Tampa Bay Neighborhood Guide
Living in Lutz
Lakes, oak trees and a little more breathing room, with a hometown Fourth of July you have to see.
CountyHillsborough & Pasco
SchoolsHillsborough or Pasco, by address
To Downtown TampaAbout 12 miles
Main RoutesI-275, US 41, Dale Mabry, Veterans Expressway
What It’s Like to Live in Lutz
Lutz is an unincorporated community that spans north Hillsborough and south Pasco County. It has a semi-rural feel, with lakes, big oaks and wooded lots, but it’s still an easy drive into Tampa.
It’s a strong fit for families who want more space and a small-town feel. Every Fourth of July, Lutz holds a hometown celebration with a parade, a 5K and the race for the honorary “Lutz Guv’na,” a tradition that raises money for local charities.
Neighborhoods in Lutz
- Cheval
- Lake Magdalene area
- Lake Fern area
- Downtown Lutz
Homes You’ll Find in Lutz
Lutz has a mix of homes on larger lots, lakefront properties and established subdivisions, including gated communities like Cheval. The Lutz Community Plan aims to keep the area’s semi-rural, single-family character.
Parks, Trails & Things to Do in Lutz
- Lake ParkA 600-acre county park with five lakes, a BMX track, archery, equestrian arenas, a boat ramp and a kayak launch.
- Brooker Creek Headwaters Nature Preserve1,121 acres with a 4.3-mile hiking trail.
- Upper Tampa Bay & Suncoast TrailsPaved trails for biking and running, with a trailhead on Lutz Lake Fern Road.
- Downtown LutzA replica train depot and the Lutz Branch Library, and home base for the Fourth of July parade.
- Tampa Premium OutletsOutlet shopping just up the road, with a food court and playground.
Schools in Lutz
Because Lutz crosses a county line, schools depend on the address. Homes on the Hillsborough side are served by Hillsborough County Public Schools, and homes on the Pasco side by Pasco County Schools. Check the Hillsborough County Public Schools school locator or the Pasco County Schools boundary lookup for any specific home.
Getting Around
Lutz is about 12 miles north of downtown Tampa and roughly 11 miles from the airport. I-275, US 41, Dale Mabry Highway and the Veterans Expressway/Suncoast Parkway (Lutz Lake Fern Road exit) are the main routes.
Good to Know Before You Buy in Lutz
- County line matters. Which county a home is in affects schools, taxes and services. We’ll confirm it for every home you look at.
- Wells, septic and acreage. Some larger-lot and rural properties may be on well or septic systems. Worth asking about and inspecting.
- Lakefront homes. Check any lakefront address with FEMA’s flood map search and ask about flood insurance.
Lutz FAQs
Is Lutz in Hillsborough or Pasco County?
Both. Lutz spans north Hillsborough and south Pasco, so the county depends on the specific address.
What is the Lutz Guv’na?
It’s a Lutz Fourth of July tradition that started in 1991. Candidates raise money for local charities, and whoever raises the most becomes the honorary “Guv’na.”
Is Lutz good for families?
Many families love Lutz for the space, the lakes and the small-town community feel, while still being close to Tampa.
Distances are approximate straight-line miles. Always confirm school assignments, flood zones, and any HOA or CDD fees for a specific address before you buy.
Team Sigh · Five Star Real Estate
Thinking About Lutz?
Lutz gives you room to breathe without being far from the city. We’ll help you sort out lots, lakes and county lines.
Call Isabel at (813) 695-1244 or Stephanie at (813) 695-0234.