Moving to Clearwater, Florida: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering moving to Clearwater, Florida? This Pinellas County city offers award-winning beaches, a vibrant downtown, and convenient access to the Tampa Bay metropolitan area. As the county seat with approximately 117,000 residents in 2025, Clearwater combines coastal living with urban amenities and strong regional connections.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Clearwater:

Clearwater’s 2025 population is approximately 117,000 residents, making it the smallest of the three principal cities in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metro area. The median age is 46.4 years, reflecting a balanced population of working professionals, families, and retirees. The community is approximately 70% White, 10% Black or African American, and 17% Hispanic. Clearwater’s geography includes the mainland city and Clearwater Beach, separated by the Intracoastal Waterway. Neighborhoods range from historic downtown districts along Cleveland Street to waterfront communities and suburban residential areas. The city’s location on the Gulf Coast provides both beach access and convenient commuting to Tampa and St. Petersburg.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Clearwater:

Clearwater offers moderate housing costs for a beachfront community in the Tampa Bay area. The median household income is approximately $64,000, with median home values around $330,000 in 2025. Waterfront and beach-proximate properties command premium prices, while inland neighborhoods provide more affordable options. Renters can expect median costs near $1,650 monthly. Florida’s lack of state income tax benefits residents, though property insurance costs in coastal areas require consideration. Overall cost of living is reasonable for a Gulf Coast city with beach access, balancing coastal amenities with accessibility to metropolitan Tampa Bay employment and services.

Economy and Job Market:

Clearwater’s economy is diverse, anchored by healthcare, tourism, and professional services. Major employers include BayCare Health System with multiple facilities, Morton Plant Hospital, Tech Data Corporation, and the corporate presence of the Church of Scientology which owns significant downtown property. The tourism sector thrives on Clearwater Beach visitors, consistently ranked among America’s best beaches. Many residents commute to jobs throughout the Tampa Bay area, benefiting from Clearwater’s central Pinellas County location. Retail, hospitality, and service industries support the beach economy. The area’s unemployment rate remains low, and the broader Tampa Bay region offers extensive employment opportunities across diverse sectors.

Education:

Pinellas County Schools serves Clearwater students, operating as one of Florida’s largest and highest-rated districts. The system includes 143 schools countywide, with numerous options in Clearwater including Clearwater High School and various highly-rated elementary and middle schools. The district offers magnet programs, International Baccalaureate options, and career academies. St. Petersburg College provides associate degrees and workforce training with locations throughout Pinellas County. The University of South Florida St. Petersburg and other regional universities are easily accessible. The strong school district is a major draw for families relocating to the area.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

Clearwater Beach dominates the recreational landscape, offering white sand beaches, Pier 60 with nightly sunset celebrations, and extensive water sports. The downtown Clearwater area features the Capitol Theatre, Coachman Park, and BayCare Ballpark, spring training home of the Philadelphia Phillies. The city maintains extensive parks and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to rescued sea life. Residents enjoy boating, fishing, golf courses, and the Pinellas Trail, a 37-mile recreation path. Cultural venues, restaurants along the waterfront, and proximity to Tampa Bay’s professional sports and entertainment provide diverse lifestyle options. The subtropical climate enables year-round outdoor activities.

Healthcare and Services:

Clearwater residents access excellent healthcare through Morton Plant Hospital, a comprehensive acute care facility, and numerous BayCare Health System locations throughout Pinellas County. Additional facilities include specialized clinics, urgent care centers, and medical offices serving the region. The Tampa Bay area’s extensive healthcare infrastructure provides access to specialized care when needed. The concentration of quality medical facilities ensures residents have convenient access to comprehensive healthcare services.

Transportation:

Clearwater benefits from State Road 60 (Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard) connecting the beach to inland areas, and U.S. Highway 19 running north-south through the city. Tampa International Airport is approximately 30 minutes east via the Courtney Campbell Causeway. St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport provides additional air service. Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) operates approximately 35 bus routes throughout the county, including beach trolley services. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, with average commute times around 25 minutes.

Conclusion:

Moving to Clearwater in 2025 offers the appeal of living near one of America’s premier beaches while enjoying small-city character and easy access to the Tampa Bay metropolitan area. The combination of coastal lifestyle, strong schools, diverse employment options, and cultural amenities makes Clearwater an attractive destination for families, professionals, and retirees seeking Florida’s Gulf Coast.