Clearwater, Florida
What It Is Like to Retire in Clearwater
Clearwater is a very popular retirement town mid-way up Florida's west coast. It is on the western side of the bay from Tampa, along with St. Petersburg, and is the smallest of the three cities and so has the most small-town atmosphere. Clearwater Beach is a resort town across the causeway on a barrier island. The area abounds with active adult communities and 55+ developments for retirees. Clearwater's population is just over 117,000 (2020).
Where to Retire in Clearwater and Home Prices
According to Zillow, the average home value in Clearwater was #353,371 in mid-2025. Homes near the water and in the nicer areas will obviously be higher. There are active adult communities in the area.
What Is Special about Clearwater
The Clearwater Public Art and Design Program is a concrete demonstration of support for the arts. St. Petersburg College and Everest University are two colleges in Clearwater. Capitol Royalty Theatre is also located here. The beaches and waterfront are great in Clearwater.
What Is Not Special about Clearwater
Like much of Florida, the occasional hurricane is a problem. Hurricane Ian (2022), caused flooding and damage here. Clearwater might be too low key or too old for some folks.
Who Will Like Retirement in Clearwater
There are many retirees in Clearwater along with many working people who probably commute to Tampa. It is loaded with active adult and 55+ communities.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Clearwater is big for tourism and as a retirement destination. Part of the Tampa Bay Metro, the area is home to many major companies.
Climate and Physical Environment
Clearwater's average maximum high in July is 91 degrees, with the average low in January being 50 degrees. The rainiest month is August.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
Clearwater has a rich cultural infrastructure, in part because of the The Clearwater Public Art and Design Project. All major new projects in the City are taxed in order to provide public art and other support for the arts. The Program seeks to “enhance Clearwater for those who visit and live within the city and to contribute to a legacy for generations to come” through the commission of unique, public artworks. The Royal Capitol Theatre dates to 1920. Many buildings on are on the National Register of Historic Places. Nearby St. Petersburg and Tampa are also loaded with cultural venues.
Crime
Crime in Clearwater is a little over a quarter higher than the national average.
Medical facilities
The area is rich with first class medical facilities and doctors in every specialty.
Transportation
Pinellas Suncoast Transportation Authority offers bus service in the area. Tampa International Airport is close and a major airport. Amtrak services Clearwater. It is about average in walkability when compared to other communities.
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