North Port is a small city nestled amid thick oaks and tall pines, with a rich archeological history, beautiful natural springs, and over 80 miles of freshwater canals. The city was once inhabited by pre-Columbian Native Americans. Canoeing and kayaking opportunities abound on the canals, the Myakkahatchee Creek, and the Myakka River. North Port is known as the only city in Florida with an entire state forest (the Myakka State Forest) inside its city limits.
Those living in North Port FL will love all the adventurous activities available to them. Common outdoor activities include miles of horse trails, mountain bike trails, and natural hiking paths, as well as many bird-watching opportunities. North Port is close to many beaches along Florida’s west coast, such as Englewood Beach, Manasota Beach, Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, Longboat Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key, and Venice Beach.
The arts community is alive and well in North Port with the North Port Performing Arts Center and the North Port Art Center. For baseball fans, North Port is the Spring Training home for the Atlanta Braves. North Port is a very nice place to live.
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Where Is North Port, Florida?
North Port is a city located in Southwest Florida. North Port is in Sarasota County and is part of the North Port–Bradenton–Sarasota Metro Area. It’s close to world-class beaches. North Port is conveniently located about 85 miles south of Tampa and 48 miles north of Fort Myers. Many people living in North Port have a short commute to Fort Myers for work. It’s also just 10 miles away from Port Charlotte, and the West Villages is in part of North Port as well.
North Port FL Demographics
In this tight-knit community, you will find many young families and professionals who come to enjoy the pleasant weather and great public schools. Those moving to North Port will be happy to know this is a safe and diverse community. The Hispanic population in North Port and Sarasota County is small but growing.
Most of Sarasota County’s Hispanic population consists of those from Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Cuba, and to a lesser extent, from Colombia, Venezuela, Honduras, Peru, and other Latin American countries. Evidence of Hispanic influence can be seen in the art, food, and entertainment in the area.
If you’re living in North Port FL, you won’t be part of a small town. The North Port population is 101,600. The racial and ethnic demographics of North Port are 80.3% White (77.3% White alone, not Hispanic or Latino), 12.7% Hispanic or Latino, 9.4% two or more races, 4.2% Black or African American alone, 2.5% Asian, and 0.5% American Indian and Alaska Native.
Here’s an overview of the North Port area demographics:
- Population density: 1,022 per square mile
- Median age: 49.3
- Sex ratio: 49.9% males, 50.1% females
- Median household income: $84,049
- Educational attainment: 94.0% high school degree or higher, 29.9% bachelor’s degree or higher
- Foreign-born population: 13.3%
- Veteran population: 5,545
Is North Port safe? When moving to North Port, this is a question many future residents have. The good news is that the safety of its residents is very important in North Port, and the North Port Police Department is committed to serving and protecting those who live, work, and visit the community. North Port is a very safe place to live.
The crime rate is 58.71% lower than the national average! It’s much safer than the crime in nearby Sarasota. In North Port, there are an estimated 875.1 crimes per 100,000 people. The violent crime rate in North Port is 73.90% below the national average.
North Port FL Cost of Living
Living in North Port is fairly inexpensive compared to the national average. The cost of living in North Port is 7% lower than the national average. The most expensive factor in the cost of living is the housing market, and in North Port, housing costs are 21% lower than the national average. You’ll find affordable homes and warm weather! Those moving to North Port are not alone. It was once voted as the number one fastest-growing city with a population of under 100,000 people.
The median sale price of a home in North Port is $350,000, which is down 4.7% from last year. The average cost per square foot of the homes for sale in North Port FL is $208. Check out the many current North Port FL homes for sale. Renting in North Port is less expensive than in most of Florida’s bigger cities. According to RentCafe, the average rent in North Port is $1,705 for a 940-square-foot apartment. You can find apartments and homes for rent in North Port FL on RentCafe.
Typical North Port Living Expenses:
- Meal, inexpensive restaurant: $25
- Domestic beer: $5
- 1 gallon of milk: $5.08
- Dozen eggs: $4.58
- 1 pound of chicken: $11.71
- Average North Port monthly utility bill: $184.42
Source: Numbeo, North Port
The Best Neighborhoods in North Port
North Port offers a convenient mix of single-family homes, townhomes, gated communities, and more. The neighborhoods are made up of families, retirees, singles, and young professionals. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in North Port:
Bobcat Trail
This stunning gated community offers single-family homes and villas. It has a beautiful golf course, clubhouse, fitness center, and swimming pool.
Gran Paradiso
A resort-style community featuring beautiful Mediterranean-style homes and well-maintained lawns, the neighborhood has many amenities, such as a clubhouse, fitness center, tennis courts, and a resort-style pool.
Cedar Grove
This family-friendly neighborhood offers a wide array of home styles, including single-family homes and townhouses. The community has lots of green spaces, and numerous parks and nature preserves are nearby. A community pool and playground are great for families with young children.
Weather North Port FL
North Port residents enjoy a mild climate with 252 sunny days per year. Summer temperatures range from the upper 70s and low 80s, with highs in the mid-90s, and winter temperatures are typically between the mid-50s and low 70s. Humidity is generally high in summer, and precipitation levels are relatively low, although North Port does experience seasonal rains, mostly in summer. North Port averages 54 inches of rain annually and no snow, which is higher than the national average.
Florida’s hurricane season runs from June through November, and strong storms and high winds can occur in North Port. To avoid the hot, muggy summers, the best times of year to visit North Port are from mid-February to early May and from mid-October to mid-December.
Things to Do North Port FL
North Port offers plenty to do for all ages, including watching the Atlanta Braves spring training games at CoolToday Park, enjoying the healing waters of Warm Mineral Springs, exploring the many canals by canoe or kayak, listening to the North Port Symphony, or taking in a gallery show at North Port Art Center. For shopping opportunities, check out Cocoplum Village Shops, Shoppes of North Port, and North Port Commons, which have CVS, GNC, Lowes, and Costco. Here are some top attractions near North Port:
Atwater Community Park
Atwater Community Park spans 25 acres and offers a zero-entry Splash Pad, 4 Little League Fields, a baseball field, batting cages, three open-air pavilions, a sports-themed playground, and walking paths.
4475 Skyway Avenue, North Port, FL 34288, (941) 429-7275
Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park
Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park covers approximately 160 acres and offers many outdoor recreational activities. Nature lovers will enjoy the winding rustic paths, footbridges, and wooded trails. Activities include birding, hiking, horseback riding, and biking.
6968 Reisterstown Rd, North Port, FL 34291, (941) 429-7275
North Port Aquatic Center
You can careen down the Barracuda Blast drop slide at the North Port Aquatic Center or chill on the Loxahatchee Lazy River. The center has a heated competition pool and the Sand Dollar Snack Shack, where you can grab a snack. Take the kids to the Pelican Splash ground for loads of fun. The center offers swimming Lessons, aquatic classes, and programs as well.
6205 W Price Blvd, North Port, FL 34291, (941) 429-7275
Additional Attractions Near North Port, FL
The City of North Port offers residents a wide selection of parks and a diverse array of activities. Amenities for all ages include athletic fields, basketball courts, volleyball, playgrounds, dog parks, boat launches, hiking and biking trails, a nature preserve, an aquatic center, and a skate park. You can also check out the North Port Events calendar for upcoming local events.
North Port FL Restaurants
North Port offers a wide range of dining options that are sure to please every taste. Whether you’re looking for seafood, Greek, Mexican, Italian, or something else, you can find it in North Port. Here are some of the most popular dining establishments near North Port:
Blue Tequila Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
The Blue Tequila is a family-owned Mexican restaurant offering all your traditional favorites, expertly prepared just for you. Choose from fajitas, chimichangas, burritos, chorizo, tacos, enchiladas, and much more.
14525 Tamiami Trail, North Port, FL 34287, (941) 888-5332
Shark’s Fish House
Shark’s Fish Houses is a family-owned, award-winning seafood restaurant that has been delighting customers in North Port since 2002. They serve delicious seafood at a reasonable price with excellent customer service. They also offer chicken, burgers, and sandwiches.
14595 Tamiami Trail, North Port, FL 34287, (941) 429-2150
Greek Grille
One of the finest Greek restaurants in the area, Greek Grille serves up Greek favorites such as seafood, lamb, and gyros, as well as imported Greek wine and beer. They use only high-quality, fresh ingredients and house-made items. At Greek Grille, you get a fine-dining dining experience at a modest price.
14828 Tamiami Trail, North Port, FL 34287, (941) 423-6400
Jobs North Port FL
North Port provides job opportunities in fields such as healthcare, life sciences, logistics, manufacturing, and tourism. It’s an up-and-coming area, so there are many jobs in this great town. The city’s proximity to Tampa and Fort Myers offers many additional employment possibilities.
One of the major employers in Sarasota County is Sarasota Memorial Hospital, a state-of-the-art public health system with over 10,000 employees that includes two hospitals, a cancer care center, and a network of outpatient centers, urgent care centers, laboratories, diagnostic imaging, physician practices, and more.
Other top employers in North Port County include PGT Innovations, Sun Hydraulics, and HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital. If you’re looking for jobs in North Port FL, take a look at job openings on Indeed and the North Port City job board.
Schools in North Port FL
The Northport-East Northport Union Free School District is a highly rated school district that is made up of five elementary schools, one public charter school, two middle schools, North Port High School, and Suncoast Technical College. The district cultivates excellence in all areas, with a mission to educate, inspire, and empower all students to pursue their dreams and become responsible members of society.
Private school choices in Sarasota County include New Gate School, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School, and Sarasota Christian School.
For further education, several colleges and universities are near North Port, including the Ringling College of Art and Design, Eckerd College, the University of South Florida, and Hillsborough Community College.
The North Port Library is a great place to relax, read a book, or check out music, magazines, DVDs, and more.
Map of North Port Florida
North Port FL Statistics & Information
- County: Sarasota County
- Area: 104.21 square miles
- North Port zip code: 34286-34291, 34293
- Area codes: 941
- Elevation: 10 feet
- Time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC -4 and -5)
- Closest airport: Punta Gorda Airport, 17 minutes away
Frequently Asked Questions
What Major City Is North Port, Florida Close to?
North Port, Florida, is located near the city of Sarasota, approximately 18 miles to the north. It is also close to Port Charlotte, about 15 miles to the southwest, offering residents easy access to the larger cities while enjoying a quieter suburban lifestyle.
How Far Is North Port, FL From the Beach?
North Port is just a short drive (30 minutes, 15 miles) from the Gulf Coast beaches, including the popular Venice Beach. This provides most residents with convenient access to stunning beaches without being right on the coastline.
Is It Expensive to Live in North Port, FL?
Living in North Port is relatively affordable compared to other parts of Florida. The cost of living is lower than in nearby cities like Sarasota, with reasonable housing prices and general expenses, making it an attractive location for both retirees and families.
Is There a Downtown in North Port, FL?
North Port does not have a traditional downtown area. However, it has a community-oriented city center with shopping centers, dining, and recreational facilities. The city is developing its local amenities, with efforts to enhance its central gathering spaces.
What Is the Main Industry in North Port?
The main industry in North Port is construction, driven by the growth of residential developments and the city’s expansion. Additionally, the healthcare and retail sectors are significant contributors to the local economy by providing a wide open job market.
Is North Port, FL a Good Place to Live?
Yes, North Port is a great place to live. The city offers affordable housing with a median home price of $379,000, a cost of living 7% below the national average, and a crime rate 54% lower than the national average. Residents enjoy 252 sunny days per year, easy access to Gulf Coast beaches, and a growing community of families and professionals in Sarasota County, Florida.
Is North Port, FL Safe?
North Port is considered a very safe city. The overall crime rate is 54% lower than the national average, and the violent crime rate is 68% lower, with an estimated 1,063 crimes per 100,000 residents. The North Port Police Department is actively committed to serving and protecting residents, workers, and visitors throughout the community.
What Is North Port, FL Known for?
North Port is known for being the only city in Florida with an entire state forest, the Myakka State Forest, within its city limits. It is also the Spring Training home of the Atlanta Braves at CoolToday Park and is recognized for its over 80 miles of freshwater canals, Warm Mineral Springs, and its ranking as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States with a population under 100,000.
How Far Is North Port From Tampa?
North Port is approximately 85 miles south of Tampa, making it a manageable drive for those who work in or visit the Tampa Bay area. The city is also about 48 miles north of Fort Myers and just 10 miles from Port Charlotte, giving residents convenient access to multiple major employment and entertainment hubs throughout Southwest Florida.
North Port FL: One of the Fastest-Growing Cities Today!
If you’re moving to North Port, you’re making a great choice. With affordable home prices, easy access to major cities, and good schools, this is the perfect place in Florida. When it comes to relocating, you’ll need the best North Port movers to help you get there. Contact our team at 2 College Brothers today at 813-922-1528 for a free quote! We can’t wait to help you.
