Independent living communities in Sarasota, Florida, are some of the most sought-after in the United States. Sarasota is a senior living paradise, complete with 40 miles of world-class beaches, low crime, and the cultural amenities of a much larger city. A Place for Mom partners with 20 independent living communities within a 10-mile radius of downtown Sarasota.
Seniors move to Sarasota looking for something special. Whether it’s warm weather, spiritual renewal, or a community of like-minded people, Sarasota offers plenty of ways to make that expectation a reality. Approximately 37% of people living in Sarasota are over 65, and the city caters to the needs of its senior residents. The city has exceptional senior centers, an excellent network of hospitals, and plenty of senior living options. In fact, seniors in Sarasota may face the challenge of having too many options rather than too few.
While independent living communities don’t provide personal care services or medical care, they typically offer meal plans, housekeeping, and daily activities such as classes and social hours. Standards are high in Sarasota, as the city’s independent living communities tend to offer more amenities, high-quality dining, and exceptional living conditions than you’ll find in many other U.S. cities.
This guide has everything you need to know about independent living in Sarasota, Florida. Explore how much independent living in Sarasota costs plus how to pay, and learn about local laws and regulations. You’ll also find information about transportation, health care options, and activities.
10 Best Independent Living Communities in Sarasota, FL
Independent living communities in Sarasota, Florida, are some of the most sought-after in the United States. Sarasota is a senior living paradise, complete with 40 miles of world-class beaches, low crime, and the cultural amenities of a much larger city. A Place for Mom partners with 20 independent living communities within a 10-mile radius of downtown Sarasota.Read more
Seniors move to Sarasota looking for something special. Whether it’s warm weather, spiritual renewal, or a community of like-minded people, Sarasota offers plenty of ways to make that expectation a reality. Approximately 37% of people living in Sarasota are over 65, and the city caters to the needs of its senior residents. The city has exceptional senior centers, an excellent network of hospitals, and plenty of senior living options. In fact, seniors in Sarasota may face the challenge of having too many options rather than too few.
While independent living communities don’t provide personal care services or medical care, they typically offer meal plans, housekeeping, and daily activities such as classes and social hours. Standards are high in Sarasota, as the city’s independent living communities tend to offer more amenities, high-quality dining, and exceptional living conditions than you’ll find in many other U.S. cities.
This guide has everything you need to know about independent living in Sarasota, Florida. Explore how much independent living in Sarasota costs plus how to pay, and learn about local laws and regulations. You’ll also find information about transportation, health care options, and activities.
Sarasota Independent Living Facilities | 1198 Reviews
My father died in 2017, but my mother continues to live at the Fountains, now over 15 years. She moved to the Assisted Living residence in 2021. Overall, this has been a great place for both of them. They...
I have no complaints! The people and staff here are great. I recommend Aviva Senior Living highly to others looking for independent living.
We moved our father into Heron East and we were surprised at how the staff went over and above to make him feel comfortable and cared for. The move in was easy, the food is great and he has made some new...
Caring for elderly people is very difficult emotionally and physically. They helped us make the hard decision with our mom. The transition was smooth and as they gotten to know her, they have given her...
Aravilla has all you would hope for and expect in a caring and efficiently run facility. The staff are are helpful and quickly get to know the newbie. I would definitely recommend Aravilla to anyone who is...
Alderman Oaks Retirement Center has lived up to everything and my dad is thriving! I would recommend Alderman Oaks to others.
Listening to my mother and father say the food needs improvement more variety . But everything else is good needs met and satisfied with the facility.
I like the care that my mom is getting from this caring community. The staff have been very attentive to her needs and always make sure that is able to be with the other residents during the activities. We...
This community is very nice and very clean - they could use more help just like everyone, but all of the staff members are very nice and really try to be helpful. They are very good with the residents and we...
We chose Discovery Village at Sarasota Bay because they have 24 hour nursing which was very important for us. There is not someone just on call - they are present in the building at all times. The facility...
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I would highly recommend Savannah Grand of Sarasota to others for their loved ones. I feel the staff have a genuine concern for the residents that are coming in to the community. The communication has been...
Sunnyside Village is a Christian community of people who care for one another. We are well feed. There are many amenities, groups and clubs to join, a nurse liaison. We have been here two and one half years...
- What families are saying about independent living in Sarasota
- Costs of independent living in the Sarasota area
- How people pay for independent living in Sarasota
- Understand Florida laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Get to know independent living in Sarasota
- What to expect from independent living in Sarasota
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Sarasota? Highlights for seniors
What families are saying about independent living in Sarasota
Recent reviews for independent living in Sarasota
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Costs of independent living in the Sarasota area
The average cost of independent living in Sarasota is $3,689 a month, according to data from A Place for Mom’s partnering communities.[01] Independent living communities provide much more than a living space, which is accounted for in the higher fee.
Rolled into the monthly fee for independent living are the following amenities or services:
- Rent in an apartment, condo, or villa
- All utilities
- A meal plan
- Housekeeping
- Laundry service
- Daily activities and classes
- Access to pools, gyms, and lounges
- Security
- Complimentary transportation
Independent living is all-inclusive
Independent living communities are more expensive than senior apartments. However, they may be more affordable than you think if you account for everything the monthly fee includes.
Some seniors find that after adding up their rent or mortgage payment, utilities, groceries, security systems, personal transportation, and hobbies, they’re already paying as much or more than they would in an independent living community. Consider doing the math on your expenses to see if an independent living community could benefit your finances.
Sarasota may be surprisingly cost-effective
People are willing to pay for paradise, making Sarasota one of the most expensive places to live in Florida. On average, people pay 22% more for housing in Sarasota than they do throughout the rest of the state.[03] However, according to our proprietary data, the cost of independent living communities in Sarasota is at or slightly below the national average.
Florida doesn’t tax income, including Social Security benefits or pensions. The state also doesn’t have an inheritance or estate tax, which benefits seniors and their families. These tax breaks may help offset some of the higher living costs in Sarasota.
Traditional independent living communities vs. continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)
In Sarasota, there are two types of independent living communities: traditional communities with multiple care types and continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). The primary difference between the two is in their payment structure.
Payment structure: Traditional independent living communities
Traditional independent living communities in Sarasota tend to include independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing in the same complex. Seniors residing in the independent living wing pay a monthly fee for their rent, utilities, means, and more. If a resident undergoes surgery or begins to need more assistance, the monthly fee goes up (often by a large amount) to pay for the added care.
Payment structure: CCRCs
At CCRCs, residents pay for their added care before they need it. This is usually called a buy-in fee, or an admissions fee. To enter a CCRC, a senior typically needs to pay a fee between $50,000 to $500,000. As their care needs progress, their monthly fee stays about the same because the cost of care is offset by the admissions fee.
Some CCRCs offer a return-of-capital (ROC) plan, which returns up to 80% of the admissions fee to the senior or the senior’s family if the resident moves out or passes away before needing care services.
Baseline independent living fees
The figures in the chart below reflect the baseline fees for independent living in Sarasota before adding admissions fees or additional fees to account for utilities, meals, or other amenities.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Sarasota, FL vs. nearby cities
Sarasota, FL
How people pay for independent living in Sarasota
Most seniors in Sarasota use their income or savings to pay for their independent living community. While public funds like Medicaid and Medicare won’t pay for independent living, it’s still important to understand how to use these methods to pay for other expenses. Read on to learn how to leverage your personal assets to keep the independent living community of your dreams within reach.
If you’re considering independent living and have a retirement account or other investments, keep in mind that these are the most common ways to pay for independent living, but they’re certainly not the only ways. Review the articles below to learn how to use your other assets to pay for your Sarasota independent living community.
Veterans will find a welcoming community in Sarasota. About 78% of veterans in Sarasota are over 65, so the city has plenty of resources to help senior veterans thrive.[04] The Sarasota County Department for Veterans Services is one of the largest local organizations, and it’s a good starting point for finding benefit eligibility information and community resources.
Can I pay for my independent living community in Sarasota with veterans benefits?
Veterans benefits may help you cover some of your independent living expenses. Benefits like the VA pension and the Aid and Attendance benefit can be used to pay for anything that improves your quality of life, such as the monthly fee of your independent living community. Other benefits, like the Housebound allowance, have more restrictions.
Eligibility for veterans benefits
Eligibility for veterans benefits is decided on a case-by-case basis, and there are multiple requirements for each benefit. It’s best to speak with a benefits counselor to make sure you know which benefits you’re eligible for. These counselors can also help you through the application process.
Applying for veterans benefits
Applying for veterans benefits can be a long and complicated process, but you certainly don’t have to go through it alone. You’re more likely to receive the right benefits if you work with a benefits counselor. A helping hand can make the process a lot less stressful.
We compiled a list of the best benefits counselors in your area. You may want to reach out to more than one to see which counselor is the best fit for you and your needs.
Veterans benefits counselors in Sarasota
Both the state government of Florida and city organizations offer veterans benefits counseling to seniors in Sarasota. The Sarasota Vet Center also offers mental health counseling to veterans and their families and can connect veterans in need to employment and housing opportunities. Read on to learn about state and local veterans benefits counseling services in Sarasota, Florida.
- Veterans Service Organization (VSO). Veterans service organizations are a network of VA-vetted benefits counselors that work throughout the United States. VSOs offer expert advice for veterans and their families. They can identify your appropriate benefits and can help you apply. To contact your local VSO, go to the VSO webpage and click on “Find a new representative.” You can also go to the National Resource Directory and search for “VSOs in Florida.”
- Sarasota County Department for Veterans Services. The Sarasota County government has compiled straightforward eligibility information and application materials on their Veterans Services page. The department also offers benefits seminars and counseling services. You can request to speak with a benefits counselor by calling the department or by mailing this form to the address provided on it.
- The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA). The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs provides fully virtual benefits counseling for veterans and their families. Expert benefits counselors are directly employed by the department and can help you determine the right benefits and apply. You can set up your appointment by calling 727-319-7408.
- Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Sarasota. Both the VFW and DAV chapters in Sarasota are nonprofit organizations that offer benefits counseling and support to local veterans. While they aren’t affiliated with the VA, they can help you apply for benefits and even appeal decisions. You can contact them using the numbers listed below.
Number of veterans who live in Sarasota, Florida
About 78% of veterans in Sarasota are 65+.
Resources for Sarasota veterans
Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs
9500 Bay Pines Blvd., #214
St. Petersburg, FL 33708
Phone: 727-316-7440
Email: VSO@fdva.state.fl.us
Virtual benefits counseling
Sarasota County Department for Veterans Services
2200 Ringling Blvd., Suite 125
Sarasota, FL 34237
Phone: 941-861-3024
Email: veterans@scgov.net
Benefit Seminar Request Form
Sarasota Vet Center
4801 Swift Road
Sarasota, FL 34231
Phone: 941-927-8285
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3233
124 S. Tuttle Ave.
Sarasota, FL 34237
Phone: 941-365-1918
Disabled American Veterans Chapter 97
7177 Bee Ridge Road
Sarasota, FL 34241
Phone: 727-319-7444
Neither Medicaid nor Medicare will cover your independent living expenses. Both are health insurance programs, and because independent living doesn’t offer personal or health care, neither program can pay for your independent living costs. However, understanding what Medicaid and Medicare will cover can help offset your health care expenses.
Florida Medicaid is a state-run health insurance program
Like all Medicaid programs, Florida Medicaid is a state-run health insurance program for low-income individuals. Florida Medicaid is overseen by the Agency for Health Care Administration (also called the AHCA). Eligible individuals can enroll in one of two different Florida Medicaid programs.
- Managed Medical Assistance (MMA). Most people enrolled in Florida Medicaid are enrolled in the MMA plan. Like all other health insurance plans, the MMA plan covers basic doctors’ visits, prescriptions, and hospitalization, along with transportation to and from appointments. People residing in independent living communities may be enrolled in the MMA plan, although their income may cause them to be ineligible.
- Statewide Medicaid Managed Care Long-Term Care (SMMC LTC). The SMMC LTC plan is specifically for people residing in long-term care facilities, including assisted living communities and nursing homes. Most people in independent living communities are not enrolled in the SMMC LTC plan until they start needing assistance with daily activities or skilled nursing care.
Am I eligible for Florida Medicaid?
Medicaid is for low-income individuals, and most people living in an independent living community exceed the income limit for Florida Medicaid. You’re eligible for Florida Medicaid if you meet the following criteria:
- You’re a Florida resident.
- You’re in need of health care.
- You’re considered “low-income” or “very low-income” according to the income limits set by the AHCA. In Sarasota, you must make less than $18,075 a year to qualify for Florida Medicaid.
You must also meet at least one of the following standards:
- You’re 65 years of age or older.
- You’re blind or have severe vision impairment.
- You have a disability or a household member with a disability.
- You’re responsible for someone under 18 years of age.
- You’re pregnant.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program
Medicare is run by the federal government. It covers some health care expenses for seniors over 65 in the United States. To receive Medicare assistance, you need to be over 65 and have paid your Medicare taxes or be married to someone who has.
Like Medicaid, Medicare won’t cover the monthly fee in your independent living community. However, it may pay for your medically necessary and short-term health care costs.
What procedures does Medicare cover?
Medicare covers only short-term and medically necessary health care expenses. For example, Medicare will cover your stay in a hospital or a rehabilitation facility for up to 20 days, including the cost of the room, meals, and all care. From day 21 to day 100, Medicare will only cover some of the cost. After day 100, Medicare will cover none of the cost. Short-term medical care also includes recurring expenses, like dialysis or medications.
Remember that what is medically necessary for one person may not be medically necessary for another. A physician and Medicare have to agree that a procedure, item, or test is medically necessary before it’s covered by Medicare. You can get a sense of what Medicare covers by going to the Medicare coverage portal.
Can I get help paying my Medicare premiums in Sarasota?
Yes, Sarasota residents can access assistance paying their Medicare premiums through local Medicare Savings Programs. Information about these programs, including how to enroll, are on the federal Medicare website. To be eligible, you may need to make less than $1,549 a month. Financial eligibility may be updated annually.
Can I get help applying for Medicaid or Medicare?
Yes, Sarasota residents can access benefits counseling for Medicaid or Medicare through the Florida Department of Health. The Department of Elder Affairs for the state of Florida also offers expert benefits counseling. You can sign up to talk to a counselor on the Elder Affairs website. You can direct any complaints about your Medicaid or Medicare coverage to the Florida Ombudsman Citizens’ Aide.
Sarasota Medicaid and Medicare resources
Florida Medicaid
2727 Mahan Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32308
Phone: 866-762-2237
Apply for Florida Medicaid, MMA plan
SSA office — Sarasota
2001 Siesta Drive
Sarasota, FL 34239
Phone: 800-772-1213
Department of Elder Affairs for the State of Florida
Phone: 800-963-5337
Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, Inc.
2830 Winkler Ave., Suite 112
Fort Myers, FL 33816
Phone: 239-762-6900
Understand Florida laws and regulations for independent living communities
Unlike other senior care types, the Florida Department of Health doesn’t regulate or license independent living communities. Instead, independent living communities should follow all Florida housing and apartment codes. The only additional requirements independent living communities may have are age limits and health standards. For example, some independent living communities may limit ages to 55 or 65 and above, and others may limit residents to only those who don’t need personal care.
In Sarasota, most independent living communities are part of large, multilevel care facilities that include assisted living, memory care, and occasionally skilled nursing wings. These other care types are regulated by the Florida Department of Health. You can learn more about how these care types are regulated in Florida by checking out A Place for Mom’s assisted living, memory care, or nursing home pages for Sarasota.
Tenant and landlord relationship in independent living communities
Residents of Sarasota’s independent living communities enter into a tenant-landlord relationship. Senior residents should follow the same standards as all tenants by taking care of their dwelling, paying their monthly fee on time, and adhering to community guidelines. The communities are responsible for keeping the dwelling in a livable condition and should follow the same regulations as all landlords in Florida.
Landlord and tenant disputes in Sarasota
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services may mediate any disputes you have with your independent living community. This department is the governing body responsible for all tenant-landlord disputes in Florida.
Resident rights and responsibilities
If you’re a resident of a Sarasota independent living community, you have the same rights and responsibilities as tenants of any other rental property in Florida. It may be a long time since you’ve rented, or perhaps you’ve never rented. So before entering into your independent living community, it’s a good idea to understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.
Residents of Sarasota independent living communities are expected to do the following:
- Residents should pay their monthly fee on time each month.
- Residents should keep their dwelling in a livable condition.
- Residents shouldn’t knowingly alter their dwelling without their landlord’s permission.
- Residents should follow all community guidelines, such as respecting quiet hours and picking up after a pet.
Landlord rights and responsibilities
Independent living communities in Sarasota should follow these standards:
- All living areas should meet building codes and be kept in a livable condition.
- The dwelling should have electricity, gas, as well as running and hot water.
- The community should handle maintenance and repairs within a reasonable time.
- The landlord should provide extermination services.
- Prior to move-in, the landlord should provide the tenant with a lock and key.
- The landlord shouldn’t enter the dwelling without informing the tenant.
- The tenant’s security deposit should be returned within 15 days. The landlord should inform the tenant if and why any amount was kept.
Florida Department of Health contact information
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
400 S. Monroe St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0800
Phone: 800-435-7352
COVID-19 regulations for Sarasota independent living communities
Independent living communities in Sarasota follow all guidelines developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the state of Florida, and the city of Sarasota to mitigate the effect of COVID-19. Independent living communities tend to be less strict than other senior care types when it comes to masking, social distancing, and quarantining. Neither Florida nor Sarasota have any masking, vaccination, and quarantine requirements for independent living communities.
Sarasota County publishes vaccination locations, testing centers, and safety recommendations on their COVID-19 FAQ page.
Vaccinations. Visitors are allowed in all senior care facilities in Florida regardless of vaccination status.
Masking. There are no masking requirements for Sarasota independent living communities.
Facility cleanliness. High-use areas are regularly disinfected.
Get to know independent living in Sarasota
What to expect from independent living in Sarasota
There’s something special about Sarasota, as this Florida locale regularly tops lists as one of the best places to retire in the United States. With its safe and clean neighborhoods, vibrant culture, and, of course, its famous beaches, Sarasota is exceptional. Many seniors in Sarasota look for a hassle-free lifestyle and a built-in community. Sarasota’s independent living communities provide both.
Independent living provides much more than a private space in a community of other older adults. In Sarasota, independent living communities offer meal plans in their restaurant-style dining rooms, daily activities, housekeeping, individualized wellness plans, and resort-like amenities.
Nearly all of Sarasota’s independent living communities are connected to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing wings. As care needs progress, residents can easily move to a new care type within the same facility.
Traditional independent living communities
Most independent living communities in Sarasota are set within large multilevel care facilities that most often include assisted living, memory care, and occasionally skilled nursing wings. Seniors have high standards in Sarasota, and the independent living communities reflect this. The most popular ones are newer builds with state-of-the-art amenities and design features. Many have their own walking or biking paths, pools, and pickleball courts.
Fewer communities in Sarasota offer only independent living. These provide similar services as multilevel care facilities, but they tend to be even newer and more luxurious. They also have a wider array of activities and amenities available to their residents.
Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)
A small portion of partnering independent living communities in Sarasota are continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), which provide the same type of care and amenities as traditional independent living communities. The main difference is in their payment structure. CCRCs require an admissions fee in addition to the monthly fee. Admissions fees can be between $50,000 and $500,000.
The admissions fee subsidizes any future care needs, particularly skilled nursing care. While skilled nursing care is an additional (often very high) fee in traditional independent living communities. In CCRCs, the monthly fee stays consistent regardless of the type of care.
Sarasota is clean, green, and lively
Almost 37% of Sarasota’s 54,764 residents are over 65, and this percentage is expected to increase in the coming years.[02] This is due, in part, to Sarasota’s reputation as a senior living paradise. While technically a small city, Sarasota has the cultural opportunities of a much larger metropolis, and crime is also very low compared to other places in Florida.
Sarasota also enjoys the temperate Gulf Coast weather while remaining protected from most of the storms along Florida’s western shores. Because Sarasota is so desirable, the cost of living is about 22% higher than in the rest of Florida.[03]
Who lives in Sarasota?
About half of the seniors in Sarasota are snowbirds, coming for the winter months to stay in a second home or a rental property. The other half resides in Sarasota permanently, whether in their own home, in an independent living community, or within a different senior care facility. Plenty of well-resourced seniors are attracted to Sarasota, including some familiar names like Mick Jagger of The Rolling Stones, Brian Johnson of AC/DC, and Stephen King, who all call Sarasota home for at least part of the year.
Independent living in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch
Lower-cost options for independent living are available nearby in both Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch. Bradenton is just north of Sarasota and is becoming an increasingly popular senior living destination, and while it’s only about 15 miles away from Sarasota, Bradenton’s senior living options tend to be about $500 cheaper on average.
Lakewood Ranch is inland from Sarasota and also has a growing senior population. More young professionals and families reside in Lakewood Ranch, and while it’s not as close to the water as Sarasota, it’s still within a 25-minute drive.
Neighborhoods like Siesta Key and Longboat Key in Sarasota tend to be considerably more expensive than the rest of Sarasota. These neighborhoods don’t have any senior living options and are instead made up of mansions and second homes. Plenty of seniors live in these neighborhoods, but tend to use home care.
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Unfamiliar with Sarasota? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Sarasota, Florida
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within Sarasota’s population
Median annual income for Sarasota seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Sarasota
Sarasota boasts an excellent network of health care providers and hospitals. Health care providers are spread out across the city, and seniors most often go to the provider nearest to them. All hospitals and health care providers in Sarasota offer compassionate, expert care.
Sarasota Memorial Hospital
With 895 beds, Sarasota Memorial Hospital is the largest public hospital in Sarasota. It’s operated by the Sarasota Memorial Health Care System and provides care in a wide range of specialties. Providers offer care in geriatrics and neurology, and the hospital has its own Cancer Institute. Sarasota Memorial Health Care System operates six different campuses across Southwest Florida, but the main campus is in Sarasota.
1700 S. Tamiami Trail
Sarasota, FL 34239
Phone: 941-917-9000
Find a provider
HCA Florida Blake Hospital
This award-winning hospital specializes in acute care, including emergency medicine, burn care, strokes, heart health, trauma, and orthopedics. It’s technically in Bradenton, but it serves the entire Sarasota area.
2020 59th St. W
Bradenton, FL 34209
Phone: 941-792-6611
Find a provider
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sarasota
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sarasota is the area’s top rehabilitation facility. This hospital specializes in rehabilitation care for strokes, hip fractures, and spinal cord rehabilitation. The group also runs support groups for amputees, stroke and cardiac patients, and MS patients.
6400 Edgelake Drive
Sarasota, FL 34240
Phone: 941-921-8600
What to expect
Transportation for seniors in Sarasota
Sarasota may not be very populous, but traffic can still be fierce in the winter months. Most residents drive, but seniors living in independent living communities can take advantage of their community’s complimentary transportation.
The Sarasota County Transit system, also known as SCAT (rebranded in 2023 to Breeze) offers reliable bus transportation throughout Sarasota County, including Siesta Key. OnDemand is a SCAT service that provides pickup and drop-off services for people of all ages. You can find bus routes, fees, and how to sign up for OnDemand on the SCAT website.
WalkScore.com ranks cities for their bikeability, walkability, and public transportation. Each of the following scores for Sarasota are out of 100.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Sarasota
The quality of life for seniors in Sarasota’s independent living communities is among the best in the nation. Beautiful weather, access to one of the best beaches in the United States (hello, Siesta Key!), unparalleled cultural amenities, and high standards make Sarasota something special.
Activities in Sarasota’s independent living communities
All of A Place for Mom’s partnering independent living communities provide daily social activities and classes for their residents. These range from happy hours to group outings, finance classes, and game nights. Communities regularly schedule beach outings, but residents are always free to come and go as they please.
Most residents also receive personalized wellness coaching. Coordinators work with residents one-on-one to establish physical, mental, and social goals. Personal trainers, dieticians, and counselors are on hand to help seniors reach their highest potential.
Siesta Key Beach
As soon as you run your fingers through the bright, white quartz sand and wade into the crystal clear shallows, you’ll understand why visitors call Siesta Key Beach one of the best beaches in the United States. It’s large, too, and rarely overcrowded, so you’ll likely have plenty of space to spread out and relax. Siesta Key Beach also employs lifeguards.
Other than Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota has 37 miles of coastline. Other excellent beaches in the area include Lido Beach, Caspersen Beach, and the Longboat Key Beaches. Even though Sarasota is on the Gulf Coast, it’s often protected from the storms that tend to blow through other beach destinations like Fort Myers.
The Ringling Museum
Delightfully eccentric and shockingly large, the Ringling Museum is a local staple for residents and visitors alike. Home to the Ca d’Zan Mansion, which was built by circus king John Ringling to resemble the palazzos of Venice, this fascinating destination includes multiple museums, two of which take you through Sarasota’s long history as a circus hotspot.
The museum’s Bayfront Gardens showcase examples of the area’s native plants, and the Asolo Theater is the largest repertory theater in the nation. The Ringling Museum also has the State Art Museum of Florida. Seniors get discounted tickets, and tours are available for a fee.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Specializing in air plants, including orchids, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a must-see in Sarasota. It includes beautiful landscaped outdoor walking paths, and a lush indoor greenhouse. While seniors don’t get a discount, the admissions fee is only $11, and members get in free.
Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium
The Mote Marine Laboratory offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with local marine life, including local shark populations. It’s more than an aquarium, however, as it’s also one of the nation’s best marine conservation organizations. It works to restore nearby coral reefs and protect the local sea life.
Programs include the Coffee with a Scientist lecture series, Breakfast with the Sharks, and the SEAsonal Tastings. You should reserve your tickets in advance, as the aquarium limits its capacity, and it tends to be busy.
The city of light
Sarasota attracts a certain amount of attention from spiritual seekers. Some claim the city is an energy vortex and that it’s protected from coastal weather patterns because of this. Others simply find Sarasota to be an uncommonly peaceful and beautiful place, and some believe it may have something to do with the large amounts of quartz found on the local beaches. Either way, most people can agree that there’s something special about Sarasota.
Day trips from Sarasota
Sarasota is conveniently located near some of Florida’s most popular destinations. Disney World is about an 80-minute drive away, and Fort Myers is within two hours. Everglades National Park is south of Sarasota, about two and a half hours away.
Local guides
Visitsarasota.com is a good resource for updated information about activities and events in Sarasota. It’s regularly updated and includes local specials and deals, as well as farmers market locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Windsor of Bradenton, Bayshore Guest Home and Gardens and The Fountains of Hope are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Sarasota, FL. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Independent Living in Sarasota is 4204.81 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Sarasota city [Data set]. American Community Survey.
Rentcafe.com. (2022). United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Sarasota city [Data set]. American Community Survey. Cost of living in Sarasota, FL.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Sarasota city [Data set]. American Community Survey.
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