Sarasota: A Hidden Gem for New Jersey Transplants
Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sarasota has become a leading destination for New Jersey residents looking to relocate to the Sunshine State. Though not as well known as Miami or Orlando, Sarasota offers an appealing charm, natural beauty, and amenities, making it an ideal spot for transplants from the Garden State.
Here, we explore several excellent reasons Sarasota, Florida, can be your next move.
White Sand Beaches
One top draw bringing New Jerseyans to Sarasota is the area’s famous white sand beaches. Sarasota boasts 35 miles of pristine shoreline, including the island of Siesta Key, where Siesta Key Beach is rated the #1 beach in the U.S. The warm turquoise waters provide a perfect setting for year-round swimming, fishing, and other water activities.
Other nearby beaches include:
Longboat Key – Stretching 12 miles along Sarasota’s coast, Longboat Key is the area’s northernmost and longest barrier island, offering residents and visitors ample access to pristine white sand beaches.
Lido Key – Lido Key is a barrier island centrally located between Longboat Key and Siesta Key, providing three beautiful beach options for residents and visitors – North Lido, Lido Beach, and South Lido.
Casey Key – Nokomis Beach on Casey Key is Sarasota County’s oldest public beach.
Attractions
Beyond the beaches, the moderate size of around 60,000 residents gives it a laidback atmosphere compared to larger Florida cities. New Jersey transplants comment on the area’s friendly people, short commutes, and abundant community events like life back home.
The downtown has a lively arts and restaurant scene without being overcrowded, from the opera house art galleries to charming boutiques and more.
Some fun outdoor events include kayaking, jet skiing, fishing, boating, dolphin cruises and more.
Affordability
While living costs are six to ten percent lower than in Miami or Naples, Sarasota offers many upscale amenities. As mentioned, the area still has prestigious golf courses, shopping boutiques, art museums, and a world-class opera company.
Seasonal residents from the Northeast, especially New York and New Jersey, have contributed to the town’s cultural sophistication.
Climate
The climate is another big motivator for relocation. The temperature averages 361 days of sunshine annually and highs in the 70s and 80s, even during winter. Retirees from New Jersey no longer have to endure cold, snowy winters but can enjoy endless perfect beach days.
No State Income Tax
New Jersey residents moving south also benefit from Florida’s lack of a state income tax. The overall cost of living is lower than nearly anywhere in the Northeast. Real estate, gas, groceries and other goods tend to cost significantly less around Sarasota.
Start Your Move From New Jersey to Sarasota, Florida
While once overlooked, Sarasota now shines as a welcoming community for New Jersey transplants. Charles Moving & Storage helps handle all aspects of the moving process, making relocation stress-free. Contact Charles Moving & Storage today to start your Florida adventure.
Charles Moving & Storage provides all moving services, so nothing is left undone, from packing and unpacking, storage, and moving supplies to veteran and senior discounts and much more.