Siesta Key is a barrier island located in the Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Sarasota, Florida. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.

Siesta Key has been named as one of the top beaches in the United States and the world, thanks to its powdery white sand that stays cool even in the hottest weather. The sand is made of 99% quartz, giving it a unique look and feel. The main beach on the island, Siesta Beach, has also won numerous awards for its cleanliness, safety, and amenities.

Aside from the beaches, Siesta Key is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, tropical drinks, and live music while watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. The island is also popular for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

In addition, Siesta Key has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with galleries, theaters, and museums showcasing local and international artists. The island hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival, which brings together master sand sculptors from around the world.

 

Population:

• Population (2020): 5,454
• Median age (2022): 67
• Residents under 18 (2020): 6.8%
• Residents over 65 (2020): 53.9%
• Population by sex (2020): Male 50% Female 50%
• Homeowners and renters (2022): Homeowners – 89%, Renters – 11%
• Married population (2023): 78%
• Population change (2010-2020): Appx. 15% Decrease
• Poverty rate compared to the US national average (2022): 7% vs the average of 11.5%

Demographics (2022):

• White Non Hispanic – 91%
• Other – 9%

*Prices shown are based only on activity for the dates specified

Income:

• Median household income (2022): $113,500
• Avg. per capita income (2022): $108,974

Tax:

• County property tax rate: 1.23% of a property’s assessed fair market value (2023)
• Combined state and county sales tax rate: 7% (2023)

Cost of Living:

• Average cost of living compared to the US national average (2023): Higher
• Cost of housing compared to the Florida average (2023): Significantly Higher
• Cost of food compared to the US national average (2023): Appx. 3%
• Cost of healthcare compared to the US national average (2023): 3% Higher
• Cost of utilities compared to the US national average (2023): Appx. same
• Cost of transportation compared to the US national average (2023): 3% Lower

Political affiliation based on the 2024 election results:

• Republican – 58.48%
• Democrat – 40.37%
• Other – 1.15%

Largest 3 employers: Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Publix Super Markets, Sarasota County Government

School ratings: A+ (Niche 2022)

Coastal: Yes

Average low and high temperature: Low 18.4 °C, High 27.3 °C

Location and Amenities:

 

Highways:

• Interstate 75 (I-75): The nearest access point is approximately 5 miles east of Siesta Key. The travel time to reach I-75 would depend on your specific location on Siesta Key, but it typically takes around 10-15 minutes to reach the highway.

International Airports:

• Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ): The airport is located approximately 11 miles north of Siesta Key. The travel time by car is typically around 20-25 minutes.

Universities and Colleges:

• University of South Florida (USF) Sarasota-Manatee: This university is located approximately 8 miles north of Siesta Key. The travel time by car is usually around 15-20 minutes.
• New College of Florida: It is located about 10 miles north of Siesta Key, with a travel time of approximately 20-25 minutes.

Hospitals:

• Sarasota Memorial Hospital: The main campus of this hospital is situated approximately 6 miles northeast of Siesta Key. The travel time by car is typically around 15-20 minutes.

Shopping Malls:

• Westfield Siesta Key: This shopping mall is located on the northern end of Siesta Key, making it easily accessible to residents and visitors on the island.
• Westfield Sarasota Square: It is located about 5 miles southeast of Siesta Key, with a travel time of approximately 10-15 minutes.

Major Cities:

• Sarasota is closest major city
• Tampa is approximately 60 – 70 miles north

Amenities/attractions:

• Siesta Key Beach, Point of Rocks, Siesta Village, St. Boniface Episcopal Church, Turtle Beach, Siesta Key Farmers Market, etc.

Fun facts: Siesta Key is known for its powdery white sand beaches, which are composed of 99% quartz crystal. The beaches have won numerous awards, including being named the number one beach in the US by TripAdvisor in 2020.

Short Term Rental Regulations:

** All short term rental operations in Florida must obtain a business license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation ( DBPR ) and a Florida Department of Revenue Certificate of Sales and Use. ** Short term rental regulations can be subject to change and should always be confirmed with city / towns or county departments.

Restrictions:

• Maximum occupancy is 10 persons total per dwelling in Sarasota County.
• The minimum stay required for short term rentals are 7 Full days and 7 Full nights in Sarasota county, however, this is subject to change
• Zoning restrictions may apply

For more information visit – sarasotafl.gov