Bradenton Beach

Bradenton Beach

Located along Florida’s iconic Gulf Coast are the cities of Sarasota and Bradenton, known for their spectacular weather and stunning white-sand beaches. While they’re located in separate counties (Sarasota in Sarasota County and Bradenton in Manatee County), the two cities tend to be talked about in tandem due to their similar qualities and popularity among tourists. They are two of the largest cities in the Sarasota metropolitan area with approximately 13 miles between them.

Sarasota and Bradenton are also typically pitted against one another − which is the better place to move to? Which is a better fit for families? Which is more expensive? Each city has its own charm, so read on to find out what’s there to see, do, and love about them. And for those considering moving out to either city, this will provide a glimpse into the real estate climate and available properties for sale.

WELCOME TO SARASOTA AND BRADENTON

It can be difficult making a choice between Sarasota and Bradentonas these two West Florida cities draw a lot of attention among tourists for their great amenities and lovely beaches. But with further inspection, one will find interesting differences that could shape decision-making on whether to make a bid among the homes for sale in Sarasota or Bradenton, FL.

Historically, these two cities have a connection. Sarasota used to be part of Manatee County until it broke away and formed its own county on May 14, 1921. Despite having been a key part of various historical events since the Europeans first landed here in the early 16th century, including its participation in the American Civil War, Sarasota wasn’t incorporated as a town until 1902, and then as a city in 1913. A number of individuals contributed to its development, such as Bertha Palmer, Owen Burns, and the Ringling family, and the city became known as a vibrant winter retreat for Northerners.

Bradenton, meanwhile, initially housed a settlement for maroons (escaped slaves), leading to the establishment of a 750-strong community called Angola. The first known American settler in Bradenton is Josiah Gates, who moved with his family and eight slaves to the area where Bradenton now stands. Bradenton got its name from Dr. Joseph Braden, who owned a sugar plantation and lived in the area until 1857. Bradenton was incorporated on May 19, 1903.

Today, Sarasota and Bradenton have gained reputations as highly desirable locations either as great vacation spots or as places to call home. There are minute differences between the two, though. Despite having almost the same population count (more than 50,000), Sarasota is often described as more laid-back with an exclusive feel, while Bradenton is said to have a more energetic vibe, with many outdoor activities to try.

These two coastal cities also stand on equal ground in terms of the peace and order situation and economics. However, the cost of living, health care costs, and housing prices are lower by a fraction in Bradenton than in Sarasota. When it comes to education, Sarasota beats Bradenton by a mile. While Bradenton has 44 public schools, which is more than the 32 schools in Sarasota, Sarasota has 18 A-rated schools – Bradenton has only 3.

There’s very little to distinguish between each city so ultimately, your choice will most probably boil down to the price and type of properties, as well as the available amenities and attractions both could offer.

AT A GLANCE: SARASOTA AND BRADENTON REAL ESTATE

Sarasota has increasingly become popular among people looking to move to Florida, with Bradenton capturing the same level of attention as a solid alternative to Sarasota, especially for those who find themselves priced out of the housing market there. Let’s look at the property options in Sarasota and Bradenton.

Sarasota

Sarasota might be known as a haven for retirees but you’ll find much more than retirement communities here. The luxury market in Sarasota is actually thriving, featuring a mix of prime waterfront homes in exclusive gated communities, grand estates that are mere steps away from the city’s famed beaches, smaller (but no less opulent) single-family homes in planned neighborhoods, and sprawling condominiums in mixed-use buildings that put residents close to shops, restaurants, and galleries.

Sarasota, FL homes for sale also come in a variety of styles. The contemporary homes feature high ceilings and fixtures that allow lots of natural light in – an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the area’s fantastic views anytime they want. Meanwhile, the Mediterranean style is a veritable staple on the Gulf Coast, featuring stucco exteriors, red-tiled roofs, and exquisite ironwork that are perfect for the climate and location.

You’ll find many Sarasota, FL homes for sale in different communities throughout the city. One such community is Sunrise Preserve at Palmer Ranch, boasting single-family homes that come in different architectural styles such as Coastal, Craftsman, and West Indies. Its location is ideal for those who want to be close to Downtown Sarasota and different schools in the area. Lakewood Ranch is another alternative, and it’s basically its own self-contained community made up of numerous villages with each having its own school, dining, and recreational options. It offers a mix of homes for families, single people, and the over-55 set, as well as golf properties.

Bradenton

As mentioned earlier, a notable difference between Bradenton and Sarasota is that on average, homes for sale in Bradenton, FL are much more affordable than Sarasota, FL, homes for sale. While there’s also a good number of luxury homes for sale here, the mix of housing options is more varied. This means that there’s a home waiting for every buyer in Bradenton, no matter the lifestyle, budget, and preferences.

To illustrate, Point Pleasant extends out into the Manatee River and has fewer than 100 homes. Still, you’ll find a diverse array of housing here, including Craftsman homes, mid-rise condos, Colonial residences, and more. For something more upscale, then Azalea Park could be a good option. This affluent neighborhood is generally quiet, and a huge plus is that the De Soto National Park is only a short walk away. You also get good views of the Manatee River from here and the community is composed of a blend of families, retirees, and career-driven singles. Meanwhile, some of the more affordable residences to check out are the available apartments at Citrus Meadows.

LIVING IN SARASOTA AND BRADENTON

Sarasota

When one thinks of Sarasota, the beaches are among the first things that come to mind – and for good reason. The Gulf Coast is lined with a wide array of gorgeous beaches but few come close to the beauty of Siesta Key Beach which has consistently been named among the top beaches in the US. It features 99% pure quartz sand and spectacular views of the sparkling blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Moreover, the beach itself has numerous playgrounds for kids and the surrounding area offers a wide selection of dining choices for any budget. After a full day of activities like boating and parasailing, you can unwind at places like Siesta Key Oyster Bar or choose from any of the bars in Siesta Key Village. If you happen to be at the beach on a Sunday, wait until the evening to join the Siesta Key Beach Drum Circle. It’s the perfect opportunity to dance and let loose on the beach.

For a Sarasota culture trip like no other, this coastal city has several fantastic venues to visit.

• Art enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy a trip to the Sarasota Art Museum on the Ringling College Museum Campus. Opened in December 2019, this museum hosts various exhibitions throughout the year and offers art discussions and tours.
• Another place to explore is Sarasota’s homage to one of the prominent personalities who lived in the city – The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. This museum hosts an ever-growing archive of material related to the Ringling Brothers Circus and Wild West shows. The venue is also available for rent for events, meetings, and photo shoots.
• St. Armand’s Circle is a particularly exciting spot that is still related to the Ringlings. The brainchild of John Ringling, he purchased the land where St. Armands Circle is now located in 1917. He then set out to design a mixed-use development featuring residences and a shopping area. St. Armands flourished for a while until hard times hit during The Great Depression. Activity picked back up in the 1940s when investors opened restaurants here, with commercial activity driving the area’s progress even further in the 1950s. Today, St. Armands looks much like the way Ringling had planned it – and more. Featuring tropical gardens, a great number of cafes and restaurants, and trendy shops, St. Armands Circle also hosts car shows, holiday events, and arts and crafts festivals.

Bradenton

Often described as offering a taste of “Old Florida,” Bradenton has nevertheless moved with the times and is home to many dining establishments. One of them is PIER 22, a neighborhood staple since 1976. Here, diners are treated to lovely views of the Manatee River and award-winning cuisine. There’s also Ortygia, which features a carefully curated selection of Sicilian cuisine. The city also has a vast selection of distilleries and brewpubs.

The shopping options in the city are also rather diverse, with local makers and vendors offering products at the Red Barn Flea Market. The Village of the Arts, meanwhile, makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time with its colorful historic cottages that house a community of artists Various artwork, jewelry, and fashion items are also for sale here. Those looking to shop for designer brands could check out Ellenton Premium Outlets which houses 130 designer outlet stores.

One of the best ways to get a feel for the atmosphere of Bradenton is by visiting the Bradenton Riverwalk, a 1.5-mile park that overlooks the Manatee River and features everything from a splash pad, a beach volleyball court, a skate park, green spaces, a fishing pier, a 400-seat amphitheater, and more.

Bradenton has its fair share of beaches, as well, such as the seven-mile Coquina Beach. With its fine sand and shallow waters, it’s perfect for families with young children. Another good spot is Anna Maria Island, located just 20 minutes from Bradenton. You get plenty of opportunities to engage in activities such as parasailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. There are times when one could even spot bottlenose dolphins and manatees in the area.

Numerous outdoor activities are also available in the city, thanks to its abundance of parks and preserves. Robinson Preserve is a 682-acre coastal preserve located near Anna Maria Island and is open year-round. It has many walking trails and areas for paddleboarding and kayaking. You can also explore Palma Sola Botanical Park which spans 10 acres and boasts an abundance of exotic fruit and nut trees. Just off the mainland is De Soto National Park, a historic location generally considered to be the possible landing place of Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto in 1539. It has many scenic nature trails where people can go birdwatching and picnicking. And since it’s located in Tampa Bay, you can fish to your heart’s desire.

FIND YOUR NEXT HOME IN SARASOTA OR BRADENTON

Whether you’re looking for single-family homes for sale in Sarasota, FL, or waterfront homes for sale in Bradenton, FL, there’s only one real estate specialist to call: top-notch Tampa Bay Realtor Dania Perry. Since 2006, Dania has been selling luxury and waterfront real estate in the Tampa Bay area and has become the #1 selling individual real estate agent in Tampa Bay and the #1 selling Century 21 real estate agent in the world.

Dania is committed to getting the most out of every transaction, meeting clients’ needs and utilizing detailed real estate market analysis to help clients make the best decisions. She has also cultivated good relationships with various contacts and high-net-worth clients, giving her an early look into available properties before they even hit the market. Her experience, knowledge, and expertise in the industry are what she will wholeheartedly share with you once you make Dania your guide in your home-buying journey. Get in touch via email here or give Dania a call at 727.215.2045.