Everything You Need to Know About Sarasota Before Moving

If you're considering moving to Sarasota, FL, in 2024, don't make a decision before checking this ultimate guide with everything you need to know about this city.

With over 500,000 residents in Sarasota County, this area made it to the top five relocation destinations in the entire country. But why is Sarasota drawing so many people here?

For me, this question can be answered by simply stating that it's because of the lifestyle.

My family and I moved here in the summer of 1999 from Massachusetts, and from that day, I witnessed the city evolve in many ways while retaining its essence and popular attractions.

The Unbeatable Sarasota Lifestyle

We can't discuss the city's lifestyle without starting with its beaches.

Sarasota is home to the number two beach in the United States, Siesta Key Beach. According to TripAdvisor, it is also the 11th top beach in the world, making the list for the second consecutive year.

But what makes this beach so special?

It's undoubtedly the powdery white sand composed almost entirely of quartz, which is why it's so brilliantly white. Moreover, there's nothing quite like a sunset over the Gulf of Mexico on Siesta Key, truly representing the Sarasota lifestyle.

Of course, Sarasota also boasts other gorgeous beaches to visit, such as Longboat Key, Lido Key, and all the way down to Venice, each one unique and ranked among the top beaches in the United States.

Additionally, within Sarasota County, you'll find the islands and keys, such as Casey Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key, Bird Key, and Longboat Key, being the most popular coastal destinations and attractions.

For example, in St. Armands, you've got St. Armands Circle, a popular shopping and dining destination within walking distance from Lido Key Beach, where you can dine at one of Sarasota's best restaurants and minutes later be on the beach to watch the sunset.

But that's not all.

You've also got downtown Sarasota situated right on the coast, an area that has flourished in recent years and is thriving in the restaurant, arts, and cultural scene. Residents can enjoy the walkable lifestyle while appreciating the food and culture without the hustle and bustle of a typical downtown area.

So, you have the beaches, the islands and keys, downtown Sarasota, numerous dining places, a robust arts and culture scene, and, of course, the water life and open natural spaces.

The watersports and waterfront living Sarasota offers are endless, with a lively boating scene and numerous properties with water views within the area.

Living in Sarasota is akin to embracing an outdoor lifestyle year-round, not only because of its beaches but also its parks and trails.

Filled with beautiful parks, playgrounds, walking trails, and more, you have Celery Fields, an exercise trail in East Sarasota renowned for bird watching; Nathan Benderson Park, a community hub with its walking path; and Bayfront Park with restaurants, a marina, splash pad, and playground.

You can truly expect to see people enjoying the outdoors on any given day, but you can also find a few attractions with annual memberships, such as Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, Sarasota Jungle Gardens, and more.

Sarasota's Facilities

Now, let's discuss the weather, traffic, healthcare system, and other facilities you'll find living in Sarasota.

Some might love it, and some might dislike it, but if you're relocating here, you can expect to experience very hot and humid weather, especially in the summer between July and August when the average temperature can reach 90°F (32°C).

During September, you can expect over 78% humidity, but the rest of the year offers amazing weather, especially from October to April, which is absolutely beautiful and allows you to enjoy outdoor activities without worry.

However, nothing compares to the increasing traffic during early spring and winter months when shopping areas like the University Town Center get very crowded, with restaurants downtown and on the islands and keys quickly getting booked up. No matter which part of Sarasota you're in, you will experience traffic.

On the other hand, we have an incredible healthcare system, with Sarasota Memorial Hospital being recognized by U.S. News & World Report and receiving national rankings in more than one area.

We also have Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, Sarasota Doctors Hospital, and Venice Regional Bayfront Health.

The Housing Market

Besides all that, what truly defines your Sarasota lifestyle is the area you choose since you could easily be living in a bayfront high-rise condo on one side of town or in a home raising chickens and cows on the other side.

Sarasota has a wide variety of real estate options.

You've got waterfront property options with real estate along the bayfront and the Gulf of Mexico, including the islands and keys. These homes range from luxury single-family residences to condos to old Florida beach cottages.

Some popular neighborhoods include Palmer Ranch and Lakewood Ranch, which consist mostly of communities with active HOAs, gated entries, and maintenance-free lawn care, community pools, tennis courts, and so on.

Additionally, Sarasota has been receiving many new construction neighborhoods offering all kinds of resort-style amenities, like pools and splash pads.

But if your main concern is avoiding an HOA, you can also find neighborhoods without one throughout Southgate, Gulfgate, Sarasota Springs, and downtown Sarasota, along with numerous condominium options.

On the other hand, if you're looking for more acreage, Sarasota isn't just a small beach town, you can find country homes here.

As you travel east, you'll find a majority of homes with ample acreage to build your own little farm.

Considering the diversity of housing options and the numerous amenities the city offers, it may not be considered affordable for some.

According to bestplaces.net, the Sarasota housing market ranks 14% higher than the national average, even though it doesn't have the most expensive housing in Florida.

Who Is Sarasota For (And Not For)?

On one hand, we've got a city with access to some of the most beautiful beaches and a thriving outdoor lifestyle with so much to do.

But on the other hand, we've got a city that is becoming more popular with increased traffic and population at a higher price point, especially due to its growing demand.

Either way, if you've just started your research on Florida, I have the perfect resource for you. All you have to do is click here to download my Sarasota relocation guide, a one-stop shop that breaks down the different areas and lifestyles of the region.

If you have more questions or if you're already looking for a house, my team and I would love to jump on a call with you and help you every step of the way. Make sure you reach out to me at:

Email - info@mattleicht.com
Cell - 941.256.3321

You can also subscribe to my YouTube channel for updates on lifestyle, real estate, and so much more in Sarasota, Florida.