Deliberating moving to Sarasota, the beach town of Florida, is what every nature enthusiast and person seeking a family-friendly environment craves. But what more does the city offer, making it more unique and special? Let’s find out!
Known as “Zara Zote,” Sarasota has a rich history dating back to Native American settlers and Spanish discovery in 1513, which became the winter home of the Ringling Brothers in 1911, leaving a lasting legacy. The city now features notable attractions like the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, and St. Armands Circle. Moreover, the city stands at 11th position in the US, being one of the best retirement places in FL.
The “Cultural Coast of Florida,” Sarasota also boasts warm weather, numerous art galleries, arts and crafts festivals throughout the season, and beautiful beaches supporting outdoor activities, including kayaking in mangroves, golfing, and exploring adventure courses attracting both locals and tourists.
So what are you waiting for? Read the entire blog post regarding Relocation to Sarasota, Florida, to gather more information.
Quick facts before moving to Sarasota, FL
Where is Sarasota, FL, Located?
Sarasota is on the southwest coast of Florida, south of the Greater Tampa Bay Area and north of Fort Myers and Punta Gorda.
Sarasota County is famous for cultural and environmental attractions, including islands between Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
Population in Sarasota, FL
As of 2023, the estimated population of Sarasota, Florida, is 56,003.
Diversity in Sarasota, FL
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the largest racial/ethnic groups in Sarasota are White (64.9%), Black or African American (14.9%), and Hispanic (8.99%).
The city has a diversity score of 70 out of 100, signifying higher diversity compared to other U.S. cities.
Cost of Living in Sarasota, FL
Recognized as the 5th best place to live in the United States in 2023 by U.S. News & World Report, Sarasota maintains its No. 1 position among Florida cities, with the cost of living 6% higher than the national average. As you move to Sarasota, Florida, here are the critical facts regarding the city’s cost of living.
- Sarasota is the 25th best city in the US, scoring 7.3 out of 10 based on factors like crime rate, housing costs, employment, education, and weather.
- The median household income in Sarasota County is $77,213, and the per capita income is $53,149.
- To live a comfortable life in Sarasota, a single adult needs an average annual cost of $37,143.
- The average Cost of living in Sarasota after tax is $2,943, covering living expenses for one month.
- For a detailed breakdown, a single adult requires an annual income before taxes of $35,786, while two working adults with no children need $50,856. These figures may vary based on lifestyle and personal expenses.
The table below describes the cost of living index of Sarasota, Florida.
| Cost of Living Factor | Value |
| Cost of Living Index (COLI) | 102.9 |
| Housing Index | 22% more expensive |
| Grocery Index | 101 |
| Healthcare Index | 98.5 |
| Utilities Index | 99 |
How Is the Housing Market in Sarasota, FL?
The Sarasota housing market has been competitive with notable price fluctuations. The average house price has significantly increased, while the median sale price has slightly decreased. Homeownership rates are moderate, and the cost per square foot has risen.
If you’re wondering whether to buy or rent a home after moving to Sarasota, Florida, check out the housing market stats for the city.
- Last month, the average house price in Sarasota, FL, was $989K, a 126.2% increase from last year.
- The median sale price In Sarasota, Florida, was $486K, a price decrease of 3.3% since the past year.
- The homeownership rate in Sarasota, FL, is 56.7% in 2022, with approximately 43.5% of residents possibly being renters.
- Sarasota’s median sale price per square foot is $341, up 5.4%.
Average rental price in Sarasota, FL
- Studio apartment: Approximately $2,167 per month
- 1-bedroom apartment: Approximately $1,810 per month
- 2-bedroom apartment: Approximately $2,213 per month
- 3-bedroom home: Approximately $4,434 per month
How is the job market in Sarasota, FL?
If owning a job position after moving to Sarasota is your concern, here’s what you need to know about the city’s job market and salary situations.
- Sarasota, FL, anticipates a future job growth of 44.6% over the next ten years, exceeding the US average by 11 percentage points.
- As of 2023, Sarasota boasts a 3.20% unemployment rate, demonstrating a healthy job market compared to the long-term average of 5.31%.
- The average annual salary in Sarasota varies, with ZipRecruiter reporting $44,468 and Payscale citing around $66,000.
What are the top employers in Sarasota, FL
- Sarasota Memorial Health Care System
- PGT Innovations
- Sun Hydraulics
- FCCI Insurance Group
- Ringling College of Art and Design
- Publix
- Sarasota County Schools
- Roper Technologies
- Tropicana Products, Inc.
- HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital
What are the most common job titles in Sarasota, FL
- Sales Associate
- Customer Service Representative
- Cashier
- Certified Nursing Assistant
- Server
- Administrative Assistant
- Internship
- Retail Salespersons
- Waiters and Waitresses
- Cashiers
Highest paying jobs in Sarasota, FL
- Podiatrists
- Personal Financial Advisors
- General Dentists
- Compensation and Benefits Managers
- Chief Executives
- Pharmacists
- Purchasing Managers
- Optometrists
- Architectural and Engineering Managers
- Sales Managers
How safe is it to live in Sarasota, FL?
If you’re moving to Sarasota, Florida with your family, you might be wondering what types of crime the city has, how to get rid of it, and which neighborhoods are the safest. Below stated are the key details of the city’s crime and safety stats.
- Sarasota, Florida, has a crime rate higher than the national average, with 35 incidents per one thousand residents, resulting in a one in 28 chance of being a victim of either violent or property crime.
- Sarasota is ranked 7th in the Safest Places to Live in the U.S.
- The violent crime rate in Sarasota is 6.46 per 1,000 residents, leading to a one in 155 chance of becoming a victim.
- Property crime in Sarasota occurs at a rate of 28.72 per 1,000 population, resulting in a relatively high chance of being a victim compared to other U.S. communities.
- Around 67% of respondents feel safe in Sarasota, while 28% feel very safe. However, 6% feel somewhat safe.
- Regarding law enforcement, 44% of respondents believe the police are visible and responsive, while 28% think they are visible but respond slowly when needed.
Top Safest Neighborhoods in Sarasota, FL
Safest Neighborhoods in Sarasota, Florida:
- Bee Ridge
- Fruitville
- Osprey
- South Gate Ridge
- South Sarasota
- Saddle Creek
- Palmer Ranch South
- Lakewood/Serenoa
- Gulf Gate
- Vamo (Tropical Shores)
- Granada Park
How Fast Can You Commute in Sarasota, FL?
Commuting in Sarasota, FL, takes around 23 minutes on average, shorter than the U.S. average of 26.4 minutes.
List available public transportation in Sarasota, FL
- Breeze Transit Services: Breeze Transit, formerly known as SCAT, operates buses and trolleys with fixed routes covering Sarasota, Siesta Key, and Bradenton. The Breeze Siesta Key is a free trolley running between Siesta Village and Turtle Beach daily.
- Breeze OnDemand Rideshare: Breeze Transit’s OnDemand service offers curb-to-curb rides from Downtown Sarasota to St. Armands, Lido Key, Longboat Key, Siesta Key, and Venice.
- Breeze Plus Eligibility Service: Breeze Transit provides Breeze Plus, an eligibility-based service with Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAV) and vehicles equipped with bicycle racks.
- Additional Transportation Options: Sarasota has taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. For short distances, bike rentals are another convenient option.
How’s the weather in Sarasota, FL?
Sarasota, Florida, has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and milder winters, although its four seasons are less distinct than in temperate climates. As you’re relocating to Sarasota, FL, learn the weather and climate bulletin for the entire year from the stats below:
- The city receives an average annual rainfall of about 52.5 inches, with the summer months being the wettest.
- Snowfall in Sarasota is sporadic, with occasional flurries or light dusting, but these occurrences are uncommon.
- Sarasota boasts an average of 252 sunny days per year, making it a popular choice for those seeking a sunny climate.
- August is the hottest month, with an average high temperature of 92°F, while January is the coldest month, with an average low temperature of 52°F.
How is the Education in Sarasota, FL?
Thanks to its excellent education system, Sarasota has become one of the best places for families to live in Florida.
- Sarasota, FL, schools are ranked No. 1 in Florida, receiving an A+ for college prep and an A for academics, diversity, clubs/activities, and administration.
- Based on math and reading proficiency test scores, the Sarasota School District is in the top 10% of all Florida school districts.
- The average tuition & fees for colleges in Sarasota are $6,689 for in-state and $26,084 for out-of-state students.
- For lower division courses at the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, in-state residents pay $102.48 per credit hour, while out-of-state residents pay $386.52.
- Sarasota County Schools include 62 schools serving 42,618 students, with a student-teacher ratio 15:1.
- Another source reports the average student-teacher ratio in Sarasota County as 14.58, lower than the Florida state average of 18:1.
What are the best schools in Sarasota, FL?
Best Middle Schools in Sarasota, FL
- Pine View School
- Sarasota Middle School
- Laurel Nokomis School
- Student Leadership Academy
- Sarasota School of Arts/Sciences
- McIntosh Middle School
Best Elementary Schools in Sarasota, FL
- Pine View School
- Ashton Elementary School
- Phillippi Shores Elementary School
- Southside Elementary School
- Fruitville Elementary School
Best High Schools in Sarasota, FL
- Pine View School
- Suncoast Polytechnical High School
- Riverview High School
- Venice Senior High School
- Sarasota Military Academy
- North Port High School
Best Universities and Colleges in Sarasota, FL
- University of South Florida
- New College of Florida
- State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota
- Ringling College of Art and Design
- Eckerd College
What are the best things to do in Sarasota, FL?
The famous attractions and best things to see in Sarasota, FL, are:
- Explore a variety of exhibits, including a Venetian-inspired mansion and a miniature Ringling Bros. Circus at The Ringling.
- Experience Sarasota Bay’s tranquil atmosphere and scenic views at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, featuring kid-friendly areas like the Butterfly Garden and Children’s Rainforest.
- Dive into the world of marine life at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, a must-visit for enthusiasts.
- Shop and dine at St. Armands Circle, a destination adorned with art galleries.
- Discover Myakka River State Park’s natural wonders, parks, gardens, and hiking trails.
- Take a stroll along Sarasota Bayfront Park, featuring sailboats, birds, dolphins, a walking trail, and a fountain.
- Enjoy a captivating performance at the renowned Sarasota Ballet.
- Visit the local farmers market for fresh produce and crafts.
- Try your hand at a unique experience with axe throwing at Hatchet Hangout.
- Relax on the white-sand beaches and enjoy the clear waters of Longboat Key.
Best Neighborhoods in Sarasota, FL
The best places to live in Sarasota, FL, are:
- Saddle Creek
- Palmer Ranch South
- Lakewood/Serenoa
- Downtown Sarasota
- Siesta Key
- Longboat Key/St Armands Circle
- Lakewood Ranch
- The Oaks
- Gillespie Park
- Gulf Gate
- Southgate
- Arlington Park
- Rosemary District
What are the Pros and Cons of Living in Sarasota, FL?
Since you’re moving to Sarasota, FL, learn the pros and cons of living of the city from the table summarized below:
| Pros | Cons |
| Warm and sunny weather | High heat and humidity |
| Thriving arts and cultural scene | High cost of living |
| Beautiful beaches | Tourist crowds |
| Quality healthcare system | Traffic congestion |
| High-quality schools | Hurricanes and tropical storms |
| No state income tax | Rental costs are high |
| Vibrant tourism sector | Snowbirds and tourists can increase congestion |
| Plenty of outdoor activities | Rising cost of everything |
| Great restaurants and dining options | |
| Diverse neighborhoods |
Conclusion
If you have made up your mind to move to Florida, Sarasota will be a suitable place for you and your family. With no income tax, warm weather, arts, white sand beaches, numerous water activities, and tons of attractions, it is clear why so many people are flocking to this city for a living. Therefore, if this place is ideal for you, pack your bag now.