When it comes to finding the perfect place to call home in the Sunshine State, Sarasota is a great option. Boasting famous beaches, lush greenery, and a wealth of amenities, it offers something for everyone.
From charming historic districts like Laurel Park to luxurious planned communities such as Lakewood Ranch and The Oaks, there’s no shortage of beautiful homes and family-friendly environments in the Sarasota neighborhoods.
For those seeking an urban lifestyle with easy access to entertainment and dining options, downtown Sarasota offers vibrant living spaces amidst cultural attractions.
In addition to these top-rated Sarasota neighborhoods around Sarasota County and Manatee County, borders like North Port or Palmer Ranch near Siesta Key Beach are also popular among residents who value convenience while enjoying the natural beauty surrounding them.
Best Sarasota Neighborhoods
Let’s take a deeper look at these neighborhoods.
Laurel Park
- Population: 1,200
- Median Income: $53,000
- Median Home Price: $450K
Laurel Park is an enchanting area not far from Sarasota Bay that offers a beguiling mix of old-world appeal and cutting-edge luxuries. With its tree-lined streets and well-maintained single-family homes dating back to the 1920s, Laurel Park attracts families, young professionals, and retirees alike. The main features that make Laurel Park one of the best Sarasota neighborhoods are:
- Laurel Park Recreation Center: This community center features a playground for children as well as tennis courts for residents to enjoy.
- Towles Court Artist Colony: A vibrant arts district located within walking distance from Laurel Park, offering art galleries, studios, shops, and restaurants.
- Pet-friendly: Many areas within Laurel Park are pet-friendly, with several parks nearby where dogs can roam off-leash.
Families living in Laurel Park have access to top-rated schools such as Southside Elementary School, Brookside Middle School, and Sarasota High School. Local parks in this area include Lukewood Park, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and Payne Park.
For healthcare needs, Sarasota Memorial Hospital is just a short drive away, providing comprehensive medical services to the community.
Laurel Park’s central location in Sarasota offers easy access to major employers such as Ringling College of Art and Design, New College of Florida, and various businesses within downtown Sarasota.
Additionally, its close vicinity to I-75 makes it a great option for those needing to travel daily from Laurel Park to nearby locations such as Bradenton or Tampa.
Downtown Sarasota
- Population: 10,000
- Median Income: $45,073
- Median Home Price: $385K
Downtown Sarasota is the heart of this beautiful city, on the banks of Sarasota Bay and offers a vibrant urban lifestyle for its residents. From luxury condos to historic homes and modern apartment buildings, it offers a wide range of housing options for homebuyers in the Sarasota real estate market.
This is one of the best Sarasota neighborhoods for professionals seeking an exciting city life or retirees looking to downsize enjoy their golden years surrounded by culture and entertainment.The downtown area boasts some of the best amenities and attractions in Sarasota, such as:
- Main Street: This lively street features various shops and restaurants with diverse cuisines, like Indigenous Restaurant or Selva Grill, offering Peruvian-inspired dishes.
- Farmers Market: Every Saturday morning, you’ll find fresh produce from local farmers at Lemon Avenue Farmers Market, which takes place between First Street and State Street.
- Burns Court Historic District: This charming district has preserved early 20th-century architecture showcasing unique boutiques and cafes such as Owen’s Fish Camp, where you can savor delicious seafood dishes.
For healthcare needs, Sarasota Memorial Hospital is just a few minutes away from downtown and offers comprehensive medical services.
The downtown neighborhood provides ample job opportunities with major employers such as Publix Super Markets Inc., PGT Innovations, and FCCI Insurance Group headquartered nearby. The city’s thriving tourism industry also creates numerous jobs in the hospitality and retail sectors.
Fruitville
- Population: 13,244
- Median Income: $61,250
- Median Home Price: $259.9K
Fruitville is a rapidly growing neighborhood in Sarasota County offering residents an ideal mix of suburban living and urban convenience just minutes from downtown. Fruitville’s appeal lies in its combination of suburban living, proximity to downtown Sarasota, and its family-friendly atmosphere and top-notch schools. Top places to visit in the neighborhood include:
- Fruitville Grove Farm Market: A local favorite offering fresh produce from regional farmers along with homemade jams and honey.
- Nathan Benderson Park: This world-class rowing facility hosts international competitions while also providing space for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, running, or cycling around the lake.
- Rothenbach Park: Featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, and more – perfect for families looking to spend a day outdoors.
Fruitville is served by the highly-rated Sarasota County School District, which includes top-performing schools such as Tatum Ridge Elementary, McIntosh Middle School, and Sarasota High School.
For higher education opportunities, nearby colleges include the State College of Florida (SCF) and the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee (USFSM).
Fruitville residents can commute to downtown Sarasota or other nearby cities like Bradenton for work opportunities in industries such as healthcare, education, tourism, and technology.
Professionals who want suburban living with urban convenience will find that this growing community offers everything they need.
Siesta Key
- Population: 6,565
- Median Income: $77,898
- Median Home Price: $637.5K
Siesta Key is a picturesque barrier island located off the coast of Sarasota, FL. This neighborhood offers residents an unparalleled lifestyle with its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Top public beaches in this Sarasota neighborhood include:
- Crescent Beach
- Sarasota Beach
Siesta Key is known for its laid-back atmosphere and vibrant local culture that includes numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
Siesta Key features a wide range of real estate, with homes for sale that cater to different preferences and budgets. From luxurious waterfront estates to charming beach cottages or modern condominiums with resort-style amenities – there’s something for everyone here.
For potential homebuyers interested in investment opportunities or vacation rental income generation – this neighborhood also boasts a thriving short-term rental market due to its popularity among tourists year-round.
Siesta Key is an ideal neighborhood for retirees seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle and families looking to raise their children in a safe, family-friendly community with top-rated schools.
Professionals working in downtown Sarasota will also appreciate its convenient location just minutes away from the city center via Stickney Point Bridge or Siesta Drive.
Gillespie Park
- Population: 3,000
- Median Income: $45,900
- Median Home Price: $375K
Located north of Sarasota, Gillespie Park is a picturesque area with an array of bungalows and modern homes set amidst abundant vegetation. Gillespie Park is perfect for families who appreciate the outdoors and want to be close to urban amenities. Relocators to this Sarasota neighborhood should visit:
- Gillespie Park’s namesake park features walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a pond where residents can fish or simply enjoy nature.
- The vibrant arts scene in nearby Downtown Sarasota with galleries like the Art Center Sarasota and The Ringling Museum of Art.
- An array of dining options ranging from casual cafes to fine-dining establishments within minutes from your doorstep.
- Easily accessible public transportation via the SCAT bus system makes commuting convenient for professionals working in other parts of Sarasota County.
For higher education opportunities, Ringling College of Art + Design and New College of Florida are just a short drive away. Residents of Gillespie Park can easily access Sarasota Memorial Hospital, a top-tier medical center in the area.
Gillespie Park’s proximity to downtown Sarasota means that major employers like Sarasota Memorial Health Care System, Publix Super Markets, and local government offices are within easy reach. Additionally, many small businesses thrive in this area due to its strong sense of community support.
North Port
- Population: 68,628
- Median Income: $57,559
- Median Home Price: $215K
North Port, a rapidly expanding suburban city in southern Sarasota County, offers an array of housing options to suit any budget.
Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of parks and recreational facilities available in North Port. The city manages numerous parks throughout the area that offer playgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails, sports fields, and more.
One notable park is Warm Mineral Springs Park, which features a natural spring known for its therapeutic mineral waters. Other attractions include:
- CoolToday Park: The new home stadium for Atlanta Braves Spring Training games also hosts concerts and other events throughout the year.
- Heron Creek Golf Course: This challenging 27-hole golf course offers beautiful scenery along with an elegant clubhouse featuring dining options.
- Town Center Mall: An outdoor shopping center offering popular retail stores as well as restaurants like Panera Bread or Buffalo Wild Wings.
The area is home to several elementary, middle, and high schools that have received high ratings from GreatSchools. For healthcare needs, the Sarasota Memorial Hospital North Port ER provides emergency medical services to residents.
Major employers in the area include Sarasota County Government, PGT Industries (manufacturer of impact-resistant windows), King Plastic Corporation (producer of polymer sheets), and Turbine Generator Maintenance Inc., among others.
This thriving job market makes North Port an excellent choice for professionals seeking employment opportunities close to a variety of homes in comfortable golf course communities.
Lakewood Ranch
- Population: 31,000
- Median Income: $95,000
- Median Home Price: $450K
Located in the heart of Sarasota and Manatee counties, just east of Interstate 75, Lakewood Ranch is a master-planned community offering exceptional quality of life for its residents.
With its excellent educational institutions, plentiful recreational areas, and various dining and shopping choices nearby, Lakewood Ranch offers a superior lifestyle to its residents. Top spots in the community include:
- Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club: Featuring three championship golf courses designed by Arnold Palmer and Victor McLoughlin.
- Main Street at Lakewood Ranch: A vibrant shopping district with boutiques, restaurants, entertainment venues like movie theaters, and more.
- Premier Sports Campus: A multi-purpose sports facility offering soccer fields and other amenities for various athletic events.
- Parks: Numerous parks throughout the community provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking trails or playgrounds for children.
Lakewood Ranch is home to several highly rated public schools within the Manatee County School District, including Willis Elementary School, Gullett Elementary School, and Lakewood Ranch High School.
Lakewood Ranch homes for sale are ideal for families with children due to its top-rated schools and numerous recreational opportunities.
Retirees will also find this neighborhood appealing because of its active adult communities like Del Webb at Lakewood Ranch, which offer maintenance-free living along with various amenities tailored specifically for seniors.
Professionals working in Sarasota or Bradenton can enjoy a short commute while still having access to all the perks offered by this master-planned community.
The Oaks
- Population:1,000
- Median Income: $100,000
- Median Home Price: $500K
Located in the southern part of Sarasota County, The Oaks is an exclusive gated community that offers a luxurious lifestyle for its residents.
Boasting some of the most luxurious homes in Sarasota County, The Oaks provides its residents with a private and peaceful atmosphere.
The Oaks features numerous amenities to cater to various interests. For golf enthusiasts, there are two championship golf courses designed by renowned architects Willard Byrd and Ted McAnlis – The Heron Course and The Eagle Course. Residents can also partake in a variety of activities:
- Golf: Two championship golf courses – The Heron Course & The Eagle Course.
- Tennis: Tennis Center featuring Har-Tru courts with professional coaching available.
- Fitness: State-of-the-art fitness center offering group classes or personal training sessions.
Educational institutions nearby include Pine View School, Laurel Nokomis School, and Venice High School. For higher education, the State College of Florida is just a short drive away.
The Oaks residents also have access to top-rated healthcare facilities such as Sarasota Memorial Hospital and Venice Regional Bayfront Health, ensuring that their medical needs are well taken care of.
The Oaks’ convenient location allows easy access to its residents to major employers in Sarasota County, including PGT Innovations, FCCI Insurance Group, and Tervis Tumbler Company.
Indian Beach Sapphire Shores
- Population: 4,400
- Median Income: $60,000
- Median Home Price: $350K
The Indian Beach Sapphire Shores neighborhood is a vibrant and diverse community located in Sarasota. Known for its rich history and picturesque views of Sarasota Bay, this area offers residents an ideal mix of urban amenities and natural beauty.
For those looking to enjoy the outdoors, Indian Beach Sapphire Shores provides plenty of opportunities with its numerous parks and recreational areas for activities such as jogging or picnicking.
One popular spot is Indian Beach Park, which features stunning views of the bay along with picnic shelters, playgrounds, and walking trails.
Nearby The Ringling Museum Complex, home to an art museum, circus museum, and historic mansion Ca’ d’Zan Mansion – all set on beautiful grounds – serves as both a cultural hub and tourist attraction.
The Indian Beach Sapphire Shores neighborhood offers easy access to several major employers, including:
- Ringling College of Art and Design
- New College of Florida
- Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.
This area is perfect for professionals who want an urban lifestyle with easy access to work opportunities but also value being near nature.
Families will appreciate the excellent schools nearby as well as the numerous parks that offer safe spaces for children to play outdoors. Retirees may find this neighborhood appealing due to its serene atmosphere combined with convenient amenities such as healthcare facilities and cultural attractions.
Palmer Ranch
- Population: 13,500
- Median Income: $76,000
- Median Home Price: $350K
This area boasts numerous amenities such as parks for outdoor recreation like Legacy Trail Park, golf courses including the prestigious TPC Prestancia Golf Club, shopping centers like the Shops at Sarasota Row, and top-rated restaurants. It’s just a short drive away from Siesta Key Beach – one of Florida’s most popular beaches.
In addition to its thriving tourism industry, Palmer Ranch is home to several major employers. Some of these include:
- Publix Supermarkets
- Sarasota County School District
- Sarasota Memorial Health Care System.
The lifestyle offered by Palmer Ranch caters to both families with children as well as retirees looking for an active community. The neighborhood features various gated communities such as Turtle Rock, Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club, and Deer Creek.
Arlington Park
- Population: 3,000
- Median Income: $68,292
- Median Home Price: $450K
Arlington Park is a family-friendly community located in the heart of Sarasota. With its central location and lush landscaping, this neighborhood offers easy access to downtown Sarasota and nearby beaches like Siesta Beach and Lido Beach.
The neighborhood’s proximity to top-rated schools like Southside Elementary School makes it an ideal choice for families with children. The area also boasts excellent healthcare facilities, including Sarasota Memorial Hospital.
If you’re looking for a great place to raise your family or retire in peace, Arlington Park might just be what you need!
Whether you are interested in taking advantage of all that Downtown Sarasota has to offer or simply want to enjoy a quiet afternoon in one of the many parks, Arlington Park is an excellent choice for those looking for convenience and community.
Frequently Asked Questions: Sarasota Neighborhoods
If you still have questions about the best neighborhoods in Sarasota, read on!
What are the best beaches in Sarasota?
Sarasota, Florida, is known for its stunning coastline and beautiful sandy beaches. Its best beaches include:
- Siesta Key Beach
- Lido Key Beaches
- Nokomis Public Beach,
- Venice Beach.
With its many options, it’s easy to understand why Sarasota is a popular destination for beachgoers seeking sun, swimming, and watersports. These beautiful white sand beaches offer a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Does Sarasota have a lot of green space?
Sarasota is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering an array of green spaces ranging from parks to preserves and recreational areas.
Sarasota has many spots for people to get some fresh air, exercise, or just unwind in a picturesque setting, such as parks, preserves, and recreational areas.
The city has a variety of parks, like Rothenbach Park, nature preserves, wildlife sanctuaries, like Celery Fields, and community gardens and urban green spaces. So, in short, Sarasota does have quite a lot of green space for residents and visitors to enjoy.
What’s the weather like in Sarasota?
The weather in Sarasota, Florida, is characterized by a tropical climate with warm temperatures and abundant sunshine throughout the year. Residents enjoy mild winters, hot summers, and a relatively high humidity level.
In January, temperatures typically reach 72°F (22°C), while in July, they often peak at 91°F (33°C). The average low temperatures vary between 52°F (11°C) during winter months and 75°F (24°C) during summer months.
What is the best area to live in Sarasota?
Finding the perfect neighborhood in Sarasota depends on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. Here are some of the top areas to consider when looking for a new home:
- Lakewood Ranch
- Downtown Sarasota
- Siesta Key
- Palm Aire Country Club Community
- South Gate
What are the pros and cons of living in Sarasota, Florida?
Sarasota, a beautiful city on Florida’s Gulf Coast, offers an attractive lifestyle for residents. Although Sarasota is an attractive place to live, one must consider the pros and cons before deciding whether it’s the right fit.
Pros include the beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, favorable climate, and the fact that Florida does not have an income tax.
Cons include hurricane risk, traffic and tourism, the cost of living, and the high humidity during the summer.
Where do most retirees live in Sarasota?
Retirees hoping to settle in Sarasota can find a range of neighborhoods with services, leisure activities, and housing options that meet their needs.
These areas offer a mix of amenities, recreational activities, and housing options suitable for seniors. Let’s explore some popular choices among retirees:
- Lakewood Ranch
- Venice
- Palm Aire Country Club
- Sarasota Bayfront Area (Downtown)
- Siesta Key
What are the safest areas in Sarasota?
Fortunately, Sarasota has several neighborhoods known for their low crime rates and overall safety. Some of the safest areas in Sarasota include:
- Lakewood Ranch
- Siesta Key
- Palmer Ranch
- Southgate
- Gulf Gate Estates
How does Sarasota compare to Naples?
Both cities offer beautiful beaches, warm weather, and an array of recreational activities. However, some key distinctions may influence your decision.
Sarasota features a varied populace comprising families, youthful experts, and pensioners. In contrast, Naples is known for its affluent retiree community
The cost of living in both cities can be relatively high compared to other parts of Florida; however, housing prices tend to be lower in Sarasota than in Naples.
How much money do you need to live in Sarasota, FL?
The cost of living in Sarasota may vary, depending on one’s lifestyle choices, housing expenses, and transportation costs.
To help you get a better understanding of how much money you may need to live comfortably in this beautiful Florida city, we’ve broken down some key expenses and provided an estimated monthly budget.
- Housing: $1,200 – $2,500
- Transportation: $150 – $300
- Groceries & Dining Out: $400 – $600
- Utilities & Miscellaneous Expenses: $250 – $350
Are hurricanes a problem in Sarasota?
Sarasota has been relatively fortunate when it comes to hurricane activity. According to National Weather Service data, only a few major hurricanes have made direct landfall near or on Sarasota since 1900.
Nevertheless, residents must stay informed about potential threats during hurricane season and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.
For more information on hurricane preparedness in Sarasota County, visit the Sarasota County Emergency Services website.
Final Thoughts
After exploring the best Sarasota neighborhoods, it’s clear that each area has its unique charm and appeal. From the historic Laurel Park to the luxurious Lakewood Ranch, there is a neighborhood for everyone in this beautiful Florida city.
Ready to start your search for your dream home in Sarasota? Check out our comprehensive guides today! Make sure to contact a local eXp real estate agent. They will help guide you through every step of your home-buying journey.
