Nestled on the banks of Florida's Manatee River, East Ellenton is a small residential community populated by retirees and families. It's about halfway between Tampa and Sarasota, and residents frequent both for dining and entertainment opportunities. It's also about a half-hour drive to Anna Maria Island's Holmes Beach, a popular weekend day trip for East Ellenton residents. The area's seen growth in recent years as part of a broader movement of Northeasterners into Southwest Florida, and a neighborhood that was once primarily retirees now sees kids biking down the streets. "The growth is due to the weather," says Carl Backman, President of the Friends of Rocky Bluff Library in Ellenton. "But it's also due to the cultural opportunities. I'm finding more to do in Florida than when I lived up North." The Orioles Spring Training in Sarasota and home games for the Tampa Bay Lightning and Tampa Bay Rays fulfilled his love for sports, but what he really loves about living here is the sense of community. "With so many transplants, it's the kind of community that lends itself to getting together," he says. "People want to make friends. They want to get to know their neighbors."
Gated communities and homes on the Manatee River
Many homes in this sunny and scenic riverfront neighborhood belong to gated communities, often offering residents access to amenities like pools, spas, fitness centers and landscaping services. Architecture within and outside these communities is often Spanish-influenced, though some bungalow, ranch-style and manufactured homes are also typically available. The average list price in East Ellenton is about $430,000, with listings starting at $250,000 for a two- to three-bedroom home and getting as high as $700,000 for a large luxury waterfront estate. Most listings, however, tend to fall in the $400,000 to $500,000 range, and many offer beach-town amenities like pools and waterfront access.
Admire the functional simplicity of ranch homes in East Ellenton.
Manufactured homes offer an affordable and efficient housing solution in East Ellenton.
Vibrant Spanish quadplexes line the streets in Spanish Point
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Manatee County School District home to nationally renowned Manatee Technical College
Students in East Ellenton attend schools in the Manatee County School District. They start at Virgil Mills Elementary School, which received a B-plus on the educational review site Niche, before continuing to Buffalo Creek Middle School, which received a B, and Palmetto High School, which received a B-minus. Manatee County School District is also home to the nationally renowned Manatee Technical College, which offers career and technical education for 15 of the 20 fastest-growing industries in Manatee, like health science, salon services and construction and manufacturing.
Virgil Mills Elementary School educates 711 students.
Buffalo Creek Middle School has 1,250 students enrolled.
Palmetto High School educates 1,984 students of Manatee County.
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Picnic on the river and take a swing at the best par 5 in Southwest Florida
Buffalo Creek Park is in the middle of East Ellenton, a well-maintained green space with athletic fields, playgrounds and paved trails. Its large pavilion is a popular picnic spot, and residents with dogs enjoy its large fenced-in dog area. East Ellenton residents head south to the Manatee River for a more secluded picnic area: Picnic Island and The Pavilion are two residents-only spots overlooking the rivers where locals like to relax and enjoy a peaceful meal. Golf fanatics are right at home in East Ellenton: the neighborhood's home to two renowned golf courses, Moccasin Wallow Golf Club and Buffalo Creek Golf Course. Designed by Ted McAnlis on 200 wooded acres with 16 lakes, Moccasin Wallow is home to the hole locals claim to be the best par 5 in Southwest Florida and the recently renovated MOC Bar and Grill. The club is open to the public, but memberships are available, and non-members can try out its perks with the "member for a day" option, which starts as low as $1. With 18 holes, practice facilities, a clubhouse and a snack bar, Buffalo Creek Golf Course was designed by internationally acclaimed architect Ron Garl to challenge experienced golfers while providing an experience accessible to players of all skill levels. The public course takes up 6,900 yards, and season passes are available. Families frequent the state-of-the-art Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex, a 115,000-square-foot facility with two NHL-sized ice rinks, indoor football and soccer fields, a fitness center and a dance studio. With opportunities for all ages to get active here, it's a bustling community center that brings together the residents of East Ellenton.
A golfer drives a ball from the green at Buffalo Creek Golf Course in East Ellenton.
East Ellenton combines small-town charm with picturesque water views of the Manatee River.
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Shopping sanctuary at the Ellenton Premium Outlets
East Ellenton is home to the area shopping destination, Ellenton Premium Outlets, which boasts an extensive catalog of retailers selling overstock items at clearance prices. The shopping center has 130 outlet stores, where top brands like Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren and Saks Fifth Avenue sell products at 70% off department store prices. There's an abundance of fast-food options surrounding the center, like Taco Bell, McDonald's and Starbucks, as well as sit-down fast-casual options like Applebee's, Chili's and Ruby Tuesday. For a scenic meal in a hometown restaurant, locals stop by the casual riverside Woody's River Roo, which serves American food and cocktails in a beachy atmosphere with a tiki bar and live music. For a classic American breakfast or lunch, they swing by the local diner Butterfields, and for family-style Italian, they head to mom-and-pop shop Ferraro's Italian Grille. For groceries, locals shop at Publix or the Life & Food Superstore, a sustainability-oriented bulk grocery store. The shop boasts the largest selection of candy, nuts and spices in the area, allowing shoppers to create custom trail mixes and set their prices by controlling portion size. The shop also has a smoothie bar with acai bowls and a selection of specialty groceries like keto products, freshly ground peanut butter and organic coffee, and they host ongoing events like cooking classes, art classes and product showcases.
Enjoy waterfront meals at Woody's River Roo in East Ellenton.
Ferraro's Italian Grille is known for combining traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist.
Shop designer and brand name stores at Ellenton Premium Outlets in East Ellenton.
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Explore arts and culture in Bradenton
In Ellenton, the Rocky Bluff Branch Library hosts ongoing educational and recreational programming for adults and kids alike. Parents take their preschoolers to story times, teens take art classes and music lessons and families gather for family-friendly movie nights. Adults enroll in ESL classes and meet regularly for bridge club, and kids hang out at homework labs while parents practice a guided mindfulness meditation. "A lot of people travel to Tampa and Sarasota for their weekend activities," says Backman, but there's plenty to do just across the Manatee River in Bradenton. The ArtCenter Manatee has art classes for adults and youth in addition to ongoing events like artist demonstrations, holiday celebrations and nighttime workshops. The Manatee Village Historical Park, which preserves Manatee County history with exhibits in historical and replica buildings, hosts lectures, guided tours and its annual "An Old Florida Christmas" celebration, complete with food, live music, crafts and vendors. Palma Sola Botanical Garden has ongoing and seasonal events, like yoga classes, gardening workshops and its Winter Nights Under the Lights festival, a light display with food trucks, live music, a gift market and hot cocoa. Science enthusiasts enjoy astronomy observation nights and guided fossil expeditions at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, and donors dress up for The Bash at The Bishop, its annual gala and fundraiser. At Christmas, residents enjoy the Bradenton Riverwalk Holiday of the Arts Festival, a free-admission art sale with works by over 100 vendors across Florida.
Take Interstate 75 to Sarasota and Interstate 275 to St. Petersburg
East Ellenton is bordered to the west by Interstate 75, which residents take south to Sarasota, and connects with Interstate 275, which residents take to get to St. Petersburg. The closest airport to East Ellenton is the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, a small airport 16 miles south that offers nonstop flights across the US and takes East Ellenton to destinations worldwide. East Ellenton's closest hospital is the HCA Florida Blake Hospital, which is 11 miles away in Bradenton. Manatee County Area Transit has bus routes running through East Ellenton every Monday through Saturday from 5:30 am to 8 pm.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the East Ellenton neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
East Ellenton
US
Homicide
2
4
Sexual Assault
2
4
Assault with Weapon
2
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
2
4
Crime Score
2
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
East Ellenton Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in East Ellenton, Ellenton sell after 111 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in East Ellenton, Ellenton over the last 12 months is $403,810, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home to 9423 Gulf Shore Ter—an inviting two-story residence with excellent curb appeal and a clean, modern interior designed for easy Florida living. The home features an open-concept main level with large-format tile flooring, recessed lighting, and a bright, airy feel throughout the spacious living and dining areas. At the heart of the home, the contemporary kitchen shines with crisp
Welcome to resort-style living in Del Webb at BayView, one of Parrish’s premier gated 55+ communities. Built in 2024, this highly upgraded Mystique model offers the rare combination of premium structural upgrades, exceptional outdoor living, and peaceful water views from both the front and rear of the home. Unlike many homes in the community, this property features FULL IMPACT WINDOWS AND DOORS —
Welcome to your next chapter in Terra Siesta, a sought-after 55-plus cooperative community nestled in the heart of Ellenton. This beautifully updated two-bedroom, two-bathroom manufactured home offers an impressive 1,522 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space that truly feels like home. Step inside and immediately appreciate the waterproof vinyl plank flooring that flows seamlessly
Welcome home to this beautifully upgraded 2-bedroom, 2-bath Ellenwood model villa with a flex room in the highly sought-after 55+ active adult community of Del Webb BayView. Perfectly positioned on a desirable corner lot with a peek-a-boo pond view, this light and airy open-concept home offers the ideal blend of luxury finishes, comfort, and maintenance-free living.From the moment you arrive,
HANDY MAN SPECIAL! Land Owned---Priced to SELL Work is needed to bring this beauty back to life. Very spacious home that is on an oversized cul-de-sac lot with so much potential. A new Roof was put on in 2021 so nothing to worry about there. Large Family room with a fireplace. Kitchen, living room and dining room in the center of the home. Each bedroom has their own bathroom for family or
Absolutely Amazing! This magnificent, completely remodeled home is truly a One-of-a-Kind home. The home rests on an oversized corner lot with 2-drivways, a large carport, a freshly painted exterior and features your very own Coconut Plam tree! A new roof was installed in 2025. Inside the home, the owners have created 6” thick walls by installing new insulation and drywall. All new electrical and
Seller says sell! Requested that Buyers be provided the opportunity to build an extended lanai and wall for an outdoor kitchen offering top tier privacy (Sellers are giving a twenty thousand dollar credit to the buyer toward extending the lanai) in addition to this big price drop! Sited on the loveliest Cul de sac in the most active Del Webb 55+ community, this Renown floorplan is the largest
Like-new and barely lived in, this Mystique Grand floor plan offers beautiful water views and is just steps from the amenity center. This spacious home features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a private den with doors, making it the perfect home office or flex space. The first floor offers over 1,800 sq ft of open-concept living, featuring luxury vinyl plank flooring, brand-new, top-of-the-line
A delightful LAND OWNED HOME in a 5 Star GATED COMMUNITY WITH GATE ATTENDANTS ON DUTY 24/7! This 2-bd/2ba home has a new roof added in 2025 and features newer widows throughout the home. Large enclosed lanai with AC, makes this room a perfect all-season room. Upgraded kitchen counter tops with lots of cabinet space. This home is located on a quiet cul-de-sac with very little traffic! Living in
New Price ! Welcome to your private Florida retreat—where space, serenity, and scenic beauty come together. This expansive 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home is perfectly positioned to offer rare privacy, with only one neighboring property and peaceful preserve views wrapping around the side and across the street. Out back, enjoy tranquil water and preserve vistas that create a truly breathtaking
Located on a private conservation lot with no rear neighbors, this stunning two-story pool home in Oakleaf Hammock offers the perfect combination of space, upgrades, and outdoor living. Backing to a wooded preserve for exceptional backyard privacy, this beautifully maintained residence features 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and an ideal layout for both everyday living and entertaining.From the
This spacious home offers stunning south-facing pond views in a vibrant and sought-after 55+ community, perfect for anyone who needs space for all their hobbies. The Mystique Grand boasts a tandem garage ideal for a golf cart or workshop, plus parking for two cars. The first floor features 1,880 sq ft of the most popular Del Webb layout, with two bedrooms, a den with doors, two baths, a large
Stunning Prestige Model in Premier 55+ Del Webb Community with Serene Water ViewsWelcome to this beautifully upgraded Prestige model home located in a highly sought-after Del Webb 55+ community, where resort-style living meets everyday comfort. This spacious 3-bedroom (3rd bedroom is currently set up as an office in photos) 2.5-bath residence offers a thoughtfully designed layout filled with
Beautifully updated 2bd/2ba home situated on a premier corner lot in the 55+ community of Ridgewood Oaks. Fully landscaped with tropical flowers and hedge that are enclosed by decorative concrete edging all around the home. Huge 42’ x 12 covered carport with room for many cars or could be enclosed to create a garage. Extra side concrete drive for a golf cart. There is a large workshop that also
Affordable & Appealing! NEW ROOF PRIOR TO CLOSING AND A HOME WARRANTY WILL BE PROVIDED TO A BUYER. LOW HOA FEES of $275 quarterly, NO CDD fees!! Covered Bridge Estates offers their residents community pool, fitness room, tennis courts, pickle ball, basket ball, playground and clubhouse with kitchen. This home is gently used and extremely well cared for with pride of ownership. 3 bedrooms, 2
Live the way you've always wanted without compromising style or quality. At The Carlton at Robinson Gateway, our apartment residences are designed with you in mind. Now you really can have it all...lifestyle included.
Discover elevated living at Palm Grove Luxury Apartments in Ellenton, FL. This brand-new community offers spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes with 10-foot ceilings, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, full-size washer/dryer, walk-in closets, and private entrances. Enjoy resort-style amenities including a pool and spa, 24/7 fitness center, pickleball court, dog park, pet spa,
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.Coming soon! This home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Please respect their privacy and do not disturb. You can complete the application process and reserve
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $2543.90. That covers your base rent, $2399.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $3073.90. That covers your base rent, $2849.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
Apply now or schedule your self-tour today and take the first step toward getting more than just a place to live. Rent with FirstKey Homes for a home that's right for you, plus professional service and maintenance, innovative resident programs, and more… that's the power of purple!This 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom rental home in Palmetto, FL, has a lot to offer; does it check all your boxes? See
Apply now or schedule your self-tour today and take the first step toward getting more than just a place to live. Rent with FirstKey Homes for a home that's right for you, plus professional service and maintenance, innovative resident programs, and more… that's the power of purple!This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rental home in Ellenton, FL, may be the right place for you. Enjoy the privacy and
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $2239.90. That covers your base rent, $2095.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $3143.90. That covers your base rent, $2999.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
Property Id: 2502810This residence is ideally situated on a tranquil street within Colony Cove. The property features an inviting new cedar front porch. The double-wide layout offers a spacious and open feel, with ample storage throughout. Both bedrooms include walk-in closets, complemented by two full bathrooms and multiple linen closets. The dedicated laundry room is equipped with a new
Property Id: 2128939This 3653 square foot single family home boast 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. This 4.87 acres property is located North of Palmetto, FL, offers modern comfort and rural living . Built in 2018 with a 2 car garage and a den/flex. Located just 3 miles from I-75 and I-275 makes commuting to St Pete, Sarasota or Tampa convenient.Schools, Golf Course and Parks within 1 mile
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