1.941.704.4278Clearwater, Florida, traces its rich history to the Native Americans who originally named the area “Pocotopaug,” which means “clear water.” Just like its name suggests, this tropical city is home to several beautiful beaches — with plenty of sugar sand and turquoise waves.
Unsurprisingly, these scenic views bring both tourists and prospective homeowners alike to Florida’s Gulf Coast. This waterfront city is part of the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metropolitan area and is conveniently situated near major airports, making it easy to visit and travel from the city.
Along with miles of beaches, visitors and locals will have access to all kinds of shopping, dining and outdoor adventure opportunities. From tropical party buffet cruises to nature parks filled with resident gopher tortoises and birds of prey, there’s something for everyone, making Clearwater, Florida a good place to live.
Kickstart Your Easy Move to Clearwater!
Settling into Clearwater, FL? Our full-service moving company is here to make your move as easy as possible. Explore our Clearwater moving services today.
Demographics and Population
In 2022, the population of Clearwater was 117,027. While the population has been slightly decreasing annually since the last census, it still stands as the 19th largest city in Florida. Over 90% of the city’s residents are citizens.
The most prevalent race in Clearwater is white followed by Black or African American. There are also several other races, including Asian, Native American and Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islanders.
Overall, the median age is 45.2. Most homes are owned by families and average two individuals per household. The vast majority of these homes do not have children.
Cost of Living
No matter where you decide to live, the cost of living, which determines how much you can expect to pay as a resident, will factor in several different expenses, including:
- Transportation
- Groceries
- Health care
- Housing costs
The cost of living can vary based on several factors like:
- State
- Neighborhoods
- Career
- Household size
- Neighborhoods
Individuals considering moving or relocating to Clearwater can expect to enjoy a cost of living that’s lower than the national average. The median value of homes is $241,200 while the median gross rent is $1,224.
While Clearwater does offer several expenses that are lower than the national average, ranging from housing to utility prices, grocery prices tend to be higher than average here.
Weather
Clearwater has a subtropical climate. Overall, throughout the year you can expect hot, humid weather. The winter months are moderate and may be partly cloudy and windy on some days.
Typically, the hotter months are from late May to early October. During this time, you can expect temperatures in the upper 80s and 90s. Temperatures will start to drop some from December to March. Temperatures can range from lows in the mid-50s to highs in the 60s or 70s.
Precipitation amounts can vary depending on the month and time of year, but usually, you can expect wet and rainy conditions at any time of year. August receives the most rain, averaging almost 7 inches throughout the month.
Clearwater also experiences the hurricane season lasting from June through November. During this time, residents can face anything from tropical storms to stronger hurricanes. While many don’t make landfall, hurricane season is something residents need to be aware of and prepare for each year.
The Best Neighborhoods in Clearwater, FL
No matter what size or style of home you’re looking for — or what your budget is — you’ll find the perfect home in the city. Everyone from young adults to seniors call this tropical city their home.
Here are some of the best places to live in Clearwater:
- Imperial Cove: Designed for individuals 55+, Imperial Cove offers condominiums and villas nestled within a gated community. This quiet setting also makes a great location for snowbirds seeking a warm, sunny climate during the winter months. Whether you come for the season or make this community your home, you’ll be able to enjoy all kinds of fun activities ranging from shuffleboard to water aerobics.
- Downtown Clearwater: If you want to stay in close proximity to all that’s going on in the city, Downtown Clearwater will be the perfect location. You will have convenient access to restaurants and nightlife. Even though you’ll be in the bustling downtown area, you’ll still be able to easily get to the beach and outdoor activities like trails.
- Island Estates: For homeowners wanting to stay close to the beach, consider Island Estates. You can choose from condominiums or single-family homes. Many even offer the option of keeping your boat right in your backyard, making it an ideal setting for boating enthusiasts. As a resident, you also get convenient access to the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway.
Schools and Education
From public to private to charter schools, parents have several options when deciding where to send their children. Homeschooling or virtual schooling is another possibility as well. Most K-12 students in Clearwater attend a public school, with some of the top-ranking schools being Leila Davis Elementary School and Plata Academy Clearwater.
Overall, the public schools have a slightly higher-than-average rating for math proficiency and a slightly lower-than-average rating for reading proficiency.
Students who want to pursue higher education close by will be able to choose from schools like Sunstate Academy or Ultimate Medical Academy, two of the largest universities in the area.
Employment
Clearwater, Florida employs over 50,000 people, with most holding white-collar versus blue-collar jobs. The employment rate in this city continues to grow, offering several opportunities for individuals either starting or seeking to advance their careers.
Some of the most common employment sectors are health care and social assistance and office and administrative support. Other large sectors include:
- Sales
- Retail trade
- Accommodation and food services
- Management
Out of all the occupations, some of the highest paying in the city include management and professional, scientific and technical services.
Safety
When deciding where to move, safety should always be a top consideration. Several factors can play a part in the crime rate, though. Crime tends to be higher in areas with parks and airports. These draw in more people, like travelers and tourists, increasing the chances of various crimes.
Whether you’re moving alone or have a family with small kids, you want to know about the crime rate, where crimes tend to be concentrated and what the most common crimes are. Compared to other cities of its size, Clearwater has a lower crime rate.
Things to Do in Clearwater
If you’re thinking of moving to Clearwater, Florida, you can rest assured that there will always be plenty of fun things to do and see in the area. From weekday evening activities to unwind after school or work to ways to spend the weekend outdoors, you’ll have endless opportunities.
Here are some of the top things to do in Clearwater:
- Clearwater Beach: It goes without saying that one of the most enjoyable things to do when living in or visiting this city is to head to Clearwater Beach. You can soak in the scenic views, complete with an expansive shoreline and refreshing turquoise waters. Whether you want to relax and work on your tan or enjoy an afternoon of snorkeling or parasailing, this beach offers something for everyone.
- Kayaking Clear Through Clearwater: Experience kayaking like you have never before with Sea Glass Kayaking. Launch a clear kayak and enjoy paddling around the waters surrounding Clearwater Beach. You’ll be able to gain a unique perspective of the water as you embark on your guided tour.
- Helicopter tour: Take your view of the city to new heights with a helicopter tour. You’ll be able to soar over the pristine waters and catch glimpses of sites ranging from golf courses to the Barrier Islands.
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium: From pelicans to otters and dolphins, you’ll be able to see all kinds of underwater life when you visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Along with all of the resident animals, you can also take advantage of educational programs and guided tours to learn even more during your visit.
- Tampa Bay City PASS: Why choose when you can get a great deal on some of the most popular tourist attractions? With the Tampa Bay City PASS, you can visit ZooTampa at Lowry Park, the Florida Aquarium and Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay. The PASS also gives you the option of choosing two additional attractions — Glazer Children’s Museum, Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), Tropics Boat Tours Dolphin, Clearwater Marine Aquarium or Sunset Cruise.
Dreaming of Living in Clearwater, Florida?
If you want to move and start a new life in the Sunshine State, David McCarthy Moving, LLC has you covered. As an independent local and long-distance moving company, we are here to provide you with the home packing and moving services you need.
No matter how far you’ll be moving, our team brings years of experience to every job. We are fully licensed and insured, offering you the peace of mind you deserve. With our full line of moving services, you can trust that you’ll have a stress-free moving experience from start to finish.
From apartments to condominiums to large homes, we customize all of our moving services to meet your requirements. With our top-of-the-line equipment and specialization in high-value furnishings, you can count on us to keep all of your belongings safe and sound during transport.
We offer flexible scheduling designed to meet your needs. Contact us today to learn more and start planning your move to Clearwater.
Share:
