Sarasota, located on the west coast of Florida, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, thriving arts scene, and warm weather year-round. Life in Sarasota is filled with rich history and culture, and a diverse population. With its top-rated schools, recreational activities, and luxurious amenities, the Sarasota market has become a popular destination for people looking to settle down in Florida.
However, like any city, it has its pros and cons that should be taken into consideration before buying a house in Sarasota or possibly moving and test driving a new neighborhood by renting an apartment. Whether you’re a retiree seeking a laid-back lifestyle, seeking new employment opportunities, or just looking for a new home, it’s important to get a closer look at what life in this city is really like.
Pros to living in Sarasota
Access to world-class beaches
Sarasota’s beaches are a major draw for both tourists and residents alike. Siesta Key Beach, located just a few miles from downtown Sarasota, is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. However, Sarasota is home to many other gorgeous beaches, including Lido Beach, Longboat Key Beach, and Turtle Beach. Beyond swimming and sunbathing, Sarasota’s beaches offer a variety of activities such as fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more. Plus, the city has many beachfront bars and restaurants where residents can enjoy a sunset cocktail or dinner with an ocean view.
Rich cultural scene
Sarasota has a vibrant arts scene, with a variety of cultural attractions and events. The Sarasota Opera, founded in 1960, is one of the most respected opera companies in the United States, offering high-quality productions year-round. The Ringling Museum of Art, located on the grounds of the former estate of John and Mable Ringling, is a must-visit for art lovers, with an impressive collection of European and American art. The Sarasota Ballet, founded in 1990, has gained a reputation as one of the best ballet companies in the country. The city also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, such as the Sarasota Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers and movie lovers from around the world.
Tons of outdoor activities
Sarasota’s warm climate and natural beauty make it an ideal location for outdoor activities. The city has numerous parks and preserves, such as Payne Park and Phillippi Estate Park, where residents can walk, run, bike, or picnic. Sarasota Bay is also a popular spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. For those who want to explore further, nearby state parks such as Myakka River State Park and Oscar Scherer State Park offer hiking trails, camping, and more. Sarasota is also home to a number of golf courses, including the TPC Prestancia and the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club.
Retirement community
Sarasota’s retirement community is a major factor in its overall appeal. The city has been named one of the best places to retire by multiple publications, thanks to its warm climate, high-quality healthcare, and numerous living options. There are also several active adult communities such as the Meadows and Village Walk, offering residents a variety of amenities, including pools, tennis courts, and fitness centers. For those who need more assistance, Sarasota has a variety of assisted living facilities, memory care facilities, and nursing homes. Plus, the city has a variety of senior centers and organizations that offer social and educational activities.
Amazing culinary scene
Sarasota’s culinary scene has grown rapidly in recent years, thanks to the city’s diverse population and proximity to fresh seafood and local produce. Restaurants such as The Cottage, Owen’s Fish Camp, and Indigenous offer unique, farm-to-table cuisine using local ingredients. The city also has a variety of international options, including Japanese, Thai, and Italian restaurants. Sarasota’s food festivals, such as the Forks & Corks Food and Wine Festival and the Suncoast BBQ & Bluegrass Bash, offer residents the opportunity to sample a wide variety of local cuisine. Plus, the city has a growing craft beer scene, with breweries such as JDub’s Brewing Company and Calusa Brewing.
Cons to living in Sarasota
High cost of living
While Sarasota may be an attractive location for many people, the high cost of living can be a significant barrier for some. Housing prices in Sarasota are generally higher than the national average, and the cost of living is slightly above the Florida average. This means that residents can expect to pay more for basic necessities, such as groceries and healthcare, compared to other parts of the state. Additionally, some residents may find that the cost of dining out and entertainment is also higher than in other cities.
One contributing factor to the high cost of living is the demand for housing. Many people are drawn to Sarasota’s warm climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene, which has led to a surge in population growth. As a result, housing prices have risen in recent years, particularly for single-family homes and condominiums in desirable neighborhoods.
Tourist crowds
Sarasota’s popularity as a tourist destination can be both a blessing and a curse for residents. While the influx of tourists brings economic benefits to the city, it can also lead to overcrowding and traffic congestion. During peak season, which typically runs from December to April, some of Sarasota’s most popular attractions and beaches can become quite crowded.
For residents who enjoy the city’s beaches and parks, this can be particularly frustrating. However, there are ways to avoid the crowds. For example, residents can opt to visit less popular beaches, such as Nokomis Beach or Blind Pass Beach, which are still quite beautiful and pleasant. Additionally, some residents may prefer to visit attractions during the off-season, when crowds are smaller and prices may be lower.
High heat and humidity
Sarasota’s climate can be both a benefit and a drawback for residents. While many people enjoy the year-round sunshine and mild winters, the hot and humid summers can be challenging for some. Temperatures in Sarasota can reach into the high 90s in the summer months, with high levels of humidity that can make it feel even hotter.
For residents who are not accustomed to this type of weather, it can be uncomfortable to spend time outdoors during the summer months. However, there are ways to beat the heat. For example, many residents opt to spend time indoors during the hottest parts of the day and engage in outdoor activities during the early morning or evening hours, when temperatures are cooler. Additionally, Sarasota has many indoor activities and attractions that residents can enjoy during the summer months.
Hurricane risk
As a coastal city, Sarasota is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms. While the city is well-prepared for these events, residents may need to evacuate or take other precautions during hurricane season, which runs from June to November. This can be stressful and disruptive, particularly for residents who are not used to living in a hurricane-prone area.
However, Sarasota has a robust emergency management system in place, with regular drills and procedures designed to keep residents safe during hurricanes and other natural disasters. Additionally, the city has a strong network of community organizations that provide support and resources to residents during and after these events.
Lack of public transportation
Sarasota’s public transportation system is relatively limited, which can be a challenge for some residents. While the city does have a bus system, it may not be as convenient or reliable as residents would like. Additionally, there is no light rail or subway system, which can make it difficult for residents to travel outside of the city without a car.
However, there are alternative transportation options available. For example, many residents opt to use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get around the city. Additionally, some neighborhoods are bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and paths. Finally, the city is relatively compact, which means that many residents are able to walk or bike to their destinations.
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