Hello From

Cortez!

 

 

“Where Old Florida Lives On”

Anna Maria Island

Cortez

 A Census-Designated Place in Manatee County, Florida

 

Cortez, Florida, is a historic fishing village located just east of Anna Maria Island in Manatee County on Florida’s Gulf Coast. One of the last remaining working fishing villages in the state, Cortez is steeped in maritime heritage, with roots dating back to the 1880s when settlers from North Carolina established the community. The village is known for its weathered cottages, seafood markets, and vibrant docks where commercial fishing still thrives. Visitors can explore the Florida Maritime Museum, enjoy fresh seafood, or take in the natural beauty of Sarasota Bay. Cortez offers a rare glimpse of “Old Florida,” where tradition and coastal culture remain deeply preserved.

Boats moored at Cortez harbor in Sarasota Bay

Location & Size

Cortez, Florida is located in Manatee County on the southwest Gulf Coast of Florida, just east of Anna Maria Island and west of Bradenton.

It sits along the northern edge of Sarasota Bay, making it part of the greater Bradenton–Sarasota–Venice metropolitan area.

The village is 2.2 square miles in size and has direct access to the Gulf of America via nearby waterways, making it ideal for fishing and boating.

Founded

Established in the 1880s by fishing families from North Carolina, Cortez has remained a working waterfront community for over a century. The village’s dedication to preserving its fishing heritage is evident in its historic buildings and ongoing commercial fishing operations.

CORTEZ WEATHER

Population

Approximately 5,323 residents as of 2023.

Known For

  • Commercial Fishing: One of Florida’s last working fishing villages, supplying fresh seafood to the region.

  • Historic Preservation: Home to the Florida Maritime Museum and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

  • Cultural Events: Hosts the annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, celebrating the village’s maritime heritage.

Cost of living

  • Median Household Income: Approximately $76,915.

  • Median Home Price: Around $430,000 as of April 2025.

  • Average Rent: Approximately $1,825 per month.

 

 

Things to do

  • Florida Maritime Museum: Explore exhibits on Florida’s fishing history and maritime culture.

  • Cortez Beach: Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and fishing on this nearby Gulf Coast beach.

  • Boating & Fishing: Engage in recreational fishing or take a boat tour to experience the area’s rich marine life.

  • Dining: Savor fresh seafood at local restaurants offering dishes straight from the day’s catch.

Fun Facts

  • Historic Significance: Cortez is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its cultural and historical importance.

  • Community Efforts: Residents have actively worked to preserve the village’s character, resisting large-scale development to maintain its unique identity.

  • Educational Programs: The Florida Maritime Museum offers educational programs and workshops on traditional maritime skills.

Nearby Cities

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