The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Sarasota, FL

If you’re one of the many Americans moving to Florida, you might be considering a move to beautiful and serene Sarasota.

A popular area outside of Tampa, Sarasota is a big-small town, featuring lively neighborhoods, each offering its own unique charm, amenities, and lifestyle. No matter what you’re looking for when it comes to Florida living, Sarasota has a little bit of something for everyone.

Areas of Research and Planning for Your Move:

1. Cost of Living: Understand the cost of living in Sarasota compared to your current location. Generally, Sarasota can be moderate to high depending on the neighborhood. Although Florida does not have state tax, so you may find this is not an issue for you compared to your home state.
2. Neighborhoods: Research different neighborhoods to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Areas like Downtown Sarasota, Siesta Key, Lakewood Ranch, and Palmer Ranch offer diverse options.
3. Local Moving Companies in Sarasota, Florida: Researching a moving company is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation experience. Choosing the right company can save you time, money, and effort while safeguarding your belongings. By thoroughly investigating Sarasota moving companies, you can compare prices, read customer reviews, and verify their credentials. This process allows you to find a reputable company that fits your specific needs, whether it’s for a local move or a long-distance relocation. Suddath has provided trusted, quality service throughout the Tampa area for over 40 years.
   
   Get started by securing a quick and easy quote for your move from Suddath.

4. Housing: Determine if you want to rent or buy in Sarasota. Rental prices vary by area, with seasonal fluctuations near beaches.
5. Utilities and Services: Contact utility providers (electricity, water, internet) in advance to set up services for your new home.
6. Packing and Decluttering: Start packing early and consider decluttering to minimize moving costs.
7. Change of Address: Update your address with USPS, banks, subscriptions, and any other relevant institutions.
8. Local Services: Find local services like healthcare providers, schools (if you have children), and recreational facilities.
9. Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration: Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration at the local Sarasota DMV.
10. Community Engagement: Join local social media groups or attend community events to meet people and learn about Sarasota.

How to Enjoy Living in Sarasota:

Once you’ve taken care of all of the paperwork and logistics of moving to Sarasota, find some time to relax and enjoy your new status as a Floridian.

Beaches and Recreation: Explore Sarasota’s beautiful beaches like Siesta Key Beach, Lido Beach, and the town of Longboat Key.

Cultural Attractions: Visit cultural attractions such as The Ringling Museum, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and local theaters.

Outdoor Activities: Enjoy outdoor activities such as the Sarasota Jungle Gardens, boating, fishing, golfing, and biking in Sarasota’s pleasant weather.

Moving to Sarasota offers a blend of coastal living, cultural richness, and outdoor activities. With proper planning and research, you can make your move a smooth transition into this vibrant Florida city.

Where Should I Live in Sarasota?

Sarasota is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own unique charm, amenities, and lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking for waterfront views, historic charm, suburban tranquility, or vibrant urban living, Sarasota has a neighborhood to suit various preferences. Here’s an overview of some of the different neighborhoods in Sarasota:

Downtown Sarasota:

1. Rosemary District: An up-and-coming neighborhood with a mix of historic homes, modern condos, and trendy shops and restaurants.
2. Downtown Core: Offers high-rise condos with views of Sarasota Bay, cultural attractions like theaters and art galleries, and a lively nightlife scene.

Waterfront and Coastal Areas:

1. Siesta Key: Known for its world-renowned Siesta Beach with soft, white quartz sand, as well as upscale waterfront homes, condos, and vacation rentals.
2. Lido Key: Offers luxurious waterfront properties, St. Armands Circle with boutique shops and dining, and easy access to Lido Beach.

Historic Neighborhoods:

1. Gillespie Park: Close to downtown, known for its walkability, historic bungalows and cottages and community park, this lovely neighborhood boasts proximity to cultural amenities.
2. Indian Beach-Sapphire Shores: Home to historic estates, including the Ringling Museum complex, offering a blend of history, culture, and waterfront living.
3. Park East Sarasota: Park East, just east of Washington Boulevard, may be the city’s last close-to-downtown affordable frontier for many who live and work in Sarasota. It is an up-and-coming area, with many homes being built and remodeled there.

Family-Friendly Suburbs:

1. Southgate: Offers single-family homes with spacious yards and tree-lined streets, close to shopping centers, schools, and parks.
2. Palmer Ranch: A master-planned community with a variety of neighborhoods, golf courses, and recreational amenities like the Legacy Trail for biking and walking.

Arts and Culture:

1. Burns Square: Known for its artsy vibe, featuring art galleries, boutiques, and historic homes surrounding the Burns Court Cinema.
2. Gulf Gate: Offers a mix of residential homes and apartments with a strong community spirit, known for its local businesses and restaurants.

Suburban and Golf Communities:

1. The Meadows: A golf community with lush landscaping, lakes, and nature trails, offering a variety of housing options from condos to single-family homes.
2. University Park: Known for its award-winning golf courses, gated communities, and upscale homes, close to shopping and dining at University Town Center.
3. Venice: South of Sarasota, known for its charming downtown, Venice Beach, and Venice Island with historic homes and waterfront views.

Retirement Communities:

1. The Villages of Glen Creek: A 55+ community offering amenities like clubhouse activities, pools, and social events.
2. Palm-Aire at Sarasota: Golf and country club community with condos, villas, and single-family homes, featuring golf courses and recreational facilities.

Each neighborhood in Sarasota has its own character and appeal, catering to a variety of lifestyles and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a bustling urban environment, waterfront views, suburban tranquility, or active retirement living, Sarasota offers diverse options to suit different needs and desires.

What are the best restaurants in Sarasota, FL?

Sarasota offers a diverse culinary scene with a range of restaurants to suit various tastes. Here are some highly recommended restaurants across different cuisines and dining experiences:

Sarasota Upscale and Fine Dining:

1. Indigenous: Known for its farm-to-table concept and creative dishes highlighting local ingredients.
2. Ophelia’s on the Bay: A local’s favorite since it opened in 1988, Ophelia’s is a fine dining spot known for its romantic setting overlooking Little Sarasota Bay, serving fresh seafood and American cuisine.
3. Bijou Cafe is known for its European-inspired cuisine and casual elegance. Located in the theatre and arts district of downtown Sarasota, it is a perfect stop before catching a play at Florida Studio Theatre.

Seafood:

1. Shore: Located at the St. Armands Circle, it offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes in a relaxed setting.
2. Duval’s. With a tagline of “Fresh. Local. Seafood” you know exactly what you’re getting at Duval’s. Known for its seafood dishes sourced from local waters, this spot has a lively atmosphere and nice outdoor seating.

Italian:

1. Café Amici: A cozy Italian restaurant offering traditional dishes and a warm atmosphere.
2. Marcello: Cozy and romantic authentic Italian cuisine based on many years of family tradition. This is a spot for familia, and the chef is also the owner, Marcello himself.

Asian:

1. Namo Izakaya: Offers high-quality Japanese cuisine such as ramen and yakitori in a modern setting. Locals swear by the Korean wings appetizer!
2. Thai Palace: In neighboring Bradenton, Thai Palace is known for its flavorful Thai dishes served in a peaceful ambiance. Absolutely worth venturing outside of Sarasota city limits for.

Casual Dining:

1. Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB): A popular spot known for its laid-back atmosphere, seafood, and live music. Famous oyster happy hour every day from 3 – 6 p.m. where you can get oysters $12 for a dozen.
2. Columbia Restaurant: A Florida staple with Spanish-Cuban cuisine, offering a historic atmosphere in St. Armands Circle.

Breakfast/Brunch:

1. The Broken Egg Restaurant: Known for its breakfast and brunch menu, including delicious omelets and pancakes.
2. First Watch: It might be a popular chain, but it’s also one of “Sarasota’s Best Breakfast Spots” according to Sarasota Magazine. Offering healthy breakfast and brunch options in a casual setting.
3. The Old Salty Dog: A Sarasota Old Florida favorite, this place serves not only fish and chips, but one of the best waterfront breakfasts around. A must-try for any new local, and definitely a spot to bring visiting family and friends.
4. The Breakfast House. No list of Sarasota brunch spots would be complete without The Breakfast House. It’s right there in the name! You absolutely must try the pancakes, and if you want to really be a local, get the as part of “Uncle Harry’s Hearty Breakfast,” a belly-bursting sampler of eggs, grits, potatoes and corned beef hash.

International:

1. Mediterraneo: Offers Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on Italian and Greek dishes, including seafood and lamb.
2. Selva Grill: Features Latin American-inspired dishes with a modern twist, known for its ceviche and grilled meats.

Vegetarian/Vegan:

1. Lila: A vegetarian restaurant offering creative plant-based dishes with locally sourced ingredients, focused on pure, whole foods.
2. Simon’s Coffee House: Known for its vegan and vegetarian options (as well as a few things for the carnivores) including sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. This is a great gathering spot for people of every diet.

Desserts:

1. Sarasota Milk District: Offers a variety of dessert options including ice cream, cookies, and coffee.
2. Morton’s Gourmet Market Bakery: A specialty food store with a bakery offering freshly baked goods and desserts.

These are just a few recommendations to get you started exploring the culinary delights of Sarasota. The city’s dining scene is vibrant and varied, catering to a range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, fresh seafood, international flavors, or casual bites, Sarasota has something to offer for every palate.

Sarasota Night Life

Sarasota offers a diverse and lively nightlife scene with options ranging from trendy bars and clubs to relaxed lounges and live music venues. Here’s a glimpse into the local nightlife in Sarasota:

Bars and Lounges:

1. The Gator Club: A historic bar in downtown Sarasota known for its live music, dancing, and vibrant atmosphere.
2. Cask & Ale: Offers a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails in a casual setting in Downtown Sarasota, perfect for beer enthusiasts.
3. Perspective Rooftop Bar: Known for its stunning views of the Sarasota skyline and artisanal craft cocktails, Art Ovation Hotel’s rooftop is the place to be almost every night of the week.

Live Music Venues & Nightclubs:

1. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall: Hosts a variety of concerts, Broadway shows, and performances by national and international artists.
2. The Ringling Museum – Courtyard: Offers occasional outdoor concerts and events in a beautiful historic setting.
3. Ceviche Tapas Sarasota: Combines a tapas restaurant with a nightclub atmosphere, offering Latin music and dancing.

Late-Night Eateries:

1. Munchies 420 Cafe: Open late and known for its indulgent comfort food like sandwiches, wings, and desserts.
2. Tamiami Tap: Tamiami Tap is to be a neighborhood entertainment night spot for the whole family in Historic Laurel Park in Downtown Sarasota Florida.

Cultural and Arts Events:

1. First Fridays at Towles Court: A monthly event where galleries and studios open their doors to the public, often featuring live music and art exhibitions.
2. Sarasota Opera: Offers opera performances throughout the season, providing a unique cultural nightlife experience.

Entertainment Districts:

1. Downtown Sarasota: Offers a mix of bars, restaurants, and cultural venues within walking distance, making it a popular spot for nightlife.
2. St. Armands Circle: Features upscale dining, bars, and occasional events, providing a more relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.

Events and Festivals:

1. Sarasota Film Festival: Held annually, showcasing independent films and attracting film enthusiasts from around the world.
2. Sarasota Music Festival: Features classical music performances by talented musicians and orchestras from around the globe.

Overall, Sarasota’s nightlife scene offers something for everyone, whether you’re into live music, dancing, cultural events, or simply enjoying a drink with friends in a trendy setting. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and variety of venues ensure that you can find entertainment any time of day or night.

Family-Friendly Activities in Sarasota

Sarasota doesn’t just have a bustling night life, there are plenty of family-friendly activities. from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here are some top recommendations for family fun in Sarasota:

Beach and Outdoor Activities:

1. Siesta Key Beach: Known for its soft, white sand and shallow waters, perfect for families to swim, build sandcastles, and enjoy picnics.
2. Ann Goldstein: Children’s Rainforest Garden: Located inside of the Marie Selby Gardens, the children’s rainforest garden, and educational exhibits on tropical plants and ecosystems.
3. Myakka River State Park: Offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing (including alligators!), airboat tours, and canopy walkways.

Museums and Cultural Attractions:

1. The Ringling Museum: Includes the Circus Museum, art galleries, historic mansion tours, and beautiful gardens for exploring.
2. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium: Educational exhibits on marine life, touch tanks, and marine mammal presentations.
3. South Florida Museum: Features exhibits on Florida’s history, nature, and a planetarium with educational shows.

Family-Friendly Events and Festivals:

1. Sarasota Farmers Market: Held every Saturday, offering local produce, food vendors, live music, and activities for kids.
2. Sarasota Jungle Gardens: A botanical garden with exotic animals, bird shows, and interactive exhibits.
3. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary: A nonprofit sanctuary with rescued big cats, bears, primates, and other animals, offering educational tours and shows.

Amusement and Entertainment:

1. Mote Marine Laboratory’s Immersion Cinema: Offers 3D educational films on marine life and ecosystems.
2. Sky Zone Trampoline Park: Indoor trampoline park with open jump areas, dodgeball, foam pits, and activities suitable for all ages.

Sports and Recreation:

1. The Legacy Trail: A scenic biking and walking trail that spans 10 miles from Sarasota to Venice, offering a safe and enjoyable outdoor activity. Open year round from 6 a.m. to sunset.
2. Nathan Benderson Park: Features a 600-acre park with trails, playgrounds, and a lake for kayaking, paddleboarding, and rowing.

Performing Arts and Shows:

1. Florida Studio Theatre: Offers family-friendly performances and interactive theater workshops for kids.
2. Sarasota Youth Opera: Presents youth-oriented opera performances and educational programs for young aspiring musicians.

Kid-Friendly Dining and After School Treats:

1. C’est La Vie: A family-friendly cafe offering breakfast, brunch, and lunch, with a kids’ menu and outdoor seating. Have your children practice their French at this authentic bakery and café!
2. Great Heights Creamery: Local favorite for homemade ice cream and treats, perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring.

Educational Workshops and Classes:

1. Sarasota Art Museum: Offers art classes and workshops for children and families, fostering creativity and artistic expression.
2. Sarasota School of Glass: Provides glassblowing workshops where families can create their own glass art pieces together.

These activities highlight the diverse range of family-friendly experiences Sarasota has to offer. If you’re moving to the area, you can be sure to find plenty to do with your kids no matter how old.

Activities for Sarasota Seniors

Sarasota offers a variety of activities and amenities that cater specifically to seniors, making it an ideal destination for retirees and older adults looking to enjoy an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Recreation and Wellness:

1. Senior Centers: Sarasota County operates several senior centers that offer a range of programs and activities such as fitness classes, arts and crafts, educational workshops, and social gatherings.
2. Golf Courses: Sarasota is home to numerous golf courses, many of which offer senior discounts and memberships tailored to older adults who enjoy golfing, such as the Bobby Jones Municipal Golf Course.
3. Sarasota Walking and Cycling Trails: Places like the Legacy Trail provide scenic paths for walking, jogging, and cycling, offering a safe and enjoyable outdoor activity.

Cultural and Educational Opportunities:

1. The Ringling Museum: Offers senior discounts on admission, currently the senior ticket price is $27 compared to the regular admission price of $30, as well as free Monday admission, a nice way to pass the day for those who are retired. . Beyond regular admission, there are special tours, including art exhibitions, historic mansion tours, and beautiful gardens to explore.
2. Lifelong Learning Institutes: Organizations such as the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Ringling College offer non-credit courses, lectures, and workshops specifically designed for seniors wanting to pursue intellectual and cultural interests.
3. Theater and Performing Arts: The Sarasota area boasts several theaters and performing arts venues that host performances, concerts, and shows suitable for older adults who enjoy cultural experiences.

Health and Wellness:

Several gyms and fitness centers in Sarasota offer senior-specific fitness classes, wellness programs, and activities tailored to maintaining physical health and mobility.

Sarasota, FL has a variety of gyms and fitness centers to choose from, including many chain options like LA Fitness, Anytime Fitness, Pure Barre, Planet Fitness, Orangetheory, YMCA and more.

Here are some popular local fitness options throughout the Sarasota area:

1. Sarasota Fitness – A local gym with personalized training and group fitness options.
2. Fitness Together – Specializes in personal training with a focus on individualized fitness plans.
3. The Pilates Loft – A local studio focusing on Pilates with reformer classes and private sessions.
4. Yoga From the Heart – Offers a variety of classes including vinyasa, restorative, and gentle yoga. They have classes to suit all levels of Sarasota yogis.
5. Rosemary Court Yoga – Provides a range of yoga styles, including Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin, with classes for all levels.

Outdoor Activities:

1. Boating and Fishing: Sarasota’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico provides opportunities for boating, fishing charters like Fish on Fire Charters, and waterfront activities that seniors can enjoy.
2. Parks and Gardens: Places like Marie Selby Botanical Gardens offer serene environments for leisurely walks, birdwatching, and enjoying nature.

Support Services:

1. Senior Transportation Services: Sarasota County offers transportation services specifically for seniors, providing access to medical appointments, shopping centers, and recreational activities.
2. Senior Legal and Financial Resources: Organizations and agencies in Sarasota provide legal assistance, financial planning workshops, and resources to help seniors navigate legal and financial matters.

These activities and resources make Sarasota a welcoming and vibrant community for seniors seeking to maintain an active lifestyle, pursue interests, and enjoy a fulfilling retirement experience.

Sarasota Social Club Scene

Sarasota offers a variety of social clubs and organizations catering to different interests and demographics. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, pursue hobbies, or engage in community activities, here are some local social clubs in Sarasota that you could consider joining:

General Social Clubs:

1. Sarasota Newcomers Club: A welcoming organization for newcomers to Sarasota, offering social events, outings, and interest groups to help integrate into the community.
2. Rotary Club of Sarasota: Part of Rotary International, this club focuses on community service projects and networking opportunities.

Arts and Culture:

1. Sarasota Opera Guild: Supports the Sarasota Opera through fundraising events, social gatherings, and educational programs.
2. Sarasota Orchestra Friends: Supports the Sarasota Orchestra through volunteer efforts, social events, and fundraising activities.

Sports and Recreation:

1. Sarasota Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team: If you want to go full Floridian, this water ski club offers performances, social events, and opportunities to participate in water skiing and boating activities.
2. Sarasota Yacht Club: Offers boating activities, social events, and dining facilities for members interested in yachting and waterfront activities.

Women’s Clubs:

1. Junior League of Sarasota: A women’s organization dedicated to community service, leadership development, and social activities.
2. Sarasota Women’s Alliance: A local group with the objective to promote women in leadership positions in business, public service, and other positions of community responsibility.

Special Interest and Hobbies:

1. Sarasota Audubon Society: A birdwatching and conservation organization offering birding trips, lectures, and social events related to wildlife and nature.
2. Sarasota Camera Club: A photography club for photography enthusiasts of all levels, offering workshops, competitions, and social outings.
3. Manatee–Sarasota Sierra Club: Representing Manatee and Sarasota Counties on the Florida Gulf Coast, the Sierra Club chapter here has a mission is to enjoy and protect the natural places in the local community.
4. A Good Yarn Sarasota: A local yarn store that also offers beginner and advanced knitting classes and resources.

Networking and Professional Groups:

1. Sarasota Chamber of Commerce: Offers networking events, business seminars, and community involvement opportunities for local professionals.
2. Young Professionals Group: Many organizations, such as the Sarasota Young Professionals Group, cater to young professionals through networking events and social activities.

Sarasota-Area Country Clubs

1. The Ritz-Carlton Members Club: This exclusive club provides a luxurious experience with a beautiful golf course, beach access, tennis facilities, and a variety of social events. Membership here often includes access to the Ritz-Carlton hotel amenities as well.
2. Laurel Oak Country Club: Known for its two championship golf courses, Laurel Oak offers a range of activities including tennis and dining. It’s a family-friendly club with a focus on community and inclusivity.
3. The Oaks Club: Featuring two 18-hole golf courses, The Oaks Club is localed in Osprey, FL and renowned for its beautiful grounds and excellent facilities. The club also offers tennis courts, a fitness center, and various social events.

Volunteer Organizations:

1. All Faiths Food Bank: Offers volunteer opportunities and social events for individuals interested in supporting hunger relief efforts in Sarasota County.
2. Humane Society of Sarasota County: Provides volunteer opportunities and social events for animal lovers interested in supporting animal welfare initiatives.
3. Mothers Helping Mothers: Mothers Helping Mothers provides basic necessities such as clothing for the entire family. Families can schedule appointments to shop and access resources, referrals, and aid during challenging times.
4. Asolo Repertory Theater: Each season Asolo Repertory Theatre relies on the generosity of more than 400 volunteers to assist with performance ushering, audience services and behind-the-scenes support.

These are just a few examples of social clubs and organizations in Sarasota you can join to help you acclimate and serve your new community.

Depending on your interests and preferences, you can find a wide range of clubs that offer social interaction, community involvement, and opportunities to pursue hobbies and interests with like-minded individuals in the Sarasota area.

Education in Sarasota

Sarasota offers a variety of educational options for families with children, including public schools, private schools, charter schools, and daycare centers.

Public Schools:

1. Sarasota County Schools: The Sarasota County School District oversees the public schools in the area, which include elementary, middle, and high schools. Some notable public schools in Sarasota include:
   • Pine View School: A nationally recognized school for the gifted, serving students from elementary (2^nd grade) through high school.
   • Riverview High School: Known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities.
   • Ashton Elementary School: Offers a diverse curriculum and supportive learning environment.
2. School Choice: Sarasota County Schools offer school choice options, allowing parents to apply for their child to attend schools outside their designated attendance area, based on availability and specific program offerings.

Private Schools:

1. Out-of-Door Academy: A private school offering preschool through high school education with a focus on college preparatory academics and extracurricular activities.
2. Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School: A private Catholic high school known for its strong academic programs and emphasis on spiritual development.
3. Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School: Offers a rigorous academic curriculum combined with arts, athletics, and service opportunities for students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

Charter Schools:

1. Sarasota Military Academy: A charter school offering a military-style educational environment with a focus on leadership development and academic excellence.
2. Imagine School at Palmer Ranch: A tuition-free public charter school emphasizing character development, academic achievement, and parent involvement.

Daycares and Early Childhood Education:

1. Sarasota County Early Learning Coalition: Coordinates early childhood education and childcare services, providing information about local daycare centers and preschools.
2. Children First: Offers early childhood education and childcare services, including Head Start programs and comprehensive family support services.
3. Montessori Schools: Several Montessori schools in Sarasota, such as NewGate, provide early childhood education based on the Montessori philosophy, emphasizing hands-on learning and individualized instruction.

Higher Education:

1. New College of Florida: A public liberal arts college located in Sarasota, known for its small class sizes and focus on undergraduate education.
2. Ringling College of Art and Design: A private art and design college offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various artistic disciplines.

Resources:

1. Sarasota County Libraries: Provide resources and programs for children and families, including storytimes, educational workshops, and summer reading programs.
2. Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs): Many schools in Sarasota have active PTAs that organize events, fundraisers, and volunteer opportunities for parents and families.

When choosing schools and daycares in Sarasota, it’s beneficial to visit prospective institutions, meet with administrators and teachers, and consider factors such as academic programs, extracurricular activities, class sizes, and overall educational philosophy to find the best fit for your child and family.

Additional Online Resources:

1. Visitsarasota.com
2. U.S. News Why Go to Sarasota
3. City of Sarasota Government Website
4. Visit Florida Website – Sarasota

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