Sarasota Relocation Guide
Moving to Sarasota provides a high quality of life with top schools, urban amenities, world-class beaches and homes for all budgets.
👉 Grab a copy of this Sarasota Relocation Guide for FREE!
Introduction to Sarasota, Florida
Sarasota is a hidden gem on Florida’s southwest coast. Located south of Tampa and St. Pete and north of Naples and Fort Myers, Sarasota is a part of the Suncoast Region along the Gulf of Mexico.
The area is known for its pristine beaches and bright blue coastline, as well as being the heart of Florida’s arts and culture scene. The city and county of the same name are frequently named as top places to live and retire in the US due to the high quality of life here.
Thinking of relocating to Florida? Don’t forget to check out our Moving to Florida Checklist!
Josh Wilson
REALTOR®
License # SL3486473
eXp Realty
Let's Find Your Piece of Paradise
Ready to Live That Florida Life?
If you have any questions about real estate or homes for sale in Sarasota, feel free to reach out. As a licensed real estate agent with eXp Realty, I’m more than happy to do whatever I can to find you the perfect home in paradise.
Feel Free to Reach Out if You Have Any Questions!
Start Your Home Search Here
Relocation Guide for Moving to Sarasota
Jump to Any Topic in This Guide
Quality of Life
Find out why Sarasota tops so many lists of the best place to live
About Sarasota
Learn more about Sarasota's history and culture
City Data
Population, housing prices, demographics and more
Cost of Living
Compare the cost of living in Sarasota to Florida and the US
Climate & Weather
What's the weather like in Sarasota and general climate date
Things to Do
Discover all the fun things to do in Sarasota for those who live here
Transportation
Major highways, interstates and airports in the area
Hospitals
Major hospitals in the Sarasota area, including some national ranking centers
Schools
Sarasota is home to one of the best school districts in Florida, and some of the top schools in the country!
Neighborhoods
Explore some of the most popular neighborhoods in Sarasota and check out what properties are for sale
Quality of Life in Sarasota
Sarasota frequently ranks as one of the top places to live in the United States and is one of the highest ranked cities in all of Florida. US World and News Report gives Sarasota an overall quality of life score of 6.8. The city has also been ranked as the fifth best place to live in the USA as well as one of the top places in the USA to retire.
As you can imagine, part of this is due to the lovely year-round weather and abundant outdoor activities available in the area. From amazing beaches, to world-class golf, and also fishing, boating, biking and more. There is also an abundance of shops and restaurants as well as a thriving cultural and arts scene. If you weren’t thinking about moving to Sarasota already, we’re pretty confident that you will be by the end of this article!
Job Market and Schools
Sarasota has a sizable job market in the healthcare industry as well as tourism and other small businesses. Plus, with favorable taxes and some of the best schools in Florida, more and more companies are launching in the Sarasota area or moving here for the quality of life it provides employees and their families.
READ MORE: Living in Sarasota Pros & Cons
A Brief History of Sarasota, Florida
First Inhabitants
Some of the earliest inhabitants of the Florida Gulf Coast were Native tribes who lived, traveled, and fished in the Sarasota area. By the sixteenth century, European explorers such as Hernando de Soto, landed in various bays north and south of the city.
Traders
The sheltered bay around Sarasota eventually turned into some of the earliest settlements in the area consisting of Americans and Cubans who traded fish & marine life, such as turtles.
Zara Zote – Previous Name
The Spanish named the area Zara Zote, which evolved into the name Sara Sota, and eventually Sarasota.
Pioneers
In 1840 Fort Armistead was established along the Sarasota Bay and soon after, pioneers moved in. Numerous families made their mark on Sarasota, including the Whitaker family and their cattle business, and A. B. Edwards who became the first mayor in 1914.
The “Father of Sarasota” and Golf
In the 1880s a number of Scottish families settled in the Sarasota area. John Hamilton (J.H.) Gillespie assisted in clearing land for farms, roads, and established the first railroad service in the area. He is remembered as the “Father of Sarasota.” But J.H. Gillespie did more than just develop the land. The Scotsman is credited with introducing the game of golf to Florida in 1904.
The Circus and the Ringlings
Sarasota is known for its circus heritage. The Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus moved the headquarters from Connecticut to Sarasota in 1927. The Ringlings were among the nation’s most elite and wealthiest families and they had a winter home in Sarasota.
John Ringling’s dream was to turn Sarasota into a luxury winter resort and develop the chic shopping and dining area of St. Armand’s circle. In fact, it was Ringling’s circus elephants that helped haul the timbers to create the John Ringling Causeway which connects downtown Sarasota town to St. Armand’s and Lido Key.
Sarasota City Data
Below are some of the basic city data for Sarasota as of mid 2023. The population is a good mix of older retirees as well as young families. The city is moderately-sized, so you won’t have the crowds and traffic as you do in large cities such as Miami.
- Population – 56,003
- Average Age – 47.2
- Average Home Price – $497,500
- Home Value Projections – 2.6% + year-over-year
- Homeowner rate is 58%
- Average Household Income – $87,493
- Poverty Rate of 16.79%
- Median House value is $639,000
- Crime Rate – 35.19per 1000
- Area & Density – 24 square miles, 3,804people per square mile
Major Employers
The healthcare industry is a major employer in the Sarasota area, as is tourism and hospitality. Boar’s Head is another large employer as well as the aviation industry.
Demographics & Education
Sarasota is a well-educated city in Florida. Over 90% of the population has at least a High School education, while over 21% have achieved at least bachelor degrees.
For additional demographic data about Sarasota, check out the US Census Bureau for the following:
- Population
- Demographics (age, etc.)
- Housing
- Family & living arrangements
- Computer and internet use
- Education
- Transportation
- Income & poverty
- Economy
- Business
Cost of Living in Sarasota
Overall the cost of living in Sarasota is slightly higher than the average of the US and on par with the average Florida cost of living. The cost increase in Sarasota is primarily due to housing, followed by groceries. However, utilities and transportation costs are lower in Sarasota than in the rest of Florida and the US.
100 = USA Average Cost of Living
103.1 = Florida Cost of Living
102.9 = Sarasota Cost of Living
| Sarasota | Florida | USA | |
| Overall | 102.9 | 103.1 | 100 |
| Grocery | 106.5 | 102.8 | 100 |
| Health | 101.7 | 102.3 | 100 |
| Housing | 114.3 | 101.1 | 100 |
| Median Home Cost | $454,200 | $362,400 | $338,100 |
| Utilities | 94.2 | 101.3 | 100 |
| Transportation | 90.9 | 112.6 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 106.6 | 87.6 | 100 |
SOURCE: https://www.bestplaces.net/cost_of_living/city/florida/sarasota
Climate and Weather in Sarasota
It’s no surprise that one of the top reasons for moving to Sarasota is the weather. Sarasota has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers, and warm, dry winters. It has a distinct rainy season from June through September and a distinct dry season from October through May.
- Rainfall – Average of 56 inches per year vs. 38 rest of USA
- Sunny Days – Average of 251 vs. 205 for the US
- Hottest Month – August high of 91 degrees & average low of 74
- Coldest Month – January high 72 and 51 degrees low
- There are 1-2 below-freezing days in Sarasota each year
- Most Comfortable Months: November, March, April
- Most Uncomfortable Months: July and August
- Check out the current 10-day Sarasota Weather Forecast Here
Hurricane Season
Hurricane season is technically June through October, with the most active months being August and September.
Things To Do in Sarasota
Activities & the Arts
Sarasota is home to many things to do for both tourists and locals alike. The downtown area is where you’ll find many charming shops, sidewalk cafes, and wonderful restaurants. St. Armands across the causeway is a high-end area for shopping and dining.
Sarasota has a thriving arts and culture scene. The city is home to the Van Wezel Performance Hall which hosts renowned artists, the Sarasota Opera House, as well as numerous other theaters and entertainment venues.
Festivals & Events
- Lights in Bloom holiday festival
- Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival
- Sarasota Seafood and Music Festival
- Downtown Sarasota Crafts Festival
- Sarasota Highland Games and Celtic Festival
- A Taste of Sarasota food festival in conjunction with restaurants all around town.
Recreation & the Outdoors in Sarasota
Outdoor Fun Year-Round
Water sports are popular in Sarasota with the Gulf, bays, rivers and lakes in the area. From simply relaxing at the beaches to boating, fishing, kayaking and even diving offshore. You can frequently spot manatees and dolphins in the water and birdwatchers will be in heaven with all the variety of species that can be admired here.
There are numerous State Parks nearby, including Myakka State Park, if you enjoy camping and getting out in nature. If you enjoy biking, running, or roller-blading, then you’ll love the Legacy Trail, a paved path which stretches from Sarasota to Venice.
Sarasota has a wonderful parks program with events and activities year-round at the 100+ public parks in the area. Plus, popular theme parks such as Busch Gardens, Disney and Universal are only a short drive away. With so much to do, it’s impossible to be bored and no wonder you’re considering moving to Sarasota!
Beaches in Sarasota (and Nearby Area)
Sarasota is famous for its beaches. In fact, Siesta Key Beach is regularly voted as the #1 beach in the USA! However, there are many other beaches besides Siesta. Below is a short list of the major beaches in the area.
- Turtle Beach (on Siesta Key)
- Crescent Beach (on Siesta Key)
- Lido Beach (closest to downtown)
- Longboat Key (various beaches)
- Coquina & Bradenton Beach (north)
- Nokomis Beach (south)
- Venice Beach (south)
50+ Golf Courses in the Sarasota Area
Sarasota is home to a number of challenging and iconic golf courses. There are many public courses around town, as well as private and semi-private country clubs and some outstanding golf-course communities. Below are just a few of the most popular golf courses in Sarasota:
- Country Club of Sarasota
- Village Green Golf Club
- Bobby Jones Golf Complex
- The Groves
- Oak Ford Golf Club
- Tatum Ridge Golf Links
- Founders Club Sarasota
- Heritage Oaks Golf and Country Club
- Laurel Oak Golf and Country Club
- Misty Creek Golf & Country Club
- Palm Aire Country Club
- TPC Prestancia Golf & Country Club
- Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club – Sarasota
- The Meadows Golf and Country Club
- University Park Country Club
- Concession Golf & Country Club
- Bent Tree Golf Club
- Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club
Transportation in Sarasota
As a smaller city compared to Tampa, Miami or Orlando, Sarasota has less congestion and traffic overall. Sarasota lies west of Interstate 75, which is the only interstate in the area and goes north to Tampa and Georgia and south to Naples. The other major highway is 41 also known as Tamiami Trail – which goes north to Tampa and south to Naples and onto Miami. There is public bus transportation in Sarasota. However, most people rely on personal vehicles to get around.
Airports in / Near Sarasota
Sarasota has multiple airports nearby to choose from.
Sarasota International Airport (SRQ) – this is a fairly small airport but is growing and has carriers such as Delta, Air Canada, American Airlines, United, Jet Blue.
St. Pete – Clearwater Airport (PIE) – is growing with more options for leisure travelers recently.
Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 65 miles north of Sarasota and has even more airlines with more chances of a direct flight.
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) – 90 miles south of Sarasota in Fort Myers, recently this airport has really expanded with more flights and airlines.
Hospitals in Sarasota
Healthcare is a top industry in Sarasota. In fact, the city is nationally ranked with one of the top hospitals in the country. There are 3 major hospitals in the Sarasota area; however, Tampa and St. Petersburg just to the north offer additional options for quality medical care and specialized treatment.
Sarasota Memorial Hospital
One of the top hospitals in Florida and was also ranked by US News and World Report as one of the top 10 safest large hospitals in the US. It is the area's leading healthcare provider.
Doctor's Hospital of Sarasota
This 5-star rated hospital (one of only 5 in the State of Florida) by the CMS federal agency is a full-service and emergency care facility. It's a popular choice for locals due to shorter waiting times.
Lakewood Ranch Medical Center
A convenient option that specializes in acute care.
A+ Schools in Sarasota
The Sarasota school system is known as being one of the top school systems in Florida. In fact, it’s one of only 2 school districts in Florida to have ALWAYS received an A-rating since ratings began back in 2004 and more than 60% of the teachers hold masters degrees or higher.
Popular Neighborhoods in Sarasota
There are many wonderful neighborhoods around Sarasota perfect for every budget and type of family.
From charming and vibrant historic areas of downtown, award-winning master-planned communities such as Lakewood Ranch, affordable family-oriented neighborhoods, golf course communities, city high-rise condos, and luxurious waterfront estates.
We’ve broken down some of the most popular neighborhoods in Sarasota to live and relocate and what makes them so appealing.
FEATURED HOMES FOR SALE in Sarasota
Customize Your Search
Click on the Map Below to Explore Sarasota’s Top Neighborhoods
Learn More About Popular Sarasota Neighborhoods Below
Lakewood Ranch
The #1 master-planned community in the US. Lakewood Ranch is like a city within itself. At over 50 square miles with multiple town centers, onsite shopping and dining, 4 golf courses, parks, 150 miles of trails, hotels and even a hospital.
Palmer Ranch
This 10,000 acres master-planned community consists of more than 90 subdivisions. Palmer Ranch is great if you love outdoor recreation. The Legacy Trail goes right through the area, and Potter Park is a 37 acre park within the community that includes the local YMCA and has many activities.
The Meadows
Centrally located in Sarasota and convenient to the interstate and downtown, The Meadows is a fantastic relaxed family neighborhood with a top rated golf course and country club with fantastic family-friendly amenities.
The Landings
Located between the 2 Siesta Key bridges along the bay, The Landings Racquet Club has some of the best tennis facilities in the area, as well as pickle ball, fitness facilities, and a pool and spa.
Arlington Park
One of the hottest urban up-and-coming locations just south of downtown and East of Tamiami trail. Within the neighborhood is the actual Arlington Park, a beloved city park with lap pool, basketball and tennis courts, indoor gym, and dog park.
Laurel Park
One of the oldest neighborhoods in Sarasota, this historic area is walking distance to downtown cafes, shopping, arts and entertainment.
Gulf Gate Estates
Gulf Gate Estates offers an affordable location that's just a few minutes from the beaches of Siesta Key! Shopping, dining, and downtown Sarasota are also just minutes away.
Gillespie Park
This charming urban neighborhood located just northeast of downtown Sarasota has homes dating back to the 1920's, and even cottages that are on Sarasota's historic registry.
Indian Beach / Sapphire Shores
One of the oldest neighborhoods in Sarasota located north of downtown between Tamiami Trail and the along the Bay. A mix of beautiful historic and modern homes.
Skye Ranch
One of the newest lifestyle community developments. Amenities include a 25,000 square foot clubhouse, 2 full-sized indoor basketball courts, fitness center, cafe, social spaces, a resort-style swimming pool and even a rock-climbing wall!
Golden Gate Pointe
This 22-acre peninsula has some of the best waterviews in town. Be in the heart of Sarasota's art scene as well as shops, dining. Boating enthusiasts will love the close proximity to the marina and nearby yacht club.
Old Forest Lakes
Wome of the largest lots in Sarasota , Homes in this area are nestled among large oak trees and many have lake views. It's a serene area that has a quiet neighborhood feel, yet is conveniently located.
Rosemary District
The Rosemary District is a trendy neighborhood in Sarasota that's walking distance to downtown. This area has a number of newer condos and townhomes and some higher-rise buildings may have views of the bay!
Bent Tree Village
Bent Tree Village is known for having affordable housing options along a lovely natural Golf Course setting. With homes dating back to the 70's and has continued to develop with modern homes as well.
Josh Wilson
REALTOR®
License # SL3486473
eXp Realty