COMMENT BY
carolyn from Sarasota, FL
COMMENT ABOUT PLACE
Sarasota, FL
COMMENT
Overall
I lived here 12 years ago and enjoyed it very much. Now, in 2016, I find it very different. So built up, much more traffic and high rises. Even the beaches have changed. Yes, the restaurants are wonderful, there are many cultural activities to do and see. But overall, prices are so high you need to have a lot of money or make a lot of money to live here. Rent or owning is super expensive. We can't find a single family home in a 55+ for under $300,000.00. The traffic in the winter is so overpowering it takes the joy out of going anywhere. You spend most of your time in traffic. The first week I was here in December there were 3 major accidents within 5 miles of me in either direction. People drive erratically. But then again, I live off a busy street. Caution. Yes, it's beautiful. From the sky, for a weekend in the summer (if you like the heat..we do), but we've chosen to look elsewhere that's more affordable and still can give us affordable living, things to do that we love, lovely beaches while looking at the dolphins, smaller beaches which suit us better, and still close enough to bigger cities if we choose to make a day trip and anticipate traffic. The Punta Gorda/Port Charlotte area, although still up and coming and a bit more of a risk for hurricanes, is lovely and affordable. But it won't be in a few years. Fort Myers and Sarasota are only 45 minutes away, and beautiful Venice only 30 minutes away. We've been all over the state searching for the right place, community etc and we hope we've found it. Good luck all.