If you’re thinking of moving to Sarasota, you’re not alone. The city is Florida’s most sought-after residential destination, especially for retirees and families with kids. Rightfully, Sarasota is among the best places to live in Florida, offering a family-friendly ambiance next to the beach.
However, before moving to this bustling city, getting into the nitty gritty about living in Sarasota, FL, is prudent. With this in mind, we have highlighted all you need to know about moving to Sarasota, including the good and bad. Read on to learn more.
Sarasota Basics
The name “Sarasota” is said to be coined from a Spanish term meaning “a place of dancing”—a suitable moniker for this vibrant city popular for the famous Circus Magnate. But that’s not all; Sarasota offers much more for every resident’s interests. Let’s dive into the basics of Sarasota.
Sarasota Real Estate
Sarasota is a well-known city on Florida’s Gulf Coast, noted for its gorgeous beaches, cultural heritage, and outdoorsy thrill. As a result, the Sarasota real estate market is active and diverse, offering a variety of alternatives to people seeking to buy or rent a home in the city.
Single-family homes, condominiums, and townhouses are among the most common types of properties in Sarasota. The median sale price for single-family homes in the city is $500K, and $370K for condos for sale in Sarasota.
Luxury homes and estates are also available, notably in beachfront neighborhoods like Bird Key, Lido Key, and Siesta Key. Other good communities in Sarasota include:
- Palmer Ranch
- Gulf Gate
- Downtown Sarasota.
Navigating these prices and ensuring you are finding a safe and affordable property for you and your family is crucial. For this reason, you should always consider a real estate agent who will ensure your needs are being met during this process.
Cost of Living in Sarasota
Sarasota, Florida’s cost of living is typically somewhat higher than the national average. Sarasota’s cost of living index is roughly 112, relative to the national average of 100. It indicates a 12% higher cost of living than the national average.
One of the most significant expenditures in Sarasota is housing. According to Zillow, the mean monthly house rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Sarasota is about $2,132, 2% lower than the national median.
Sarasota’s other significant expenses are food, transportation, electricity, and healthcare. However, the city also has plenty of cost-effective shopping, eating, and entertainment opportunities.
Schools in Sarasota
Sarasota isn’t just a nice place to live; it also offers various highly-rated elementary and middle schools. You can choose from public to private schools to charter, and magnet institutions. This is good news if you’re looking to relocate to the county with your little ones and desire a quality education for them.
Sarasota County Schools, the local school district, was named by Niche.com #2 among the best school districts in Florida for 2023. Some specific schools in Sarasota County are rated as among the best in the country. Some of the top-ranking schools in the area include Pine View School, Sarasota High School, and Riverview High School. However, it’s important to research the schools in your neighborhood and visit them before deciding to enroll your kid.
You can also further your studies with the various top-tier colleges and universities in Sarasota. Take part in research projects in your field of study, pick your preferred undergrad course, or further your education with a graduate program at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee. Also, you can pursue your passions at New College of Florida and Ringling College of Art and Design.
Sarasota’s Economy
The job market in Sarasota is robust, attracting job seekers from all over the country. Data from the BLS indicates that the job market in the county has been on an upward trajectory, with the employment rate surpassing those of Florida and the US.
Sarasota had an impressive unemployment rate of 3.6%, compared to 4.1% in Florida and 3.9% nationally. This shows that the labor market in Sarasota is generally strong, with low levels of unemployment.
Over the next ten years, job growth in the city is predicted to be substantially more significant than the national average. One of the most enticing elements of working in Sarasota is that you do not have to worry about paying a hefty state income tax, as Florida is one of the few states that don’t have one.
The tourist and hospitality industry is the most prominent in Sarasota’s economy, generating billions of dollars in economic activity each year. The county is a popular tourist destination, directly supporting over 19,000 jobs.
Other industries also play an essential role in Sarasota’s diverse economy, including healthcare, trade, education, transportation, trade, finance, and manufacturing. These are only a handful of the major employers in Sarasota, and the city’s economy is diverse, with many additional enterprises and organizations employing residents. Some of the top employers in the area include:
- Sarasota County School District
- Tropicana
- Publix Super Markets
- Sarasota Memorial Health Care System (Sarasota Memorial Hospital)
More Info About Moving to Sarasota
Now that you’ve learned all Sarasota’s essential basics, let’s dig into more information about moving to the county.
Incredible Weather
As with many people who relocate to Florida, the motivation is usually a desire for warmth and Sunshine. And Sarasota isn’t lacking when it comes to incredible warm weather!
The climate is tropical, with moderate winters and scorching summers. Sarasota’s typical temperature varies from mid-80s °F in summer to mid-60s °F in winter. Besides the warm temperatures, Sarasota also enjoys sunny skies. The area experiences an average of 251 sunny days yearly, higher than the national average of 205 days.
Sarasota has a rainy season, but it’s common to be bright before and after rainfall. When it rains, the temperature drops a bit. As a result, all you’ll need to rock is a mix of cool- and warm-weather clothing.
Like the rest of Florida, Sarasota features hot and humid summers, with typical mean temperatures spanning from the mid-70s to the low-90s. But it’s crucial to know that Sarasota is susceptible to severe weather events, including hurricanes and tropical storms, especially in the summer and fall. And, while summer might be hot and humid, you can happily welcome a few months if the rest of the year is perfect!
Winter in Sarasota is the most pleasant season, with average temperatures fluctuating between the low 50s and mid-70s. This season also has much less rain showers. However, it may become slightly cool when the sun goes down.
One of the most significant benefits of Sarasota’s winter is that the temperatures make it a great residential area for snowbirds and families looking to escape colder weather. During the winter, residents may enjoy outdoor activities such as tennis, golf, or swimming, which is not always the case in colder climates.
Miles of Beaches
Located on the west coast of Florida, Sarasota is home to miles of some of the top-rated stunning beaches in the country, with pristine waters and white sand. These beautiful beaches draw visitors and new residents from all over the world. This section looks at the awe-inspiring long coast, highlighting some worth-noting beaches.
Sarasota boasts nearly 35 miles of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, giving visitors and residents plenty of opportunities to soak up in the sun and unwind on the beaches. The beaches in the county are family-friendly, offering a range of amenities to accommodate you and your little ones, including picnic spaces, restrooms, and playgrounds. You can also participate in thrilling water sports such as kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
Here are some of the best beaches in Sarasota:
Siesta Key
Siesta Key Beach is one of Sarasota’s most popular and highly-rated beaches, and for a good reason – It is a must-see spot due to its white-quartz beaches, sparkling blue waters, and buzzing nightlife.
It is located only a few moments south of the city and has been voted the best beach in the country in several polls. Unlike most other beaches in Sarasota, Siesta Key features white sand that has been ground into a white, fine powder, making it lush and pleasant to the touch.
Because of its shallow waters extending far out from the coast, Siesta Key Beach is great for families. Aside from taking a refreshing plunge in the beautiful blue ocean, you can play beach volleyball or unwind with your loved ones at a picnic table or playground.
Moreover, the beach has services, including bathrooms, showers, and concession booths. You can also try out the various water sports at the beach, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing. Other beaches you can explore in Siesta Key include:
- Crescent Beach
- Sarasota Beach
- Turtle Beach
- South Lido Key Beach
Venice Beach
Venice Beach, in the neighboring town of Venice, Florida, is a popular beach getaway destination for visitors and Sarasota residents, including families. This beach is well-known for its gorgeous coral reefs, making it an ideal destination for diving and snorkeling.
The clean seas and plentiful marine life give families with children a unique and enjoyable experience. The beach also boasts a playground and a boardwalk, ideal for youngsters to play and explore.
The calm and shallow water is one of the critical reasons that Venice Beach is a popular family destination. The beach is excellent for young kids picking up swimming or having aversions to deeper water. Furthermore, the shallow water allows parents to check their children as they play closely. Other beaches in the area include:
- Nokomis Beach
- North Jetty Beach
- Caspersen Beach
Longboat Key
Longboat Key Beach is a charming and serene beach located on Longboat Key, FL, a barrier island off Sarasota, Florida’s shores. The beach is famous among people looking for a pleasing beach experience owing to its vast and flawless stretch of white sand, beautiful turquoise water, and laid-back ambiance.
Longboat Key Beach is notable for its lack of development, which gives it a tranquil and natural beach town vibe. The beach is less congested than other Sarasota beaches, making it an excellent alternative for visitors seeking a more peaceful and isolated beach experience. There are no restaurants or businesses on the beach, but plenty are close to the island.
Longboat Key Beach is also widely recognized for its outstanding bayfront parks, fishing, and visitors can indulge in surfcasting or fishing from adjacent piers. Finally, the beach is also a fantastic destination for avid birdwatchers, hosting several species of wading birds and shorebirds. Other beaches in the Longboat Key area include:
- Coquina Beach
- Beach Point Beach
- Lido Beach
Theme Parks
If you’re a nature lover, there’s no shortage of year-round nature adventures to relish in Sarasota. While the county doesn’t host traditional theme parks, it’s home to various amusement parks that satisfy your nature craving. Here are some of the must-visit parks with an outdoorsy thrill in the county:
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
This botanical garden and animal attraction offers locals and visitors the opportunity to experience a tropical paradise. The garden hosts countless animal, bird, and exotic plant species alongside beautiful gardens to spruce your interaction with nature.
Nathan Benderson Park
Nathan Benderson Park is a 600-acre park named after Nathan Benderson, a local philanthropist who donated the land to the county. Nathan Benderson Park is a beautiful spot to relish outdoor endeavors, spend quality time with loved ones, and enjoy Sarasota’s natural beauty. Nathan Benderson Park provides something for everyone, from picnic areas to playgrounds and walking and biking trails.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
This is a stunning 15-acre garden named after the philanthropist who donated the land. Marie Selby offers a beautiful yet tranquil escape into nature, with over 20,000 plants, including rare species, a children’s rainforest garden, art exhibitions, and a greenhouse filled with orchards and other tropical plants
Celery Fields
Celery Fields Park is a 360-acre park in Sarasota, famous for its scenic panorama, diverse wildlife, and leisure options. There’s something for everyone in the Celery Fields, whether you want to explore marshes, wildlife or simply picnic in a fantastic setting.
Entertainment and Food
Florida’s western coast, popularly known as the “Cultural Coast,” boasts a vibrant cultural and entertainment scene, and Sarasota lies right at the center of all the action! The city is dotted with a diverse range of dining and entertainment hubs, from live music venues and theaters to fashionable pubs and restaurants.
Sarasota has been widely considered a seafood paradise. While practically every street has at least one beach-themed dining option and nearly every restaurant serves a catch of the day, numerous eateries also offer inventive cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Below are some of Sarasota’s most outstanding restaurants:
Indigenous Restaurant
Head to Indigenous Restaurant in downtown Sarasota for an outstanding fine dining experience. In a quiet, classy atmosphere, this farm-to-table restaurant delivers unique American meals produced with locally and regionally sourced ingredients. The menu is updated seasonally, with highlights including Pork Belly, Wild Mushroom Bisque, Parmesan Beignets, and Mote Marine Sturgeon.
Selva Grill
This Latin-American restaurant serves a blend of creative cuisines from Peru, Colombia, and other Latin-American origins in downtown Sarasota. The menu includes ceviche, empanadas, other traditional foods, and vegetarian and gluten-free choices.
The Rosemary
This quaint bistro in Rosemary District –near Sarasota Bay, offers a menu of classic French-inspired delicacies in downtown Sarasota, including escargot, bouillabaisse, and steak frites. The restaurant is well-known for its excellent service and welcoming atmosphere.
Also, the city features a relatively limited nightlife scene compared to big cities like Chicago or Las Vegas. However, you still have enough options to explore your wild partying yearning in Sarasota. The following are some hotspots for an exciting nightlife experience in Sarasota.
The Gator Club
If you want to enjoy your favorite drink as you showcase your dance moves to live music, head to downtown Sarasota and check out the Gator Club. This bar and nightclub embodies Sarasota’s rich heritage, hosting fun nights for the past 100 years. It is known for its lively atmosphere and live music, hosting various music acts and DJs. The club also has a diverse food and drink selection, completing an all-round nightlife experience.
McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre
Are you looking for night rib-cracking jokes in Sarasota? Look no further than McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre. This famous comedy club in downtown Sarasota hosts various comedy acts, from nationally renowned comedians to local acts.
Some of the biggest names to appear on the club’s stage include Kevin Hart, Jerry Seinfeld, and Jay Leno. With its intimate atmosphere, excellent comedians, and a full bar and food menu, it’s easy to see why this club has been a favorite spot for night comedy fans in the city for ages.
Sarasota Opera House
Catch top-notch opera performances at the Sarasota Opera House during shows like Don Giovanni or Madama Butterfly. Conveniently perched in downtown Sarasota, this historic theater was built as a movie theater in 1926 before converting into an Opera house in the 70s.
The Sarasota Opera presents a broad range of operas during the season, including well-known operas by Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart and lesser-known operas and contemporary operas. Besides its mainstream shows, the Sarasota Opera offers a range of educational activities and community events all year long.
History
The history of Sarasota dates back to over 10,000 years ago when Native American tribes first inhabited the area. However, it was until 1539 that the first European, Hernando De Soto, a Spanish explorer, arrived in the county. Other Americans began settling in Sarasota in the 1800s.
In the late 1800s, a group of Scotsmen under the leadership of John Hamilton Gillespie established the present-day city of Sarasota. The group developed a farming and ranching settlement on property they had acquired in the region.
After the town was officially incorporated in 1902, it saw tremendous growth over the following decades, partly because of the coming of the railroad in 1902 and important individuals that played an essential role in the development of this area. John Ringling of the Ringling Brothers and Bertha Palmer are notable figures that fueled the growth of Sarasota.
John Ringling was a circus sensation who moved his winter headquarters to Sarasota in 1927 when he found love and settled permanently. He purchased tracks of land in the area.
He established various properties, including what became the Ringling Museum of Art, and contributed to the development of Sarasota as a cultural center. Other art centers that John Ringling and the brothers built in Sarasota include the Asolo Theatre and The Ca’ d’Zan mansion, which is now a national historic landmark.
Fast forward, wealthy Americans and Europeans started flocking to Sarasota in the early 1900s because of the stunning public beaches and pleasant climate. Over the 20th century, Sarasota continued to expand and evolve, and now it is a prosperous city with a diverse cultural history. In addition to a bustling downtown and a variety of parks and nature preserves, the area hosts several museums, art galleries, and performance spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions: Moving to Sarasota
Now that you know the ins and outs of moving to Sarasota, it’s time to look at the frequently asked questions.
Is Sarasota a good place to move to?
Yes. Sarasota can be an excellent place to relocate if you’re looking for a warm, sunny environment with many outdoor activities and cultural landmarks. The city provides a relaxed, beachy lifestyle with a pleasant, friendly neighborhood. But before deciding to move, consider factors such as the cost of living, job prospects, and the community.
Why are so many people moving to Sarasota?
Many people are moving to Sarasota for its good weather, beautiful beaches, and quality of life. Also, Sarasota offers a more affordable cost of living than other popular Florida locations such as Miami or West Palm Beach. This makes it appealing to seniors and young people looking to live in a dynamic city without breaking the budget.
What are the pros and cons of living in Sarasota, Florida?
While Sarasota features a wide range of perks for locals, it also has a fair share of drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons of living in Sarasota, Florida.
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Is it expensive to live in Sarasota?
Sarasota is less expensive than other popular Florida locations like West Palm Beach. But Sarasota’s living cost remains moderate to high, particularly for people migrating from smaller towns or cities. But the cost of living in Sarasota varies based on various factors such as housing, transportation, and lifestyle preferences.
What is better, Tampa or Sarasota?
Individual interests and priorities influence the decision between Tampa and Sarasota.
Tampa is a larger city with a more varied job market, featuring a thriving business area and essential industries such as healthcare, technology, and finance. In addition, the city has a more significant population and extensive public transit, making it simpler to move around without a car.
Conversely, Sarasota is a smaller city with a more relaxed environment with a concentration on outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and visiting the beach. The city is known for its good quality of life and reduced cost of living compared to other Florida destinations.
What is the best area to live in Sarasota?
The ideal neighborhood to live in Sarasota will rely on personal preferences and lifestyle considerations, such as accessibility to jobs, private and public schools, and facilities, as well as budget and housing choices. Here are some of the best areas to live in Sarasota:
- Downtown Sarasota
- Lakewood Ranch
- Siesta Key
- Palmer Ranch
- Gulf Gate
What are the main airports near Sarasota?
Looking to fly in and out of Sarasota? The main airports near the Floridian city include the following:
- Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ / KSRQ), five miles away.
- St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE / KPIE), 47 miles away.
- Tampa International Airport (TPA / KTPA), 55 miles away.
What is a good salary for Sarasota, Florida?
The average household income in Sarasota County is roughly $66,000, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, to smoothly fund housing, transportation, food, and other costs, a household must earn between $80,000 and $100,000 per year.
Individual financial needs and expenditures vary, and as you evaluate a “good salary” in Sarasota, it is crucial to consider elements such as family size, housing choices, and healthcare costs.
Is it cheaper to live in Sarasota or Fort Myers?
The cost of living in Sarasota and Fort Myers is comparable, with both cities somewhat higher than the national average. According to Numbeo data, the cost of living in Fort Myers is slightly cheaper than that in Sarasota, with consumer prices around 2% lower and rent expenses about 11% lower.
However, compared to other major coastal cities in Florida, housing costs in Sarasota are relatively affordable.
What is there to do in Sarasota aside from the beach?
In Sarasota, there’s a whole host of things to do aside from swimming and sunbathing. Some museum and cultural experiences include:
- Asolo Repertory Theatre
- Mable Ringling Museum Of Art
- Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
- Sarasota Classic Car Museum
- Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
- Sarasota Opera House
- Ca’ d’Zan
- Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
The city also boasts several parks, preserves and green spaces for residents to enjoy outdoor recreational activities, like:
- Myakka River State Park
- Rothenbach Park
- The Bay Sarasota
- Jelks Preserve
- Indian Mound Park
- Celery Fields
- Bayfront Park
- Arlington Park
- South Lido Key County Park
- Payne Park
- Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Is it cheaper to live in Sarasota or Tampa?
According to Numbeo statistics, the cost of living in Tampa is somewhat cheaper than in Sarasota, with consumer prices around 4% lower and rent costs approximately 11% lower. However, the cost of living in each location will ultimately be determined by an individual’s lifestyle and preferences. Before making a choice, it is essential to investigate and evaluate the cost of living in both cities depending on your needs and preferences.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Sarasota might be an excellent choice for individuals looking for a friendly and inviting community with easy access to gorgeous beaches, cultural attractions, and various outdoor activities. While the cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, the comparatively low housing expenses, diverse employment market, and top-rated schools make it an appealing choice for families and retirees.
Using relevant databases such as eXp Realty will allow you to find the properties in the areas you are searching in and even sign up for alerts so you don’t miss your chance at your future home. Connect with an agent today and get one step closer to closing on the home of your dreams.
