The City of Clearwater is the smallest principal city in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metropolitan area, which is also known as the Tampa Bay Area. It’s is also the county seat for Pinellas County. The city is known for its beautiful weather, great job opportunities, and diverse population. So why are folks flocking to this area by the dozens? Keep reading to learn all the reasons you should be considering life in Clearwater.
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Who Lives in Clearwater?
Clearwater is home to more than 100,000 people, with a population density of more than 4,000 people per square mile. The median age is 43, and 36% of the population is made up of families with young children. While the city is a majority White, 10% of residents are Black and 14% are Hispanic. Just over half of the residents here are married.
About one-third of the locals here were born and raised in Florida, but 53% of the population moved here from out of state. Another 14% of the residents are foreign-born. Most people living in Clearwater make their income via a salary, although 38% of residents receive social security benefits and 8% are self-employed.
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The Cost of Living in Clearwater
Living in Clearwater is highly affordable, making this city a great place to live for folks at all stages of their careers. The median home value in the municipality is $172,900, which is about $20,000 lower than the national median. Property taxes are equally low; most residents spend less than $800 per year on property tax costs.
Only about half of the people living here own their homes, while everyone else chooses to rent. The average rent in Clearwater is higher than the national average, and renters should expect to pay about $970 per month for their apartments or condos. Across rented and owned real estate, utilities are one cost that is higher than the national average, mostly due to the cost of air conditioning on hot Florida days.
Clearwater’s Weather
Like most of the Sunshine State, Clearwater benefits from spectacular weather. The average temperature in Clearwater tends to range from 55 to 90 degrees throughout the year, so you won’t experience much winter weather here. Because Clearwater is on the coast, the city does get humid, which can make hot days feel muggy and oppressive. You’ll want to make sure you buy plenty of sunblocks if you’re moving to Clearwater for the first time!
Clearwater’s Top Neighborhoods
Sometimes, finding a home in the right neighborhood is tough, especially if you’re relocating to Clearwater for the first time! The zip codes in Clearwater are 33755, 33756, 33759, 33761, 33763, 33764, 33765, 33767 and 34695. The city’s area code is 727. To help you whittle down your list of potential homes, here is a quick look at several popular neighborhoods in Clearwater.
- Clearwater Beach: With a median home price of $612,296, this is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in Clearwater. It has a suburban vibe and offers the best in beachside living!
- Del Oro Groves: Midsized homes close to the bay, selling for between $250-$400,000 on average.
- Charter Oaks: Small, reasonably priced homes selling mostly for less than $225,000. Quiet streets and low crime rates make this a perfect spot for families!
- Morningside Meadows: This is a family-friendly neighborhood with a tight-knit community and beautiful, affordable homes. A recreation complex and pool offer plenty of amenities to residents!
- Northwood Estates: Upscale neighborhood with homes selling from $300,000 and up. Houses are mostly new constructions on large, well-maintained lots.
- Spring Lake: This highly desirable neighborhood features custom architecture and spacious floor plans. Located on the shore of the lake, this is a great spot for waterfront living!
- Eagle Estates: These large, beautiful homes have a median price of $560,000. The neighborhood is conveniently located close to Countryside High School.
Clearwater Schools
Families who are considering relocating to Clearwater will be spoiled for choice when it comes to their children’s education. There are a stunning 146 schools in the city, including 29 high schools across public and private institutions. Top private schools include the Delphi Academy of Florida, Washburn Academy, and Clearwater Academy.
In addition to its highly rated public high schools, the Pinellas County School District also includes a variety of by-admissions magnet schools designed to provide students with specialized educations and career-oriented training. A few of the magnet high schools offers by the school district include the Cambridge Program – AICE at Clearwater High, the Career Academy for International Culture and Commerce at Clearwater High, and the Institute for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (ISTEM) at Countryside High.
If you want to make yourself a part of any of these communities, you should check out the latest listings for homes for sale in Largo, FL or let us introduce you to a local agent in the area.
Jobs in Clearwater
Wondering where you’ll work in Clearwater? The city’s local economy supports more than 50,000 jobs, and the employment rate in the area has been growing year over year. Wages are lower than the national average, with a median household income of just over $45,600, but these two have been steadily on the rise.
Major industries in Clearwater include healthcare and social assistance, technology and retail trade, as well as hospitality and education. Honeywell Aerospace is one of the largest employers in Clearwater, with more than 1,500 employees. Other top employers in the county are Raymond James (finance) and Spectrum (TV Cable provider).
Things to do in Clearwater
Clearwater has plenty of entertainment options when it comes to enjoying your leisure time. From amazing local music venues to the thriving nightlife in Downtown Clearwater, to family-friendly museums and activities, there’s something for everyone in Clearwater!
Clearwater Beach
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One of the best things to do in Clearwater is getting outside and enjoy that Florida sunshine! Known for its soft white sand and calm waters, the beach is perfect for everything from swimming to paddleboarding and jet-skiing. There’s also a paved beach walk that brings cyclists and walkers to enjoy the spectacular views. Sunsets at Pier 60 on the beach are marked by a nightly festival with artisan vendors and street performers.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
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If you’re looking for somewhere fun to take the kids, you’ll want to stop by the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. View the natural beauty of Florida’s shores during a boat tour, or meet a real live dolphin during and animal experience (extra cost). The aquarium is also home to hundreds of fish, turtles, otters, sharks and other sea life to learn about, as well as educational shows and presentations.
Living in Clearwater Video
Clearwater Restaurants
Before relocating to any new city, it’s imperative to know what to expect from the food scene. In Clearwater, you’ll have access to dozens of delectable destinations, each with its own unique twist on local cuisine. Need a headstart? Here are two can’t-miss restaurants in Clearwater.
Island Way Grill
Posted by Island Way Grill on Saturday, March 2, 2019
Fresh seafood, hand cut steaks, and a waterfront view? Island Way grill has it all! This upscale eatery includes all your favorites, from steamed clams to shrimp scampi and baked salmon, plus an award-winning Sunday brunch!
- Hours: 4PM-10PM Monday-Thursday, 4PM-11PM Friday, 12PM-11PM Saturday, 10AM-1:30PM & 3PM-9:30PM Sunday
- Website: http://www.islandwaygrill.com/
- Phone: (727) 461-6617
- Address: 20 Island Way, Clearwater, FL 33767
Taco Bar
$2 TACO WEDNESDAY ???? *shrimp excluded, add ons are extra.
Posted by Taco Bar on Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Seeking authentic Mexican cuisine in Clearwater? Taco Bar has you covered, with everything from fresh, homemade queso and guacamole to tacos, burritos, tamales and more.
- Hours: 11AM-9PM Sunday-Thursday, 11AM-9:30PM Friday-Saturday
- Website: http://tacobarfl.com/
- Phone: (727) 238-3772
- Address: 29835 US Hwy 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33761
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Tips for Moving to Clearwater, FL
Congratulations, you’re now an expert on living in Clearwater! Now that you know what it’s like to live here, do you think this city is calling your name? We certainly hope so! Before making your move, keep these key points in mind.
- Feel free to donate your winter jackets and snow boots– Clearwater’s weather is incredible.
- This city is a top choice for affordable living on the coast.
- Clearwater has fantastic schools and neighborhoods for families.
If you want more information about Clearwater or need assistance with your transition, you can always reach out to the experts at 2 College Brothers. We’re a trusted local moving company that’s helped thousands of families like yours in the Tampa Bay Area, and we’d be happy to be the first to welcome you to Clearwater.
