$595,212Average Value$661Average Price per Sq Ft16Homes For Sale
Beachy, laid-back living in a historic fishing village
History lives in Cortez, one of the few remaining commercial fishing villages on Florida's Gulf Coast. “Historic Cortez is a gem,” says Kathy Cahill, a Realtor with Keller Williams on the Water. Founded in the late 19th century, Cortez was once so remote it was easier to access by sea than by land. Today it occupies a fairly busy area that connects Bradenton to the barrier island community of Bradenton Beach. “You’re on Sarasota Bay, just a hop, skip and a jump to the beaches,” says Cahill. “It’s quaint and historic, but you can also find a brand-new home. It has museums and a lot of things to do. It’s very unique.” Just west of Bradenton, Cortez is surrounded by quickly developing areas, but its community has also worked hard to preserve the special, "Old Florida" aspects of their neighborhood. Pristine, white sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, fishing, paddling or boating out on the water, and public parks with carefully preserved natural habitats are all parts of life in Cortez that many residents love. It's "Wonderful having the Gulf breezes coming in and sitting at a little restaurant near the fishing docks to watch the sunset," says Cahill, explaining that fresh-caught seafood and boating are both essential parts of Cortez. With a traditional fishing community that has managed to survive amidst a modern and quickly growing society, Cortez is a unique slice of living history on Florida's sunny western coast inviting tourists, residents and buyers alike to spend some time relaxing, listening to the water and getting to know what makes Cortez so close to the hearts of its tight-knit community.
Cortez is surrounded with small islands separating it from Bradenton Beach.
Fishermen can be seen out on their boats of all sizes daily in Cortez neighborhood.
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Heading outdoors on Florida's Gulf Coast
In Cortez, residents are always just minutes away from their next adventure on the water or relaxing time at the beach. Whether spotting sealife like dolphins or manatees in the Anna Maria Sound, fishing out in Palma Sola Bay or heading across Cortez Bridge to Bradenton Beach to spend some time swimming and relaxing on the Gulf Coast, Cortez residents have almost unlimited access to some of the Tampa Bay area's best natural features. Less than a mile across the sound from Cortez, Bradenton Beach is known for its family-friendly and laid-back vibe. Many of the beaches have natural, grassy sand dunes separating them from Gulf Drive, the island's main thoroughfare, and the sand is so fine that "It feels like powdered sugar," says Cahill. When residents are finished digging their toes in the white sand and enjoying the Gulf of Mexico's clear, blue-green water, they can head over to Robinson Preserve to see some classic Florida wildlife in a wetland ecosystem bordering the Tampa Bay. With raised wooden platforms and lookout towers to survey the landscape from, residents can look back in time at an undisturbed natural habitat full of both lush vegetation and vibrant wildlife, from osprey and eagles diving for fish to turtles sunning themselves on logs.
The Cortez area is rich in marine life and has a vigorous boating culture.
Cortez and Bradenton Beach was a fishing village then grew into a popular tourist hotspot.
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Coastal Florida homes with diverse pricing
Housing in Cortez includes everything from small homes, original and remodeled, that date back to the village’s earlier days to multimillion-dollar estate-sized homes on the water featuring state-of-the-art boat slips for the more recreational pursuits the village’s location allows. “You have charming homes in the fishing village portion and a lot of waterfront properties,” says Cahill. “You’ve got single-family homes, old and new, and beautiful condominiums. It’s just a great mix.” With an average sales price of about $583,000, which is about $40,000 dollars higher than the surrounding area of Manatee County, homes in the village range from ranch-styles and other traditional homes that sell for as low as $350,000 to elegant Key West and Spanish-revival homes with waterfront access that sell for over $2 million dollars. Homes here, especially older ones are often remodeled and feature luxurious outdoor spaces so residents can enjoy the balmy Florida weather from the comfort of their own homes. Condominiums, which include some of the village’s newest construction, range in price from the low $200,000s to almost $1 million.
Cortez neighborhood is known to be filled with so much charm in the little fishing town.
Don't want to deal with grass then fill your yard with shells & rocks in Cortez neighborhood.
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The Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival
Cortez has been recognized as a national historic district since 1995 and is home to the Cortez Culture Center and the Florida Maritime Museum, located in a renovated 1912 schoolhouse on 95 acres of protected land on the shores of Sarasota Bay. The land was purchased as part of grassroots efforts by the nonprofit Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage to prevent development and is known by locals as the F.I.S.H. Preserve. F.I.S.H. partners with the village each year for the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, a two-day event that celebrates the community’s heritage. The village also hosts the Ben Gullet Mullet Invitational, a cast net-only tournament that helps raise money for F.I.S.H. and the Cortez Historical Society.
Cortez neighborhood is a commercial fishing town which is one of the few left.
With Cortez neighborhood being a fishing town you can find fresh seafood everywhere.
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Waterfront restaurants and freshly caught seafood
Shopping and dining in Cortez is a highlight of the area and a must-see for those only visiting the area for a short time. There are several well-used fishing docks spread throughout the neighborhood along the water that residents can visit to watch fishing boats coming in for the day with their catches. At dinner time, little restaurants lining the docks are waiting for patrons to come in and enjoy seafood that comes straight from the ocean. One popular spot serving up daily fresh-caught specials is Swordfish Grill, while, for a little bit of everything and excellent views of the water, a local favorite is The Bridge Tender. Cahill recommends sitting outside by the "big tree with little twinkle lights" and loves the restaurant's grouper bites. For some quick groceries or fishing supplies, residents can stop by Cortez Market and, for more options, a full-service Winn-Dixie is located just east of the village along Cortez Road at the Shoppes of Paradise Bay.
There are a few waterfront restaurants to enjoy from Cortez kitchen to Swordfish Grill.
Want some fresh seafood for dinner then stop by Cortez Fish Market for their daily catches.
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Manatee County public schools and local education
Students in the neighborhood can attend Manatee County public schools like Seabreeze Elementary School, which receives a B-minus rating from Niche, W.D. Sugg Middle School, which receives a C rating and Bayshore High, which earns a C-plus according to Niche. Bayshore High is also a Cambridge International school. Bayshore High is also a Cambridge International school and features a College & Career Center to help students formulate their future plans.To get more educated on the local area, the Cortez Culture Center and Florida Maritime Museum are located right along Cortez Road: a relatively buzzy corridor that runs the length of the village. The center tells the story of the village from its founding to the present day, while the museum provides an array of exhibits and artifacts intended to promote and preserve the maritime heritage of communities like Cortez. A folk school on-site offers hands-on classes to teach the classic skills of the commercial fisherman.
Bayshore High School has 1,385 students in grades 9-12.
W.D. Sugg Middle School is a public school located in Bradenton, FL
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Getting around the greater Cortez area
Fortunately for Cortez residents, transportation is usually not an issue. When heading to the beach next door on Anna Maria island, residents can take the free island trolley all along the strip, or utilize the Manatee County public bus system to get around town so they don't have to worry about finding a parking spot. Although traffic heading towards the beaches is heavier during tourist season, which is January through April, Cortez residents can normally expect fairly easy drives between destinations. To find the nearest hospital, residents can head just under six miles east along Cortez Road (44th Avenue) to find HCA Florida Blake Hospital. For out-of-state travelers, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport is about 13 miles southeast along El Conquistador Parkway.
From fresh seafood daily to a 10 minute ride to the gulf of Mexico, Cortez neighborhood is home.
Public transportation helps your get around Cortez neighborhood & Bradenton.
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Written By
Bayley Malo
Video By
Matt Ferguson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Rochelle Bowers,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Cortez, FL sell after 130 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Cortez, FL over the last 12 months is $1,300,000, up 53% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
AN EXTREMELY RARE AND EXCITING OPPORTUNITY AWAITS in this vibrant bay and canal-front community where coastal surroundings meet the ease and elegance of essentially new construction. Perfectly positioned in a peaceful setting just moments from community amenities and the clubhouse, this residence offers the best of both tranquility and perfection. BOASTING THE LARGEST FLOOR PLAN available, this
Experience the ultimate coastal boating lifestyle without the upkeep in this TURNKEY FURNISHED CONDO. Click Tour 2 for Matterport 3D Tour. Welcome to Smugglers Landing, a premier waterfront community offering a deeded boat slip and wide (New Docks Going In This Year), deep-water canals ideal for sailboats or large boats, with quick and easy access to Anna Maria Sound and the Gulf. The elevated
PERFECTLY POSITIONED ON A PEACEFUL LAKEFRONT CUL-DE-SAC in a vibrant bay front community just steps from the clubhouse and amenities, this beautifully maintained move-in ready single-level villa combines comfort, convenience, and an active coastal lifestyle.FROM THE MOMENT YOU ARRIVE, you'll appreciate the wide newer driveway, oversized carport with refreshed Poly-Pebble flooring, convenient
WELCOME TO THIS EXCEPTIONAL FIRST-FLOOR TURNKEY FURNISHED LAKEFRONT CORNER CONDO located in a highly sought-after bay and canal-front community where comfort, value, and resort-style living blend beautifully together. Offering the community’s largest two-bedroom floor plan, this thoughtfully upgraded residence is perfectly positioned in the center of the community just steps from the clubhouse
PICTURESQUE LAKE VIEWS AND AN EXCEPTIONAL VALUE IN COASTAL LIVING! Imagine waking up to tranquil water views, with jumping mullet, diving pelicans, and majestic ospreys soaring overhead. Tucked away on a peaceful peninsula cul-de-sac in the highly sought-after Lexington Circle of Mt Vernon on Sarasota Bay, this turnkey furnished lakefront villa offers the blend of comfort, privacy, and relaxed
AN EXTREMELY RARE AND EXCITING OPPORTUNITY AWAITS in this vibrant bay and canal-front community where coastal surroundings meet the ease and elegance of essentially new construction. Perfectly positioned in a peaceful setting just moments from community amenities and the clubhouse, this residence offers the best of both tranquility and perfection. BOASTING THE LARGEST FLOOR PLAN available, this
EXTRAORDINARY WATERFRONT ESTATE ON ANNA MARIA SOUND. Exclusive gated community of Sunset Harbor, where luxury, privacy, and breathtaking coastal scenery come together in perfect harmony. One of only eight residences within this intimate enclave, this exceptional home captures sweeping views of Anna Maria Sound and delivers unforgettable Gulf Coast sunsets from nearly every angle. Thoughtfully
NESTLED WITHIN A VIBRANT, nearly 90-acre bayfront community, this delightful turnkey-furnished two-bedroom, two-bathroom concrete block villa with storm shutters offers the perfect blend of comfort, charm, convenience and peace of mind. Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac with serene pond views and surrounded by lush green lawns, this villa is just a short stroll from the exceptional clubhouse and
Welcome to Paradise Bay Estates — a premier 55+ waterfront community along the shores of Sarasota Bay, just 2 miles from the sparkling beaches of Anna Maria Island! This beautifully updated 2BR/2BA home offers a bright, open floor plan and a spacious Florida Room perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Expanded parking pad with room for your boat and two convenient storage sheds provide plenty of
Experience the ultimate coastal boating lifestyle without the upkeep in this TURNKEY FURNISHED CONDO. Click Tour 2 for Matterport 3D Tour. Welcome to Smugglers Landing, a premier waterfront community offering a deeded boat slip and wide (New Docks Going In This Year), deep-water canals ideal for sailboats or large boats, with quick and easy access to Anna Maria Sound and the Gulf. The elevated
PERFECTLY POSITIONED ON A PEACEFUL LAKEFRONT CUL-DE-SAC in a vibrant bay front community just steps from the clubhouse and amenities, this beautifully maintained move-in ready single-level villa combines comfort, convenience, and an active coastal lifestyle.FROM THE MOMENT YOU ARRIVE, you'll appreciate the wide newer driveway, oversized carport with refreshed Poly-Pebble flooring, convenient
FROM THE MOMENT YOU STEP INSIDE THIS FIRST-FLOOR turnkey furnished lakefront condo with glimpses of Sarasota Bay, you’ll feel the relaxed charm of Florida living. The captivating open floor plan is bright, airy, and welcoming, with spacious living and dining areas that flow effortlessly to the breezy screened lanai, creating the perfect indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Coastal-inspired colors and
This first-floor end unit at Palma Sola Bay Club offers 1,854 square feet of well-designed living space in a Key West-inspired gated community in West Bradenton, approximately five miles from the beaches of Anna Maria Island.The unit is built with full impact glass windows and doors throughout — a meaningful distinction for buyers prioritizing storm security, energy efficiency, and interior
Virtually Staged. Each day begins with the soft shimmer of Palma Sola Bay, where changing light, passing clouds, and quiet movement on the water create a living canvas just beyond your windows. Located only three miles from the legendary beaches of Anna Maria Island, this immaculate, turn-key furnished waterfront residence offers a rare blend of coastal drama, privacy, and effortless luxury.
Opportunity awaits in Paradise Bay! This 1BR/1BA mobile home is the perfect blank canvas for your vision and creativity. Flooded during the 2024 storms and now ready for renovation, this home offers an affordable chance to design the coastal retreat, seasonal getaway, or retirement escape you've always imagined. Located in the highly desirable Paradise Bay Estates, an active 55+ waterfront
The advertised rate of $2,663/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of May 1, 2027.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
The advertised rate of $6,428/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of September 6, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can
The advertised rate of $4,698/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of August 12, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
The advertised rate of $3,302/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of September 7, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can
Property Id: 2251363 Fully furnished/ Newly remodeled 1 bed 1 bath with cozy beach decor, private screened on private lanai, high shared yard, and on-site laundry. Electric, wifi/cable, parking, and a stocked kitchen. 1100.00 security deposit. 6 month or annual lease. Super fun place to live. Close to the beach.
Exquisitely renovated, this single-story gem nestled in the picturesque Bay Lake Estates offers an idyllic setting with breathtaking views of a tranquil lake. Boasting an array of modern upgrades, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom abode is the epitome of refined elegance. Step inside and be greeted by soaring vaulted ceilings that create an airy and spacious ambiance, allowing natural light to dance
The advertised rate of $5,886/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of August 15, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Newly remodeled 1 bed/ 1 bath mobile home with large enclosed back porch and additional front porch with attached carport. Cute neighborhood and very quiet street. Community has an adorable waterfront park on Palma Sola Bay for residents use- grilling, launching kayaks, fishing, or just enjoying the water and ocean life. Furniture is NOT included. Water, Sewer, Trash included. Lawn maintenance is
Real Property Management Horizons are delighted to offer for rent this stunning 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom, fully furnished condo perfectly located - overlooking the Bay and Anna Maria Island, Manatee County, FL. This 2nd floor unit offers an open plan living space that seamlessly incorporates a kitchen, dining area, breakfast bar, and living room, creating a bright, spacious and inviting
Roughly 3 miles to the sugary sands of Anna Maria Island without the island price tag. Welcome to Bay Lakes, where location, lifestyle, and thoughtful upgrades come together in one of West Bradenton’s most desirable settings. This beautifully maintained single-family home offers over 2,300 square feet of well-designed living space with a split-bedroom layout and an expansive primary suite
*************** SPECIAL PRICE REDUCTION***************************************Located Approximately 10 minutes from IMG academy , and just a stone's throw away from Bradenton Beach bridge, this turnkey, utility free, fully furnished, brand-new residence in a gated community is the pinnacle of coastal living that offers both luxury and sustainability located just a short walk on the Cortez
Enjoy cheerful coastal living in this beautifully furnished 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom flexible, annual, monthly, or seasonal rental located in the highly desirable Waterway Condominiums community with breathtaking views of Palma Sola Bay. This spacious residence is fully turnkey and thoughtfully designed, featuring tasteful coastal décor and a comfortable, functional layout. The home offers a king
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