Crystal River is abundant in natural scenery and manatees
While Crystal River is defined by its pristine waters and multiple tourist attractions, this town of 3,300 offers residents a quiet atmosphere with plenty of housing options and outdoor spots. “If you’re trying to get out of the city, [Crystal River is] where you want to go for a small-town feel,” says Lindsey Miller, a Realtor with Plantation Realty, who was raised in the area and has over four years of experience. “You can't go somewhere without running into someone you know, at least I can't. Everybody is just super friendly here.” While the manatees that swim in Kings Bay are a major draw, Crystal River’s vibrant downtown, natural springs and fishing locations have attracted visitors since the late 1800s to Florida’s Nature Coast.
In Crystal River, relish at the opportunity to see and swim with the manatees.
Take the boat to Downtown Crystal River.
1/2
Manatees, natural springs, parks and a vibrant downtown
Manatees can be observed year-round, on Kings Bay and other inlets, but the peak is between November and April. Various tour companies also offer swimming experiences. The Crystal River Preserve State Park also offers boat tours, trails and fishing spots. Crystal River also has several natural springs, including the Three Sisters Springs, open to swimming and kayaking. Hunter Springs Park also has a swimming area, a boardwalk and picnic tables. The Kings Bay Riverwalk is a paved path along the water and through downtown. The city also operates public boat launches. Crystal River has an active arts scene, with several galleries downtown, including the Franklin Anderson Gallery of Arts and the Coastal Art Gallery. The Crystal River Archeological State Park maintains Native American mounds that have been present for over 1,000 years. Municipal parks include Copeland Community Park, featuring courts and a playground. Jim LeGrone Memorial Park has more sports courts, a football field and a picnic area. Golfing spots include the Plantation on Crystal River Golf Club, which is open to the public and featuring two courses and a driving range. The course is currently being remodeled and scheduled to re-open in January 2026.
What a great feeling to see and swim with the manatee in Downtown Crystal River.
Downtown Crystal River is close to the Plantation Golf Resort.
Downtown Crystal River is rich with history to explore.
1/3
Housing options on the water and inland, but HOAs are present
Homes in Crystal River can come in various architectural layouts, including stilt, Mediterranean revival, ranch styles and New Traditional. Condos are also available. The median housing price is $310,000; however, some properties can cost above $1 million. Condos typically range from just under $100,000 to $450,000. Miller says there are HOAs, but fee structures can vary depending on location and association. Homes along Kings Bay or the various waterways near downtown are typically close together and can include private docks. Inland neighborhoods, including Mayfair Garden Acres, typically have gridded streets with oaks accenting lawns. Some houses also have swimming pools. Miller says Crystal River has attracted retirees and transplants from all over Florida and the U.S. “We been a big tourist town for many years but in more recent years, the last four or five [Crystal River has] grown tremendously,” says Miller.
Residents enjoy renovating some of the original homes in Downtown Crystal River.
New custom home builds can be found near Downtown Crystal River.
1/2
Dining and shopping in downtown and on U.S. Highway 98
Dining spots are downtown, along U.S. Highway 98 or on Gulf to Lake Highway, and include a mix of chains and locally owned spots. The St. John’s Tavern has salads, burgers and sandwiches. The Biscuit Barn offers breakfast items and lunch specials. The Crab Plant serves seafood and has a fish market. Downtown has several boutiques and gift shops. Big box and grocery stores are along U.S. 98 and the Gulf to Lake Highway.
Always Abound in Downtown Crystal River serves a variety to kick start your day.
Explorida Adventures offers a great gift shop in Downtown Crystal River.
In Downtown Crystal River, KC Wine & Bistro is quaint neighborhood place to enjoy with friends.
1/3
Public school students can attend Citrus County Schools
Students can attend Citrus County Schools, rated C-plus on Niche. The district also allows for school choice via open enrollment. Transfers to non-zoned schools depend on space and other guidelines. Pupils can start at Crystal River Primary, continue to Crystal River Middle and then to Crystal River High. All schools earn a C-plus, while the high school has an academy of health careers.
Crystal River High School has an overall Niche score of C+
Crystal River Middle School has about 900 students in grades 6-8.
1/2
Flooding and hurricanes are risks
Maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency show a flooding risk, and Miller says flood insurance is required in some areas. “If you are paying in cash, [flood insurance is] not required, but I do recommend it,” says Miller. Hurricanes and severe storms are also a factor, as Hurricane Helene did impact Crystal River in 2024.
Crystal River is at risk for flooding due to it's proximity to the water.
Metal roofs protect Crystal River homes comes storm season.
1/2
Buses provided by Citrus County Transit with road access to Tampa
Citrus County Transit’s blue line runs through Crystal River and connects to other lines in Lecanto. U.S. 98 connects to Tampa, roughly 80 miles south. Tampa International Airport is 74 miles south. Tampa General Hospital Crystal River is north of downtown along U.S. 98.
Written By
Tyler Patchen
Photography Contributed By
David Hall
Video By
Luke Mancari
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Brittany Davis,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Crystal River, FL sell after 101 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Crystal River, FL over the last 12 months is $310,000, down 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
''Seller willing to offer buyer closing cost assistance—ask agent for details and Flood Insurance Policy is Transferable with rate'' Beautifully Remodeled 3-Bedroom Pool Home in Crystal River, FL Welcome to your Florida dream home! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence in the heart of Crystal River has been thoughtfully remodeled from top to bottom, offering modern elegance with coastal
PRICE REDUCED......SELLER MOTIVATED!Simply AMAZING!!...large pool home in quiet area of Crystal River's subdivision's name Crystal River Paradise Est..aptly named!This home has all the whistles and bells but one great feature is a FIVE car garage, room for all the boys toys!Four bedrooms, three bathrooms, living room, dining room, great room, updated bathrooms with wood and corian
Step inside a home like no other! This Mid-Century Modern home was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright and crafted by acclaimed architect Glenn Q Johnson in 1954. This split-level beauty features 3 beds, 3 baths, and multiple garages. Every owner has contributed to its rich story, making it a living work of art. Modern enhancements blend seamlessly with historic character—this is the ultimate find for
Affordable Florida Living! This charming studio condo is tucked just off Highway 19 in beautiful Crystal River! Offering convenience, comfort, and a prime location. Step inside to a surprisingly spacious studio layout featuring a large living area, kitchen dining area. There is an oversized walk-in closet, and an additional pantry/closet in the main living area. The kitchen comes equipped with a
The search is over—your Crystal River dream home is here!This beautifully furnished 4-bedroom, 2-bath waterfront retreat offers the perfect blend of relaxation, recreation, and investment potential. Whether you’re looking for a personal getaway, a full-time residence, or an income-producing property, this home checks every box.Step inside to find a bright, inviting interior with plenty of
Welcome to 965 N Appalachian Terrace in Crystal River — a thoughtfully updated home that strikes the perfect balance between modern living, comfortable design, and the outdoor lifestyle that makes this area so special. As you step inside, you’re greeted by fresh, updated tile flooring that stretches seamlessly throughout the main living areas, giving the home a clean, cohesive feel and making it
METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED VILLA WITH FLORIDA ROOM! This immaculate move-in ready villa in the sought-after award-winning community of Meadowcrest is located in Crystal River, a USA Today destination award winner. Live the best of both worlds in a small friendly community where you can meet your neighbors at the clubhouse for social activities and take advantage of the 2 pools, tennis courts,
Welcome to Crystal River living at its finest! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is really a 4 bedroom and has been completely refreshed, offering modern updates paired with classic Florida charm. Inside, you’ll find a bright and airy layout featuring brand-new stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl flooring, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace great for relaxing evenings. The 2023 impact windows fill
NATURE RETREAT in Ozello. Calling all nature lovers, fishermen, and crabbers! Wonderful potential for VIRBO/FAMILYRETREAT on the water. Home is very solid and has many upgrades. It has been meticulously maintained and the owners have given it lots of love as it shows. Home is 7 miles out the Ozello Trail and off the beaten path but so worth the drive and solitude along with wildlife and nature.
ENDLESS POTENTIAL HERE: This three-bedroom, two-bathroom home is nestled on a 0.19-acre corner lot in a charming Crystal River neighborhood, offering you both a convenient location in a serene setting. With a two-car garage and an in-ground pool, the property is full of character and offers a wonderful opportunity for those looking to customize a space to their liking. Whether you are escaping
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Owner financing available!! Welcome to 11340 W Bayshore Drive in the heart of Crystal River, a beautifully reimagined home that blends modern updates with the relaxed coastal lifestyle this area is known for. This 2/2 has been COMPLETELY updated throughout, this residence features light and bright finishes that immediately create a fresh, welcoming
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Location, Location, Location! Welcome to this beautifully renovated mediterranean-style condo located in the heart of Crystal River overlooking the channel and Kings Bay. Offering 2 bedrooms bedrooms and 2 baths across 1600+ square feet of thoughtfully designed living and outdoor space, this condo combines comfort, style, functionality and water
A sense of calm and refinement welcomes you the moment you arrive at this exceptional waterfront residence, where water, light, and architecture come together in perfect harmony. As you step inside, your gaze is immediately drawn upward to soaring vaulted ceilings accented with warm wood planking, while expansive architectural windows frame serene canal views and flood the home with natural
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. ***BRAND NEW 2025 Home on Oversized Lot in Crystal River!*** Welcome to your dream home in the heart of Crystal River! This stunning brand new 2025 mobile home offers 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and sits on an oversized lot with endless possibilities. Step inside and fall in love with the open-concept design. The kitchen is a showstopper,
Welcome home to this beautifully remodeled 2-bedroom, 2-bath cottage-style retreat nestled in the heart of Crystal River! Tucked away in a quiet, established neighborhood, this charming home offers the perfect blend of modern updates, comfort, and convenience — just minutes from shopping, grocery stores, dining, and easy access to main roads.From the moment you step inside, you’ll appreciate
What's better than an apartment? Renting a home at Suncoast MH & RV Resort, a family-friendly, well-maintained, professionally managed manufactured home community. Right now, Suncoast MH & RV Resort, has a 2 bed/1 bath home available! Call us today to schedule a viewing and find out how easy it can be to move into a new home!
Two apartment units available at 5928 and 5998 West Poplar Springs Circle:March availability:1st floor unit – $1,690/month / HOUSEHOLD MINIMUM REQUIREMENT : $48 672May availability:3rd floor unit – $1,499/month / HOUSEHOLD MINIMUM REQUIREMENT : $43 171.20Both units are well maintained and suitable for long-term occupancy.Move-in details:• First month
Waterfront living at its best! This beautifully remodeled 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo offers direct canal access with quick access to the Gulf of America. Featuring tile flooring throughout, solid-surface countertops, and stunning tile showers, this home is completely updated and move-in ready. Expansive sliding glass doors span the entire back of the unit, opening to the canal and filling the space
Steven LenhardtColdwell Banker Next Generation Realty
Freshly remodeled units available. near by schools, library and close to water and shopping. Improving the property with more to come. We have our own maintenance crew.
Welcome to this Bayshore coastal retreat, great for a short winter escape or year-round living in Florida’s beautiful climate. Available for stays from 3 months up to 1 year, this fully furnished home is thoughtfully equipped with everything you need, just bring your suitcase. Enjoy maintenance-free waterfront living in a peaceful setting that feels like a vacation every day. Step out back to
Escape to Island Time Riverhouse, where the river's rhythm and the Gulf's magic create the ultimate getaway. Nestled in the heart of the Ozello Keys in Crystal River, this stunning three-bedroom, 2.5-bath retreat offers everything you need for a fun, relaxing, and adventure-filled vacation. Whether you're fishing, scalloping, kayaking, or simply soaking up the Florida sunshine, this pet-friendly
Super Waterfront Rental in the desirable Woodland Estates of Crystal River. This beautifully updated 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home welcomes you with a modern, open floor plan complete with a large kitchen, island with ample seating and spectacular views of the river from every window! The home is offered completely turnkey with luxurious new furnishings including two bedrooms with king size beds,
Welcome to Salty Sea Horse, a charming cottage nestled on a serene canal in Crystal River. This newly remodeled and thoughtfully decorated home offers three bedrooms and two bathrooms, providing a perfect blend of comfort and coastal charm. Feel at home as you enjoy the stunning views and the convenience of a private dock, ideal for fishing, scalloping, or simply soaking in the tranquil
Adorable Waterfront property in the lovely Woodland Estates of Crystal River. This beautifully updated 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom unit was just completely renovated and offers all new furnishings. The home features a spacious bright bedroom with a king-size bed, large closet space and beautiful en-suite.The kitchenette is equipped with a refrigerator, convection oven, microwave, hot plate, and
Feel at home in this cozy coastal retreat located at 2247 S. Waterman Drive in Crystal River's Ozello Keys. This inviting home places you just minutes from sparkling spring-fed waters, world-class boating and fishing, and the charming downtown shops and restaurants of Crystal River and Homosassa Springs.This apartment is tucked into one of Florida’s most beloved manatee and spring
RENT THIS WATERFRONT CRYSTAL RIVER CONDO WITH BOAT SLIP! 2 Bed 2 Bath Condo in the paradise of Casa Rio Condominiums in the heart of Crystal River! Literally right down the road from Downtown Crystal River! Apartment #20 provides amazing amenities including assigned Boat Slip with Covered Boat Dock to set sail on a fishing excursion in the Gulf, or a smooth float through Three Sisters Springs,
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
