The History of Sarasota, Florida — And How It Became a Top Beach and Waterfront Market

Sarasota, Florida has come a long way. It started as a quiet coastal town. Today, it is one of the most popular places to live on the Gulf Coast. Its beaches are famous, its culture is strong, and its homes—especially waterfront homes—are in high demand.

Here is a simple look at how Sarasota grew, when its beaches became well-known, and why home prices began to rise.

Early Sarasota: A Small Town Ready to Grow

Sarasota’s early history goes back to the late 1800s. Settlers from Scotland and other parts of the country moved here for the warm weather and easy access to the water. The town stayed small for many years. However, things began to change when the Ringling family arrived.

John Ringling brought art, business, and investment to the area. Because of his vision, Sarasota started to gain attention. Even so, the city still felt peaceful and hidden from the world.

When Sarasota’s Beaches Became Famous

Sarasota’s beaches became well-known after World War II. More families started taking vacations. Roads improved. Travelers began exploring Florida’s Gulf Coast. As a result, Siesta Key, Lido Key, and Longboat Key began to attract more visitors.

By the 1960s and 1970s, travel magazines started writing about the area. Siesta Key Beach became famous for its bright white sand, made almost entirely of quartz. Over time, the beach won many national awards. Each award brought even more visitors. And with more visitors came more interest in owning a home nearby.

When Home Prices Started to Rise

Home prices in Sarasota grew slowly at first. Then, during the early 2000s, the market began to change quickly. More people from the Northeast and Midwest moved to Florida full-time. They wanted warm weather, outdoor living, and a strong local culture. Sarasota had all of that.

Because of this interest, more new communities began to develop. Downtown Sarasota added luxury condos. East Sarasota added large residential neighborhoods. At the same time, buildable land became harder to find. As demand increased and supply stayed limited, home prices went up.

By the mid-2010s, Sarasota began to appear on national “Best Places to Live” lists. And from there, the market grew even faster.

Why Waterfront Property Became So Popular

Waterfront homes in Sarasota have always been special. But they became extremely popular during two major shifts.

1. More Out-of-State Buyers (2000s–Present)

As more people moved to Florida, many wanted water access. Homes on canals, bays, or the Gulf became top choices. Since the number of waterfront homes is limited, prices increased quickly.

2. The Remote Work Boom After 2020

After 2020, many people could work from anywhere. Because of that, the dream of living on the water felt possible. Sarasota’s waterfront areas—like Siesta Key, Bird Key, Lido Key, Casey Key, and mainland neighborhoods—saw record demand. Prices rose sharply, and many homes moved into the million-dollar range.

Why Sarasota Keeps Growing

People continue to choose Sarasota for many reasons:

Its beaches are national award winners.
The arts and culture scene is strong.
Boating, fishing, and outdoor activities are easy to enjoy.
Restaurants and local events create a lively atmosphere.
Jobs and medical services keep expanding.
Schools and communities are well-maintained.

All of these factors keep the real estate market strong, especially along the water.

Thinking About Moving to Sarasota?

I have lived in Sarasota for more than 50 years. I have seen the city grow, change, and become one of the best places to live in Florida. If you are thinking about moving here, or if you want to learn more about neighborhoods, pricing, or waterfront opportunities, I am here to help.

Michael Gray Lifelong Sarasota Native

Coldwell Banker Realty

423 St Armands Cir. Sarasota, FL 34236