Downside of Sarasota
It’s Expensive!
Sarasota is rated more expensive than average US cities, which we already knew. While it is about 47% cheaper than NYC, it is also about 15% higher than comparable cities for housing, whereas all other expenses range from 1% to 7% higher like utilities, food, and healthcare. Interestingly, on average transportation in Sarasota is lower by 2% compared to the rest of FL and by 1% to the US. So the main expense is housing costs, which this website is all about attempting to mitigate, at least for those who can afford rent or a mortgage.
There are a Lot of Homeless People
Sarasota has a pleasant climate and that is going to attract people who live outdoors. In 2024 Florida law HB 1365 came into effect, prohibiting cities and counties from “allowing” people to sleep in public places. But, it allows local governments to create homeless camps if shelters reach capacity.
Sarasota has its very large Center of Hope complex at 1400 10th street providing shelter space to anyone every night who arrive from 7:00–9:00pm. There are working programs like Rapid Rehousing and Sarasota’s chronic homeless population, and these have decreased by half since 2014 despite the city growing at a rate about six times the national average.
You will see homeless folks is on the street corners downtown where they pan handle during the day. A problem is the heart breaking juxtaposition of extreme wealth contrasted with poverty, that you see in the city. Resurrection House, not far from Mentone Court offers breakfast and lunch as well as laundry services to 70–100 clients a day. There are showers and restrooms and many volunteers respectfully helping less fortunate folks, even folding clients’ laundry for them.
While the number of unhoused people in Sarasota is rising, a survey around 03/2024 showed only about 580 homeless individuals in Sarasota County which is not as many as one might think. But of course, even just one is one too many. Still, Sarasota has a lot to be proud of regarding the level of services offers to people in need.
The Summer Temperatures are Hot!
This is true and the heat can be oppressive. This writer often visited during the summer to check on his boat which needed compounding and polishing due to the brutal direct and water-reflected sun. Still he survived even walking on the unshaded, open docks. Luckily the boat had two AC units. If you are older you’ll need to limit outside daytime activities to walking while wearing a hat and sunscreen. Sun glasses are a necessity.
Things like shopping, exercise or yard work need to happen early morning or in the later evening. All the restaurants and shops remain open through the summer as there is a large year-round population. There are no crowds and more intimacy in the shops and restaurants which is quite pleasant. Happy hours abound. An attitude that we’re all in this together seems to prevail all over town. Having access to a pool can help. Luckily, the streets downtown are shaded by adjacent buildings and much greenery.
