Let the numbers do the talking.
Clearwater, FL vs Key West, FL
Clearwater, FL vs Key West, FL: What the data shows
Clearwater, FL is in Clearwater, FL while Key West, FL is in Key West, FL — both in the same state. WYLT rates Clearwater, FL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Key West, FL as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Key West, FL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Clearwater, FL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Key West, FL has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Clearwater, FL has Low flood risk and Key West, FL has High flood risk.
Clearwater, FL is the more walkable neighborhood. Clearwater, FL scores 5/100 (car-dependent) versus Key West, FL's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Clearwater, FL has the higher school rating — Clearwater, FL rates 8.6/10 and Key West, FL rates 3/10.
| Category | Clearwater, FL | Key West, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $263K | N/A |
| Median Rent | $1K | N/A |
| Median Income | $51K | N/A |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 5/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 42/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 37 min ✓ Shorter commute | 201 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.6/10 ✓ Better schools | 3/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsTampa commutersFamilies looking for good schools | RetireesFamilies with older childrenArtists and creatives |
Bottom line
For young professionals and families with young children, Clearwater is the better choice. Clearwater's good schools and commute options to Tampa outweigh Key West's limited job opportunities and high flood risk. If you're a retiree or creative seeking a tranquil island life, Key West might be a better fit, but be aware of its significant drawbacks.
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