Welcome to Sarasota

The best of beachside living on Florida’s Gulf coast. 

Perched along the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota is the epitome of the idyllic beach lifestyle. Sarasota County has a population of 456,000 residents. The town was first incorporated in 1902 and has since become a highly sought-after place to reside. Residents can look forward to beautiful beaches, warm weather, and enviable recreational and cultural amenities. When living in Sarasota, you can expect a humid subtropical climate, as well as over 250 days of sunshine a year.

A number of architectural styles can be found in Sarasota, enabling potential homebuyers to shop around for a style that suits them. A drive around the town will reveal Craftsman Bungalows, Cape Cod, Tudor, Modern, and Contemporary. There’s a good chance you’ll also see Mediterranean Revival, a style that incorporates elements of the Venetian Gothic, Italian, Spanish Renaissance, and Beaux-Arts styles.

What to Love

• Upscale dining at State Street Eating House + Cocktails
• World-class shopping at The Mall at University Town Center
• Award-winning beaches, resorts, trails, and nature preserves
• A relaxed, peaceful environment focusing on preserving our wildlife and natural habitat.

Local Lifestyle

Like many beach towns, Sarasota is known for its relaxing and down-to-earth environment. The beach is commonly associated with relaxation and stress relief, and Sarasota residents can experience these benefits on a daily basis. 

Residents of Sarasota embrace an active healthy lifestyle, thanks in large part due to the natural outdoor living. The sun, ocean, and award-winning beaches are hard to pass up. Families, nature enthusiasts, and working professionals have all made their home here. Additionally, Sarasota has been named the Best Place to Retire in both 2021 and 2022.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Sarasota might be most famously known for its spectacular views of the ocean, but this beachside town has plenty more to offer. For an upscale evening out, make a reservation at State Street Eating House + Cocktails. This popular, Mid-Century vintage restaurant specializes in a fresh, innovative spin on New American cuisine. First established in 2012, State Street has established itself as a leader in the Sarasota

Farm to Table movement prioritizes the use of healthy, high-quality ingredients in their dishes.

Considering one of Sarasota’s premier shopping destinations, The Mall at University Town Center is packed with over 100 stores and 20 dining options. It includes a number of high-end retailers, such as Michael Kors, and a handful of entertainment activities. 

Things to Do

Whether you’re new in town or simply passing through, you’ll be sure to find something to do in Sarasota. Golf enthusiasts might be interested in booking a tee time at one of the many illustrious golf courses located here. TPC Prestancia is a private golf club that features two golf courses over 565 acres. The club is a member of the Tournament Players Club network operated by the PGA. Its scenic views and challenging courses appeal to everyone from the first-time player to the golf professional. 

If golf isn’t your cup of tea, there are still plenty of other ways for you to immerse yourself in nature. Bayfront Park is a popular waterfront green space that boasts dramatic views of the bay and city. Whether you’re catching the sunset or taking in the ocean breeze, this serene park will leave you feeling peaceful and relaxed. Plus, there are miles of beaches that span from popular to secluded. 

No matter what outdoor activity you crave you can find it here!

Schools

Sarasota is served by the Sarasota County Public Schools and the city has 15 public elementary schools, five public middle schools, and six public high schools. You can find more information about all of them here.