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Englewood!

 

 

“Where Coastal Charm Meets Old Florida Spirit”

Anna Maria Island

Englewood

A Census-Designated place in Charlotte and Sarasota County, Florida

 

Englewood, Florida, is a charming coastal community situated along the Gulf of America, straddling both Sarasota and Charlotte counties. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches, Englewood offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. 

Englewood was significantly impacted by Hurricane Milton in 2024, experiencing devastating storm surge and flooding, particularly along the Lemon Bay and Manasota Key areas. The storm surge reportedly reached 5-10 feet, with the highest surge estimated at 10 feet on Manasota Key, which is within the top 5 highest ever recorded in Southwest Florida.

Englewood, Florida, combines the tranquility of a seaside town with the vibrancy of a close-knit community, making it an attractive destination for visitors and residents alike.

Englewood Beach, Manasota Key, FL

Photo by Carly Smiley on Unsplash

Location & Size

Englewood, Florida is located on the Gulf Coast of southwest Florida, spanning both Sarasota and Charlotte counties. It sits just south of Venice and north of Port Charlotte, with Manasota Key and Lemon Bay offering waterfront access and scenic beaches. The town is about 85 miles south of Tampa and roughly 35 miles north of Fort Myers, making it part of the greater Sarasota metropolitan area.

The area encompasses about 22.3 square miles, with 18.8 square miles of land and 3.5 square miles of water.

Founded

Englewood was platted in 1896 by three brothers from Englewood, Chicago, who named the town after their hometown. The community developed around fishing and agriculture, particularly citrus groves, although a severe freeze in the late 1890s shifted the focus more toward fishing.

ENGLEWOOD WEATHER

Population

As of 2023, Englewood has a population of approximately 19,385 residents.  The median age is 68, reflecting a significant retiree population.

Known For

  • Beaches: Englewood boasts beautiful beaches like Englewood Beach and Manasota Key, known for their pristine sands and shelling opportunities.

  • Outdoor Activities: The area offers excellent fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, particularly in nearby parks and preserves.

  • Cultural Events: Englewood hosts various art festivals, farmers’ markets, and community events, especially along Dearborn Street.

Cost of living

  • Median Household Income: Approximately $65,557.

  • Median Home Value: Around $295,600.

  • Median Monthly Rent: Approximately $1,269.

 

 

Things to do

  • Stump Pass Beach State Park: A natural area offering hiking trails, kayaking, and wildlife observation.   Stump Pass is currently closed due to ongoing repairs from hurricanes Helene and Milton.  You can check their reopening plans on their website.

  • Lemon Bay Park: A 210-acre park with nature trails, a butterfly garden, and environmental education programs.

  • Dearborn Street: The historic downtown area featuring shops, restaurants, and cultural events.

  • Englewood Farmers Market: A weekly market offering local produce, crafts, and live music.

  • Beaches: Visit one of the sevreal beaches in the area such as Manasota Key Beach, Blind Pass Beach, and Englewood Beach.

Fun Facts

 

  • Two Counties: The town is unique in that it spans two counties—Charlotte and Sarasota—with separate services like schools and law enforcement depending on the side you’re on.
  • Annual Events: Englewood hosts fun events like the Pioneer Days Parade and the Englewood Seafood & Music Festival, which celebrate the community’s coastal roots.

  • Retiree-Friendly: With a median age over 60, Englewood is considered a top retirement destination thanks to its affordability, safety, and recreational lifestyle.

  • No High-Rises: Strict zoning laws along parts of Manasota Key have kept large developments away, maintaining a low-key and natural beach experience.

  • A Fishing Haven: Englewood is a dream for anglers, with opportunities for inshore, offshore, and back-bay fishing—especially popular for snook, redfish, and tarpon.

Nearby Cities

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