In Palmetto, Florida, a Gulf Coast city bounded by the Manatee River and Terra Ceia Bay, early 20th-century mom-and-pop shops still line 10th Avenue. “It’s not pretentious, but it has all the amenities,” says Greg Owens, who’s worked as a listing specialist with TeamWorks/Keller Williams on the Water since 2005. “You have some really nice homes, great parks, a bunch of marinas and restaurants along the river. Downtown is Old Town Florida, but it’s also a vibrant boating community.” Here, “Old Town Florida” means a free-standing post office dating back to 1880 and Colonial homes built as early as 1900. Visitors to Palmetto Historical Park will be reminded of the Seaboard Air Line Railroad railroad, the backbone of Palmetto’s agricultural industry in the early 20th-century. Just across the street is Sutton Park, a modern-day family gathering place home to the neighborhood’s Fourth of July festival and the DeSoto Children’s Parade.
Visitors of Palmetto Historical Park can view well-preserved structures and engaging exhibits.
Palmetto Historical Park invites visitors to explore the city's vibrant history.
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Historic homes and estates on the Manatee River
In Palmetto, buyers will find manufactured homes starting at $200,000, ranch-style houses hovering around $400,000 and 1930s-era traditional homes starting at $500,000 in the historic river district. The community’s largest homes, which list for as much as $3.5 million, are found on Snead Island and along the Manatee River. “You have some really unique homes and gorgeous estates on the water,” says Owens. “Some real gems on Snead Island.” Sharing the waterfront are high-rise condominiums listing from the low $300,000s to more than $1 million.
If high-rise living is your thing, you'll feel right at home with a few choices in Palmetto.
Florida Ranch-style homes are very common in Palmetto.
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Palmetto High School educates 1,984 students of Manatee County.
High school students create animatronic shows
Students can attend neighborhood institutions like Palmetto Elementary, which received a C from the educational review site, Niche, Lincoln Memorial Academy, a charter school that received a C-minus and Palmetto High, which was awarded a B. High school students have the option to enroll in the animatronics program where they can build independently controlled motors, write scripts, voice act and even learn how to design sets. An alternative option is the nearby Manatee School for the Arts, a B-plus-rated charter school that serves grades six through 12.
Blackstone Park has a new playground and several sports fields.
Annual fairs, fishing tournaments and jogging trails
In addition to the Palmetto Historical Park downtown, the neighborhood offers several other community activity centers. Blackstone Park’s athletic fields are home to organized baseball, softball and soccer competitions. The Manatee County Fair (known for its annual pageant, petting zoo and live music) takes place in January on Palmetto’s fairgrounds, and the Bradenton Area Convention Center is a modern venue for business events and trade shows. Anglers regularly pull snook and redfish from the waters surrounding Palmetto, and the Bradenton Yacht Club on Palmetto’s riverfront hosts the annual Crosthwait Memorial Fishing Tournament, one of the largest such events on the Gulf Coast. According to Owens, the paved pathways at Emerson Point Preserve on Snead Island are popular with bikers and joggers. Scan the Manatee River for dolphins while exercising.
Watch boat traffic from the Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant
Retail and dining are concentrated along the U.S. Route 41 business corridor, which leads directly to Safe Harbor Regatta Pointe, a busy marina on the river. The adjacent Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant is a popular dockside eatery. “It’s one of the few spots where you can watch sailboats come and go,” says Owens, adding, “It’s one of those really cool places to sit and hang out. Order oysters from their raw bar or sample the lobster mac n’ cheese.
D’s Breakfast & Burgers, located on 10th Avenue, is popular with locals on weekend mornings. Fill up on a signature skillet breakfast before exploring Palmetto’s historic district.
The Riverhouse Waterfront restaurant is a must on a list of places to eat in Palmetto.
Palmetto's historic downtown is a nice place to spend a day.
Enjoy the gorgeous views from dockside seating at Riverhouse in Palmetto.
Palmetto's riverfront border makes for great boating and sunsets.
With plenty of public access to Manatee River, enjoy an afternoon boat ride in Palmetto.
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Sarasota Bradenton International Airport serves as a gateway to Florida's Gulf Coast.
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport 12 miles south
Whether Palmetto residents use the Manatee County Area Transit system (also known as MCAT) or make the 12-mile drive south, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport is easily accessible down Route 41. From here, they can fly nonstop to nearly 50 unique U.S. cities.
Manatee Memorial Hospital provides compassionate care and medical services to the community.
Important to know: nearby medical care and hurricane season
Palmetto residents can access medical care at Manatee Memorial Hospital, located 3 miles down Route 41. The facility has been nationally recognized for providing high-quality stroke care.
Hurricanes are a concern on Florida’s Gulf Coast, especially during the summer months. The city of Palmetto has planned evacuation maps and shelters, and residents are encouraged to install permanent storm shutters on their windows.
Written By
Kevin Haswell
Photography Contributed By
Clint Bliss
Video By
Nathan Allen
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Michelle Garcia,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Palmetto, FL sell after 73 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Palmetto, FL over the last 12 months is $375,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to Florida LUXURY LIVING at its finest in this stunning 2 bedroom plus den residence; with the flexibility of a third bedroom, offering breathtaking PANORAMIC WATER VIEWS of Terra Ceia Bay, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, and the St. Petersburg skyline. Designed for effortless coastal living, this move-in-ready condominium features an open-concept layout, desirable split floor plan, and
Gorgeous and modern, two-story home in Willow Walk! Offering 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and over 2,400 square feet of living space, this home is ideal for an extended or growing family. Lots of natural light, enhancing the already open and inviting layout. The welcoming foyer flows into a versatile flex room that can easily serve as a home office, library, play room or additional living space.
GORGEOUS fully renovated WATERFRONT corner residence in The Bay Club featuring the rare and highly sought-after PRIVATE ONE-CAR GARAGE—an exceptional amenity seldom available with this floor plan. This beautiful 3-bedroom plus den, 2-bath coastal contemporary condo is completely move-in ready, offering sweeping water views of Terra Ceia Bay, Tampa Bay, and the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge as
Welcome to Florida LUXURY LIVING at its finest in this stunning 2 bedroom plus den residence; with the flexibility of a third bedroom, offering breathtaking PANORAMIC WATER VIEWS of Terra Ceia Bay, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, and the St. Petersburg skyline. Designed for effortless coastal living, this move-in-ready condominium features an open-concept layout, desirable split floor plan, and
TURNKEY FURNISHED WATERVIEW CONDO in a RESORT-STYLE WATERFRONT COMMUNITY near DOWNTOWN BRADENTON with PRIVATE ELEVATOR ENTRY, MARINA ACCESS, and EXCEPTIONAL AMENITIES. Enjoy COASTAL CONTEMPORARY LIVING in this beautifully furnished residence located within a RESORT-INSPIRED WATERFRONT COMMUNITY. Accessed through a PRIVATE ELEVATOR FOYER, the home offers approximately 1,978 SQUARE FEET OF
PRIVATE LOCATION & LOW HOA fee of $199 monthly which includes water, sewer, trash and lawn mowing!!! Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway or a year-round Florida retreat, this charming furnished home is ready for you to move right in! With two bedrooms, two full baths, and inviting indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s perfect for immediate enjoyment. Featuring updated appliances, a neutral
Gorgeous and modern, two-story home in Willow Walk! Offering 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and over 2,400 square feet of living space, this home is ideal for an extended or growing family. Lots of natural light, enhancing the already open and inviting layout. The welcoming foyer flows into a versatile flex room that can easily serve as a home office, library, play room or additional living space.
GORGEOUS fully renovated WATERFRONT corner residence in The Bay Club featuring the rare and highly sought-after PRIVATE ONE-CAR GARAGE—an exceptional amenity seldom available with this floor plan. This beautiful 3-bedroom plus den, 2-bath coastal contemporary condo is completely move-in ready, offering sweeping water views of Terra Ceia Bay, Tampa Bay, and the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge as
Wake up to panoramic Manatee River and Riviera Dunes Marina views from this exceptional 7th-floor corner waterfront residence in Bel Mare, where a semi-private elevator foyer opens to soaring ceilings, walls of glass, and a spacious east-facing balcony perfectly positioned for spectacular waterfront sunrises. This beautifully designed 2-bedroom, 2-bath condominium offers the ideal blend of
Looking for a peaceful, low-maintenance Florida retreat with low taxes, low insurance, and a private pond view? This beautifully maintained villa tucked quietly in the back of an intimate 19-home community may be exactly what you've been waiting for. Perfect for anyone seeking easy living, this home is just minutes from US-19 and US-41 with convenient access to Gulf beaches, airports, shopping,
Welcome home to Waterford! This meticulously updated 3 bedroom, 2 bath home faces a wooded preserve and backs up to a lake in a quiet, established neighborhood with LOW HOA and NO CDD. As you enter the home you will notice the beautiful wood look porcelain tile floor that runs seamlessly throughout the open concept layout. A custom built drop zone can be personalized for your family and keep the
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to resort-style living in the highly desirable Esplanade at Artisan Lakes, a Taylor Morrison community known for its world-class amenities, lush tropical landscaping, and beautifully maintained surroundings. Perfectly positioned on a tranquil pond homesite, thisbeautifully appointed 2-bedroom, 2-bath home with office/den offers peaceful
Boat slip 65' by 21' allowing vessels up to 72'.Riviera Dunes Marina is the premier marina on the west side of Florida as well as the best "hurricane hole" on the west side of Florida. Located 10 miles up Tampa Bay and then the Manatee River from the Gulf of America, also greatly lessens the impact of any storm surge. The marina is constructed of floating concrete docks. This allows you to easily
Build Your Florida Dream in Leisure Lake – Palmetto, FLHere’s your opportunity to own vacant land in the highly desirable Leisure Lake Mobile Home Park in Palmetto, Florida. Whether you’re ready to place a new manufactured home or invest in a growing area, this homesite offers the perfect canvas.Located inside a gated community, Leisure Lake is known for its friendly atmosphere and
NEW PRICE! Welcome to this Taylor Morrison Roma model! Nestled on a quiet cul de sac in the highly desirable Esplanade of Artisan Lakes, this four year old, 2 bedroom, 2 bath home with den (featuring pocket doors) offers a perfect blend of cozy comfort and modern elegance. Located in North Manatee county, this home overlooks serene water views with an extended screened in Lanai. This well
Beautiful 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Townhome – Palmetto, FL | Annual Lease This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath townhome offers a thoughtfully designed layout with custom, high-end touches throughout. From the stylish wallpaper and designer paint selections to the eye-catching kitchen backsplash, this home has a polished, upscale feel that truly stands out. The kitchen has a RO system and there is a whole
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Waterfront Townhome Oasis – Fully Renovated & Move-In Ready! Welcome to your dream home in a charming community of townhomes and villas, where tranquility meets convenience. This beautifully redone 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom townhome offers stunning pond views from your private screened-in lanai and a
Spectacular water views of Manatee River! The luxury end unit condo features a mix of warm wood floors & tile throughout. The large well appointed kitchen with stainless appliances and stone countertops will bring out the chef in you. The open floorplan looks through the large high wind load rated sliding doors onto the private patio with great views of downtown Bradenton & Manatee River. Boat
Available July 1. Available as annual rental or minimum 7 month term. The fully furnished 3 bed, 2.5 bath, 1 car garage townhome features a bright open layout, a fully equipped kitchen, and in-home laundry. Relax on the screened lanai overlooking a peaceful preserve, or take advantage of the community pool. Located in a prime spot with easy access to Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota, and area beaches,
AVAILABLE STARTING JUNE 15, 2026 --- PALMETTO -- EAVES BEND AT ARTISAN LAKES -- UNFURNISHED 3 BEDROOM + STUDY, 2 BATHROOMS, 2 CAR GARAGE SINGLE FAMILY HOME -- FOR ONLY $2,600 PER MONTH!!!! --- First month, Last month, Security Deposit and application fee required. --- Welcome to 6312 Laurelcrest Glen, an elegantly designed home in Eaves Bend at Artisan Lakes, Palmetto. This stunning 3-bedroom,
Welcome to the Fairways at Imperial Lakewoods, where luxury meets comfort in this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home. The perfect blend of a thoughtful floor plan, numerous upgrades, and golf course views. Dive into paradise! Relax on the expansive screened-in patio and take a refreshing dip in the inviting pool—a perfect retreat for warm, sunny days. Convenient Location: Proximity to I-75, restaurants,
Wake up to breathtaking sunrises over the Manatee River and Riviera Dunes Marina from this stunning 7th-floor corner waterfront residence available for lease in Bel Mare at Riviera Dunes. This beautifully positioned 2-bedroom, 2-bath luxury condominium offers expansive water views through walls of glass, a semi-private elevator entry, and a spacious east-facing balcony overlooking the marina and
Spectacular updated 2 bed, 2 bath & den that has luxury items like with heated and lighted mirrors. The large well appointed kitchen with stainless appliances and stone countertops will bring out the chef in you. The open floorplan looks through the large high wind load rated sliding doors onto the private patio with great views of pond with water feature. Boat slips are available at the nearby
Reward yourself with our brand new luxury apartments in East Palmetto, Florida! Inside our beautiful 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans we offer open concept layouts, large lanais, full size washer and dryer, and faux wood flooring, creating the ultimate space for your new home! Enjoy our resort style pool, yoga studio, pickleball courts, car wash and EV charging stations. At Gateway Commons, youre
Welcome to this gorgeous townhome in the sought-after Trevesta community in Palmetto, FL. It is located in a desirable gated neighborhood and available for immediate lease! This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Enjoy peaceful mornings and relaxing evenings overlooking a beautiful conservation pond view right from your screened-in patio—ideal for
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.
Welcome to effortless Florida living in the highly desirable, gated community of Esplanade at Artisan Lakes. This beautifully upgraded Arezzo floor plan offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a spacious den, and an open layout designed for both comfort and convenience. This home is truly move-in ready and low maintenance. Rent includes lawn care, basic cable, internet, and full access to all
Intro 100
Set within the interior of a peninsula bordered by the Terra Ceia Bay and the Manatee River, West Ellenton is a vestige of the Old Florida way of life "That's filling up fast, homes are being built at a record rate," says Scott Nivens, a local real estate agent with Exit King Realty. "When I first moved to Manatee County in 1982, none of these subdivisions were here." Despite this new construction, West Ellenton is one of the few remaining neighborhoods in the area where residents can find open, natural space and undisturbed habitats. But today, as popular areas like St. Petersburg and Sarasota expand, "More and more locals are heading to Manatee County to get away from the city," says Nivens. This "mixture of residential and Old Florida area" remains highly desirable for its unique combination of convenience paired with generous amounts of space.
Housing 150
With an average sales price of $360,000, homes in West Ellenton are about $50,000 less than those in nearby Palmetto. Offering both manufactured homes and traditionally built, single-family houses, this area is particularly popular with both working families and retirees. Manufactured homes here usually sell for $50,000 to $150,000 and often don pastel colors siding with wide windows and attached carports. Single-family homes in West Ellenton usually sell for around $350,000-$600,000 and feature more modern stylings, like wood-paneled siding or stucco exteriors. In addition to homes clustered within subdivisions, somewhat unique to this area is its abundance of private properties sitting on single-acre lots beside woods and cattle farms.
Schools 100
Students in West Ellenton are served by the Manatee County School District which is ranked 25th out of the 67 school districts in Florida according to Niche. Students here can attend schools such as James Tillman Elementary, Lincoln Memorial Middle and Palmetto High, all of which received a B-minus from Niche. Middle and high school students can also attend the Manatee School for the Arts. With the motto "Live the arts," this charter school boasts a 97% graduation rate and offers programs in music, dance, the digital arts and more.
Transportation 50
West Ellenton is a car-dependent community. United States Highway 41 as well as Interstates 75 and 275 provide residents with quick access access to Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Tampa and the rest of the surrounding area. Locally, West Ellenton is only 4 miles from the town of Palmetto and 16 miles from the beaches of Bradenton. For those commuting to St. Pete, the Skyway Bridge provides easy access, but as the area continues to be developed, expect traffic to be common during rush hour.
Shopping and Dining 75
With a central location, West Ellenton isn't far from shopping and dining options like those found in nearby Bradenton, St. Pete or Tampa. Locally, the Ellenton Premium Outlets offers brand name stores at discount prices as well as several restaurants and eateries.
For a quick bite, head to TK Grill & Barbeque for some grilled meats like their signature slow-smoked pork with black beans and rice. When in the mood for a drink, Corporate Ladder Brewing Company offers beers and lagers on tap.
For groceries, Detwiler’s Farm Market features farm-fresh produce and local seafood options. This market with a hometown feel also has a deli, bakery and meat department.
Parks 50
For those wanting to find some undisturbed Florida nature, the Felts Audobon Preserve is popular with birders and those wanting to take a casual stroll. With more than a mile of footpaths, this 28-acre preserve is home to pine flatwoods, ponds, wetlands and meadows that have attracted a documented 194 avian species and 33 butterfly species.
Situated on the West end of Snead Island, Emerson Point Preserve is another popular spot, especially for people who want to enjoy the balmy waters of the Tampa Bay. This preserve has beaches, wildlife, boardwalks, walking trails and even a Native American historic site.
Another Old Florida spot is the Palmetto Estuary Preserve. This protected piece of coastal habitat is a great place to admire the waters of the Manatee River and spot wildlife like dolphins and even manatees.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
104
Median Rent
$2,425
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,400
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$2,550
Median Townhouse Rent
$2,100
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$2,173
Median Condo Rent
$2,500
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$2,500
Weather
Annual Precipitation
56''
Average Winter Low Temperature
53°F
Average Summer High Temperature
92°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Fairly friendly
Bike Score®®
40/ 100
Fairly friendly
Walk Score®®
50/ 100
Somewhat friendly
Transit Score®®
30/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
