Odessa Homes for Sale

What’s the first image that comes to mind when you think, Odessa? (As if, everyone is instantly thinking about Odessa.) Do you think about a bunch of squeaking oil rigs, going up and down, up and down, ad nauseum—if they’re working at all—as an unrelenting sun beats down on a brown and dusty patch of land that’s being overtaken by tumbleweeds? That’s the image of the Odessa in Texas. Maybe it’s some old love story set against the backdrop of a brutal winter? Or, worse yet, a panoramic view of villagers struggling across barren wasteland surrounded by barren wasteland reminiscent of the aftermath of a zombie apocalypse? That would be the Odessa in Ukraine. Have you ever thought about the Odessa in Florida? If you haven’t, you’re certainly not alone. But, you should …

If you pay a visit to this Odessa, you just might fall in love! Northwest of Tampa, you’ll find winding country roads, luxurious homes set on acreage with room for your horses, and upscale luxury communities that are accentuated by the lush beauty of the countryside that surrounds each—which is a darn sight better than barren wasteland or rusty oil rigs. 

An abundance of lakes large enough to slip on water skis and tour the shoreline in unabashed exhilaration beckons the adventuresome of aquatic ilk. If you are more of a land lover—and seeking adventure of another kind—you can comb the quaint antique shops and farmers’ markets in search of that special deal that has always eluded you. And, all the while, you are but minutes from the amenities of the booming Tampa area. This Odessa practically redefines “pleasant excitement”—assuming, of course, that someone has defined the term previously. If not, well, there’s still much more to consider.

If you’re wondering why it’s called Odessa, the answer lies in its history. The area was settled in the late-1880s by a Russian immigrant who established the community around the Orange Belt Railway. And, since this same immigrant had already founded St. Petersburg to the south, he chose Odessa as a name after another place he used to visit in his native country. If you weren’t wondering about the name, just disregard pretty much this whole paragraph.

Odessa is a census-designated place (CDP) in Pasco County, Florida. Right there, you can expect plenty of warmth and sunshine, further distancing Odessa from its Ukrainian namesake. Odessa has been a recipient of the northern growth of the Tampa area, especially in recent years. With a population of 3,173 according to the 2000 census, Odessa has ballooned to over 7,000 residents spread across 5.6 square miles. 

Not only is Odessa known for its many lakes, rural farmhouses, luxury gated communities, and equestrian properties, but its proximity to Tampa International Airport—a mere 20 minute drive away—and the white sands of the Gulf coast communities, including Clearwater, are less than a 30-minute drive away. Odessa offers all there is to enjoy about the Florida lifestyle. Perhaps, your idea of Florida living is boating and skiing on its signature lake, Lake Keystone, or one of the many other lakes within the community. Maybe, it’s lingering for a few moments to catch a majestic sunrise or an awe-inspiring sunset. It could just be leisurely roaming the wide-open spaces of the surrounding landscape, enjoying the incredible wonder that is its magnificent beauty. Yes, the spirit of Southern living is alive and well in Odessa.

Take a moment and imagine yourself as a member of the gentry, relaxing on your veranda, sipping a nice, cold beverage, and gazing out on your land with contentment etched on your face, and knowing that you have finally “arrived.” Yep, life is definitely great in Odessa! Of course, this could also be the moment that your contentment and peace are shattered by the children or grandchildren screeching with delight or demanding your attention. But, really, isn’t that what your life has been about? C’mon, admit it: you wouldn’t trade places with anyone … especially anyone living in any other Odessa!

Check out these Odessa communities: Asturia, Belle Meade, Carencia, Citrus Green, Council Crest, Dolce Vita, Eagles, Grey Hawk at Lake Polo, Ivy Lake Estates, Lake Armistead Estates, Magnolia Farms, Parker Pointe, Starkey Ranch, Stillwater, Van Dyke Farms, Wyndham Lakes