Moving to Living in Englewood, FL

Chad Coatney • December 10, 2024

Nestled on Florida's Gulf Coast, Englewood is not just a destination, it's a lifestyle. Renowned for its tranquil beaches, vibrant community, and lush natural landscapes, Englewood represents the quintessential laid-back Florida charm. Whether you're drawn by the promise of leisurely beach days or the active arts and culture scene, moving to Englewood, Florida could be your gateway to a fulfilling new chapter.

Overview and Key Attractions

Englewood offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural wealth, and recreational activities. This peaceful town, split between Sarasota and Charlotte counties, boasts miles of unspoiled beaches, including the popular Manasota Key. Whether you're into boating, fishing, or just soaking up the sun, these shores promise year-round enjoyment.

Key attractions include:

  • Englewood Beach: Known for its stunning sunsets and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Dearborn Street: Offers a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and galleries, hosting numerous festivals and events that bring the community together.
  • Lemon Bay Park: A beautiful nature preserve that offers kayaking, wildlife viewing, and walking trails.

The Real Estate Landscape: Finding Your New Home in Englewood

Englewood’s real estate market offers diverse options from beachside condos to suburban single-family homes. Understanding the nuances of this market can help you make informed decisions.

Types of Homes Available:

  • Single-Family Homes: Ideal for families looking for privacy and space. These often come with yards and are found in various suburban neighborhoods.
  • Condominiums and Townhouses: Popular among those who prefer less maintenance. Many offer community amenities like pools and fitness centers.
  • Beachfront Properties: Perfect for those desiring direct beach access and picturesque Gulf views.

Tips for House Hunting from a Distance:

  • Virtual Tours: Leverage online listings and virtual tours to explore homes remotely.
  • Local Real Estate Agent: Engage a local agent who understands the Englewood market and can provide insights and assistance.
  • Neighborhood Research: Focus on neighborhoods that best suit your lifestyle and budget by researching local amenities, schools, and safety.

Understanding Local Real Estate Market Trends:

  • Englewood has seen a trend towards growing demand, especially in waterfront properties.
  • The market can be competitive, with seasonal fluctuations winter months see higher activity due to "snowbirds" arriving.

Transportation System in Englewood, FL

Getting around in Englewood can vary widely depending on your location within the town and your proximity to major amenities. As you settle into your new home, understanding the local transportation options will help you navigate and enjoy your surroundings more effectively.

Public Transportation Options: Englewood does not have an extensive public transportation network, but there are options available for those looking to get around without a personal vehicle:

  • SCAT (Sarasota County Area Transit): Provides bus services with routes that connect to major areas in Sarasota, including some routes extending into parts of Englewood.
  • Charlotte County Transit Service: Offers demand-response transportation service, which needs to be booked in advance.

Major Roads and Highways for Commuting:

  • State Road 776: Runs through the heart of Englewood, connecting it to neighboring cities and providing access to local businesses and residential areas.
  • Interstate 75: While not directly passing through Englewood, it is easily accessible and serves as a major conduit to cities like Tampa and Fort Myers.

Tips for Drivers New to Florida:

  • Understand Hurricane Evacuation Routes: Being located on the Gulf Coast, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and protocols.
  • Watch for Wildlife: Roads in and around Englewood can cross through natural habitats. Be mindful of wildlife, especially during dusk and dawn.
  • Seasonal Traffic Variations: Traffic can increase during the tourist season and winter months when "snowbirds" flock to Florida. Plan extra commuting time during these periods.

Schools and Education: Opportunities for Families

For families moving to Englewood, or those planning to start a family, understanding the educational landscape is vital. Englewood offers a variety of educational opportunities that cater to different needs and aspirations.

Overview of the Educational System in Englewood:

  • Englewood is part of both the Sarasota County Schools and Charlotte County Public Schools, depending on the specific area where you reside. These districts provide public schooling options from elementary through high school.
  • There are also private and charter school options available, offering alternative educational approaches.

Spotlight on Top-Rated Schools and Unique Educational Programs:

  • Lemon Bay High School: Known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities, including sports and arts.
  • Sky Academy Englewood: A charter school that integrates health and wellness into the standard curriculum for middle school students.

Childcare Options for Younger Families:

  • Numerous accredited childcare centers and preschools are available in Englewood, providing quality early childhood education and care.

Employment Opportunities: Navigating Englewood’s Job Market

Finding employment is a significant concern for many relocating to Englewood, FL. Fortunately, the area offers various opportunities across key industries, supported by a networking-friendly community that can help newcomers establish themselves professionally.

Key Industries and Leading Employers in the Area:

  • Healthcare: With facilities like Englewood Community Hospital and various specialty clinics, healthcare continues to be a major employer in the region.
  • Tourism and Hospitality: Due to its beautiful beaches and resorts, the tourism sector is vibrant, offering numerous jobs in hotels, restaurants, and related services.
  • Retail: The presence of local businesses along with larger retail chains provides employment opportunities in sales, management, and administrative roles.
  • Education: Both Sarasota and Charlotte County school districts are significant employers, offering roles for teachers, administrators, and support staff.
  • Construction and Real Estate: With the ongoing development and a thriving real estate market, there are opportunities in construction, property management, and sales.

Tips for Job Hunting Before and After the Move:

  • Utilize Local Job Portals: Websites like Indeed and LinkedIn often list local job opportunities. Additionally, the Englewood Chamber of Commerce can be a resource for job listings and networking events.
  • Network: Englewood has a close-knit community feel, and networking can be incredibly effective. Attend local events, join community groups, and connect with local business associations.
  • Prepare Accordingly: Update your resume to reflect relevant experience for the Floridian job market and be ready to highlight how your skills can transition smoothly.

Networking Opportunities and Local Resources for Professionals:

  • Englewood Chamber of Commerce: Offers numerous events and networking meetings that can be invaluable for making professional connections.
  • Local Meetup Groups: Various professional groups meet regularly in and around Englewood. These can be found on social media platforms or through community bulletin boards.

Life in Englewood: Entertainment and Recreation

Englewood isn't just a great place to work; it’s also a wonderful place to relax and enjoy life. The town provides ample recreational opportunities and a vibrant cultural scene, ensuring that your leisure time is as fulfilling as your work life.

Best Spots for Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment:

  • Restaurants: Englewood’s dining scene offers everything from fresh seafood to international cuisines. Popular spots like Mango Bistro and Farlow’s on the Water provide delightful dining experiences.
  • Shopping: Dearborn Street is the heart of Englewood's shopping district, featuring unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores.
  • Entertainment: The Englewood Event Center and Lemon Bay Playhouse offer regular performances and events that cater to a variety of tastes.

Outdoor Activities and Local Parks:

  • Englewood is an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts. With access to beaches, parks, and preserves, residents can enjoy activities like fishing, kayaking, hiking, and bird watching.
  • Stump Pass Beach State Park: A pristine park offering beautiful shorelines, nature trails, and abundant wildlife.
  • Myakka State Forest: Popular for hiking, cycling, and spotting Florida’s famous alligators.

Year-Round Events and Festivals in the Community:

  • Englewood Pioneer Days: A traditional event that includes a parade, car show, and historical exhibits.
  • Lemon Bay Fest: Celebrates cultural heritage with a week of activities focusing on history, wildlife, and nature.

Healthcare and Safety in Englewood

Ensuring access to quality healthcare and living in a safe environment are top priorities for anyone moving to a new area. Englewood, FL, offers reliable healthcare services and a track record of maintaining public safety, making it an appealing destination for individuals and families alike.

Main Healthcare Facilities and Services:

  • Englewood Community Hospital: A full-service hospital offering emergency care, heart and vascular services, orthopedic care, and more, ensuring comprehensive medical coverage for residents.
  • Local Clinics and Specialists: Beyond the hospital, Englewood has several clinics providing specialized services in dentistry, dermatology, pediatrics, and other essential health areas.
  • Wellness and Alternative Medicine: Reflecting the community’s focus on wellness, there are numerous options for alternative medicine, including chiropractic, acupuncture, and massage therapies.

Safety Tips and Local Emergency Service Information:

  • Law Enforcement: The area is patrolled by both the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, depending on the specific location within Englewood.
  • Fire Departments and EMS: Multiple stations strategically located throughout the area ensure quick response times for both fire and medical emergencies.
  • Community Watch Programs: Englewood’s active community watch programs enhance neighborhood safety and foster a tight-knit community environment.

Preparing for Natural Events:

  • Hurricane Preparedness: As a Gulf Coast town, Englewood residents are encouraged to maintain readiness for hurricane season with emergency kits, evacuation plans, and staying informed through local channels.
  • Flood Awareness: Some areas in Englewood are prone to flooding. It's important for residents to check flood zone maps, consider flood insurance, and understand local flood mitigation and response strategies.

Embrace Your New Journey: Start Your Life in Englewood

Choosing Englewood, FL, as your new home offers a beautiful blend of serene beach settings, community involvement, and a vibrant lifestyle. From the practicalities of moving and setting up your new home with Master Movers, “Movers with Manners” to integrating into the community via schools, healthcare, and employment, Englewood presents an enriching environment ready for you to explore and enjoy.

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