St. Petersburg
Pinellas County, Florida
What to KnowKnown to locals simply as “St. Pete,” this colorful metropolitan city boasts a vibrant arts scene, walkable downtown and a booming luxury condo market. Spanning the peninsula that separates Tampa Bay from the Gulf, the “Sunshine City” is known for its world-class museums, charming neighborhoods, and miles of pristine coastline.
*Median Age
43
With a slightly older demographic than its sister city across the Bay, St. Pete bridges the divide between young professionals and active retirees.
*Median Household Income
$73,048
Household incomes in St. Pete are nearly identical to those of other cities throughout the state.
*Population
267,073
St. Pete is the fifth largest city in Florida and has an average annual growth rate of 0.62%.
*Median Home Value
$355,750
This is very similar to the national average, which is approximately $359,870.
Nicknamed “the Sunshine City”, St. Pete holds a world record for the most consecutive sunny days. It is also the location of the world’s first commercial airline flight in 1914.
Too Cool To MissKnown to locals for its many shops and restaurants, St. Pete’s Central Avenue is the common thread that unites the community from East to West. Not only is this miles-long thoroughfare the home to many annual parades and monthly festivals, it is also the site of the Central Arts District, which showcases countless public murals across its many buildings. You can even take a guided walking tour to see and learn about them in depth!
Founded in 1998 as the Devil Rays, the rebranded Tampa Bay Rays are a two-time American League Championship baseball team whose home stadium, Tropicana Field, is located just a few blocks from Downtown St. Pete.
Teams to Cheer On
If soccer is more your speed, be sure to visit one of the Tampa Bay Rowdies matches. Part of the Eastern Conference of the American Soccer League, this is a favorite outing for locals.
Notable AttractionsLocated just south of Downtown, the Salvador Dalí Museum holds the world’s largest retrospective collection of a single artist in the world dedicated to over 2,000 original sculptures, paintings, sketches and short films by the surrealist master.
In addition to the Salvador Dalí Museum, St. Pete has over 15 other major art and culture museums including the Museum of Fine Arts, the James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art and the Chihuly Collection.
*Other Places to See
St. Pete Pier
One of the city's most notable landmarks, this free attraction is popular among visitors and locals alike. From bike riding to roller blading to a twilight stroll, enjoy incredible views of the skyline and the Bay.
Sunken Gardens
This historic 4-acre site is home to a century's old botanical garden, with more than 50,000 exotic plants and wildlife to see. It is also one of the oldest roadside attractions in the United States.
Where to DineA few of my favorite spots to visit any night of the week.
A Michelin-recommended restaurant located inside the Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, this Italian-inspired seafood and steakhouse is a must-try along Beach Drive.
Elliot Astor
The Library
Serving everything from brunch to dinner, this spot is a favorite among the locals looking for either a quick cup of coffee or a delicious bite of New-American faire.
Perry’s Porch
Inspired by the rich heritage of Old Florida, this Bayside restaurant features a variety of fresh seafood and oysters, exciting cocktails and a grand view of Downtown and the Pier.
Award-Winning HospitalsRanked #1 in Florida and #4 in the Southeast Region by U.S. News & World Report, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital locate in Downtown St. Pete offers incredible lifesaving treatment and is at the forefront of advancements in medicine including 8 pediatric specialties.
Other prominent hospitals in the area include Baycare Health System which operates community-based hospitals as well as medical services, telehealth, and urgent care services throughout Tampa Bay and Central Florida.
Looking to scout out the area before starting your next chapter? Here are some of my recommendations for where to stay while visiting.
Where to StayOriginally opened on New Years Eve 1925, this recently-renovated Mediterranean-revival hotel is recognized as an Historic Hotel of America. It offers an 18-hole golf course, multiple dining options as well as a full-service spa and health club.
Vinoy Resort & Gulf Club
Located just steps from Downtown St. Pete, this retro-chic boutique hotel offers a fun experience for all those young at heart. From its weekend poolside events to its pet-friendly accommodations, it is definitely worth a visit.
Hollander Hotel
With just 18 boutique rooms with 1920s-style decor, this notable landmark sits on historic Beach Drive. Be sure to visit its rooftop bar, The Canopy, for unmatched waterfront views of Vinoy Park, the Fine Arts Museum and, of course, Tampa Bay.
The Birchwood
Schools & UniversitiesPinellas County Schools is recognized as an 'A' rated district by the Florida Department of Education, with nearly 90% of its schools earning an A or B grade.
Among its higher education options, St. Pete is the home to a secondary campus of The University of South Florida, as well as Eckerd College and St. Petersburg College.