Bradenton sits at the mouth of the Manatee River where it meets Tampa Bay, and it has quietly become one of the most compelling places to buy real estate on Florida’s Gulf Coast. You get genuine Old Florida character, a walkable downtown arts district, world-class nature preserves, and a location that puts you 15 minutes from Anna Maria Island beaches and about 45 miles south of Tampa. Prices remain more approachable than Sarasota to the south, and the market has stabilized after corrections from peak 2022 values, giving buyers real negotiating room in 2026.
This is not a city that is still figuring out what it wants to be. Bradenton has the Riverwalk, the Village of the Arts, Robinson Preserve, and a downtown scene that keeps growing without losing its roots. Families come for the Manatee County school system and the space that $400K buys here. Retirees come for the waterfront, the mild winters, and the cost of living that still makes sense. Investors come for the rental demand driven by proximity to Anna Maria Island and Sarasota’s cultural draw.
Barrett Henry covers the Bradenton market as part of his broader Tampa Bay and Manatee County practice. Whether you are relocating from the north, sizing down from a larger market, or building an investment portfolio along the Gulf Coast, Bradenton belongs in your conversation.
Why Bradenton is Worth a Serious Look in 2026
The Bradenton-Sarasota metro has been one of the fastest-growing in the country for the past decade, but Bradenton specifically has maintained an identity separate from its more famous neighbor to the south. Where Sarasota leans toward galleries and high-end condos, Bradenton offers more variety: waterfront estates in Northwest Bradenton, established family neighborhoods in West Bradenton, master-planned communities along the eastern corridor near Lakewood Ranch, and affordable older housing stock in the central city.
The Bradenton Riverwalk runs 1.5 miles along the Manatee River and is fully ADA accessible, featuring an amphitheater, skate park, splash pad, playground, beach volleyball courts, a fishing pier, and outdoor public art. This is not a forgotten downtown. The Village of the Arts, a neighborhood of converted bungalows turned studios and galleries, draws a creative community that keeps the area interesting. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature sits near the riverfront and anchors a genuine cultural scene.
For buyers looking at the broader Tampa Bay area, Bradenton offers a quality of life that competes with communities north of Tampa at a price point that often delivers more home per dollar. It is worth the drive across the Sunshine Skyway to understand what is happening here.
Where is Bradenton? Location, Geography, and Getting Around
Bradenton is the county seat of Manatee County, located at the southern edge of the Tampa Bay metro area. It sits at approximately Latitude 27.5 degrees north, on the Manatee River just before it empties into Tampa Bay. Anna Maria Island is directly to the west, accessible via the Manatee Avenue causeway. Sarasota is 13 miles to the south. St. Petersburg is roughly 25 miles to the north via the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, about a 29-minute drive. Tampa is 45 miles north via I-75, which translates to 45 to 90 minutes depending on time of day and whether you hit the typical rush hour backup at the I-75 and I-4 interchange.
The primary interstate serving Bradenton is I-75, which runs north-south through the eastern part of the area and connects to Tampa, Sarasota, and Fort Myers. US-41 (the Tamiami Trail) runs parallel and is the main commercial corridor through town. Manatee Avenue West (SR-64) connects downtown Bradenton to Anna Maria Island. State Road 70 runs east-west through the central area.
Tampa International Airport is roughly an hour’s drive on a good day. Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is about 20 minutes from most Bradenton addresses and offers a growing roster of direct flights. For daily commuters, the Sarasota to Bradenton run is manageable at 15 to 20 minutes. Tampa commutes are real, and anyone driving to downtown Tampa daily should budget for the variability of I-75 traffic.
Bradenton Real Estate Market Overview
As of early 2026, the Bradenton market has settled into a more balanced position after the sharp appreciation of 2021 and 2022 and the correction that followed through 2025. The Zillow average home value for Bradenton sits around $389,000, while active listings carry a median asking price closer to $449,000. Redfin’s January 2026 data shows median sold prices near $347,000, reflecting a mix of home sizes and conditions in the transaction pool.
The broader market shows 4.5 to 5.7 months of inventory, which is solidly in balanced-to-buyer-favoring territory. Sale-to-list ratios are running 93 to 95 percent, meaning buyers have real room to negotiate, especially on homes that have been sitting for 60 or more days. This is a notable shift from 2021 to 2022, when Bradenton saw multiple offers on nearly everything.
What does your budget actually get you in Bradenton today? In the $300,000 to $400,000 range, you are typically looking at older homes in Central or West Bradenton, townhomes in newer communities along the SR-70 corridor, or smaller single-family homes in established neighborhoods. From $400,000 to $600,000, the options broaden significantly, including newer construction in communities like Greyhawk Landing and River Strand, updated homes in Northwest Bradenton, and properties in the Heritage Harbour area. Above $700,000, you enter the waterfront and luxury market: riverfront estates in Northwest Bradenton, Harbour Isle properties along Anna Maria Sound, and high-end Lakewood Ranch homes east of the city.
The new construction segment is active, with 88 homebuilders operating across the Sarasota-Bradenton area and over 3,187 new homes available in approximately 268 communities. Major production builders including Lennar, Taylor Morrison, and M/I Homes all have active communities in and around Bradenton. New construction prices start around $300,000 for smaller townhomes and run well past $1 million for custom builds and higher-end communities.
Neighborhoods and Subdivisions in Bradenton
Bradenton is not a single neighborhood. It is a collection of distinct areas with different characters, price points, and appeals. Here is a breakdown of the major zones and communities a buyer should understand.
Northwest Bradenton
Northwest Bradenton is the prestige corridor along the Manatee River and Palma Sola Bay. This is where you find riverfront estates, older homes on large lots, and some of the most desirable addresses in the city. The De Soto National Memorial and Robinson Preserve anchor the western end. Palma Sola sits on a peninsula between Palma Sola Bay, Tampa Bay, and the Manatee River, putting residents about 10 minutes from Bradenton Beach. Homes here range widely but expect the $500,000 to $1.5 million range for waterfront or near-waterfront properties. The area is served by some of Bradenton’s better-rated schools.
Heritage Harbour and River Strand
Heritage Harbour is a master-planned development on the eastern side of Bradenton with several distinct villages, including the River Strand at Heritage Harbour subdivision. River Strand is a gated community along the Manatee River featuring a bundled golf course. The Heritage Harbour Golf Club and Heritage Harbour Park add to the amenity picture. The Marketplace at Heritage Harbour provides shopping and dining. This area typically draws buyers who want community amenities, newer construction, and proximity to highly rated schools. Prices generally range from $350,000 to $700,000 depending on home size and proximity to the water or golf course.
Greyhawk Landing
Greyhawk Landing is a gated community in east Bradenton known for top-rated schools and family-friendly amenities, including nature preserves within the development and a resort-style amenity center. Gene Witt Elementary and Lakewood Ranch High School serve this area. Homes run in the $400,000 to $700,000 range, with larger lots and newer construction typical throughout.
Harbour Isle
Harbour Isle is an exclusive waterfront community located along Anna Maria Sound between the mainland and Anna Maria Island. The location is exceptional, with water views and resort-style amenities, and the proximity to Anna Maria Elementary and Martha B. King Middle School appeals to families. This community leans toward higher-end buyers, with prices reflecting the waterfront location.
West Bradenton
West Bradenton blends historic charm with beach proximity. The housing stock includes a mix of mid-century bungalows, updated ranch homes, and newer infill construction. Stewart Elementary and Bayshore High School serve the area. Prices in West Bradenton are generally more accessible than Northwest Bradenton while still offering that Old Florida character and reasonably quick access to the beaches of Anna Maria Island.
Central Bradenton and the Village of the Arts
Central Bradenton is the heart of the downtown revival. The Village of the Arts, a community of artist live-work spaces in converted early-20th-century bungalows, has become a genuine neighborhood anchor. Proximity to the Riverwalk, the Bishop Museum, and the growing downtown restaurant scene makes this area attractive to buyers who want walkability and character. This is also where you find the more affordable entry-level inventory in Bradenton, which attracts first-time buyers and investors.
Azalea Park
Azalea Park is an affluent neighborhood known for large lots, mature tree canopy, and a distinctly Old-Florida atmosphere. Green lawns, community pools, and a quiet residential feel characterize this area. It is popular with families drawn by the environment and the school quality. Prices reflect the desirability of the larger lots and established character.
Schools in Bradenton: Ratings, Zoning, and Options
Bradenton is served by the Manatee County School District, which holds a B+ rating on Niche and is ranked approximately 30th among all Florida school districts. The district operates 75 schools serving roughly 52,895 students. Overall it is a solid performing district, with standout schools in the eastern suburbs and near Lakewood Ranch.
At the elementary level, Freedom Elementary School holds an A- grade on Niche and is ranked third among Manatee County public elementary schools. Gene Witt Elementary serves the Greyhawk Landing and eastern Bradenton area and is well-regarded among families in that corridor. Robert E. Willis Elementary serves the Lakewood Ranch side of east Bradenton and earns high marks. Jessie P. Miller Elementary holds a B grade. Anna Maria Elementary serves families in the Northwest Bradenton and Palma Sola area. Sea Breeze Elementary grades at B-.
At the middle school level, Carlos E. Haile Middle School holds a B+ grade and ranks eighth among Manatee County public middle schools. Martha B. King Middle serves the northwest and Harbour Isle area.
High schools serving Bradenton include Braden River High School in the east Bradenton area, Lakewood Ranch High School, and Bayshore High School for West Bradenton families. Each of these schools serves different geographic zones, and buyers should verify their specific address assignment through the Manatee County School District before making location decisions.
Private and charter options exist throughout the area for families seeking alternatives to the public system. The Manatee County area supports a range of religious-affiliated schools and independent academies.
Things to Do in Bradenton
Bradenton’s quality of life is built around water, nature, and a genuine community culture that does not feel manufactured. Robinson Preserve is the crown jewel of the outdoor recreation options: 682 acres of coastal marshland with over 10.6 miles of trails, 2.5 miles of paved path for biking, and three miles of inland waterways called Blueways Trails for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding that open into the Manatee River, Perico Bayou, and Palma Sola Bay. A 40-foot observation tower provides views across four counties and five water bodies. The NEST Trail boardwalk leads to a canopy play area popular with families. The Osprey Loop (3.1 miles) and Eagle Loop (1.6 miles) serve walkers and runners. Best of all, Robinson Preserve is free.
The De Soto National Memorial at the northwestern tip of the city marks the site where Hernando de Soto’s expedition landed in 1539. The park offers trails along the shoreline, ranger-led programs, and some of the quieter waterfront views in the area.
The Bradenton Riverwalk is the social hub of downtown: 1.5 miles of ADA-accessible waterfront park with an outdoor amphitheater for concerts and events, a skate park, a splash pad, playground equipment, beach volleyball courts, a fishing pier, and rotating public art installations. Farmers markets, food truck events, and community festivals use the Riverwalk regularly throughout the year.
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature includes a planetarium, a manatee rehabilitation center (active, not just exhibit), and a range of natural history collections. The Village of the Arts hosts monthly art walks and rotating gallery shows. For sports, the Pittsburgh Pirates and Baltimore Orioles both hold spring training in the Bradenton area at LECOM Park, which remains open for minor league games during the summer season.
Anna Maria Island’s beaches are 10 to 15 minutes away. Coquina Beach, Manatee Beach, and Bean Point each offer different experiences: from the busy, amenity-rich Manatee Beach to the quieter, Old Florida feel of Bean Point at the island’s north tip.
Best Restaurants and Dining in Bradenton
Bradenton’s dining scene is genuinely good and has improved substantially over the past five years as the downtown and Riverwalk have developed. Here are the restaurants worth knowing about.
Waterfront and Special Occasion
Pier 22 sits right on the Manatee River and is the anchor of Bradenton’s fine dining scene. The menu runs from sushi and seafood to steaks and wood-fired dishes, all made from scratch. The Sunday brunch is a local institution, and the venue hosts live music and private events. Tide Tables Restaurant is also on the Riverwalk, offering waterfront views of the Intracoastal with a menu focused on shrimp, fish tacos, and crab cakes.
International Dining
Taverna Toscana brings Tuscan Italian cuisine from Chef Fabio Viviani, offering an upscale experience that draws diners from across the Sarasota-Bradenton area. Restaurant Edelweiss is a cozy Bavarian spot with a beer garden and classic dishes like schnitzel, bratwurst, and goulash alongside live music nights. These two alone give Bradenton a dining diversity that surprises first-time visitors.
Casual and Family Dining
Bonefish Grill on Cortez Road is a consistent performer for wood-grilled fish and seafood. Cortez Kitchen is popular for its waterfront setting and fresh Gulf seafood in the historic fishing village of Cortez, just west of Bradenton toward Anna Maria Island. The Cortez fishing village itself is one of the last working commercial fishing communities on Florida’s Gulf Coast and worth a visit independent of the dining.
The downtown area around Main Street and Old Main Street has seen new restaurant openings in recent years as the Village of the Arts and Riverwalk have drawn more foot traffic. Food truck events on the Riverwalk bring rotating options to the waterfront regularly.
Commute and Transportation from Bradenton
Bradenton’s commute story is honest: it is excellent for Sarasota workers, manageable for St. Pete workers, and challenging for Tampa daily commuters. Here is the breakdown.
Sarasota is 13 miles south via US-41 or I-75. Under normal conditions, that is a 15 to 20 minute drive, which makes Bradenton a very workable commute base for Sarasota employment. St. Petersburg is approximately 25 miles to the north via the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, typically running 29 minutes outside rush hour. Tampa is 45 miles north via I-75. During non-peak hours, that is 45 to 55 minutes. During the morning and evening rush (roughly 7 to 9:30 am and 4 to 7 pm), expect 75 to 90 minutes in the worst conditions, particularly near the I-75 and I-4 interchange north of downtown Tampa.
Tampa International Airport is approximately one hour from most Bradenton addresses. Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is the closer option, about 20 minutes from central Bradenton, and has expanded its direct route offerings significantly. MacDill Air Force Base is accessible via I-75 north and the Selmon Expressway, generally a 50 to 60 minute commute from Bradenton.
Public transit in Bradenton is operated by Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT), which connects to the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) system at limited transfer points. Most Bradenton residents rely on personal vehicles for daily transportation. The Riverwalk and downtown core are walkable within a limited radius, and the Bradenton-Palmetto area has a modest network of bike lanes.
Cost of Living in Bradenton
Manatee County’s property tax millage rate for unincorporated areas runs approximately 6 to 7 mills when combining county, school district, and special district levies. The exact rate depends on your specific location and which fire or water district serves your property. On a $400,000 home with a homestead exemption applied, you might expect an annual tax bill in the range of $3,500 to $4,500, though this varies by specific property. The Manatee County Property Appraiser’s office provides a tax estimator on their website for more precise calculations.
HOA fees in Bradenton vary enormously. Older neighborhoods with minimal common areas may have no HOA or fees under $100 per month. Master-planned communities like River Strand with bundled golf typically run $400 to $600 per month including amenities. Greyhawk Landing and Heritage Harbour HOAs fall in a middle range. CDD fees are common in newer developments throughout east Bradenton and the Lakewood Ranch corridor. It is important to ask about CDD fees separately when comparing new construction prices, as they appear on the tax bill rather than the HOA statement and can add $1,000 to $3,000 or more annually. See our guide on CDD fees in Florida for a full explanation.
Flood insurance is a meaningful consideration in Bradenton, particularly for properties near the Manatee River, Palma Sola Bay, or the waterfront communities. Manatee County participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. Properties in FEMA A and V flood zones require flood insurance if a federally backed mortgage is used. Inland properties in X zones do not require it, though coverage is often recommended. Insurance costs have risen significantly across Florida in recent years, and buyers should obtain insurance quotes as part of due diligence. See our Florida flood zones guide and flood insurance guide for context on what to expect.
Utilities in Bradenton are served by Florida Power and Light (FPL) for most of the area, with TECO Energy (Tampa Electric) serving some northern portions near the Hillsborough County line. Water and sewer service is through Manatee County Utilities for most unincorporated areas. Monthly utility costs for a typical 2,000 square foot home run $150 to $250 for electricity during summer air conditioning season, lower in winter.
New Construction in Bradenton
Bradenton and the surrounding east Manatee County corridor is one of the most active new construction markets in Florida. The Sarasota-Bradenton area has 88 homebuilders and over 3,187 new homes for sale across approximately 268 communities as of 2026. Production builders including Lennar, Taylor Morrison, and M/I Homes all have active communities here. Lennar is particularly active in east Bradenton with communities offering both traditional and multigenerational home plans.
The east Bradenton to Lakewood Ranch corridor along SR-70 and I-75 has seen the most concentrated new construction activity. Communities in this zone offer newer infrastructure, newer schools, and the amenity packages that production builders bundle into their developments: resort pools, fitness centers, pickleball courts, dog parks, and walking trails.
For buyers interested in custom construction, the Sarasota-Bradenton market supports custom builders across price points. Infill opportunities exist in West Bradenton and Central Bradenton on older lots, and the county’s growth along the eastern edge means shovel-ready lots are available in multiple planned communities.
Buyers considering new construction should understand the distinction between the list price and the total cost after lot premiums, option upgrades, and design center selections. The base price on a production home is typically 15 to 25 percent below the finished price after upgrades. Working with a buyer’s agent who understands the new construction process protects your interests in ways that the builder’s sales agent, who represents the builder, cannot provide.
Pros and Cons of Living in Bradenton
Pros
Beach proximity: Anna Maria Island is 10 to 15 minutes from most of Bradenton. Few metro areas offer this level of beach access at Bradenton’s price point.
Price relative to neighbors: Bradenton delivers more home per dollar than Sarasota to the south and more character than many areas north of Tampa.
Outdoor recreation: Robinson Preserve, the Riverwalk, De Soto National Memorial, and Palma Sola Bay collectively offer an extraordinary outdoor lifestyle within the city limits.
Airport options: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is 20 minutes away and growing. Tampa International is 60 minutes for a major hub. You have real options.
Arts and culture: The Village of the Arts, Bishop Museum, spring training baseball, and a downtown that is genuinely improving give Bradenton cultural substance that smaller markets lack.
School options: The Manatee County School District has strong options in the eastern suburbs, and the diversity of public and charter options gives families real choices.
Growth trajectory: The Sarasota-Bradenton metro continues to attract employers and residents. Long-term appreciation prospects are supported by real fundamentals, not just speculation.
Cons
Tampa commute: If you work in downtown Tampa or anywhere north of the bay, Bradenton’s location is a genuine tradeoff. Budget 75 to 90 minutes each way on bad traffic days.
Flood and hurricane risk: Coastal and near-river properties face meaningful flood exposure. Insurance costs have risen sharply, and buyers need to model total cost of ownership carefully, including flood and windstorm coverage.
Summer heat: This applies to all of Tampa Bay and Gulf Coast Florida, but Bradenton’s summer humidity combined with the flat terrain and lack of tree cover in newer developments makes outdoor activity during July and August genuinely uncomfortable.
Traffic on Anna Maria routes: Manatee Avenue (SR-64) and SR-684 connecting Bradenton to Anna Maria Island can back up significantly on summer weekends and holidays. If beach access is part of your daily routine, this is worth experiencing firsthand before buying.
Insurance market volatility: Florida’s homeowner’s insurance market remains stressed. Rates in Bradenton, particularly for coastal and flood-zone properties, have increased substantially in recent years. See our Florida homeowners insurance guide for context.
Bradenton Real Estate for Investors
Bradenton’s investment case rests on several fundamentals: proximity to Anna Maria Island tourism, a growing permanent resident population, a diversified local economy, and continued population inflow from northern states. The rental market is active at multiple price points.
Long-term rentals in Bradenton follow the metro-wide pattern of strong demand. Single-family homes in the $1,800 to $2,800 per month rent range are well-occupied. Properties near the SR-70 corridor and east Bradenton attract families priced out of ownership or new to the area. The Central Bradenton and Village of the Arts area draws a younger renter demographic. Newer communities with amenities command the highest per-square-foot rents.
Short-term rental (Airbnb, VRBO) regulations in Manatee County are currently less restrictive than in some neighboring counties, but the regulatory environment is actively evolving. Properties on or very near Anna Maria Island have the strongest short-term rental income potential. Properties in the city of Bradenton proper generally perform better as long-term rentals unless they have specific waterfront or water-view characteristics that command short-term premium rates.
For investors considering Bradenton, working with a buyer’s agent who understands the local rental market dynamics, HOA short-term rental rules, and flood insurance costs is essential to accurate underwriting. Many communities in east Bradenton and the master-planned corridors prohibit short-term rentals in their CC&Rs regardless of county regulations. Read the HOA rules guide for more on this issue.
Cap rates in Bradenton typically run in the 4 to 6 percent range for residential rental properties purchased at market prices in 2026, which competes reasonably with other Florida Gulf Coast markets. The more compelling investor play in many cases is the appreciation potential tied to the ongoing growth of the Sarasota-Bradenton metro and the relative affordability gap that still exists compared to Sarasota.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bradenton
Is Bradenton a good place to live?
Yes, for the right buyer. Bradenton offers beach proximity, genuine outdoor recreation, a developing arts and dining scene, and solid schools at a price point that beats Sarasota. The tradeoff is the Tampa commute if you work north of the bay. Families, retirees, and remote workers consistently rate Bradenton highly for quality of life.
Is Bradenton affordable compared to Tampa and Sarasota?
Bradenton sits between the two in terms of pricing. The Zillow average home value is around $389,000, which is lower than Tampa’s average and considerably lower than Sarasota’s. For buyers who value Gulf Coast access and a quieter pace, Bradenton delivers competitive value. The spread has narrowed since 2020, but Bradenton still represents one of the better value propositions on the Gulf Coast.
Which Bradenton neighborhoods are safest?
Heritage Harbour, River Strand, Waterlefe, Greyhawk Landing, and Northwest Bradenton consistently rank among the lower-crime areas based on available data. Gated communities throughout east Bradenton offer additional physical security. As with any metro area, crime varies by street and block, and buyers should review Manatee County Sheriff crime data for specific addresses.
What are the best schools in Bradenton?
Freedom Elementary (A-) and Gene Witt Elementary are among the top-rated elementary options. Carlos E. Haile Middle is strong at the middle school level. Lakewood Ranch High and Braden River High serve the eastern suburbs with solid academic programs. The Manatee County School District holds a B+ from Niche overall, with stronger performance concentrated in the east Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch corridor.
How far is Bradenton from Tampa?
About 45 miles via I-75. In normal traffic, plan for 45 to 55 minutes. In rush hour, especially southbound in the evening, allow 75 to 90 minutes for the trip.
How far is Bradenton from the beach?
Anna Maria Island is 10 to 15 minutes from most Bradenton addresses. Coquina Beach, Manatee Beach, and Bean Point are all accessible via Manatee Avenue (SR-64) or SR-684. Traffic on the causeway can slow beach access on summer weekends, but day-to-day beach access is one of Bradenton’s most genuine advantages.
Does Bradenton flood?
Some of it does. Properties near the Manatee River, Palma Sola Bay, and the Gulf are in higher flood risk zones and typically require flood insurance. Much of east Bradenton and the inland communities sit in lower-risk X zones where flood insurance is not required by lenders, though it remains available. Manatee County participates in NFIP. Buyers should check FEMA flood maps for any specific property during due diligence. See our Florida flood zones guide for full details.
Is Bradenton good for retirees?
Bradenton is excellent for retirees. The combination of beach proximity, mild winters, active outdoor lifestyle, reasonable cost of living, and strong healthcare options (Manatee Memorial Hospital, HCA Florida Blake Hospital, and proximity to Sarasota’s medical facilities) makes it a top-tier retirement location. The 55-plus communities in Tampa Bay include several options near Bradenton.
What is the property tax rate in Bradenton?
The combined millage rate for unincorporated Manatee County properties runs approximately 6 to 7 mills depending on the specific fire district and other special taxing districts. With a homestead exemption applied on a $400,000 property, you might expect an annual bill in the $3,500 to $4,500 range. Verify with the Manatee County Property Appraiser for your specific property.
Are there CDD fees in Bradenton?
Yes, many newer developments in east Bradenton have CDD (Community Development District) fees that appear on the annual tax bill. These fund infrastructure in the development and can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars annually. Always ask about CDD fees separately from the HOA fee when evaluating new construction. See our CDD fee guide for a complete explanation.
Is Bradenton a buyer’s or seller’s market in 2026?
As of early 2026, Bradenton is a balanced-to-buyer-favoring market. With 4.5 to 5.7 months of inventory and sale-to-list ratios of 93 to 95 percent, buyers have meaningful negotiating room, especially on homes with extended days on market. This is a more favorable environment for buyers than at any point since 2019.
What builders are active in Bradenton?
Lennar, Taylor Morrison, and M/I Homes are among the major production builders active in the Sarasota-Bradenton area. The broader market includes 88 homebuilders with over 3,000 new homes available across 268 communities. Custom builders including local and regional firms serve the higher-end market.
How does Bradenton compare to nearby Palmetto and Parrish?
Bradenton is the urban center with the most amenities, dining, culture, and established neighborhoods. Palmetto is directly across the Manatee River, more affordable, and attractive to buyers who want lower prices and a quieter setting. Parrish is north Manatee County’s fastest-growing area, currently more rural but transforming rapidly with master-planned communities and significant new construction. Each fills a different buyer profile.
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