Tonight’s Mega Millions jackpot is up to an estimated $875 million . That got us thinking, how could you spend that money in the Tampa Bay area?
First off, how much would you keep? Lottery calculators say a lump sum would land the winner $665 million, with $210 million going straight to Uncle Sam. The annual payout would average ~$29 million per year for three decades.
Either way, that’s more than enough dough to have some TBAY fun:
Here’s one for the Zillow browsers. That sort of money would be enough to buy the most expensive home on the Tampa Bay area’s real estate market. Just under $40 million would get you 24,000+ sqft, 19 bedrooms, multiple waterfront balconies, views of the Intracoastal Waterway, a pool, a tennis court, and a whole host of indulgent features + amenities.
You could splash out when the Bolts are playing in the Cigar City. Amalie Arena has several hospitality suites available for Lightning matchups, which cost a reported $4,000-$8,000 per game.
Buying a boat would be near the top of many TBAY residents’ lists. That way, you can go to private islands + sand bars whenever you please. Now that we’ve mentioned it, you could just buy the island. Pine Key , better known as Beer Can Island, is currently listed for $14.2 million.
Imagine: Your boat in the Gasparilla Invasion.
Photo by Kiera Andrews
When you’re done partying on your private island, the Tampa Bay area has dozens of wonderful nonprofit organizations + charities to support. We rounded up some volunteer opportunities , but financial donations would undoubtedly be welcomed too.
After working up an appetite with all that house shopping, Bolts cheering, boating, and giving back, you could explore our wonderful food scene. Six local restaurants were recently added to the Michelin Guide, including Streetlight Taco, The Pearl, and Supernatural Food & Wine. So you’d be spoiled for luxe meal choices.
We’d love to know what you would do with the jackpot. Let us know .