Thinking about making a move to the sunny Gulf Coast of Florida? If you’re looking for a community that blends small-town charm with easy access to Sarasota’s beaches, shopping, and culture, living in Fruitville may be perfect for you. This peaceful suburb is perfect for families, retirees, and anyone craving a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing convenience.
Here’s everything you need to know about moving to Fruitville FL, and what you have to look forward to.
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Is Fruitville, Florida a Good Place to Live?
Fruitville is widely regarded as a good place to live, especially if you’re looking for a balance between suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Residents appreciate the friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community, where neighbors often know each other and contribute to a welcoming environment.
The town offers a quiet setting with well-maintained neighborhoods, and its proximity to Sarasota provides easy access to beaches, shopping centers, and cultural attractions. The cost of living in Fruitville is lower than large nearby cities and there are many highly rated medical centers nearby, making it a popular choice for retirees.
Where Is Fruitville FL?
Fruitville is an unincorporated community located in the heart of Sarasota County, Florida. Positioned just east of the city of Sarasota, it’s bordered by the master-planned community of Lakewood Ranch to the east, Sarasota Springs to the southwest, and The Meadows to the northwest. Fruitville’s central location means several major cities are just a short drive away, including Bradenton (20 miles), North Port (30 miles), and St. Petersburg (45 miles).
Fruitville is well-connected to the greater Tampa Bay area. I-75 runs north-south through the town. Fruitville Road (Route 780) is the main east-west corridor running from downtown Sarasota to I-75. Honore Road is the main north-south corridor in the area.
Sarasota County’s Breeze Transit system serves Fruitville with bus routes 1 and 3.
Planning an upcoming move? The Fruitville movers at 2 College Brothers are ready to help with full-service moving solutions. We serve the Fruitville area from our nearby location in Tampa.
What’s the Population of Fruitville, Florida?
The Fruitville population was 15,484 at the 2020 census, with a population density of 2,269 people per square mile. The community is part of the North Port–Bradenton–Sarasota, Florida metro area, which has a population of more than 900,000.
Demographics of people living in Fruitville:
- Median age: 46.6 years
- Residents 65 and older: 26% (metro: 33%)
- Sex ratio: 51% female to 49% male
- Median household income: $86,500
- Educational attainment: 40% bachelor’s degree or higher
- Homeownership rate: 61% (metro: 76%)
- Foreign-born population: 12%
- Veteran population: 8.6%
- Race and ethnicity: 80.9% white (non-Hispanic), 12.5% Hispanic, 2.4% Asian, 2.1% Black or African American
Fruitville is a very safe place to live, with crime below the national average. Sarasota County overall had a violent crime rate of 225 per 100,000 in 2020 compared to the national average of 384. The unincorporated community generally has less crime than the neighboring City of Sarasota. The Sarasota crime rate recently dropped 40% over two years.
While living in Fruitville, you will be served by the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and the Sarasota Police Department.
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History of Fruitville, FL
Fruitville, Florida, has roots dating back to the late 1800s. Originally settled by pioneers in the 1880s, the area was named for its abundance of wild fruit and small-scale citrus farming. In the early 20th century, Fruitville became a modest agricultural hub, supporting livestock and produce farming. Celery was a major crop in the area through the 1970s.
The construction of roads and railways helped connect it to Sarasota and encouraged growth. Over time, the area was developed, transforming from rural farmland into a suburban residential community as Sarasota expanded eastward. Today, Fruitville is known for its schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and proximity to downtown Sarasota.
What’s the Cost of Living in Fruitville?
The cost of living in Fruitville FL is lower than the national average. While comparable to the Sarasota cost of living, you’ll enjoy lower housing costs while living in Fruitville. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $1,476 to $1,825, while two-bedroom rent starts at $1,675. By comparison, average rent in Sarasota is $2,135.
Thinking about buying a home? The median home price is $495,000, well below the median of $530,000 in Sarasota. You can start your search for homes for sale in Fruitville FL on Redfin to see what’s available in your budget.
Neighborhoods in Fruitville
This small, unincorporated community doesn’t have many designated neighborhoods. However, you’ll find several smaller communities and larger developments for renters. Here are some of the best places to check out as you get ready for living in Fruitville.
- The Ensley: Luxury gated apartment community with EV charging stations, dog park, and resort-style pool. Starting at $1,825 for one-bed and $2,605 for three-bed
- Halston Lakeside: Upscale lakeside community with one- to three-bedroom apartments. Starting at $1,690 for one bedroom and $2,330 for three bedrooms.
- San Palermo HOA: Townhouse community with lake views, a clubhouse, and a heated community pool.
- ARIUM Grove Walk and ATRIUM Citrus Run: Lakeside apartments with one-bedroom units starting at $1,465 and 2-bedroom units starting at $1,675.
- Sorrento: New, luxury apartments with chef kitchens, a pet spa, and a saltwater pool. One-bedroom starting at $1,870, two-bedroom starting at $2,310, and three-bedroom starting at $2,730
- The Bergamot Apartments On 780. Heated pool and spa, outdoor kitchen, and screened lanais. Studio to 2-bedroom apartments. Two-bed starting at $2,300.
Weather & Climate in Fruitville & Sarasota County, Florida
While living in Fruitville, you’ll enjoy a warm, humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Throughout the year, temperatures range from the low 50s in winter to the low 90s in summer, with July and August being the hottest and most humid months. Rainfall is heaviest from June through September, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are generally dry, sunny, and pleasant, making them an ideal time to explore the area.
The best time to visit Fruitville is between November and April, when the weather is cooler and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
Things to Do in Fruitville
Living in Fruitville offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures, family-friendly attractions, and access to parks, golf courses, and beaches. You’ll enjoy convenient shopping at Sarasota Crossings and the nearby Waterside Place, home to a splash pad and one of the best farmers markets in the area for fresh produce. You’ll be just 15 to 20 minutes from Sarasota’s Bayfront Park and the famous Lido Key Beach.
Here are just some of the best things to do after moving to Fruitville, Florida.
Big Cat Habitat
Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary is a non-profit haven for exotic and domestic animals in need. Visitors can experience up-close encounters with lions, tigers, and other wildlife, while learning about conservation efforts. The sanctuary offers educational programs and animal demonstrations, making it a unique attraction in the area.
7101 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34240 (941) 371-6377
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Fruitville Park
This neighborhood park is equipped with soccer and softball fields, tennis courts, and a fitness trail. The park also features a playground and picnic areas, providing ample space for outdoor activities and family fun.
5151 Richardson Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232 (941) 861-5000
Celery Fields
Celery Fields is a 400+ acre site known for its restored wetlands and diverse bird species, making it a premier destination for wildlife watching and passive recreation. The area features boardwalks, observation decks, and the Sarasota Audubon Nature Center, providing educational opportunities and scenic views.
6799 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34240
Colonial Oaks Park
Colonial Oaks Park is a sprawling community gem featuring shaded playgrounds, picnic shelters, and multi-purpose fields. Divided by Phillippi Creek, the park offers a serene environment for relaxation and family gatherings. Indoor facilities host various classes and recreational programs, making it a hub for community engagement.
5300 Colonial Oaks Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34232 (941) 316-1330
Other things to do near Fruitville FL:
Best Restaurants in Fruitville
There are tons of great restaurants to enjoy while living in Fruitville. Here are a few of the best places to eat.
- Gecko’s Grill. Your local grill and pub is the best place to catch the game with multiple TVs, happy hours, and a diverse menu. 351 N Cattlemen Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232 (941) 378-0077
- Kacey’s Seafood. This casual seafood restaurant also serves up tacos, ribs, and 4904 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232 (941) 378-3644
- Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse. Enjoy slow-cooked BBQ, live music, and great drinks with friends at this open-air eatery and tiki bar. 19 E Rd, Sarasota, FL 34240 (941) 312-5969
Jobs in Fruitville FL
Ready to explore job opportunities while living in Fruitville? The town’s strategic location offers an easy commute to Sarasota and local job centers. There are also many businesses in Fruitville and neighboring communities, particularly in the healthcare, education, and leisure industries.
Nearby employers include:
- Lakewood Ranch Medical Center (jobs)
- HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital (careers)
- The Meadows Center for Nursing and Healing
- Aviva Senior Care (jobs)
- Sunnyside Village, an assisted living facility
- Pope Golf / Pope Properties, a golf course property management company in Fruitville
- Sarasota Memorial Health Care System (jobs), the largest employer in the county
- Sarasota County Schools (careers)
You can start your search for jobs in Fruitville on Indeed. You may also want to explore Sarasota County jobs and City of Sarasota jobs.
Fruitville Schools
Families living in Fruitville, Florida, are served by Sarasota County Schools, an A-rated public school district. Kids attend Sarasota High School, McIntosh Middle School, and Fruitville Elementary.
Sarasota Academy of the Arts (K-8) is a public charter school in Fruitville for performing and visual arts.
There are many private schools nearby for families living in Fruitville, including:
- Sarasota Christian School (K-12)
- St. Martha Catholic School (PK-8)
- Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School (9-12)
- Elevation Preparatory Academy (9-12)
- Sunnyside Mennonite School (K-12)
- Liberty Baptist Academy (PK-12)
There are many opportunities for higher education in the area. While living in Fruitville, you’ll be within ten minutes of the State College of Florida (SCF) Lakewood Ranch campus, Everglades University Sarasota campus, Keiser University Sarasota, Suncoast Technical College, and the Ringling College of Art and Design.
Residents are also served by the Fruitville Library, part of the Sarasota County Library System.
Fruitville Information
- Fruitville county: Sarasota
- Total area: 7.13 square miles
- Fruitville zip code: 34232
- Fruitville area code: 941
- Elevation: 30 feet
- Fruitville time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC -4 and -5)
- Closest airport to Fruitville: Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), 9.6 miles away
Fruitville FL Map
Moving to Fruitville FL? Get a Free Moving Quote Today
Does living in Fruitville seem like a perfect fit for you? The top-rated Fruitville movers at 2 College Brothers are ready to help you get settled into your new home without the stress. Call our friendly team today at (813) 922-1528 to request your free moving estimate.
