Sarasota, Florida, often called the “Cultural Coast,” is a stunning Gulf Coast city known for its white sand beaches, vibrant arts scene, and exceptional quality of life.
Home to diverse neighborhoods, Sarasota offers lifestyle options from luxury waterfront properties to family-friendly suburbs. Sarasota has something for everyone, whether you’re moving for work, retirement, or a higher quality of life.
This guide highlights the best neighborhoods in Sarasota, FL, focusing on its housing market, cost of living, amenities, and what makes each area unique.
Why Consider Moving to Sarasota?
Before diving into specific neighborhoods, let’s explore why Sarasota is one of the most desirable places to live in Florida:
- Climate: Sarasota’s tropical climate is one of its major draws, offering year-round sunshine. Summers are hot and humid, with daily temperatures averaging 86°F. Winters are mild, with temperatures averaging below 74°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities whenever the mood strikes.
- Top Beaches: Siesta Key Beach, Lido Beach, and Longboat Key consistently rank among the best beaches in the country.
- Thriving Arts and Culture Scene: Sarasota is home to the Ringling Museum, the Sarasota Opera, and countless galleries and theaters.
- Job Market: Sarasota’s economy is supported by a thriving tourism industry, as well as strong healthcare, retail, and education sectors.
- Appeal to Retiree: Warm weather, a slower pace of life, and excellent healthcare facilities make Sarasota one of the best neighborhoods in Sarasota, FL, for retirees.
- Outdoor Lifestyle: Enjoy year-round sunshine, bird watching, nature trails, and watersports.
- Top Schools and Healthcare: Sarasota boasts highly rated public and private schools and state-of-the-art healthcare facilities like Southside Elementary School and Ashton Elementary School.
Sarasota also offers a favorable tax structure, enhancing its appeal for residents and retirees:
- Property Taxes: At approximately 0.80%, Sarasota’s property tax rate is below the national average. Furthermore, Florida’s Homestead Exemption reduces taxable value by up to $50,000, with the Save Our Homes Cap limiting annual increases.
- Sales Tax: The total rate is 7% (6% state + 1% county), the standard for Florida.
- Income Tax: Florida has no state income tax, a significant benefit for workers and retirees.
- Tourist Development Tax: Short-term rentals are subject to a 6% tax.
Cost of Living in Sarasota
Understanding the cost of living in Sarasota is essential before choosing your neighborhood:
- Median Sale Price: In Sarasota, FL, the median home sale price is around $711,000.
- Transportation Costs: Gas prices in Florida average $2.990 per gallon.
- Food: Food costs in Sarasota are about 3% higher than the national average.
- Healthcare Costs: Sarasota Memorial Hospital and other local facilities offer high-quality care. Healthcare in Sarasota costs 2% above the national average.
Best Neighborhoods to Live in Sarasota, FL
Downtown Sarasota
Downtown Sarasota is a vibrant hub featuring luxury condos, fine dining, and an array of nearby cultural attractions like the Ringling Museum and Florida Studio Theatre.
Housing Market
- Median Sale Price: The median sale price is $1.25M.
- New Construction Homes: New luxury developments like The DeMarcay offer modern living spaces across 39 properties.
Cost of Living
- Groceries: Prices are 3% higher than the national average.
- Transportation: Public transit is accessible, and many residents also use bikes. On average, one gallon of gasoline costs around $3.33.
Places to Eat
Owen’s Fish Camp for Southern-style seafood or Mattison’s City Grille for Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Siesta Key
Siesta Key is famous for its pristine beaches and laid-back vibe. Ideal for beach lovers, the neighborhood offers vacation rentals and permanent residences. The cost of living in Siesta Key is 6% higher than the national average.
Housing Market
- Median Sale Price: Homes here typically start at $1.45M.
- New Construction Homes: Beachfront condos and custom-built homes with open layouts and modern amenities can range up to $9.45M.
Cost of Living
- Food: Groceries are 14.5% higher than the national average. Coastal dining options are also plentiful. Annually, one might spend around $12,655 on food.
- Transportation: The small island (3.5 square miles) is easily navigable by personal vehicles. Expect to spend around $15,416 annually on transportation. Many residents rely on the Siesta Key Trolley for free transportation around the Island.
Places to Eat
Enjoy fresh seafood at The Lobster Pot or grab a casual meal at Daiquiri Deck.
Bird Key
Bird Key is an exclusive island community offering some of Sarasota’s most luxurious waterfront properties.
Housing Market
- Median Home Value: The median home value in Bird Key is $3.4M.
- New Construction Homes: Custom-built estates dominate the market. The current median listing price for new construction homes stands at $4.35M.
Cost of Living
- Groceries: Due to the neighborhood’s exclusivity, groceries are 2% higher than the state average.
- Transportation: Bird Key is a short drive from Downtown Sarasota and St. Armands Circle. Transportation is also 2% cheaper than the state average.
Places to Eat
Enjoy dining at Blue Dolphin Cafe or relax at Cha Cha Coconuts near Bird Key.
Lakewood Ranch
Lakewood Ranch is known for its exceptional schools, parks, and recreational facilities, offering residents a high standard of living.
Housing Market:
- Median sale price: The average median home price is $695,000.
- New Construction Homes: Many homes in Lakewood Ranch are newly built, with modern designs and energy-efficient features. The median price for new construction homes is $620K.
Cost of Living
- Taxes: Lakewood Ranch's property tax rate of 1.13% is slightly lower than Florida's median rate of 1.14% but still higher than the national median of 0.99%.
- Food: The annual expenditure for food for a single person in Lakewood Ranch is approximately $6,244.
Places to Eat
Enjoy casual dining at B & B Chophouse or vibrant brunch spots like the Paris Bistro.
Lido Key
Lido Key, just off Sarasota’s mainland, is a popular island destination that offers an upscale coastal lifestyle. Lido Beach and the nearby St. Armands Circle provide various recreational and dining options, making it a favorite for those seeking relaxation and sophistication.
Housing Market
- Median Sale Price: The median sale price is $575K.
- New Construction Homes: New developments, including luxury condos and beachfront homes, are available at a range of prices.
Cost of Living
- Groceries: Groceries are 2% higher than the state average.
- Healthcare: Healthcare costs 7% more than the state average.
Places to Eat
Enjoy local food at Drift Kitchen & Bar or dine at Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant and Bar for a more upscale experience.
Best Neighborhoods in Sarasota for Families
Sarasota, Florida offers families a range of neighborhoods that combine safety, affordability, and access to quality amenities.
Nokomis
Located south of Sarasota, Nokomis offers a more tranquil, rural feel. It is ideal for families looking for a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to the beach and downtown Sarasota.
- Housing Market: Nokomis's median sale price is around $448,565.
- New Construction Homes: New homes are available in planned communities like Sorrento East and start at $391,000.
Cost of Living:
- Cost of Living: The cost of living is 4% higher than the national average.
- Utilities: Residents can expect an expenditure of $204.27 per month for energy consumption.
Places to Eat
Head to Nokomo's Sunset Hut or dine at Pelican Alley for local seafood and views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Desoto Lakes
Desoto Lakes is a charming, peaceful neighborhood located just north of Sarasota. Known for its relatively affordable housing options and proximity to downtown Sarasota and the beaches, it offers a peaceful lifestyle with comfortable access to urban amenities.
Housing Market
- Median Listing Home Price: Median Homes in Nokomis average around $430,000.
- New Construction Homes: Modern homes start at around $310,000, catering to first-time buyers and young families.
Cost of Living
- Cost of Living: in Desoto Lakes is 5.3% higher than the national average
- Healthcare: Healthcare is 4.7% higher than the national average.
- Food: Groceries are 1.7% higher than the nation average. The average annual food costs are $3,606 for a single adult and $10,412 for a family of four.
- Transportation: Desoto Lakes residents spend an average of $9,243 annually on transportation, below the national average of $9,760.
Places to Eat
Enjoy a relaxed meal at Boca or Penny’s Diner for a casual dining experience.
The Meadows
The Meadows is a lush, golf-oriented community with expansive green spaces, lakes, and scenic nature trails. Located just east of downtown Sarasota, it offers a peaceful retreat while close to city amenities.
- Average Home Value: Homes are valued at $337,000.
- New Construction Homes: There are a variety of newly constructed homes in the area.
- Cost of Living: The annual expenditure for healthcare and groceries averages around $6,662 and $12,655.
Places to Eat
The Meadows Country Club offers an elegant dining experience, while the local favorite, Peculiar Pub, provides a variety of popular dishes.
Best Neighborhoods in Sarasota, FL for Retirees
Sarasota, Florida is a top choice for retirees due to its blend of natural magnificence, cultural richness, and high-quality amenities. Its desirable climate, with year-round sunshine and mild winters, encourages an active, outdoor lifestyle, while its world-renowned beaches, like Siesta Key and Lido Beach, offer relaxation and scenic views.
Sarasota also provides access to top-tier healthcare, including Sarasota Memorial Hospital, among other facilities.
With no state income tax and competitive property taxes, Sarasota is financially appealing to retirees. Its welcoming community and opportunities for outdoor activities, such as walking the Legacy Trail or enjoying fishing and boating, make it a retirement destination that caters to diverse interests and lifestyles.
Here are the best neighborhoods in Sarasota, FL for retirees:
Palmer Ranch
Palmer Ranch is a master-planned community featuring family-friendly amenities, parks, and top-rated schools.
Housing Market
- Median Sale Price: The median sale price is $481,000.
- New Construction Homes: Gated communities like Sandhill Preserve offer modern designs with an average price of $802,133.
Cost of Living
- Taxes: Property tax rates average 0.80% of the assessed home value.
- Groceries: Annual grocery costs for an individual are around $6,244
- Utilities: Annual utilities costs are $3,088.
- Transportation: Easy access to I-75 US Route 41 makes commuting convenient. Furthermore, the Legacy Trail and the Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) make travel within Palmer Ranch efficient.
Places to Eat
Visit Origin Pizza, a beer cafe, or Cafe Barbosso for an exquisite Italian experience.
Gulf Gate Estates
Gulf Gate Estates is a diverse neighborhood known for its affordability and proximity to Sarasota’s beaches and downtown area.
Housing Market
- Median Sale Price: The median sale price in Gulf Gate Estates is $370K.
- New Construction Homes: Modern townhomes start at $345K, catering to first-time buyers.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living is about 6% higher than the national average.
- Groceries: For a family of two, groceries should cost around $10,024.
- Utilities: For a family of two, utilities should cost around $4,511.
Places to Eat
- Try Food + Beer for a casual meal or Dolce Italia for authentic Italian cuisine.
Laurel Park
Laurel Park is a historic district known for its walkability, unique architecture, and artsy vibe. It appeals to retirees who value culture and community.
- Housing Market: The median home sale price is approximately $428K, with charming bungalows and modern townhomes.
- Cost of Living: About 6% higher than the national average.
- Groceries: For a family of two, groceries cost approximately $10,024.
- Utilites: For a family of two, utilities should run about $4,811.
- Healthcare: Annual healthcare expenditure for an individual costs $3,728.
Places to Eat
Visit Owen’s Fish Camp for fresh seafood.
Finding the Perfect Neighborhood in Sarasota
Sarasota offers a variety of neighborhoods tailored to different lifestyles. If you’re looking for the best neighborhoods in Sarasota, FL for families, Nokomis and Desoto Lakes are excellent choices. In contrast, Palmer Ranch and Gulf Gate Estates provide peaceful yet vibrant retirement options.
Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly community with excellent schools, a luxurious waterfront retreat, or a peaceful haven for retirement, Sarasota’s neighborhoods have something for everyone.
FAQ
Which Sarasota neighborhood is best for families?
Nokomis is excellent for families, with parks, top-rated schools, and affordable housing options.
Where can I find luxury waterfront homes in Sarasota?
Bird Key and Siesta Key are prime locations for luxurious waterfront properties.
Is Sarasota a good choice for retirees?
Absolutely! Downtown Sarasota and Longboat Key offer peaceful settings, cultural attractions, and retiree-friendly amenities.
Why is Siesta Key so popular?
Siesta Key’s powdery white sand beaches and relaxed lifestyle make it a favorite for residents and visitors.
