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Sarasota, FL Named to Best Places to Live in the US
Why Living in Sarasota is One of Life's Best Rewards
It came as no surprise to native Sarasotans that our hometown was named as one of the Best Places to Live in the United States by US News. People move to Sarasota in record numbers because of its "paradise-like personality." Who wouldn't love this city's wonderfully warm, year-round temperatures, white, sandy beaches and crystal clear water? Sarasota certainly does check all of the boxes for beaches and weather; however, factors like our dedication to the arts, affordable living, housing choices, great schools and a flourishing business environment are even more reasons to move to Sarasota.
Our REALTORS® in Sarasota created this list of why so many are making Sarasota their home.
Sarasota - A Warm Place in the Sun
Like most cities in Florida, Sarasota is known for its year-round warm temperatures. When other parts of the US are experiencing cold, snow and ice, Sarasota's residents enjoy an average annual temperature of 72 degrees. Now don't get me wrong--it certainly can get hot from June through September in Florida, but as most Sarasota residents will tell you…that's the perfect time to head to the beach or one of our six barrier islands.
Sun & Fun at Sarasota's Beaches
Sarasota has over 40 miles of coastline located just off the Gulf of Mexico and its beaches are considered among the most beautiful in Florida and, in fact, the US. But, don't take our word for it…just ask TripAdvisor. Siesta Beach, located in central Sarasota, is no stranger to receiving high rankings for beachcombers in the know. In addition to TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice Award, Siesta Beach has ranked highly by Dr. Beach (a.k.a. Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman) as a Top 10 Beach in America. In addition to sun and sand, Sarasota's six barrier islands (or keys) are home to others noteworthy beaches: Siesta, Lido and Longboat in Southwest Florida.
Culture Along the Coast
Sarasota's arts scene is diverse as the types of seashells found on its beaches. Sarasota is home to a host of performing arts including the Sarasota Opera, Asolo Repertory Theatre and the Sarasota Ballet of Florida as well as world-class museums like the Ringling Museum of Art and the Ringling Circus Museum located on the former Sarasota estate of John Ringling, circus magnate. No matter what your preference, Sarasota arts and cultural activities include gala and charitable events, theater options, musical venues, art galleries and showcases, a film festival and even sand sculptures.
Outdoor Fun in Sarasota
There's never a need to waste a sunny day in Sarasota. Aside from the obvious opportunities to play in the ocean and run along the beaches, Sarasota also offers an outstanding array of other outdoor activities. Take advantage of our massive Myakka River Stark Park, learn how to sail or kayak; grab your gear and head out for a day of exciting fishing opportunities; hit up the bike trails that crisscross the area and get back to an Old Florida feel on the Sarasota Legacy Bike Trail; or take your favorite set of clubs and play a round on any of the excellent golf courses in Sarasota.
Best Places to Eat & Drink
A genuine foodie haven, Sarasota has been named by Conde' Nast Traveler magazine as one of the 15 best food cities in the United States. Conde' Nast cited two Sarasota restaurants specifically: Indigenous, known for incorporating local, sustainable and seasonal ingredients into their menu items and C'est La Vie in downtown Sarasota for its savory crêpes and fresh croissants. Sarasota offers a bona fide restaurant roster offering local diners a full range of gastronomical delights to work their way through. Here are three of our team's favorite dining places (in no particular order): Crab & Fin in St. Armand's Circle features global seafood from raw oysters from various oceans to rich cioppino made with local red snapper. Selva on Main Street features Latino cuisine with at least 10 different ceviches and masterfully-made cocktails. Owen's Fish Camp, located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, showcases Old Florida classics such as fried oysters and cornmeal-crusted catfish as well as craft-beer and wine.
Moving to Sarasota
Florida has been called "paradise" by many of its residents and Sarasota is an excellent example of what they're talking about. When you're searching for Sarasota homes for sale, it's hard to go wrong with the beautiful sunsets for which our area is famous. Sarasota's sandy beaches, top-tier cultural offerings and shopping and dining options are among the best available in the nation. When you're ready to start living in paradise, contact our team at Wagner Realty to start your search for a Sarasota home.
