Listing Description
Clearwater, Florida: Community Profile
Clearwater, Florida, is a vibrant coastal city in Pinellas County, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, about 25 miles west of Tampa. Known for its world-famous beaches, thriving downtown, and strong economy, Clearwater offers a mix of waterfront living, cultural attractions, and a business-friendly environment.
With stunning Gulf views, a booming tourism industry, and excellent real estate opportunities, Clearwater is one of Florida’s top destinations for families, retirees, and professionals.
Location & Accessibility
Gulf Coast city in Pinellas County, Florida.
25 miles from Tampa, 22 miles from St. Petersburg, and 30 miles from Sarasota.
Well-connected by US-19 and Interstate 275 for easy commuting.
Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 30 minutes away.
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) – 20 minutes away.
Clearwater offers easy access to major cities, airports, and Florida’s top attractions.
Population & Demographics
Population: ~118,000 residents.
Median Age: 44 years old.
Diverse Community: A mix of families, retirees, and professionals.
Growing Population due to tourism, business opportunities, and real estate development.
Clearwater balances a suburban feel with urban convenience and Gulf Coast beauty.
Lifestyle & Community
Clearwater offers a relaxed yet active coastal lifestyle.
World-Famous Beaches – Clearwater Beach is consistently ranked among the best in the U.S..
Boating & Waterfront Living – Many homes have direct Gulf or Intracoastal Waterway access.
Vibrant Downtown Scene – Home to restaurants, craft breweries, arts, and cultural events.
Active Lifestyle – Features parks, trails, golf courses, and outdoor fitness activities.
Cultural & Entertainment Hub – Includes Clearwater Jazz Festival, Ruth Eckerd Hall, and the Capitol Theatre.
Family & Retiree-Friendly – Offers great schools, senior communities, and recreational programs.
Clearwater is ideal for beach lovers, young professionals, and retirees looking for a dynamic waterfront city.
Real Estate & Housing
Clearwater’s real estate market offers a variety of homes, from luxury beachfront condos to suburban neighborhoods.
Luxury & Waterfront Homes – Located in Clearwater Beach, Island Estates, and Sand Key.
Suburban & Family-Friendly Homes – Found in Countryside, Greenbriar, and Morningside Estates.
Condos & Townhomes – Available in Downtown Clearwater, Edgewater Drive, and Feather Sound.
55+ Active Adult Communities – Includes On Top of the World and Imperial Cove.
New Construction & Gated Communities – Growing in Coachman Ridge and The Landings.
Median Home Prices (2024):
Single-Family Homes: $400K – $800K
Luxury & Waterfront Homes: $1M – $10M+
Condos & Townhomes: $300K – $700K
Clearwater’s real estate market is competitive, making it a prime location for homebuyers and investors.
Education & Schools
Clearwater is part of the Pinellas County School District, one of Florida’s highest-rated districts.
Top Public Schools:
Clearwater High School – A-rated, known for strong academics.
Plato Academy Clearwater – A top-rated charter school.
Countryside High School – Excellent academic and athletic programs.
Pinellas Preparatory Academy – Highly rated for elementary and middle grades.
Private & Charter Schools:
Clearwater Central Catholic High School
Saint Paul’s School
Admiral Farragut Academy (Nearby in St. Pete)
Higher Education Nearby:
St. Petersburg College (SPC) – Clearwater Campus
University of South Florida (USF) – Tampa (35 minutes away)
Eckerd College (St. Pete, 30 minutes away)
Clearwater offers top-notch educational opportunities with easy access to major universities.
Shopping, Dining, & Entertainment
Clearwater has a diverse shopping and dining scene, featuring local boutiques, malls, and fine dining.
Shopping Centers & Malls:
Westfield Countryside Mall – Features Macy’s, Dillard’s, an ice rink, and a movie theater.
Largo Mall (Nearby) – A shopping plaza with big-box retailers and dining.
International Plaza & Bay Street (Tampa, 30 minutes away) – A luxury shopping destination.
Dining & Local Favorites:
Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill – A famous beachfront seafood restaurant.
Columbia Restaurant (Sand Key) – A historic Spanish restaurant with stunning waterfront views.
Island Way Grill – A popular seafood spot on the Intracoastal.
Clear Sky Café – A trendy brunch and dinner spot near Clearwater Beach.
Entertainment & Nightlife:
Pier 60 Sunset Festival – A daily celebration with live music and local vendors.
Ruth Eckerd Hall – Hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and cultural performances.
Capitol Theatre – A historic venue for live music and events.
Tampa’s Ybor City & St. Pete’s Downtown (Nearby) – Features bars, clubs, and nightlife.
Clearwater provides a mix of casual and upscale dining, plus entertainment options for all ages.
Outdoor Recreation & Parks
Clearwater is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering beaches, parks, and water activities.
Clearwater Beach – Consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the U.S.
Sand Key Park – Offers nature trails, picnic areas, and quiet beachfront spots.
Honeymoon Island State Park (Nearby) – A natural Gulf Coast beach with hiking and kayaking.
Coachman Park – A downtown waterfront park hosting concerts and festivals.
Pinellas Trail – A long-distance biking and running trail connecting Clearwater to St. Pete.
With year-round sunshine and access to the Gulf, Clearwater is perfect for outdoor living.
Employment & Economy
Clearwater has a strong economy, with job opportunities in tourism, healthcare, finance, and technology.
Major Employers in Clearwater:
BayCare Health System & Morton Plant Hospital
Tech Data (A Fortune 500 company)
Honeywell Aerospace
City of Clearwater & Pinellas County Government
Tourism & Hospitality (Hotels, Restaurants, and Attractions)
Clearwater offers a thriving job market and business-friendly environment.
Community Events & Festivals
Clearwater hosts year-round events and festivals, celebrating arts, music, and coastal culture.
Clearwater Jazz Holiday – A renowned music festival at Coachman Park.
Pier 60 Sunset Festival – A nightly beachfront event with live performers.
Sugar Sand Festival – A massive sand sculpting competition on Clearwater Beach.
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade – A festive annual tradition on the Intracoastal Waterway.
Conclusion
Clearwater, Florida, is one of the most desirable cities on the Gulf Coast, offering stunning beaches, a strong economy, and a vibrant community. Whether you're looking for a luxury waterfront home, a suburban neighborhood, or a beachside vacation retreat, Clearwater provides the perfect blend of coastal beauty and modern convenience.