Tampa International Ranks No. 1 Among Large Airports – Again
Tampa International Airport has been named No. 1 in customer satisfaction among large airports in the J.D. Power 2026 North America Airport Satisfaction Study, marking its third time topping the category. TPA previously ranked first in 2022 and 2023 and second in 2024 and 2025. The study measures traveler satisfaction across seven dimensions, with TPA earning the highest scores in trust, departure/to-airport experience and arrival/from-airport experience.
Tampa Among the Best Cities to Retire
Tampa ranks No. 3 among the country’s best cities for retirees, according to WalletHub’s 2026 study of 182 U.S. cities. The ranking considered affordability, quality of life, health care and recreation, with Tampa recognized for its tax-friendly environment, recreational opportunities and low property crime rate. Orlando and Miami ranked first and second, respectively, while St. Petersburg ranked No. 16.
Tampa Begins Design Effort to Replace Ballast Point Pier
Tampa is moving forward with plans for a new Ballast Point Pier, nearly two years after Hurricane Helene damaged the landmark. The replacement is expected to span about 940 feet and feature a wider pier head, new gazebo, water-access points, fishing signage, marine-rated LED lighting. The $1.4 million-to-$1.7 million estimate given by the city covers the engineering assignment, not construction, with that budget and completion date not yet determined.
Tampa Leads U.S. in Small-Bay Industrial Market
Tampa’s small-scale industrial market is leading the nation, according to CoStar, a global provider of commercial real estate data, analytics and news. The updated analysis ranked the city No. 1 among 54 major U.S. markets. The ranking examined leasing activity, vacancy rates, new inventory and rent growth, with Tampa posting the strongest rent growth and third-highest leasing activity compared with pre-pandemic levels.
St. Pete Pickleball Court Ranked the Top in the Nation
St. Pete Athletic has been named the country’s top pickleball club by CourtSource. The facility features 14 professional courts alongside padel, table tennis, a full-service restaurant and three bars. CourtSource evaluated clubs based on facility size, playability, access and amenities. Pickle & Pint in Largo ranked No. 70.
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