Let the numbers do the talking.
Clearwater, FL vs Sarasota, FL
Clearwater, FL vs Sarasota, FL: What the data shows
Clearwater, FL is in Clearwater, FL while Sarasota, FL is in Sarasota, FL — both in the same state. On home prices, Sarasota, FL is the more affordable option at $196,000 median — $66,800 less than Clearwater, FL's $262,800. WYLT rates Clearwater, FL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Sarasota, FL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Clearwater, FL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Sarasota, FL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Clearwater, FL has Low flood risk and Sarasota, FL has Low flood risk.
Clearwater, FL is the more walkable neighborhood. Clearwater, FL scores 5/100 (car-dependent) versus Sarasota, FL's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Clearwater, FL has the higher school rating — Clearwater, FL rates 8.6/10 and Sarasota, FL rates 5.9/10.
| Category | Clearwater, FL | Sarasota, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $263K | $196K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $51K | $55K ✓ Higher income |
| 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 | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 37 min ✓ Shorter commute | 71 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.6/10 ✓ Better schools | 5.9/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsTampa commutersFamilies looking for good schools | FamiliesRetireesThose who value a relaxed atmosphere |
Bottom line
If you prioritize good schools, a relatively short commute, and don't mind driving, Clearwater is a better choice for young professionals and Tampa commuters with a median home price that's somewhat comparable to Sarasota's. Families looking for a relaxed atmosphere and good schools might prefer Sarasota, but should be prepared for long commutes and limited walkability. Ultimately, Clearwater offers more balanced trade-offs for the right person, but Sarasota's unique charm may still appeal to some.
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