Suburban living just east of Sarasota and Siesta Key
Named for the wild bees that once inhabited this naturally abundant area, Bee Ridge is one of the first neighborhoods to be settled in Sarasota County, Florida. Today, approximately 10,000 people call this 4-square-mile neighborhood home. Just 20 minutes from the crystal white sands of Siesta Beach and 7 miles from Downtown Sarasota, Bee Ridge offers large green lawns and shady backyards where residents can often be found grilling a meal or spending time outside. "It's a whole lifestyle. 90% of homes here come with pools and built-in grills out back, so the area is really popular with families," says Michael Klanot, a local resident and real estate agent who has been selling homes throughout Sarasota since 2006. "It's also just 15 to 20 minutes to get anywhere around here," Klanot says. With Interstate 75 cutting just east of the neighborhood, Bee Ridge balances access to access to nearby amenities and world-renowned beaches with a small-scale, family-friendly vibe. "It's very local. Besides homes and private land, there are just a few small motels and locally owned restaurants," adds Klanot. Sunsets at the beach, days spent with family and a welcoming, suburban community may sound old-fashioned, but this laid-back, Floridian lifestyle is still alive and well in Bee Ridge.
Screened in pools are exceptionally popular in Bee Ridge.
Urfer Family Park in Bee Ridge is dog friendly with miles of trails.
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Sarasota homes in a quiet, nature-filled neighborhood
Homes in Bee Ridge are often surrounded by tall, swaying palms and leafy live oaks that provide shade for grassy lots ranging up to two acres. Built mostly in the 1990s and early 2000s, homes here are known for their diverse designs. "No two look just the same. A healthy mix of different styles keeps the neighborhood feeling fresh and well taken care of," Klanot says. Buyers might spot details like colorful coats of paint, large, light-filled windows or barrel-tiled roofs that add unique character to each different home. Mediterranean and ranch-style architecture is the most common, and home types range from condominiums to traditional single-family homes. Condominium communities like Lake Tippecanoe also offer private amenities like a clubhouse and swimming pool. While the neighborhood is not on the coast, some homes in the Bryants Pond community do have waterfront property thanks to the large, spring-fed pond at its center. Prices range from $200,000 to $400,000 for older ranch-style homes and from $600,000 to $850,000 for large traditional homes with up to 3,500 square feet of space. Bee Ridge has a 3 out of 10 CAP Index Crime Score, which is lower than the national average of 4.
Bee Ridge offers a variety of housing architecture.
The playgrounds at Urfer Family Park in Bee Ridge are conveniently separated by age groups.
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Top-rated Sarasota County Schools close to home
Neighborhood students don't have far to go to get to school at Ashton Elementary, which is located right in Bee Ridge and also earns an A rating from Niche. Schools here are part of Sarasota County Schools, which is highly sought-after, according to Klanot. Schools like Sarasota Middle and Riverview High, which both receive A ratings from Niche, educate the neighborhood's older students and provide plenty of extracurriculars. Riverview High is rated by Niche as the third-best public high school in Sarasota County and is also known for its competitive sports programs, which range from basketball and football to volleyball and baseball. "Riverview High is also part of the International Baccalaureate program, so, for students interested in academics or sports, there really is no ceiling to how high they can go," Klanot says.
Ashton Elementary School provides education in the neighborhood of
Bee Ridge.
Riverview High School was established in 1958 and designed by renowned architect Paul Rudolph.
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Heading outdoors in Coastal Florida
While some parts of Sarasota no longer feel natural, Bee Ridge has maintained an older-fashioned proximity to Florida's greenery. "It still feels like paradise here. Homes are surrounded by really nice, exotic-looking plants, so you don't need to go far to find a nice spot outdoors." Siesta Key, known for its crystal white sand, local array of beachy shopping and dining and warm gulf breezes blowing across sky-blue water, is just a short 6-mile drive west of Bee Ridge. To the east, a short day trip takes residents over to Myakka River State Park. Covering 37,000 acres, residents can see Florda's swampy ecosystems and perhaps some of its toothy, reptilian inhabitants. Besides the water, another nice option is Urfer Family Park, a 55-acre lot with four playgrounds, fitness equipment and over a mile of walking trails. For those looking to escape into nature, a boardwalk leads to a scenic overlook with a view of seasonal wetlands. History buffs will enjoy the century-old buildings that have been moved to the park, including the Dr. C.B. Wilson House, which is open for self-guided tours on Saturdays and select weekdays. Picnic tables, grills and pavilions also make the park popular for parties, reunions, potlucks and other events.
Residents of Bee Ridge can enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle due to its great weather.
Residents of Bee Ridge enjoy easy access to America's #1 Beach - Siesta Key.
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Shopping and dining in the Sarasota area
With Interstate 75 and Clark Road forming the boundaries of Bee Ridge, residents can find nearby options for shopping and dining right outside their neighborhood. Publix, Walmart and Home Depot can all be found in Bee Ridge Square, while restaurants like Pho 99 and Basil's Flame Broiled Chicken are locally owned options in the area. Located on Ashton Road, Calusa Brewing is a local outpost that brews classic ales and modern IPAs. Named after indigenous people of Florida's Gulf Coast, the brewery releases a new in-house beer every week. For more options, a drive to Sarasota or Siesta Key is also no big deal. Phillipi Creek Oyster Bar is one community staple serving time-perfected seafood dishes paired with southern cuisine like gumbo. Diners can also sit beneath string lights and umbrellas on the restaurant's dock seating to listen to the water as they eat. Another local choice is Walt's Fish Market Restaurant, a favorite spot for fresh seafood served in a comfortable, mellow environment.
Casa Patron Mexican Kitchen in Bee Ridge is a newly opened restaurant featuring artful ambiance.
There are a number of strip malls with myriad shopping options in Bee Ridge.
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Breeze Transit is the new public transportation provider of Sarasota County and Bee Ridge.
Getting around Bee Ridge
Despite the laid-back, quiet feel of Bee Ridge, the area is still very close to major highways like Interstate 75 and Clark Road, so getting around town is a breeze. Downtown Sarasota is just 7 miles northwest, with Proctor Road and Tamiami Trail cutting the commute down to just 20 minutes. Bee Ridge also gets a bonus when it comes to health, with Doctors Hospital of Sarasota located just across Bee Ridge Road from the neighborhood. For residents who want a healthy way to commute, main roads in the area have dedicated bike lanes so pedalers can get around safely. Bus stops are also located along the primary arteries of Clark Road and Bee Ridge Road. For those traveling out of state, the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport is located about 11 miles northwest along McIntosh Road.
Larry C Manning Memorial Preserve has plenty of greenery in Bee Ridge.
Berry and flower picking at Albritton Fruit Farms
An annual ritual, residents of Bee Ridge and surrounding areas head out each spring to nearby Albritton Fruit Farms to pick blueberries and flowers for a low fee. It’s a fun way to enjoy the fresh air and warm weather while supporting a local, long-standing farm.
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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Ashton Pointe Playground
Twin Lakes Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Bike Trails
Urfer Family Park
Bike Trails
Picnic Area
Trails
Tot Lot Playground Area
Larry C Manning Memorial Preserve
Trails
Ashton Trailhead
Grills
Picnic Area
Trails
Transit
Airport
Sarasota/Bradenton International
24 min drive
Bus
Gantt Rd & Ashton Rd
Bus
Clark Rd & Sarah Ave
Bus
Clark Rd & Sawyer Loop Rd
Bus
Clark Rd & Moonstone Dr
Bus
Gantt Rd & Clark Rd
Bus
Clark Rd & Jason Lee Pl
Bus
Bee Ridge Rd & Maverick Ave
Reviews
Niche Reviews
4.69 Reviews
4.0Niche User
4/7/2015Niche Review
There are many restaurants in the area where any one could find a good job. They are always busy here. Theres also many grocery stores and retail stores. However, even if you wish to become a nurse, as I do, there's a hospital 10 minutes away. Most of the people in my neighborhood are retired though and live off of investments.
5.0Niche User
4/7/2015Niche Review
This is probably one of the biggest and most successful tourist spots in America.
5.0Niche User
4/7/2015Niche Review
This area is probably one of the best in the country. We just built a new mall and we have siesta key the number one beach in the country. The weather is perfect and the restaurants are great.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Bee Ridge
US
Homicide
2
4
Sexual Assault
2
4
Assault with Weapon
2
4
Robbery
2
4
Burglary
3
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Bee Ridge, Sarasota sell after 70 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Bee Ridge, Sarasota over the last 12 months is $440,176, consistent with the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Don’t miss out on this home! Completely updated home with designer finishes that blend mid-century chic with touches of contemporary sophistication. Numerous architectural details blend with the natural flow. Over-sized windows, transom windows and 8’ triple sliding doors allow in an abundance of natural light. Nouveau gourmet kitchen, an unpretentious sitting room, butler’s pantry, and an
Lovely well maintained and updated home with lake views. Very open floor plan with cathedral ceilings. Hurricane windows throughout with the exception of the Florida Room. Newer appliances and plantation shutters on all windows. Primary bedroom is large and has a bay window that enhances the water views. Primary bedroom has his and hers closets and an ensuite bathroom. Kitchen and the 2
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. This conveniently located 4-bedroom, 2 bath plus bonus room, 2520 sq. ft. heated pool home is in the Ashton/Sarasota Middle & Riverview High School district! Generous lot across from pond. 2023 updates include pool resurfaced and rescreened, pool deck sealed, primary bath shower retiled and resurfaced
Welcome to this peaceful, move-in ready villa in the desirable 55+ community of Center Gate in Southwest Florida. Located just 20 minutes from the Gulf Beaches, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and relaxation.This bright and airy 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom villa offers high ceilings and hardwood and tile flooring throughout the main living area. With a flowing, open
This three-bedroom home plus OFFICE/DEN and a 3-CAR GARAGE boasts peaceful lake views. Featuring a BRAND NEW ROOF and FRESHLY PAINTED EXTERIOR, this residence is perfectly situated in a highly desirable school district. Enjoy an open plan great room with soaring ceilings, a wood-burning fireplace, and sliding doors to a screened lanai. Spacious kitchen is at the heart of this home, overlooking
Villa Della Dolce Vita – The House of the Good LifeNestled in the enchanting Magnolia Pond community, Villa Della Dolce Vita is a masterpiece of luxury and comfort. High and dry through the recent storm season, this exceptional home offers peace of mind with a new shingle roof (2021), two tankless water heaters, and a new HVAC system updated in recent years, 2025 new Pool Natural Gas Heater. A
Elegant living, featuring large apartment homes (up to 1692 square feet), in a lush tropical setting near America's most beautiful beaches. Conveniently located near I-75, near Siesta Key and Lido Key beaches, with easy access to downtown Sarasota, Marigot Bay offers residents an exceptional standard of apartment living. Charming Florida architecture is set in lush tropical landscaping
3 BR-2BA-2 Car Garage with fenced in backyard. The home is available with quality furniture and fully equipped for $2,750 per month on a month-to-month contract. 6 Month plus contracts available. Winter months of Jan to April 2026 is $3,750 per month on a 90 day minimum. Tenant is responsible for all utilities.Great location just off of Proctor and between Honore and 41. The Legacy Trail is
Latitude 27 is your destination for laid back gulf coast living in Sarasota, Florida. Located just off I-75 only nine miles from Siesta Beach, our luxury apartment community features spacious and sophisticated studio, one, two, and three bedroom apartments. Our homes are outfitted with state-of-the-art, in-home and community amenities. Prepare a fresh meal with local produce in your chef-inspired
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Dawn Bear,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
14,732
Median Age
52
Population Density
5 ppl/acre
Population under 18
18.4%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
33.1%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$69,902
On par with the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$90,028
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
94.1%
Above the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
37.6%
Advanced Degrees
14.3%
% Population in Labor Force
59%
Below the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
56''
Average Winter Low Temperature
53°F
Average Summer High Temperature
92°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
35/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
18/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
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.
