Sarasota/Bradenton/Venice

A Compelling Market

Ranked among America’s best small cities, best places to retire and best places to do business, Sarasota is the heart of Sarasota/Bradenton/Venice – one of the wealthiest major metro markets in the country.

With more than 700,000 residents, this sparkling slice of Gulf Coast is Florida’s fifth largest market. Stretching south from Tampa Bay through Sarasota and Manatee counties, it continues to lure people with its outstanding quality of life.

From its celebrated beaches and rich circus legacy to dozens of music, movie and theater venues, galleries, golf courses and public parks, hundreds of fine restaurants, even a polo pitch, Sarasota is irresistible.

Among Florida’s 10 largest markets, it has the highest per capita income. It is the nation’s oldest major metro market, but is renowned for excellence in higher education as well.

It is home to Ringling College of Art & Design, the premiere design school in the Southeast, and New College, Florida’s honors college, rated year after year as one of the best values in American education.
This prosperous market has attracted major retailers from near and far, which thrive in its superb climate.

The Herald-Tribune Media Group chronicles this diverse and dynamic world every day, helping local people and local businesses build a successful future.