Why People are Moving to Sarasota and Manatee Counties

September 20th, 2021 by Wagner Realty

Sarasota Moving

People are flocking to the Sarasota area! Statistics recently released by the U.S. Census Bureau show that between 2010 and 2020, Sarasota's growth rate was nearly double that of the nation as a whole. While the growth rate of the U.S. population over the 10-year period was 7.4%, Sarasota grew at 14.4%, and nearby Manatee County grew at a shocking 23.8%.

Every day, our real estate agents work with buyers who are competing for the best Sarasota homes for sale. What is it about this area that's so attractive? From gorgeous weather to award-winning beaches, there's so much to love about living in the Sarasota area. Here's a closer look at some of the most important benefits.

No State Income Tax
The lack of a state income tax is one of the biggest benefits of living in Florida. Since so many visitors come to Florida each year, they pay the taxes for us! Tourists pay a 7% sales tax on the state level. On the county level, hotel stays and short-term property rentals are also subject to a 5% tourism tax. While this may seem annoying when you're visiting, once you become a resident, you'll love being able to hold onto your hard-earned dollars.

Strong Job and Employment Market
If you're still working, you'll be glad to know that the Sarasota area has a strong economy and a low unemployment rate. Some of the top industries in the area include healthcare, hospitality, education, professional services, retail, and trades.

Culture and Performing Arts
From the Ringling Museum and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to the Sarasota Ballet and the Van Wezel Performing Art Center, there are many diverse cultural and performing arts attractions in the area. In fact, Sarasota has been named Florida's "Cultural City," thanks to its active theatrical and performing arts scene.

Incredible Dining Options
There are almost countless dining venues and drinking establishments in the Sarasota area. From incredible fine dining and casual cafes to upscale wine bars to local breweries, there's something here for everyone. Some of the most popular entertainment destinations in the area include Siesta Key, Downtown Sarasota, St. Armand's Circle, and Lakewood Ranch.

Award-Winning Beaches
Sarasota's beaches receive recognition nationwide. Siesta Key Beach has been named the number one beach in America multiple times thanks to its powdery, sugar-like sand. Other beaches throughout the county are also some of the most popular in the state of Florida.

A Year-Round Playground
Sarasota has an average of 251 sunny days each year and an average year-round temperature of 73 degrees. It's the perfect location for anyone who enjoys being out on the water boating, kayaking, or swimming. The city of Sarasota was also named the #1 Best Place to Retire nationwide by U.S. News & World Report.

Affordable Real Estate
Despite all of these incredible benefits, real estate in Sarasota and Bradenton is still relatively affordable. In fact, many residents find that owning a home here is often less expensive than renting. At the beginning of 2021, the average home price here was $319,793, and the median rent was $1,995 per month.

Finding your dream home in Florida can be a challenge, but it's much easier when you work with a great agent. The experts at Wagner Realty have access to all the best Sarasota and Bradenton homes for sale, and we want to help you! Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started.

Categories: Sarasota-Manatee

Tags: Lakewood Ranch, Florida, Sarasota, FL, Anna Maria FL, Bradenton FL, Bradenton Beach FL, Palmetto FL, Venice FL, Siesta Key, FL, Bradenton, FL, Sarasota County, Manatee County, Lakewood Ranch, Siesta Key, venice

Related Markets: Anna Maria, Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Lakewood Ranch, Palmetto, Sarasota, Siesta Key, Venice

Matthew Faul Cell: (941) 345-3255 Email: mattfaul@wagnerrealty.com

Disclaimer: All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) or information provider(s) shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless. Listing(s) information is provided for consumers personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information on this site was last updated 03/02/2026. The listing information on this page last changed on 03/02/2026. The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Internet Data Exchange program of Delta Media Group MLS (last updated Mon 03/02/2026 4:06:06 PM EST) or Stellar MLS (last updated Mon 03/02/2026 3:46:11 PM EST). Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than Wagner Realty may be marked with the Internet Data Exchange logo and detailed information about those properties will include the name of the listing broker(s) when required by the MLS. All rights reserved.
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Why People are Moving to Sarasota and Manatee Counties

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