Sarasota, FL Air Conditioning Repair & Service
Although it wasn't founded until the middle of the 19th century, Sarasota was one of the first places to be mapped by Spanish explorers. The newcomers noted the richness of nearby Charlotte Harbor and moved on after a few days, but future entrepreneurs kept the location in mind and determined that the area would be a favorable location for a city. As the first permanent inhabitant of the area, William Whitaker played an integral role in welcoming its first businesses and lives on in the names of various streets and parks. Later, developers like Charles Ringling produced architectural masterpieces like Ca' d'Zan as well as middle-class housing tracts. Sarasota remains a magnet for snowbirds, retirees, and young professionals.
Geography
Sarasota is located on the shore of Sarasota Bay in southwestern Florida. Thanks to its strategic location between the Fort Myers area and the Tampa Bay metropolitan region, the city is a noted transportation hub and attracts millions of tourists per year. Its landscape is generally flat and watery, but a few areas of elevated ground can be found to the east. Barrier islands like Longboat Key and Lido Key protect the city’s harbor from storm surges and provide spacious habitats for waterfowl and marine reptiles. Major thoroughfares in the area include U.S. Highway 41 and Interstate 75.
Population and Demographics
Over the past decade, Sarasota's population has wavered in a narrow range between 50,000 and 55,000. Although it remains a popular destination for a wide range of newcomers, much of its open land has already fallen to development. As such, it's unlikely that Sarasota's population will increase markedly in the years to come. However, new arrivals tend to be more affluent than their predecessors, and the area's social institutions continue to strengthen and develop. Since 1990, hundreds of young families have been lured by relatively low living costs and improving schools.
Things to Do in Sarasota, Florida
As an important population center, Sarasota is renowned for its slate of family-friendly attractions. Folks who want to learn more about the area's early history can check out the interactive exhibits at the Sarasota History Center or tour architectural marvels like Ca' d'Zan. With nationally renowned institutions like the Asolo Repertory Theater and the Florida Studio Theater, the city is also a well-known center for the fine arts. Jet-skiers and boaters can choose from the calm waters of Sarasota Bay or the slightly rougher environs of the open Gulf of Mexico. Meanwhile, hikers and campers enjoy the solitude of Myakka River State Park.
Climate and Weather
Sarasota has a very warm climate that exhibits many tropical characteristics but doesn't meet the technical definition of a "tropical climate." During the summer, daytime temperatures consistently hover around the 90-degree mark and accompany humid, often wet conditions. Frequent thunderstorms keep the area well-watered throughout the year, and wayward tropical storms can cause flooding and other problems during the early fall months. The growing season lasts virtually all year, and winter lows rarely dip below 40 degrees. Frost is virtually unknown.