Florida Is The Top-State For Pet-Friendly Rentals – How Much Should You Pay?

Everyone talks about how great it is living in Florida. We have beautiful beaches, theme parks, and amazing weather year-round. Which is why thousands of people continue to move to the Sunshine State every year. And most of them are bringing a furry friend. Unless you're buying a home, one major thing to look out for is pet-friendly rentals. And it just so happens that Florida is the top state in the country for pet-friendly rental houses.

A recent study done by property expert and owner of Raleigh Realty, Ryan Fitzgerald, reveals that Florida stands out as the best state for pet-friendly rentals, and Tampa tops the list of American cities with the most pet-friendly features.

Raleigh Realty analyzed rental listings across all 50 states and 300 major US cities using Zillow.com. For each rental property, they gathered specific statistics on whether large dogs, small dogs, and cats were allowed. Additionally, the total number of available rental properties was recorded to provide context and comparison. They also collected data on pet-friendly amenities, including five star dog parks, dog beaches, dog-friendly trails, and pet shops in each state and city. Here's what they found:

Florida boasts an impressive pet index score of 390 out of 400, making it the highest-scoring state in the nation for welcoming pets. According to statistics, 50.45% of all rental properties are available in Florida for those with different kinds of pets. Tampa, FL is eighth on the list of the most pet-friendly cities in the US, with a pet index score of 1378 out of 2700. Also, 70,04 % of all available rental properties in Tampa are open to all kinds of pets.

When searching for a place to live in Florida with a pet, it's important to know the difference between pet rent and pet deposit. Usually landlords or property management will make you pay a pet deposit while applying to the home/apartment. This could be a refundable charge as long as the animal does not contribute any damage to the home. You should read the lease agreement carefully before making any major decisions. Pet rent is usually tackled onto your monthly rent cost. The average pet rent in Florida is about $20-50, depending on the pet type, breed, size, and local regulations.

It's always on dog-parent's mind whenever they go out. Can I bring my dog? With so many outdoor restaurants in the Tampa Bay area, a lot of places are accommodating to our four-legged babies. Some even have canine-friendly food on their menu. Whether you want to be near downtown Tampa or by the beach in St. Pete, we have the list of places to bring along your best friend.

We also have a list of the best dog bars in the Tampa Bay area. A lot of those places don't serve food but occasionally have food trucks. Also, dog bars may also require you register your dog to make sure they are healthy and non-aggressive. The best part about taking your pup to a dog-friendly restaurant is that you don't have to worry about that.

We went to Yelp to see what their recommendations are for the best dog friendly restaurants in Tampa Bay. They had a list of 10 places but we condensed it to our favorite 7 spots (and added a few of our own favorite places.) Another great hack is to download the BringFido app. This app will tell you any dog-friendly restaurant or hotel in your current area.

Ulele is a great spot for dogs, kids, date night, or any occasion! Their beautiful shaded patio is the perfect place to hangout with your pup! Plus you can take them for a walk on Tampa's riverwalk after your meal.

Any World of Beer welcomes dogs! We know the Westchase location will even let dogs hangout inside.

Riveters outdoor patio is a great hangout spot for pups.

Enjoy waterfront views of Old Tampa Bay with your pup at Salt Shack on the Bay. This place is such a hidden gem in the Tampa Bay area. They have some of the best seafood and cocktails.

Irish 31 is one of the most dog-friendly restaurants in Tampa Bay! They even have a special canine casserole that you can order for your pup!

Clear Sky Draught House in Dunedin has a huge patio that is perfect for doggos.

If you and your pup are ever down in St. Pete beach head to Buoys Waterfront Bar & Grill. You can hangout on their upstairs patio for those perfect sunset views, or head to the bar downstairs. Just know your bartender might serve your dog first!