A "multi-generational lifestyle community" with almost 70,000 residents
Lakewood Ranch is one of the premier master-planned communities in the United States. In fact, more than 50 percent of its residents come from outside of Florida. Technically a census-designated place with a population approaching 70,000, Lakewood Ranch has become a mini-metropolis. It features dozens of amenities-filled neighborhoods spread across more than 50 square miles that bridge two counties. The community has its own hospital, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, multiple town centers, and a variety of educational options, both public and private. “It just offers something for everyone,” says Tami Cashi, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker in Lakewood Ranch. “It’s a multi-generational lifestyle community. It has amazing schools and tons of golf. They’re working on a third Main Street, and they all have activities at no additional cost. It offers the best of the downtown areas of Sarasota and Bradenton in a more suburban environment.”
Lakewood Ranch is a vibrant and master-planned community known for its picturesque landscapes.
Lakewood Ranch Medical Center serves the Lakewood Ranch community.
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Waterside is the newest section of this ever-expanding community
Lakewood Ranch is made up of more than 30 neighborhoods, which are called villages. The largest villages, including The Country Club and Country Club East, are built around golf courses and lakes. Most villages are developed by a single builder, which helps maintain a standard aesthetic. Luxury villages are the exception. Sought-after destinations such as The Isles, The Lake Club and Wild Blue feature large, custom homes in exclusive settings. Wild Blue, which is part of the Waterside section that expanded the community’s boundaries outside Manatee County and into Sarasota County, was developed by five builders. “The concept is to make it more walkable, bikeable and community-oriented,” Cashi says. All villages have HOA fees that vary depending on amenities and CDD fees that pay for the upkeep of roadways and other infrastructure. The median home price is slightly more than $600,000. That includes condos and townhouses that typically range from the high $200,000s to around $900,000. Most single-family housing ranges from the low $300,000s to around $1 million. Custom luxury homes range from $1 million-plus to nearly $5 million. “If you go to Bradenton or Sarasota, you’ll find homes built in the ‘60s, maybe the ‘80s, but in Lakewood Ranch, everything is relatively new,” Cashi says. “It’s also more affordable because you’re away from the water. Buyers will look at homes near the water and then come here, see what they can get for the same price, and say, ‘That’s amazing!’” The community is far enough inland that flooding is not an issue. However, it’s close enough to the Gulf Coast that wind damage can be a major factor during hurricane season, and insurance rates are likely to reflect this.
The Lake Club homes reside in the pristine Lakewood Ranch neighborhood.
Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch is a pristine area lined with retailers and restaurants.
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Lakewood Ranch High School, Out-of-Door Academy are top-rated options
Lakewood Ranch is part of the Manatee County School District, which earns a B-plus from Niche. Lakewood Ranch High, rated A-minus by Niche, is the anchor school of the community. It offers dual enrollment courses in conjunction with several area colleges. The school's softball and golf teams regularly compete for state titles. To keep up with growth, a new community school, Lake Manatee K-8, will open for elementary students in 2025 and middle school students in 2026. There are also plans to open a second high school in 2027. Out-of-Door Academy Middle & Upper School is a featured private option. Beyond the Spectrum is a small private school that serves special needs students in kindergarten through seventh grade.
Lakewood Ranch High School is known for its commitment to academic excellence.
The Out-Of-Door Academy is an option for Lakewood Ranch students.
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Lakewood Ranch Country Club has three golf courses; largest villages have lifestyle directors
Amenities are spread throughout the community. Each village has its own recreational features, and the largest villages have lifestyle directors. There’s athletic courts, pools and playgrounds. Walking paths, nature preserves and lakes. Each village’s amenities are for residents only, but Lakewood Ranch offers plenty of public spaces. Lakewood Ranch Country Club is the highlight of the community’s resort-style offerings. Two of its three public courses were designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer. In all, there are nine courses that offer public, private and semi-private options. Greenbrook Adventure Park, which features an inline skating rink, and Premier Sports Campus, which is home to more than 20 multi-purpose fields, are popular community destinations. The Sarasota Polo Club and Nathan Benderson Park are Sarasota attractions located just outside the community. Sarasota’s Gulf beaches are about 30 minutes from the community’s south side, and Manatee County’s barrier island beaches are about 45 minutes away from the north side.
Practice your swing at the golf course at Lakewood Ranch.
Greenbrook Adventure Park - Inline Skate Park offers fun in Lakewood Ranch.
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Main Street, Waterside Place are centers of commerce, activity
The community’s three town centers are Main Street, The Green and Waterside Place. Main Street is an attractive European-style shopping district that features outdoor cafes and restaurants that serve up international flavors. The Green offers a more laidback commercial setting anchored by grocers such as Publix and Fresh Market. Several villages have their own Publix. Waterside Place was designed as a luxury shopping and dining destination to serve the community’s newest villages. A water taxi provides transportation between Waterside’s commercial center and its villages. “The community is really growing,” Cashi says. “They just brought a Tommy Bahama’s to the south side. Owens Fish Camp and Ruth’s Chris are here, and Fleming’s is coming. All the big names you would find in downtown Bradenton or Sarasota are moving into Lakewood Ranch.” Two of the town centers host several of the community’s regular events. Music on Main Street is a long-running event that takes place on the first Friday of each month. The block party-style celebration features food trucks and children’s rides. Ranch Night Wednesdays is a similar seasonal event at Waterside Place. But its signature event is the Sunday Farmer’s Market, where vendors sell fresh goods amid live music and children’s entertainment. University Town Center is a sprawling contemporary mall just south of the community. Downtown Sarasota is known for its cultural attractions, which include museums and performing arts venues near the waterfront.
Sunday's Farmers Market at Waterside Place is a popular outing for locals in Lakewood Ranch.
A fountain with dolphins adorns the point of Bayfront Park in Downtown Sarasota.
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Car-dependent community with access to I-75
Lakewood Ranch is car-dependent. Sarasota International Airport is a 10-mile drive down University Parkway, the main road on the community’s south side. Interstate 75 forms the community’s west side and provides access to regional points of interest, including St. Pete and Tampa to the north.
Low crime rates in Lakewood Ranch
Lakewood Ranch is a mix of gated communities with private entrances and non-gated communities with general access. Its overall Cap Index score of 2-out-of-10 signifies low crime rates.
Written By
Matt Pallister
Photography Contributed By
Leila Sally
Video By
Grace Kim
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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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.
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On average, homes in Lakewood Ranch, FL sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Lakewood Ranch, FL over the last 12 months is $598,999, down 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
REDUCED! PRICED TO SELL FAST! Best deal behind the gates of Lakewood Ranch Country Club within the gated Weston community, this lakefront pool home villa lines up with what actually performs in this market—private pool, wide water view, and a maintenance-friendly footprint.The homesite is the differentiator. Long lake views with no close rear neighbors are limited at this price point, and
Welcome to the Florida lifestyle you’ve been waiting for. This like-new Calusa model in Sweetwater offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and effortless indoor-outdoor living—all set against tranquil waterfront views. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, this sought after designed home includes a spacious primary suite with a luxurious en suite bathroom and large walk-in closet, plus a second
Welcome to your home sweet home, a place where luxury, comfort, and thoughtful design meet in the most delightful way. Built in 2024 and truly better than builder-grade, this Sweetwater residence has already been elevated with intentional upgrades that make it feel custom, curated, and completely move-in ready. From the moment you arrive, the inviting front porch and classic porch swing set the
Welcome to one of the most sought-after homes in Harmony Reserve, a private gated community in Lakewood Ranch with only 71 exclusive residences and the added benefit of natural gas. Beautifully maintained, this move-in-ready 4-bedroom, 3-bath home with loft offers 2,370 square feet of stylish living space, a 2-car garage, and exceptional indoor-outdoor living. Inside, you’ll find wood-look plank
Welcome to your Florida Paradise! This Luxury Villa-Style 2-Bedroom, 2-Bath + Den, Ground-Floor Condo is located in the highly sought after Gated Community of Miramar in Lakewood Ranch, offering serene water views in a premier location. From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed by a charming Mediterranean-style villa featuring tile roofs, a private front courtyard, and an attached one car
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. THIS PROPERTY QUALIFIES FOR A 1% LENDER INCENTIVE IF USING OUR PREFERRED LENDER! Welcome to this beautifully maintained SPLIT-BEDROOM villa in the highly sought-after Lorraine Lakes at Lakewood Ranch, perfectly positioned on a CORNER LOT WITH SERENE LAKE VIEWS and just a short walk to the community’s resort-style amenity center. This 2-bedroom,
Location, location, location! Don’t miss this opportunity to live in the highly desirable community of The Moorings at Lakewood Ranch, a gated waterfront community known for its exceptional lifestyle, private island, and unbeatable proximity to everything Lakewood Ranch has to offer.This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 3-bath townhome has been thoughtfully renovated throughout and features a
Located in Solera at Lakewood Ranch, this waterfront home sits on a quiet cul-de-sac on what is arguably one of the best lots in the neighborhood, offering a setting that’s hard to match. Enjoy peaceful evenings with sunset views over the lake and a fountain that glows beautifully at night—this is the kind of backdrop that never gets old. With minimal traffic and a strong sense of neighborhood,
PRICED TO SELL. PROPERTY IS OFFERED FULLY FURNISHED AND TURNKEY. Enjoy resort-style living in this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo located in the heart of Lakewood Ranch. Whether you’re seeking a full-time residence or a seasonal retreat with easy, low-maintenance living, Lakewood National Golf and Country Club offers an exceptional lifestyle. Home to two stunning Arnold Palmer
Your last chance to own a Never Lived in Builder Model Home in Lorraine Lakes. This Monte Carlo Floor Plan is a 5 Bedroom, Bonus Room, Loft, 3 Bathroom, 3 car Garage home that is decorated, furnished and ready for you to move in. Lorraine Lakes has it all! Clubhouse, Bar, Restaurant, 24 Hr Fitness, tennis, basketball, arcade, volley ball and so much more! Splash Pad and 2 Swimming pools along
Some homes are just beautiful. This home is THREE things: pretty, modern, and perfectly designed. NEW PRICE!!****Step outside and the water behind the home catches the morning light — a scene so calm it sets the tone for everything that follows. By evening, ease into the heated spa as the Florida sky fades to amber, the gates closed, the world quiet, the only thing on your agenda being
Huge PRICE REDUCTION! SHORT TERM SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE!! Welcome to this exceptional deeded golf home in the gated Azario community, Enjoy Lock-and-Leave Luxury, Resort Lifestyle, & Waterview.Perfect as a second home or seasonal retreat, offering just under 1,700 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space and over $125,000 in upgrades. Situated on an extra-large premium waterview
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to this beautiful home in Mallory Park, where comfort, style, and convenience come together in the heart of Lakewood Ranch. This inviting two-story residence offers five bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and a thoughtful layout designed for effortless everyday living.Step inside to a bright foyer that opens into the spacious gathering room,
Beautiful end-unit townhome with private lanai in the desirable Harmony at Lakewood Ranch community. This Seaside Craftsman floor plan features stylish stone color cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a spacious prep island, and breakfast bar overlooking the open great room—perfect for entertaining. The main level is finished with 12x24 tile throughout. Upstairs, the primary suite offers a tray
Step into effortless luxury and comfort in this magazine-worthy 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home located in the gated community of Savanna at Lakewood Ranch. Perfectly designed for both everyday living and entertaining, this stunning residence blends elegant indoor spaces with the ultimate Florida outdoor lifestyle. The thoughtfully designed floor plan offers spacious open floor living areas and
Botanic Waterside features upscale apartments in Lakewood Ranch, FL, located in Sarasota Countys vibrant Waterside neighborhood. Our premier Lakewood Ranch community offers sleek one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments for rent that exude elegance, from chef-inspired kitchens and soaring 12- to 14-foot ceilings to spacious walk-in closets and private screened balconies. Residents enjoy
SPECIAL PRICING STARTING MAY 1, 2026 THROUGH DECEMBER 28, 2026 IF YOU BOOK FOR 6-8 MONTHS OR MORE AT $2,300 EACH MONTH, FOR 3-5 MONTHS AT $2,400 EACH MONTH, FOR 1-2 MONTHS AT $2,500 EACH MONTH --- LAKEWOOD NATIONAL --- TURNKEY FURNISHED 3 BEDROOM 2 FULL BATH CONDO (2nd Floor) ---High Season (Dec-April) : $6,500/month (utilities included; electric capped at $100/month) --- Guest reimburses for
Nestled by a scenic lake in Bradenton, FL, Alton LakeHouse offers brand-new one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments that blend classic Florida charm with modern comfort. It's more than a place to live-it's a community where you find your rhythm and your people. From paddleboarding at the dock to sunset views on your balcony, every detail invites connection-to nature, neighbors, and a laid-back
Brand New 2 bedroom Townhome Furnished and ready for your seasonal stay with views overlooking the central pond. Community has pool and Dog park. Townhomes at Azario is located in the newest parts of Lakewood Ranch. Fully decorated and furnished 2 bedroom townhome. Located in a cul-de-sac so low traffic.
As one of the leading communities in Bradenton, the Oasis at Lakewood Ranch features plenty of indulgences. Get ready for your staycation right from your new home!From our incredible array of amenities to the elegant interior details, youll be proud to call us home.
Spacious 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath Home in Lorraine Lakes!Move in today and enjoy resort-style living with full access to Lorraine Lakes’ incredible amenities, including a clubhouse, pool, fitness center, and more!
Suburban living has never felt more luxurious. At Marlowe Lake Manatee, our prestigious community amenities and interior details include all the fine frills you require. Luxuriate at one of our poolside cabanas or mingle with friends at our lively courtyard. Cook up something delectable in your own high-end kitchen. Or let your furry friends socialize with their neighbors at our dog park. Write
Experience the perfect blend of style and resort-style living in this brand-new Bullhead floor plan by David Weekley Homes, now available for apreferred 12 to 18-month minimum lease in Emerald Landing at Waterside, Lakewood Ranch. This open-concept home features soaringvaulted ceilings, a gourmet kitchen with a gas cooktop, and a first-floor Owner’s Retreat complete with a tray ceiling
Enjoy TWO MONTHS FREE + Reduced Pricing!* Live like youre on vacation every day at our brand new community, offering spacious apartments and the largest amenity offering in the area. With a dedicated onsite team, we are committed to providing exceptional customer service. Call or come by today!
SPECIAL PRICING STARTING MAY 1, 2026 THROUGH DECEMBER 28, 2026 IF YOU BOOK FOR 6-8 MONTHS OR MORE AT $2,100 EACH MONTH, FOR 3-5 MONTHS AT $2,300 EACH MONTH, FOR 1-2 MONTHS AT $2,500 EACH MONTH --- LAKEWOOD NATIONAL --- TURNKEY FURNISHED 2 BEDROOM 2 FULL BATH CONDO --- High Season (Dec-April): $6,000/month (utilities included; electric capped at $100/month) --- Low Season (May-Nov): $2,750/month +
Welcome to the pinnacle of luxury living in Lakewood Ranch! Our exclusive community presents an unparalleled lifestyle, featuring a 13,000 sq ft 2-story Clubhouse with a Coffee Lounge, Clubroom, Game Bar lounge, Library, Game Arcade Room, Golf Simulator, and more. Stay active in our 24/7 Fitness Center, unwind by the Infinity Edge Heated Pool, or enjoy outdoor activities like Sand Volleyball and
3 Bedroom 2 bath with 2 car garage in Lakewood Ranch. Eating space in the kitchen. Pond view from screened in Lanai. Lawncare included in rent. Pets okay with owner approval and non-refundable pet fee. Living room has high ceiling. Walk in master bedroom closet. Near McNeal Elementary, Nolan middle school and Adventure Park. Easy commute to State Road 70. Tenant moving out by May 2026. Need
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