Sarasota, FL
Population 56,218 · Florida
About Sarasota, FL
Sarasota is a mid-sized city in Florida with a population of 56,218 residents. The median household income is $70,065 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Sarasota is 49.3 years.
Housing in Sarasota has a median home value of $409,700 and median monthly rent of $1,514. Of the 32,123 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 14,244 owner-occupied and 11,328 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Sarasota is 3.6% and the poverty rate is 14.3%. 41.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.3 minutes.
Cost of Living in Sarasota, FL
Compared to national averages, Sarasota has a median household income of $70,065 (7% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $409,700, which is 67% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,514 is 30% above the US average of $1,163. Within Florida, Sarasota's income is 8% below the state average of $75,893, and home values are 16% above the state median of $353,675.
Why Live in Sarasota, FL?
Sarasota offers a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.6%, and a well-educated community where 41.7% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 21.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,065) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $409,700. However, as a mid-sized city, Sarasota provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Sarasota has a population of 56,218 with a median age of 49.3 years. Compare Sarasota with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Florida.
Similar Cities Near Sarasota
Cities in Florida with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apopka | 56,202 | $95,703 | $364,300 | Compare |
| Bradenton | 56,289 | $60,964 | $282,500 | Compare |
| Fountainebleau | 56,453 | $65,568 | $284,600 | Compare |
| Coconut Creek | 57,587 | $75,516 | $291,000 | Compare |
| Bonita Springs | 54,830 | $90,486 | $460,600 | Compare |
| Margate | 58,418 | $60,852 | $286,200 | Compare |
| Pensacola | 54,011 | $72,699 | $276,500 | Compare |
| The Hammocks | 58,548 | $83,253 | $437,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Florida
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Sarasota
What is the population of Sarasota, FL?
The population of Sarasota, FL is 56,218 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Sarasota?
The median household income in Sarasota, FL is $70,065 per year.
What is the median home value in Sarasota?
The median home value in Sarasota, FL is $409,700.
What is the average rent in Sarasota?
The median monthly rent in Sarasota, FL is $1,514.
What is the unemployment rate in Sarasota?
The unemployment rate in Sarasota, FL is 3.6%.