Bird Key, FL

Real Estate: Living In Bird Key

bird key Sarasota

Looking across Sarasota Bay at the city from the park on Bird Key. File photo: Ric Schafer, Shutter Stock, licensed.

Bird Key is a small island located in Sarasota Bay, Florida. It is situated just off the coast of Sarasota, connected to the mainland by the John Ringling Causeway. Bird Key is known for its exclusive waterfront properties and luxurious homes.

The island was developed in the 1920s by John Ringling, a famous circus magnate and real estate developer. He envisioned Bird Key as an upscale residential community and named it after the abundant birdlife in the area. Today, Bird Key remains an affluent neighborhood with stunning waterfront views and a prime location close to downtown Sarasota.

Residents of Bird Key enjoy a serene and private atmosphere, surrounded by beautiful waterways and lush landscaping. Many of the homes on the island feature private docks, allowing residents to easily access the bay and the Gulf of Mexico for boating and water activities. The island is also home to the Bird Key Yacht Club, which offers a range of amenities for its members.

In addition to its residential appeal, Bird Key is conveniently located near the vibrant cultural scene of Sarasota. The city is known for its art galleries, theaters, and museums, including the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, which was established by John Ringling himself.

Bird Key is a desirable destination for those seeking a luxurious and waterfront lifestyle in Sarasota, Florida. Its proximity to downtown Sarasota and the amenities offered make it an attractive place to live or visit for those who appreciate the beauty of coastal living.

According to the 2000 census, there were just 857 people living on Bird Key Island. However, this number may have decreased since then, as the island is now a popular tourist destination and many of the homes on the island are only used seasonally. The small island is only about 100 acres in size. The majority of homes on the island are luxury homes and condos, and there are also a few restaurants and shops.

The median household income is $85,020 per year. This is significantly higher than the median household income for the state of Florida, which is $56,200 per year. The high median income on Bird Key is due to a number of factors, including the high cost of living, the high demand for housing, and the high concentration of professionals and retirees on the island. As such, the cost of living on Bird Key Island is considered very high. 

The average home price on the island is $1.5 million with the average rent at $2,500 per month. The demand for housing on Bird Key Island is also very high and there are a limited number of homes on the island, roughly 100, many of them owned by second homeowners or retirees. This high demand for housing drives up the prices of both homes and rents.

The high concentration of professionals and retirees on Bird Key Island also contributes to the high median income. Many of the professionals on the island work in the healthcare, finance, or law industries. The retirees on the island are typically wealthy and have high levels of disposable income.