were once the primary industries in the area, Lithia is now home to a diverse array of businesses, ranging from small, locally-owned shops to larger corporate employers.

Local Businesses

To meet the needs of the residents, there are lots of businesses serving the community. Whether you’re in need of a local mechanic, a boutique clothing store, or a delicious meal at a family-owned restaurant, you’ll find plenty of options in and around Lithia. Some of the notable businesses include:

  1. FishHawk Sporting Goods: This is a popular shopping point who are into fishing as here they can find everything from fishing gear to sports equipment so that people don’t have to rush to Tampa. 
  2. Harbor Roofing: With the rise in population, construction has also increased which raised the demand for roofing services. For decades, Harbor Roofing has been a key player in this industry as it provides top-notch roofing services. Their domain of services ranges from roof installation to roof replacements and roof repairs to residential and commercial units. 
  3. The Landing Bar & Grill: It is a local favorite for casual dining where you can enjoy a range of American classics in a family-friendly, laid-back environment. 
  4. Lithia Springs Veterinary: Pet owners in Lithia trust this veterinary clinic for top-notch care for their four-legged family members.

Employment Opportunities

Lithia itself is primarily a residential community but as it is near to Tampa, it is an attractive and affordable option for the commuters. Many residents of Lithia, Florida work in different industries such as healthcare, finance, education, and technology in the larger Tampa Bay area. Apart from that, some of the military personnel and their families are also residents of Lithia as it is close to the MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa. 

Thanks to the ongoing development of new residential communities they have also created employment opportunities in the construction and real estate sectors. With time, it is expected that the population of Lithia will keep increasing which will definitely create more job opportunities within the community itself.

Top-Rated Schools in Lithia

One of the main reasons families are drawn to Lithia is the area’s excellent public school system. Lithia is served by the Hillsborough County Public Schools district, which is known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities.

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  1. Bevis Elementary School: Bevis Elementary School consistently ranks as one of the top elementary schools in Hillsborough County. Bevis Elementary is a popular choice for families with young children because of its outstanding academic programs and dedicated staff. 
  2. FishHawk Creek Elementary School: Another top-rated school in the area is FishHawk Creek Elementary. It offers a challenging curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including arts, music, and athletics.
  3. Randall Middle School: For middle schoolers, Randall Middle School is an ideal school because of its strong academic program and a variety of clubs and sports teams. The school is known for its supportive environment and commitment to student success.
  4. Newsome High School: Lithia’s Newsome High School is widely regarded as one of the best high schools in the Tampa Bay area. Not only they are just focused on academic excellence but they also offer some Advanced Placement (AP) courses along with athletic and arts programs.

Outdoor Recreation and Activities in Lithia

One of Lithia’s biggest draws is its abundance of outdoor activities. Lithia is a heaven for natural lovers and outdoor enthusiasts as it is close to natural springs, rivers, and parks. Whether you’re looking to go hiking, kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing in a peaceful setting, Lithia has multiple things to offer.

  1. Lithia Springs Park: Lithia Springs Park is one of the most well-known outdoor locations in the area. It is also home to a natural spring that feeds into the Alafia River. The crystal-clear spring water remains a cool 72 degrees year-round making it a popular spot for swimming, especially during the hot summer months. In addition to swimming, Lithia Springs Park has picnic areas, walking trails, and fishing spots where families can spend a day enjoying the great outdoors.
  2. Alderman’s Ford Park: Located along the Alafia River, Alderman’s Ford Park is another popular spot for outdoor recreation. The park features scenic trails that are perfect for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Here, visitors can enjoy canoeing and kayaking so it would definitely be a favorite spot for sports enthusiasts. 
  3. FishHawk Ranch Trails: For the people who don’t want to go too far for an outdoor escape, FishHawk Ranch Trails are for them. They are the best nearby options for biking and walking. While heading on these trails, you will get the sight of some skeptical sceneries and preserves. So, whether it’s an evening stroll, a morning job, or a family bike ride, these trails are perfect. 

Things to Do in Lithia, Florida: Exploring the Community and Beyond

Although Lithia is primarily known for its outdoor activities, this community offers more than meets the eye. Residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of local events, cultural attractions, and entertainment options throughout the year.

FishHawk Farmers Market

The FishHawk Farmers Market takes place monthly and offers a great place to shop for fresh products. A wide range of vendors, including local farmers and artisans participate in it. So, you can get your hands on a variety of items. 

Community Events

FishHawk Ranch and other local communities frequently host family-friendly events such as outdoor movie nights, holiday festivals, and community yard sales. These events offer a great opportunity to meet neighbors and engage with the community.

Conclusion: Why Lithia, Florida is a Great Place to Call Home?

Lithia, Florida, is a place that offers a perfect balance of nature and modern convenience. In comparison to the bustling urban area, residency in Lithia is a bit cheaper. Moreover, the facilities offered by this place also make it a good residential area for families as here, they can easily access the top-rated schools. Furthermore, the safe neighborhoods and variety of outdoor activities make the residents feel at home.