Halfway between wildlife preserves and white sand beaches
Extending over 18 miles from downtown Sarasota to South Venice is the Legacy Trail, once part of an early 20th-century railroad line that connected the two cities. Covered benches, referred to as “stations,” line the pathway, resting points for bikers to readjust their helmets. Sarasota Springs, a neighborhood made up of just over 7,000 households, is one of the first stops along the trail. Here, single-family homes and the occasional condo community sit between 400 acres of open marshland to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the west. Back porches look out onto small ponds and palm trees, and—although Sarasota Springs is mostly residential—there are grocery store options, family restaurants and auto shop options along Bee Ridge Road, the neighborhood’s southernmost border. Downtown Sarasota, which has been known for its thriving arts scene since the days of the Ringling Brothers Circus, is just 5 miles away.
Celery Fields and nearby preserves offer wetlands trails and birding.
Siesta Key’s white sand beaches sit about eight miles from Sarasota Springs.
1/2
Ranch-style houses, condo units and million-dollar estates
In Sarasota Springs, prospective buyers will find single-story ranch-style houses built between the 1950s and 1970s. As Lori Summers, a Realtor with Corcoran Dwellings and half of the Golden Summers Mortgage Team, notes, “Most properties fall between 1,500 and 2,000 square feet.” They have stucco exteriors, single-car garages or covered porticos. Lot sizes are generous, especially when compared to properties closer to Sarasota’s busy downtown, and some even span half an acre. Towering palms and oak trees shade the streets. Most single-family homes fall between $300,000 and $600,000 depending on bedroom count, but buyers will also find two-bedroom condo units in communities like Village Brooke for just under $300,000. At the highest end of the spectrum, five-bedroom estates in Old Forest Lakes can fall between $1 and $2 million.
Single-story ranch-style homes remain a common choice in Sarasota Springs.
Villas and condos offer more affordable options across Sarasota Springs.
Old Forest Lakes features five-bedroom estates, often listed between $1–$2 million.
1/3
A circus arts magnet program at Sarasota High School
Neighborhood students are incorporated into the Sarasota County School System, where they can enroll in prekindergarten through fifth grade at Brentwood Elementary, known for its bright green exterior and B-plus Niche grade. Both McIntosh Middle and Sarasota High have A-minuses from Niche, and students at Sarasota High can earn college credit in the AICE Diploma program. The school also has a Circus Arts Magnet Program where students can learn trapeze skills.
Sarasota High School offers AICE credits and a Circus Arts Magnet program.
McIntosh Middle School holds an A-minus rating and serves Sarasota Springs.
Brentwood Elementary, graded B-plus by Niche, serves Sarasota Springs.
1/3
University Town Center shopping and Man vs. Food dining
According to Summer, most Sarasota Springs residents head to University Town Center—or UTC—to do their shopping. The indoor mall, which first opened in 2014, is home to an Apple store, Saks and Macy’s. Next door, an outdoor shopping plaza features over 200 retailers and more than 80 restaurants; there’s everything from grass-fed lamb chops at Apollonia Mediterranean Grill to authentic Cantonese-style dim sum at Dim Sum King. UTC is known for going all out for the holiday season, and residents can reserve rides on horse-drawn carriages, enjoy the festival of lights and stop by for firework shows on Saturday nights. Just blocks outside the northwest corner of the neighborhood is the Pinecraft Amish Community, where Yoder’s Restaurant & Amish Village has been a staple since the 1970s. The restaurant, which was featured on “Man vs. Food,” serves up pressure fried chicken and a selection of homemade pies. Locals will find even more shopping options along Bee Ridge Road to the south, including a Winn-Dixie grocery store and a Publix in Centergate Plaza.
University Town Center opened in 2014 with major shopping and dining in Sarasota.
Yoder’s Fresh Market in Pinecraft offers baked goods and deli sandwiches.
1/2
Nearby attractions: Downtown Sarasota, Siesta Key and St. Armand’s Circle
One of Sarasota Springs’ main selling points is its proximity to downtown Sarasota, Saint Armands Circle and Siesta Key. Downtown, locals have their pick from a range of live theater venues, including Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, where touring Broadway shows make pit stops. There’s also the Sarasota Art Museum on the Ringling College Museum Campus. It’s home to an ever-evolving calendar of contemporary art exhibits, adult classes and summer camp options. On Saturday mornings, locals shop for fresh produce and artisan-made gifts at the Sarasota Farmer’s Market on Lemon Avenue.
Eight miles from Sarasota Springs is the island of Siesta Key, where those willing to brave the traffic can enjoy white sand beaches. Saint Armands Circle, a vision of circus tycoon John Ringling established in 1926, is a bit farther north. This outdoor continental marketplace has over 130 shops and restaurants, as well as an annual arts festival. “In Sarasota, we always have art shows. Ringling College [of Art and Design] is nearby,” says Terry Hayes of Coldwell Banker, whose family has owned property in the Sarasota area for over five decades, adding, “The school’s influence is strongly felt.”
Saint Armands Circle offers European-inspired shopping and dining since 1926.
The Open Book Gateway sculpture welcomes readers at Fruitville Library.
1/2
A playground at Urfer Family Park, protected wildlife and nearby golf courses
Along with the Legacy Trail, other public green spaces near Sarasota Springs include Urfer Family Park, where locals will find a playground, picnic facilities and the Wilson House, the former home and medical office of Dr. C.B. Wilson. There are opportunities for fishing and picnicking at the Preserve at Tamaron, and Celery Fields’ protected wetlands are a destination for bridging enthusiasts near and far. For more curated outdoor experiences, residents head to one of the area’s many surrounding golf courses, like the Palms Golf Club at Forest Lakes or Village Green Golf Club.
Urfer Family Park features wooded paths and the historic Wilson House.
The Palms Golf Club at Forest Lakes features a par‑64 course.
1/2
A public bus system, airport access and medical care down the street
According to Summer, “Sarasota doesn’t have your typical 9 to 5 traffic because most people there aren’t on a 9 to 5 work schedule.” Highways can back up at unexpected times. Most Sarasota Springs residents rely on their own cars, but Breeze Transit buses also run along Bee Ridge Road into downtown. For long-distance travel, the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport is 9 miles north, near the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. From here, travelers can book nonstop flights to over 50 U.S. cities. The Tampa International Airport, 60 miles from the neighborhood up Interstates 75 and 275, offers over 20 direct international destinations. HCA Florida Sarasota Doctor’s Hospital, a 155-bed facility made up of private rooms, is located within the neighborhood itself; it offers everything from robotic surgery to orthopedic and spine care.
Breeze Transit buses run along Bee Ridge Road into downtown Sarasota.
Sarasota Memorial Hospital provides comprehensive care for the region.
1/2
Hurricane risk and below-average crime scores
Although most houses in Sarasota Spring have metal storm shutters, hurricanes aren’t a major concern in this part of Florida; in fact, as far as records from the past 150 years are concerned, Sarasota has never taken the brunt of a hurricane’s force. “There are stories of an ancient blessing that explain why Sarasota is protected from hurricanes,” says Summers. According to the realtor, some say it’s because of the Native American burial grounds resting below the county, others attribute it to geographic and atmospheric factors. “Either way, we really haven’t been hit.” The neighborhood also has a 3 out of 10 CAP Index Crime Score, which is below the national average of 4.
Photography Contributed By
Jeffery Palmer
Video By
Francisco de la Vera
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Beverly St Hilaire,
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
Welcome home to this single story pool home, located in Sarasota Springs, offering comfortable living with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,712 square feet. The home features an open floor plan designed for everyday living and entertaining. Tile flooring runs throughout the entire home, providing a clean and low maintenance interior with no carpet. The living room centers around a fireplace that
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to this charming and well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home offering comfort, character, and convenience. Featuring a 1-car garage and a versatile Florida room, this home provides additional living space perfect for relaxing or entertaining.The updated kitchen showcases beautiful maple wood cabinetry, granite
GREAT HOME FOR THE FIRST TIME HOMEBUYER, 3 BEDROOMS 2 BATHS, ONE CAR GARAGE, VINYL FLOORING, IMPACT WINDOWS, REMODELED KITCHEN, NEW METAL ROOF, WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM, COVERED PATIO/LANAI, NICE FENCED BACKYARD, PAINTED IN NEUTRAL COLORS SEPARATE DINING/BREAKFAST AREA.GREAT LOCATION CLOSE TO SOPING CENTERS, HOSPITALS, EASY ACCESS TO I-75.
THIS PROPERTY QUALIFIES FOR A 1% LENDER INCENTIVE IF USING OUR PREFERRED LENDER! Charming and completely updated 2-bedroom home centrally located near everything Sarasota has to offer. This inviting residence features a spacious great room with vaulted ceilings, creating a bright, open feel, and luxury vinyl flooring throughout. A dedicated dining room adds flexibility for everyday living or
Spacious and beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 2-bath pool home in the heart of Sarasota—offering no deed restrictions, no HOA, and no flood insurance required. This fully rehabbed home welcomes you with a bright living room featuring stunning designer metallic flooring. The flexible 5th bedroom is currently used as a home office, perfect for today’s lifestyle. Major updates include a metal roof
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED AND PROFESSIONALLY DESIGNED HOME in the highly desirable Lakes Estates community of Sarasota. Ideally situated on a quiet street, this home offers stunning curb appeal, thoughtful design, and an exceptional blend of modern upgrades and timeless character. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be impressed by the attention to detail,
BACK ON THE MARKET! BUYER'S FINANCING FELL THROUGH. PINECRAFT, SARASOTA BEAUTIFUL 3 BEDROOM 2 BATH CUSTOM BUILT HOME. KEY FEATURES: Amazing open concept floor plan, with an inviting, multiple-spaces-to-eat-in kitchen with built in china cabinet and pantry, custom beam with elevated ceiling and ceramic tile flooring in living room with built in desk and extra large storage closet plus custom wood
Exceptionally spacious 1,920 sq.ft. Brentwood Estates pool home w/ 3 bedrooms & 3 FULL baths-perfect for entertaining or large gatherings. Breakfast nook flows into formal dining area providing lots of space for socializing. Oversized 420 sq. ft. family room with wood burning fireplace, full bath, lots of natural light and sliding glass doors access pool area. Step out onto the covered screened
Move-in ready and thoughtfully updated, this Sarasota home offers an open floorplan designed for comfortable everyday living and easy entertaining. The interior features an updated kitchen and bathrooms, along with impact windows and doors for added peace of mind. Recent improvements include a newer roof, updated electrical panel, and new ductwork. Step outside to enjoy the new lanai (2019)
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to 2519 Wood Oak Drive — a charming, move-in ready 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled in the heart of Sarasota's desirable Colonial Oaks neighborhood. Built in 1988 and lovingly maintained, this home offers 1,625 sq ft of heated living space with a generous 3,393 sq ft total footprint — giving you room to live, store, and truly spread
Own your dream home in desirable and established Sarasota Springs. 3/2 split bedroom plan with an oversized one car garage. The Florida room is connected to the central air conditioning living area.You'll love the private setting. Fenced back yard has a double fence gate so your babies (both the 2 legged and 4-legged type) have their own areas. Schools have desirable ratings with above
The sought-after Lakes Estates of Sarasota is a hidden gem offering a wonderful blend of space, privacy, and serene natural beauty. This LAKEFRONT , maintenance-free villa features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and over 1,200 square feet of living space. Remodeled in 2020 this split floor plan is enhanced by vaulted ceilings that create an open, airy feel. The eat-in kitchen is thoughtfully designed
Welcome to tranquil living in the heart of Sarasota! A serene retreat tucked among lush tropical landscaping in one of Sarasota’s most charming communities. This light-filled home blends peaceful privacy with elegant comfort, creating a truly special place to call home. Step inside and be greeted by soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, and a spacious open-concept living area perfect for
$2,775 a month May - December $3500 January-April . One month, seasonal and long term rentals accepted. Call for rates and availabilityCome down to Sarasota, Florida, one of the best places in the US to enjoy the warmest waters, beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, delicious food, and world-class entertainment! We are pleased to list this newly renovated, bright three-bedroom, two-bathroom
Welcome to your dream home! Step inside this pet-friendly home featuring modern finishings and a layout designed with functionality in mind. Enjoy the storage space found in the kitchen and closets as well as the spacious living areas and natural light throughout. Enjoy outdoor living in your yard, perfect for gathering, relaxing, or gardening!Take advantage of the incredible location,
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. LONG TERM ANNUAL RENTAL AVAILABLE FOR RENT! This beautiful, turnkey furnished single family home is the private tropical oasis you've been dreaming of. Located in the desired community of The Lakes off of Honore Avenue this home has a 0.39 acre corner lot, is fully renovated, has bamboo floors throughout, split floor plan, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, full sized
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $3009.90. That covers your base rent, $2745.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
Sarasota Springs 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Single Family Home with a 1 car garage. Property is well maintained and clean. Enjoy spacious fully fenced backyard. Just a few houses down from the Legacy Trail connecting to downtown SRQ and down to Venice with a safe paved path for bikers and joggers. Just 15 min to Siesta Key Beach, St. Armand's Circle, Downtown, and University Town Center mall. Master
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now, Move-In is available on or after the listed date. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $50 per adult. Security Deposit: one month?s rent. Pet fees: $250 + $40/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
Well established family neighborhood is in a great school district. This is essentially the middle of our town of Sarasota, close to Siesta Key gulf beaches, restaurants and shopping with easy access to Interstate I75. This split plan 3-bedroom 2 bath is on a large corner lot and has tons of natural light. kitchen and baths have been completely remodeled with stone counters and ceramic accent
Welcome to your dream home! Step inside this pet-friendly home featuring modern finishings and a layout designed with functionality in mind. Enjoy the storage space found in the kitchen and closets as well as the spacious living areas and natural light throughout. Enjoy outdoor living in your yard, perfect for gathering, relaxing, or gardening!Take advantage of the incredible location,
Adorable 2 Bedroom, 1 bath home featuring both a cozy living room and a separate family room.... Perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The interior and exterior have been freshly painted, giving the home a bright, updated feel. Enjoy a fully renovated kitchen, complete with brand new appliances. Washer and dryer hookup are available for your convenience, and lawn care is included for easy,
Welcome to your dream home! Step inside this pet-friendly home featuring modern finishings and a layout designed with functionality in mind. Enjoy the storage space found in the kitchen and closets as well as the spacious living areas and natural light throughout. Enjoy outdoor living in your yard, perfect for gathering, relaxing, or gardening!Take advantage of the incredible location,
Recently Updated Sarasota Rental in Prime Location – 2212 Vinson Ave Welcome to this beautifully updated home located in the heart of Sarasota! Situated at 2212 Vinson Ave, this inviting property offers the perfect blend of modern upgrades, comfort, and convenient Florida living. Step inside to discover a bright and open layout featuring wall-to-wall plank tile flooring, giving the home a clean,
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now, Move-In is available on or after the listed date. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $50 per adult. Security Deposit: one month?s rent. Pet fees: $250 + $40/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and 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.
