SARASOTA, Fla. — Sarasota has been named as one of the five best cities to retire in the U.S. by a new study.
U.S. News & World Report ranked Sarasota at No. 4, stating it has its own "distinct vibe" with its arts scene, beachy atmosphere and burgeoning food culture.
"People who choose Sarasota as their home are generally called by its unique charm," the study reads. "What makes the region special is its duality – downtown Sarasota boasts resorts and fine dining, but strolling Siesta Key Village or St. Armands Circle offers a more intimate, seaside ambiance."
The article lists several of the city's stats:
- City population: 82,472
- Median home price: $430,652
- Median monthly rent: $1,652
- Median age: 52 years old
- Median household income: $80,922
- Unemployment rate: 3.66%
U.S. News & World Report does make note of the city already being mostly populated by retirees, with 34% of the population being 65 or older.
The article also mentions Sarasota's rising home prices, stating that many who want to live there are priced out.
"For a city of its size, Sarasota is not a cheap place to live," the article says. "In fact, average rental prices for an apartment are even slightly higher in Sarasota than in nearby cities like St. Petersburg and Tampa."
The outlet gave Sarasota an overall score of 6.9, housing affordability a score of 6.0 and health care a score of 3.7.
The study surveyed data from 150 U.S. cities, basing criteria on the happiness of local residents, housing affordability, tax rates and healthcare quality.
Coming above Sarasota in the study were New York City (No. 3), Virginia Beach (No.2) and Naples (No. 1).
