Nestled on the banks of Florida's Manatee River, East Ellenton is a small residential community populated by retirees and families. It's about halfway between Tampa and Sarasota, and residents frequent both for dining and entertainment opportunities. It's also about a half-hour drive to Anna Maria Island's Holmes Beach, a popular weekend day trip for East Ellenton residents. The area's seen growth in recent years as part of a broader movement of Northeasterners into Southwest Florida, and a neighborhood that was once primarily retirees now sees kids biking down the streets. "The growth is due to the weather," says Carl Backman, President of the Friends of Rocky Bluff Library in Ellenton. "But it's also due to the cultural opportunities. I'm finding more to do in Florida than when I lived up North." The Orioles Spring Training in Sarasota and home games for the Tampa Bay Lightning and Tampa Bay Rays fulfilled his love for sports, but what he really loves about living here is the sense of community. "With so many transplants, it's the kind of community that lends itself to getting together," he says. "People want to make friends. They want to get to know their neighbors."
Gated communities and homes on the Manatee River
Many homes in this sunny and scenic riverfront neighborhood belong to gated communities, often offering residents access to amenities like pools, spas, fitness centers and landscaping services. Architecture within and outside these communities is often Spanish-influenced, though some bungalow, ranch-style and manufactured homes are also typically available. The average list price in East Ellenton is about $430,000, with listings starting at $250,000 for a two- to three-bedroom home and getting as high as $700,000 for a large luxury waterfront estate. Most listings, however, tend to fall in the $400,000 to $500,000 range, and many offer beach-town amenities like pools and waterfront access.
Admire the functional simplicity of ranch homes in East Ellenton.
Manufactured homes offer an affordable and efficient housing solution in East Ellenton.
Vibrant Spanish quadplexes line the streets in Spanish Point
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Manatee County School District home to nationally renowned Manatee Technical College
Students in East Ellenton attend schools in the Manatee County School District. They start at Virgil Mills Elementary School, which received a B-plus on the educational review site Niche, before continuing to Buffalo Creek Middle School, which received a B, and Palmetto High School, which received a B-minus. Manatee County School District is also home to the nationally renowned Manatee Technical College, which offers career and technical education for 15 of the 20 fastest-growing industries in Manatee, like health science, salon services and construction and manufacturing.
Virgil Mills Elementary School educates 711 students.
Buffalo Creek Middle School has 1,250 students enrolled.
Palmetto High School educates 1,984 students of Manatee County.
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Picnic on the river and take a swing at the best par 5 in Southwest Florida
Buffalo Creek Park is in the middle of East Ellenton, a well-maintained green space with athletic fields, playgrounds and paved trails. Its large pavilion is a popular picnic spot, and residents with dogs enjoy its large fenced-in dog area. East Ellenton residents head south to the Manatee River for a more secluded picnic area: Picnic Island and The Pavilion are two residents-only spots overlooking the rivers where locals like to relax and enjoy a peaceful meal. Golf fanatics are right at home in East Ellenton: the neighborhood's home to two renowned golf courses, Moccasin Wallow Golf Club and Buffalo Creek Golf Course. Designed by Ted McAnlis on 200 wooded acres with 16 lakes, Moccasin Wallow is home to the hole locals claim to be the best par 5 in Southwest Florida and the recently renovated MOC Bar and Grill. The club is open to the public, but memberships are available, and non-members can try out its perks with the "member for a day" option, which starts as low as $1. With 18 holes, practice facilities, a clubhouse and a snack bar, Buffalo Creek Golf Course was designed by internationally acclaimed architect Ron Garl to challenge experienced golfers while providing an experience accessible to players of all skill levels. The public course takes up 6,900 yards, and season passes are available. Families frequent the state-of-the-art Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex, a 115,000-square-foot facility with two NHL-sized ice rinks, indoor football and soccer fields, a fitness center and a dance studio. With opportunities for all ages to get active here, it's a bustling community center that brings together the residents of East Ellenton.
A golfer drives a ball from the green at Buffalo Creek Golf Course in East Ellenton.
East Ellenton combines small-town charm with picturesque water views of the Manatee River.
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Shopping sanctuary at the Ellenton Premium Outlets
East Ellenton is home to the area shopping destination, Ellenton Premium Outlets, which boasts an extensive catalog of retailers selling overstock items at clearance prices. The shopping center has 130 outlet stores, where top brands like Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren and Saks Fifth Avenue sell products at 70% off department store prices. There's an abundance of fast-food options surrounding the center, like Taco Bell, McDonald's and Starbucks, as well as sit-down fast-casual options like Applebee's, Chili's and Ruby Tuesday. For a scenic meal in a hometown restaurant, locals stop by the casual riverside Woody's River Roo, which serves American food and cocktails in a beachy atmosphere with a tiki bar and live music. For a classic American breakfast or lunch, they swing by the local diner Butterfields, and for family-style Italian, they head to mom-and-pop shop Ferraro's Italian Grille. For groceries, locals shop at Publix or the Life & Food Superstore, a sustainability-oriented bulk grocery store. The shop boasts the largest selection of candy, nuts and spices in the area, allowing shoppers to create custom trail mixes and set their prices by controlling portion size. The shop also has a smoothie bar with acai bowls and a selection of specialty groceries like keto products, freshly ground peanut butter and organic coffee, and they host ongoing events like cooking classes, art classes and product showcases.
Enjoy waterfront meals at Woody's River Roo in East Ellenton.
Ferraro's Italian Grille is known for combining traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist.
Shop designer and brand name stores at Ellenton Premium Outlets in East Ellenton.
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Explore arts and culture in Bradenton
In Ellenton, the Rocky Bluff Branch Library hosts ongoing educational and recreational programming for adults and kids alike. Parents take their preschoolers to story times, teens take art classes and music lessons and families gather for family-friendly movie nights. Adults enroll in ESL classes and meet regularly for bridge club, and kids hang out at homework labs while parents practice a guided mindfulness meditation. "A lot of people travel to Tampa and Sarasota for their weekend activities," says Backman, but there's plenty to do just across the Manatee River in Bradenton. The ArtCenter Manatee has art classes for adults and youth in addition to ongoing events like artist demonstrations, holiday celebrations and nighttime workshops. The Manatee Village Historical Park, which preserves Manatee County history with exhibits in historical and replica buildings, hosts lectures, guided tours and its annual "An Old Florida Christmas" celebration, complete with food, live music, crafts and vendors. Palma Sola Botanical Garden has ongoing and seasonal events, like yoga classes, gardening workshops and its Winter Nights Under the Lights festival, a light display with food trucks, live music, a gift market and hot cocoa. Science enthusiasts enjoy astronomy observation nights and guided fossil expeditions at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, and donors dress up for The Bash at The Bishop, its annual gala and fundraiser. At Christmas, residents enjoy the Bradenton Riverwalk Holiday of the Arts Festival, a free-admission art sale with works by over 100 vendors across Florida.
Take Interstate 75 to Sarasota and Interstate 275 to St. Petersburg
East Ellenton is bordered to the west by Interstate 75, which residents take south to Sarasota, and connects with Interstate 275, which residents take to get to St. Petersburg. The closest airport to East Ellenton is the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, a small airport 16 miles south that offers nonstop flights across the US and takes East Ellenton to destinations worldwide. East Ellenton's closest hospital is the HCA Florida Blake Hospital, which is 11 miles away in Bradenton. Manatee County Area Transit has bus routes running through East Ellenton every Monday through Saturday from 5:30 am to 8 pm.
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
Are you familiar with the East Ellenton neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
East Ellenton
US
Homicide
2
4
Sexual Assault
2
4
Assault with Weapon
2
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
2
4
Crime Score
2
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
East Ellenton Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in East Ellenton, Ellenton sell after 114 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in East Ellenton, Ellenton over the last 12 months is $409,380, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Stunning Prestige Model in Premier 55+ Del Webb Community with Serene Water ViewsWelcome to this beautifully upgraded Prestige model home located in a highly sought-after Del Webb 55+ community, where resort-style living meets everyday comfort. This spacious 3-bedroom (3rd bedroom is currently set up as an office in photos) 2.5-bath residence offers a thoughtfully designed layout filled with
Welcome home to 9423 Gulf Shore Ter—an inviting two-story residence with excellent curb appeal and a clean, modern interior designed for easy Florida living. The home features an open-concept main level with large-format tile flooring, recessed lighting, and a bright, airy feel throughout the spacious living and dining areas. At the heart of the home, the contemporary kitchen shines with crisp
This Model Home is now for sale. Priced as listed, As-Is Agreement, No furniture. Tampa Bay Builders Association award winning Plan 404 is a beautiful open one-story home, designed with you in mind. This floor plan has it all, 4 bed, 3 bath, covered lanai, 2 car-garage with an open floor plan offering 2,207 sq. ft. of living space. You'll find bedrooms 1, 2, and 3 and 2 bathrooms near the front
A delightful LAND OWNED HOME in a 5 Star GATED COMMUNITY WITH GATE ATTENDANTS ON DUTY 24/7! This 2-bd/2ba home has a new roof added in 2025 and features newer widows throughout the home. Large enclosed lanai with AC, makes this room a perfect all-season room. Upgraded kitchen counter tops with lots of cabinet space. This home is located on a quiet cul-de-sac with very little traffic! Living in
Located in middle of community overlooking conservation and a small pond view. Del Webb Bay View Mystique floor plan with IMPACT WINDOWS AND DOORS. Being sold with a refurbished golf cart called Hey Jude, a 3 fuel option generator but with gas hookup in place, a fully insulated garage with an AC split; both the garage floor and lanai have 10-year warranties on the epoxy flooring, all appliances
This spacious home offers stunning south-facing pond views in a vibrant and sought-after 55+ community, perfect for anyone who needs space for all their hobbies. The Mystique Grand boasts a tandem garage ideal for a golf cart or workshop, plus parking for two cars. The first floor features 1,880 sq ft of the most popular Del Webb layout, with two bedrooms, a den with doors, two baths, a large
Located in the center of the community, on a small cul-de-sac with a big pond view, this Stellar floorplan was built to exact specifications. Planned to be a forever family home, life had other plans. Now priced well below what was paid for the home and finishes, opportunity awaits the savvy buyer looking for a very active, albeit competitive lifestyle community in Parrish. This home presents
Welcome to this stunning, nearly new home in the highly desirable Isles at Bayview community in Parrish. Perfectly positioned on a premium lot with serene private preserve views, this impressive 4-bedroom, 3-bath residence with a 2-car garage offers modern elegance, 1 of the bedrooms and full bathroom is located on the 1st floor making a perfect retreat or space for in-laws. 2nd floor offers a
WOW! Simply the Best...This amazing 3bd/2ba – 2,201 sq. ft. home is waiting for you in the 55+ community of Terra Siesta. Outside, the home has an oversized carport with room for multiple cars and a golf cart. The large workshop has a workbench, refrigerator and built in wall racks for custom storage. A new roof and AC unit were recently added. Inside, the kitchen is open and spacious with lots
If you're searching for a turnkey, storm-resilient home in an affordable, amenity-packed community with easy access to everything, this is the one you've been waiting for!This spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bath beauty (plus a versatile space perfect for a home office, hobby room, or play area) is waiting for you to unpack and start living the Florida lifestyle you've been craving. Storm season
Beautiful, Updated land owned 2bd/2ba home in the 55+ community of Ridgewood Oaks. This home features a large lot with an expanded driveway, large carport, an oversized storage shed and has a rear private patio for grilling or sunbathing. Upgrades outside include: Roof, AC, Vapor Barrier and the exterior have been freshly painted. Inside the home features a custom breakfast bar, stainless
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to resort-style living in the highly sought-after 55+ community of Del Webb Bay View in Parrish, Florida! The largest floor plan in Bay View with 3-bedrooms, 3.5-bathrooms with a versatile den and spacious 3-car garage making it a perfect blend of comfort, style, and active living. Step inside to discover a bright, open-concept floor plan
Like-new and barely lived in, this Mystique Grand floor plan offers beautiful water views and is just steps from the amenity center. This spacious home features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a private den with doors, making it the perfect home office or flex space. The first floor offers over 1,800 sq ft of open-concept living, featuring luxury vinyl plank flooring, brand-new, top-of-the-line
Welcome home to Waterford! This meticulously updated 3 bedroom, 2 bath home faces a wooded preserve and backs up to a lake in a quiet, established neighborhood with LOW HOA and NO CDD. As you enter the home you will notice the beautiful wood look porcelain tile floor that runs seamlessly throughout the open concept layout. A custom built drop zone can be personalized for your family and keep the
Welcome to the Fairways at Imperial Lakewoods, where luxury meets comfort in this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home. The perfect blend of a thoughtful floor plan, numerous upgrades, and golf course views. Dive into paradise! Relax on the expansive screened-in patio and take a refreshing dip in the inviting pool—a perfect retreat for warm, sunny days. Convenient Location: Proximity to I-75, restaurants,
Live the way you've always wanted without compromising style or quality. At The Carlton at Robinson Gateway, our apartment residences are designed with you in mind. Now you really can have it all...lifestyle included.
Welcome to this gorgeous townhome in the sought-after Trevesta community in Palmetto, FL. It is located in a desirable gated neighborhood and available for immediate lease! This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Enjoy peaceful mornings and relaxing evenings overlooking a beautiful conservation pond view right from your screened-in patio—ideal for
Welcome to this beautifully maintained newer construction home located in the highly desirable Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch area. Built in the early 2020s, this spacious single family residence offers approximately 2,400+ square feet of living space with a well-designed layout featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 2 car garage.Step inside to find an open floor plan ideal for both everyday
Discover elevated living at Palm Grove Luxury Apartments in Ellenton, FL. This brand-new community offers spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes with 10-foot ceilings, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, full-size washer/dryer, walk-in closets, and private entrances. Enjoy resort-style amenities including a pool and spa, 24/7 fitness center, pickleball court, dog park, pet spa,
Luxurious, fully upgraded living awaits in this gorgeous Ginnie model by MI Homes. This spacious home offers 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, alongwith a 3-car garage. The open-concept living and dining areas flow seamlessly into a chef-inspired kitchen featuring white cabinetry, quartzcountertops, top-tier stainless steel appliances, and a large island - ideal for entertaining. The master suite is bright
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 $2469.90. That covers your base rent, $2245.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
This home is currently occupied and cannot be shown. Welcome to Colony Cove, a 55+ age-qualified, active and vibrant community where you can find yourself in your dream home.We have a stunning, brand-new Skyline Home in the Bal Harbour Floor Plan, a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home for sale featuring 1,339 sq. ft. of beautifully designed living space.Located in Ellenton FL, this property offers the perfect
We make Pre-Leasing easy! Apply now and, once you’re approved, take this home off the market by paying a Pre-Lease Hold Fee; ask your Leasing Professional for more information. Once the home is made ready, we'll notify you that it's available for touring and for you to accept or decline. If you decline the home, we'll be happy to help you find a different home or refund your Hold Fee. This home
Annual unfurnished rental home in resort style community. Welcome to Trevesta. This lakeview 4 bedrooms and 2 bath open concept home features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, wood cabinets, large kitchen island, perfect for entertaining, and screened lanai with a fabulous view of the lake. There is ceramic tile throughout the main living areas and plush carpet in the bedrooms.
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 $3089.90. That covers your base rent, $2865.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
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