Listing Description
Clearwater, Florida: Community Overview
Clearwater, Florida, is a vibrant coastal city in Pinellas County, located on the Gulf of Mexico and part of the Tampa Bay metropolitan area. Known for its world-famous beaches, thriving economy, and strong sense of community, Clearwater offers a blend of urban amenities and relaxed beachfront living.
With stunning waterfront views, a strong real estate market, and a business-friendly environment, Clearwater is one of Florida’s most desirable cities for families, retirees, and professionals.
Location & Accessibility
Situated on Florida’s Gulf Coast, between Tampa and St. Petersburg.
20 miles from Tampa, 15 miles from St. Petersburg, and 30 miles from Sarasota.
Connected by major highways, including US-19 and State Road 60 (Courtney Campbell Causeway).
Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 30 minutes away.
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) – 15 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 – a mix of families, retirees, and working professionals.
Growing Population due to strong job opportunities, real estate development, and coastal appeal.
Clearwater balances suburban comfort with a lively beach town atmosphere.
Lifestyle & Community
Clearwater offers a relaxed yet active coastal lifestyle, with a focus on outdoor recreation and community engagement.
World-Class Beaches – Clearwater Beach is consistently ranked among the best in the U.S..
Boating & Waterfront Living – Many homes offer direct Gulf or Intracoastal Waterway access.
Thriving Downtown Scene – Home to restaurants, craft breweries, and cultural events.
Active Lifestyle – Features parks, trails, golf courses, and outdoor fitness activities.
Sports & Recreation – Home to Philadelphia Phillies Spring Training (BayCare Ballpark) and proximity to Tampa Bay’s NFL, NHL, and MLB teams.
Clearwater is perfect for beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for a vibrant waterfront community.
Real Estate & Housing
Clearwater offers a variety of housing options, from luxury waterfront condos to suburban neighborhoods.
Luxury & Waterfront Homes – Located in Clearwater Beach, Island Estates, and Sand Key.
Suburban & Family-Friendly Neighborhoods – Found in Countryside, Greenbriar, and Morningside Estates.
Condos & Townhomes – Popular 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 – Expanding 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 strong, 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 access to major universities.
Shopping, Dining, & Entertainment
Clearwater has a thriving retail and dining scene, featuring luxury shopping, local boutiques, and waterfront 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 beachfront celebration with live music and 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, breweries, 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.