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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
![David Hall]()
Photography Contributed By
David Hall
