Imagine living in a sunny coastal city with stunning beaches, endless recreational activities, a thriving economy and low crime rate. That’s exactly what Clearwater, Florida offers.
But what is it really like to live in this beautiful city? This article will explore more. Sounds exciting? Great, let’s jump right into it!
Geographical Location
Clearwater’s location in Pinellas County is ideal for those looking for a coastal lifestyle. The city is just 25 miles west of Tampa, which makes it easy to access the city’s many attractions, including theme parks, sports arenas, and cultural institutions. It’s also just a short drive from other popular destinations in Florida, such as Orlando and Miami.
The Gulf of Mexico provides Clearwater with miles of pristine coastline and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Clearwater Beach, located on a barrier island just west of the city, is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the country by publications like TripAdvisor and Travel Channel. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like parasailing and jet skiing.
The climate in Clearwater is another major draw for residents and visitors alike. While summers can be hot and humid, the city’s mild winters make it an ideal escape for those looking to avoid the colder temperatures found in other parts of the country.
With an average temperature of 70 degrees in the winter, Clearwater is the perfect place to soak up some sunshine especially during the colder months.
Culture and Lifestyle
Clearwater’s culture and lifestyle are another big reason so many people choose to settle down here. The city’s diverse population makes for a rich tapestry of art, music, and cuisine, which is reflected in the city’s many galleries, museums, and restaurants.
Art lovers can explore the Clearwater Center for the Arts and the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, which features works by contemporary and modern artists.
Clearwater also boasts a thriving theater scene, with several performance venues in the city. The Capitol Theater, for example, is a historic venue that hosts tens of events each year ranging from concerts to plays and comedy shows.
The Ruth Eckerd Hall, meanwhile, is a larger venue that features national and international performers, including musicians, comedians, and Broadway shows.
Healthcare
Clearwater’s healthcare system is a significant asset for its residents. Morton Plant Hospital, located in the heart of Clearwater, is a highly respected hospital known for its excellent patient care and cutting-edge medical technologies.
The hospital is part of the BayCare Health System, which is one of the largest healthcare providers in the region. BayCare also operates several other health facilities throughout the city, including Mease Countryside Hospital and Mease Dunedin Hospital.
For seniors in Clearwater, Florida, there’s a good number of skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities. These facilities provide various services, including 24-hour nursing care, physical therapy, and memory care for patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Economy and Cost of Living
Clearwater’s economy has a solid foundation, with various industries contributing to its growth. The healthcare sector is a significant player, with several major hospitals and medical centers in the area.
Additionally, the tourism industry is a vital contributor to the city’s economy, with millions of visitors flocking to its stunning beaches every year.
The manufacturing industry is also present, with companies such as Raytheon, Honeywell, and Lockheed Martin having a significant presence in the city.
The cost of living in Clearwater is reasonable, which makes it an attractive option for families and retirees. While it may be slightly higher than the national average, it’s still more affordable than other cities in Florida.
Housing costs are competitive, with the median home price being around $225,000. Rental costs are also reasonable, with the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment being around $1,100 per month. Additionally, the lack of a state income tax in Florida means residents can enjoy more take-home pay.
Safety and Crime Rate
The city of Clearwater takes safety seriously and this shows in its low crime rate. According to NeighborhoodScout, Clearwater’s crime rate is lower than 41% of cities in Florida, and consequently lower than the national average.
The Clearwater Police Department is committed to keeping the community safe and has implemented various programs to prevent and reduce crime.
For starters, the department’s community policing program encourages officers to build relationships with residents and work collaboratively to solve problems and prevent crime.
In addition, Clearwater has an active Neighborhood Watch program, which sensitizes residents on the need to work together to keep their neighborhoods safe. The program provides resources and training to help residents recognize and report suspicious activity and work with law enforcement to prevent crime.
Conclusion
As the sun sets over Clearwater, it’s easy to understand why so many people choose to call this coastal city home. From its pristine beaches and endless recreational opportunities to its welcoming community and low crime rate, Clearwater, Florida, is an incredible place to live.
Couple this with its endless sunshine and high levels of education, and you have an idea of what to expect when you finally move to Florida!
