Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida December 2024 Update
Discovering the Charms of St. Petersburg, FL with A Guide to the Best Residential Areas
St. Petersburg, fondly known as St. Pete, is a city on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Famed for its pleasant weather, world-class museums, vibrant arts scene, and stunning waterfront views, it has become a coveted destination for tourists and residents alike. But where are the best places to live in St. Petersburg, FL? Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the top residential areas that make this city a tropical paradise.
2024 Update: Emerging Neighborhoods and Trends in St. Petersburg
As St. Petersburg continues to thrive, new neighborhoods are stepping into the spotlight while established areas evolve to offer even more amenities and appeal. Here’s a look at some rising stars and trends in the local real estate scene.
Coquina Key: Waterfront Living with Affordability
Coquina Key, often referred to as “The Friendly Island,” is rapidly gaining traction as an ideal location for waterfront living without the premium price tag. Located just southeast of Downtown St. Pete, this serene community offers stunning water views, a relaxed atmosphere, and a variety of housing options.
Key Features:
- Many homes with direct water access or canals
- The Coquina Key Park, featuring sports fields, picnic areas, and a dog park
- Proximity to vibrant downtown St. Petersburg and easy access to beaches
In 2024, Coquina Key has become increasingly popular among young professionals, retirees, and families looking for affordable waterfront options. With ongoing improvements to infrastructure and parks, it’s one to watch.
Crescent Heights: A Blend of Charm and Convenience
Crescent Heights is emerging as a top choice for residents who value a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences. Located just north of Downtown St. Pete, this neighborhood is known for its cozy streets lined with mid-century homes, excellent walkability, and proximity to shopping and dining hubs like 4th Street North.
Why Residents Love It:
- A mix of architectural styles, including Craftsman bungalows and mid-century ranches
- Walkability to coffee shops, boutique stores, and popular restaurants
- Community events and active neighborhood associations
Crescent Heights offers a quieter lifestyle while still keeping you close to the action, making it a fantastic middle ground for those who want to be near Downtown without the hustle and bustle.
Warehouse Arts District: A Creative Hotspot
For art enthusiasts and urban explorers, the Warehouse Arts District is becoming a sought-after neighborhood. Located west of downtown, this vibrant area is home to dozens of galleries, artist studios, and creative spaces. The live-work atmosphere attracts creatives from all over the country.
Highlights of the Area:
- The Warehouse Arts District Association (WADA), which supports and promotes local artists
- Easy access to Central Avenue’s restaurants, breweries, and shops
- Unique housing options, including converted warehouses and modern lofts
As the district continues to grow, it’s carving out a reputation as a cultural cornerstone of St. Petersburg, perfect for those seeking an unconventional and inspiring lifestyle.
Practical Considerations for Choosing the Right Neighborhood
When selecting the best area to live in St. Petersburg, it’s important to consider these factors:
Lifestyle Preferences
Do you prefer a walkable urban environment or a quiet suburban retreat? St. Petersburg offers everything from lively downtown living to tranquil neighborhoods like Jungle Prada or Shore Acres.
Budget
Median home prices vary widely by neighborhood. While luxury areas like Snell Isle command high price points, more budget-friendly options like Coquina Key or Old Southeast provide excellent value.
Commute and Transportation
St. Petersburg’s growing public transportation options are worth noting, but many residents rely on cars. Proximity to major highways and workplaces can influence your choice.
Proximity to Amenities
Consider how close you want to be to parks, beaches, schools, or entertainment hubs. Each neighborhood has unique features that cater to specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the safest neighborhood in St. Petersburg, FL?
Many neighborhoods in St. Petersburg boast low crime rates. Snell Isle, Old Northeast, and Crescent Lake are known for their safety and strong community involvement.
2. Are there affordable neighborhoods close to Downtown St. Petersburg?
Yes! Coquina Key, Historic Roser Park, and Crescent Heights offer affordability while keeping you within a short drive of Downtown.
3. What are the best neighborhoods for families?
Shore Acres, Jungle Prada, and Crescent Lake are excellent choices for families due to their schools, parks, and quiet residential streets.
4. Which neighborhoods are most walkable?
Old Northeast, Kenwood, and Grand Central District rank high in walkability, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and parks.
5. What’s the average home price in St. Petersburg?
As of early 2024, median home prices range from $350,000 in areas like Coquina Key to $750,000 in sought-after neighborhoods like Downtown and Snell Isle.
Summary: Why St. Petersburg is the Perfect Place to Call Home
Top Reasons to Choose St. Petersburg Neighborhoods:
- Diverse Options: From historic bungalows to luxury waterfront estates
- Vibrant Culture: Arts districts, museums, and thriving local businesses
- Outdoor Lifestyle: Beaches, parks, and waterfront trails abound
- Strong Community: Active neighborhood associations and events
- Sunny Climate: An average of 361 days of sunshine per year
Whether you’re drawn to the upscale serenity of Snell Isle, the historic charm of Old Northeast, or the creative buzz of the Warehouse Arts District, St. Petersburg has something for everyone.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Downtown
The Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida include many diverse cultures and aesthetics. First is Downtown St Petersburg. It is the ideal destination for those seeking a pedestrian-friendly city with a plethora of delicious restaurants, trendy coffee shops, and boutique stores. Known for its vibrant art scene and whimsical ambiance, Downtown boasts an array of art galleries, thrift shops, murals, and rainbow crosswalks. The area offers a mix of living options, including apartments, condominiums, and single-family homes, with activities suitable for the whole family. Top attractions include the Dali Museum, North and South Straub Park, the St. Pete Pier, and Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays. As of November 2022, the median home price in Downtown St. Petersburg is around $954,000.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Crescent Lake
Crescent Lake is a historically significant area that is a nature lover’s paradise. This upscale neighborhood features Crescent Lake Park, a public 56-acre lakeside park, surrounded by banyan trees, offering amenities such as tennis courts, playgrounds, and a dog park. Residents can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake or visit popular eateries such as The Left Bank Bistro, Hook’s on 9th, or Clean Juice. Crescent Lake is a super dog-friendly, safe residential area, and as of November 2022, the median home price is around $725,000.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Kenwood
Historic Kenwood is an artistic district located northwest of Downtown St. Petersburg. The charming bungalow-style homes line 1st Ave, a popular road with highly-rated bars and restaurants such as Casita Taqueria, The Saint, Mixers, and Salty Nun. Other notable eateries in the area include Fray’s Donut House, Beau & Mo’s Italian Steakhouse, and Rocking Crab Seafood And Bar. The area is safe, diverse, and walkable, with easy access to highways for easy commuting. As of November 2022, the median home price in Historic Kenwood is around $525,000.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Old Northeast
Historic Old Northeast is a beloved waterfront area home to some of St. Pete’s most famous attractions. Vinoy Park, an 11.6-acre park, sits right on the Bay and is a perfect spot for a leisurely day in the sun. Along Beach Dr. NE, visitors can find some of St. Pete’s best restaurants and dessert shops. The Sunken Gardens, a 4-acre botanical garden, is also located in the area and has been a staple of St. Pete for over a century. Historic Old Northeast is a well-maintained, highly walkable area with endless recreational options. As of November 2022, the median home price in Historic Old Northeast is around $900,000.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Coquina Key
Coquina Key is a suburban area located in the southernmost part of St. Pete, offering waterfront and island living options. In fact, this well-maintained residential area features tree-lined streets, a dog park, and Coquina Key Park, which boasts playgrounds, cooking grills, shelters, and sports fields. The Waterside Yacht Club is located in the area for those who love boating. As of November 2022, the median home price for Coquina Key is around $600,000.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Driftwood
Driftwood – this neighborhood has around 50 residences and is located south of downtown. It features Mediterranean and Italian-style homes and is close to all downtown amenities. Furthermore, it is beautiful with mature landscapes and towering trees. Additionally, prices for homes in Driftwood vary from mid-$500,000s to several million for waterfront estates.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Jungle Prada
Jungle Prada – this neighborhood has brick-lined streets, lush hardwood trees, and a range of green spaces. And it features a variety of home styles from modest bungalows to waterfront estates. Home values in the area have increased over 14% in the past year, with a median cost of around $562,000. This area is conveniently located for commuters to downtown St. Pete and downtown Tampa, and there are several schools in the vicinity.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Pinellas Point
Greater Pinellas Point – this neighborhood, located at the southernmost point of Pinellas County, offers fantastic views. Many of the homes are dubbed “birdcage” homes, designed by architect Glenn Johnson, who preferred many screened areas. Condominiums are plentiful, and prices start at the high-$100,000s up to the multi-millions. Single-family homes range from the mid-$400,000s and up. The area is car-dependent, but there are plenty of nearby parks.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Gulfport
Gulfport – this charming Old Florida beach town has over a dozen independent restaurants, art and music festivals year-round, and is home to about 12,500 residents. The city has modestly-priced homes, but they run the gamut from the mid-$400,000s and up. There are many things to do in Gulfport, and the city is located on about 3.8 square miles along Boca Ciega Bay. Don’t overlook this artistic section of St Petersburg.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Central Oak Park:
Central Oak Park is a neighborhood located in the heart of St. Petersburg. It is known for its diversity and its affordable housing options. Additionally, there are many great businesses located in Central Oak Park, including The Burg Bar & Grill, a local favorite for their tasty burgers and craft beers. Additionally, The Bends, a hip bar that serves creative cocktails and hosts live music events. Median Home prices are around $400.000.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Live Oaks:
Live Oaks is a quiet neighborhood located just west of downtown. It is known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, and proximity to some of the best parks in the city. In addition, some of the best businesses in Live Oaks include Casita Taqueria, a casual Mexican restaurant that serves delicious tacos and margaritas, and Mazzaro’s Italian Market, a gourmet market that offers a wide selection of Italian foods and wines. Median Home Prices are around $400,000. Additionally, this neighborhood is not in a flood zone and is 9 minutes to the beach, 9 minutes to downtown, and 8 minutes to Tyrone Mall area. More and more people are seeing this as one of the best neighborhoods to build a new home. There are currently 2 homes being constructed that Avalon Group sold for $875,000 and another for $1.2 million.
Best Neighborhoods in St Petersburg Florida: Historic Uptown
Historic Uptown is a charming and picturesque neighborhood located in the heart of St. Petersburg, Florida. This vibrant community boasts a rich history that dates back to the late 1800s, and it is characterized by its beautiful historic homes and tree-lined streets. The neighborhood is situated just north of downtown St. Petersburg, and it is home to a diverse mix of residents who enjoy its eclectic blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. With its close proximity to downtown, residents of Historic Uptown can enjoy easy access to a wide range of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for both visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re looking to explore the area’s rich history, or simply soak up the neighborhood’s unique atmosphere, Historic Uptown is a must-see destination for anyone visiting St. Petersburg, FL.
In conclusion, St. Petersburg, Florida is a vibrant and diverse city with a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, an art enthusiast, or someone who loves waterfront living, there is a neighborhood for you in St. Pete. St Petersburg is a bustling, vibrant city and all the neighborhoods contribute to making it one of the best places to live in the USA. Only a few of the neighborhoods are listed here. Moreover, we believe with the diversity of the area, you will find the perfect place to call home. Again, each neighborhood has its own unique character and charm. With its warm climate, thriving cultural scene, and affordable coastal cost of living, St. Petersburg is a great place to call home.
