In Parrish, residential growth outpaces commercial development
Parrish is a sprawling rural neighborhood where commercial developments are still catching up to the steady flow of residential construction. And its location north of the Manatee River makes it a more affordable option compared to nearby neighborhoods. “This is a community where you can get a lot more bang for your buck,” says Myrna Ryan, a local Realtor with Wagner Realty. “The same floor plan of a home in Sarasota would be about $50,000 more expensive than in Parrish.”
Eclectic mix of home styles on former cattle land
Much of Parrish is old cattle land that’s been developed into an eclectic collection of everything from master-planned communities to spacious colonial revivals on multi-acre properties. Stucco ranch and Spanish revival homes are common as well. “You’ll find everything in this area. It’s so eclectic and has so much value,” Ryan says. “Because it’s been rural for so long, new developments are popping up on properties that have been owned for decades.” The median sales price in Parrish is around $410,000.
Local schools range from B-minus to B-plus on Niche
The School District of Manatee County serves the area, offers controlled open enrollment and rates a B-plus on Niche. The schools zoned to the community are B-minus-rated Blackburn Elementary, followed by B-rated Buffalo Creek Middle and B-rated Parrish Community High School. Students at Parrish Community High can join the school’s many organizations including a drama club, a photography club, and a chapter of Future Farmers of America.
Outdoor lovers hike, birdwatch and golf at many green spaces
Residents find nature at 145-acre Rye Preserve, with its miles of trails amid towering trees and rare tortoises. The Edward W. Chance Reserve is another option with converted pastures, wetlands and undisturbed habitats with its own sprawling trail system. Beker State Park is a favorite among birdwatchers and photographers, with plenty of local woodpeckers, scrub-jays and swallow-tailed kite. Golfers tee off at the semi-private Club at River Wilderness, which features an 18-hole course along with a pool, pickleball and tennis courts, and a fitness center.
Publix and local eateries serve a mostly residential area
While Parrish’s residential side is growing quickly, its commercial side is developing slower. “With some of these neighborhoods, you’re going to drive for miles to get to any restaurant. Retail is definitely following the new construction so those things are coming but much more slowly,” Ryan says. Still, Publix is just off U.S. Route 301, along with a few local businesses and an Arby’s location. There are also some family-owned food and drink spots, including C&K Smokehouse BBQ, Ryan’s Coffee House food truck, and Bunker Hill Vineyard and Winery.
History buffs head to Florida Railroad Museum, which offers a six-mile round-trip experience to the ghost town of Willow. More shopping and dining options are in nearby Palmetto. The closest hospital, Manatee Memorial, is about 15 miles away in Bradenton.
Residents gather for events at the Florida Railroad Museum
The Florida Railroad Museum hosts regular events like the Pumpkin Patch Express in October, which features hayrides, arts and crafts and family-friendly fun; and North Pole Express from late November to late December, which offers a train ride to Santa’s North Pole, hot cocoa and campfires.
U.S. 301 and State Road 62 link residents to nearby cities
Residents get around by car, since the community doesn’t have a fixed bus line. U.S. Highway 301 and Florida State Road 62 are the community’s main thoroughfares and connect to other major roadways, including Interstate 75. Sarasota Bradenton International is the closest airport, about 22 miles away.
Coastal proximity means hurricane prep is part of life
Parrish’s location near the coast makes it vulnerable to hurricanes. In 2024, Hurricane Milton caused major damage to all of Manatee County. The county’s website offers resources to help keep residents prepared before major storms.
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Raif Fluker
