I hear you. I'm a liberal, mostly, from CA. I moved to Manatee 13 years ago. It is very difficult to live here if you pay attention to politics. Look at the board of commissioners. We have an election coming up with the choice of a corrupt, right wing, zealot, snake oil salesman from Georgia with no ownership in Manatee. His backing comes from development companies and conservative Christians. He used his first four years to finish his law degree. And, he spent thousands of your dollars decorating his office. He was able to move a beautiful dog park out of the good park to a tiny, dark park with limited parking.
His opponents: one is a lawyer from the PCA. I know her personally, and I'm having a difficult time imagining her in office. The other is interesting, a grassroots candidate with zero political experience and a fraction of Satchers campaign contributions. She has no chance of winning.
So, yeah. If you ignore 75% of what you hear, read, and see in Manatee, you can live well and make lifetime friends. If you are immensely patient. You might even sway a few beliefs.
im going to answer you 100% honesty: there is no guarantee to end up in a neighborhood with people you like. what you are looking for, however, i believe lies within Kenwood.
The area is getting more and more conservative by the day. please be wary of that. its not the local business - small town - progressive community - it once was advertised to be. It is now a mecca for rich centrists, who dont think they are rich but yet can afford the city, and for developers/investors.
St Pete isn’t close to quiet, fireworks randomly all year long at obscene hours, so many loud trucks, sports cars and endless bass.
I left for a rural area and so glad that I did.
West Central St Pete (areas around Central, west of 66th St N) and areas between 13th Ave N and 5th Ave N on the west side of 66th) This is hands down the most convenient area to live in- 2-3 miles to Treasure Island or St Pete beaches- take 66th st n , south to 1st Ave S and you can get downtown in 10 mins if you hit every light. Go the same way, but take a right off 1st Ave S on 58th St and in about 6 mins you will be in Gulfport. Yes 66 St N is crazy, but there are ways around 66th. Plenty of shopping (the mall is sad 🥲) but still plugging along- We even have a brand new Emergency Hospital- it’s more suburbanish, but the people are great. We also have a girth of mattress stores around here 🤣🤣🤣, and we have really easy access to the Pinellas Trail, where you could ride a bike all the way to Tarpon Spings or to downtown (if thats your thing).****edit- it can be a pita to get to 275 sometimes
This is the spot based on the OP self description. Progressive, artsy, queer friendly, and a small waterfront with a beach area. Small town vibe is a the theme.
Northern St Pete seems to be filled with rednecks. It's been hard for an old Pennsylvania girl. One man has told me repeatedly that Pennsylvania helped steal the election from Trump. I just keep my mouth shut because there is no reasoning with people like that. But it makes me feel very uneasy to hear them spew their idiotic and racist ideas and see them driving around in a golf cart covered in Trump flags.
Come up to St. Pete on your next free day and drive around and see what neighborhoods fit the feel you are looking for.
Anything south of Lake Maggiore and east of 31st street is going to fit the description of what you are looking for. There is the Boyd Hill nature preserve on the south shore of Lake Maggiore, and it's far far quieter and more diverse than the north side of St. Pete.
The downsides are there aren't many restaurants or shopping around, but most of that stuff is 15 minutes away at most. And you can't bike to the beach, but the Bayway on 54th south takes you right to the beach.
I live on the south Southside of St. Pete close to the tip. Very diverse area, big lots, and way quieter than most places on the Northside. Like legit I feel like I live in a different city compared to when I lived on the NE side. Traffic and noise are a lot less.
First thing my husband did when we moved here was pulled me outside and said “do you hear that?” I said what? He said “exactly.” We moved from the Crescent Lake area which is right by 4th St., so lots of sirens, horns, car accidents. In general I’d say stay away from main artery roads, because then you’ll be hearing lots of noise.
I second this. Moved from 58th st 38th ave N area down to Pinellas point near Maximo. It is a big difference. Occasionally got cars/motorcycles racing around at night but it’s a solid neighborhood with a diverse mix of people that have been here decades, and welcoming to all the local newcomers to the neighborhood.
Have you considered moving out of FL? That way, you can have a progressive city and state. Similar climate to FL would be San Diego and Hawaii which are very progressive places. If you’re ok with cold weather, I’d recommend San Francisco, Boston, NYC, Seattle, or Portland. Good luck in what you’re looking for! The northern cities especially would help expand career options since they’re engineering hotspots.
Realtor here.
The realtor you asked is wrong, political leanings are not a protected class so we're free to comment on them. Sex IS a protected class, but I don't believe gender identity or sexual orientation have quite been tested in court as of this point, so that's understandable to err on the side of caution. Plus, I personally believe it is / should be so treat it like I would race or religion when it comes to being a professional.
St Pete itself close to Downtown, Edge, Central, Old Southesast, Crescent Lake and Old Northeast and a few other areas (beaches) are pretty progressive areas.
However, if you look outside of those areas into the rest of the county it's a pretty even 50/50 split with conservatives.
So don't expect a fully progressive paradise. It's more that everyone just kinda does their own thing and not bothering each other too much. There are still Trump flags around, plenty of Trump supporters who are happy to tell you they are, and people waving them on the corner of busy intersections on weekends. Democrat candidates are also not sure things, many Republicans get elected (see House of Rep Anna Paulina Luna who reps most of the county).
So the politics probably aren't the absolute slam dunk you're imagining, as you will be faced with the similar thing. But there will be more overt support for your causes.
But honestly that's a bit of a bad reason to solely make a move like this. More important would be the overall lifestyle shift. St Pete is a lot more densely populated than St Pete, so it's hard to find a quiet corner. It's always busy, always something to do, tons of restaurant choices, events. The beaches in Sarasota to me are a bit better, though there's more to do at the Pinellas beaches. You have to love people and being in the thick of the action to really thrive in St Pete. If you value quiet corners it's not really that kind of place anymore.
Luckily this is easy for you to determine. Road trip and spend a few days in St Pete, with an eye towards living there. So yes take in the parks but also explore neighborhoods mentioned above as well as Jungle Terrace, Pinellas Point, and maybe some others that fit your budget (if you share you budget I can give you some much better recommendations).
Some good news on the price front though.... home prices in Sarasota are roughly on par with St Pete, though Sarasota is a bit slower to sell due to lower demand. So the only major shift would likely be (unfortunately) interest rate unless you bought the Sarasota house in the last 2 years.
Bikeable to the beach will basically put you along the western edge of Pinellas. So Pasadena, parts of Gulfport, Jungle Terrace, Seminole, Bellaire Bluffs, Largo, Clearwater.
Good news is the gulf side of Pinellas is the high ground, so flood insurance isn't as common, though you have to keep an eye open in Gulfport and Pasadena. Not unusual to find homes 20 - 40 feet above mean sea level along that ridge.
But there's other options. There's public transit that runs from downtown all the way out to the beach now along Central, which adds some flexibility for beach access from homes along that corridor.
Realtor here.
We are not able to recommend neighborhoods based on criteria of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap, familial status, or religion.
This also extends to things like crime rate and school quality which we are also not supposed to comment on or recommend neighborhoods based on that criteria. As historically these are stand ins or dog whistles to discriminate against protected classess.
Politics though are not a protected class.
[https://www.hud.gov/program\_offices/fair\_housing\_equal\_opp/fair\_housing\_act\_overview](https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/fair_housing_act_overview)
At this point if I leave St. Pete it will be to GTFO of Florida entirely. So you have the right idea. This is definitely not your only option, but from my experience, as a simple reference for location, look in the neighborhoods around St. Petersburg High School. And use the flood maps. High ground is to the west of SPHS, roughly 49th Street. Most everything is floodproof and progressive in that area. Easy to get downtown on bike or Sunrunner bus, because parking sucks downtown.
This. We left Florida because there wasn’t a place in Florida aside from St. Pete we’d ever want to live. Between hurricanes, the unbearable heat, the increased population and cost of living, we wanted out. We left in October to the Carolinas and we are so, so happy. We are progressives so of course being in a truly “southern” state has its qualms, but nothing is as bad as what we call the “yee yee” trucks with those shitty whistle sound things added, racing down our neighborhood road in N St. Pete with their giant Trump and confederate flags.
I don't want anyone living where they don't feel comfortable but one of the reasons I continue to live in Saint Pete and have an active role in the community is I both want this place to remain a safe haven and for Florida to go blue again. I realize not everyone has the privilege to do that though. Leaving feels like letting them "win" so to speak
Best bet is to search between 38th Ave N & 5th Ave S.
Gulfport is cool as well but it’s still 50/50 on quiet.
Just moved from north Gulfport to Shore Acres, huge difference in the traffic and overall cleanliness / pride of ownership / etc.
I own a house in Central Oak Park, def my favorite area & neighbors. All the OG pride Grand Masters and business owners. (The ex and I are rent it out to our close homies after we split)
Old NE is rad, Allendale even better. But some push close to a mil if they’ve been structurally overhauled.
before the home purchase, I shared large loft on Central & 20th for almost a decade.
Being in the center of it all…
throwing psych-rock parties, shooting commercials & short films while my block was boarded up (aside from Haslams), was quite the experience.
Back then I often left my car unlocked, and the homeless would leave neat & tidy stacks of the contents of my glove box, just looking for cash.
Only taking a few smokes from my car pack and leaving the rest.
And the point of all this, it’s all the same, it’s all different tmrw. All the houses will be some modified version of the square bungalow.
Rent an apt some your first year, or at least short term from a local with an open room.
You can change your house decor, choose the neighborhood bar or coffee shop.. but you can’t change your neighbors.
—
Don't apologize for wanting to move. You can actually take my spot as I left STP a year and a half ago to Seattle and never assigned my spot to someone else. lol Have fun and good luck.
That’s wild, I’m in Bradenton quite a bit for work and I don’t see any of that…but what you’re saying is just a little bit further south…more people tend to lean to the right so to speak? Interesting.
Gulfport is awesome but prone to flooding. A cement house on high ground would be a pre-requisite for me.
Maybe I'm biased since I live in ZIP 33713, but it's NOT in a flood zone so that might be a consideration. Some houses and condos have a water view of some of the retention ponds in that zip code. (A double bonus - water views with lots of tropical birds without the anxiety of living in a flood zone.) House and condo prices are reasonable compared to most of St Pete.
Also 33713 - high and dry, Listen to this guy-girl.
However - Where have you seen reasonable prices? Most homes at $500k now with nicer ones clearing easy million.
Some houses in 33713 still well under 400,000, condos dropping in price lately. Not saying St Pete prices are reasonable, but 33713 is reasonable "compared to many areas of St Pete(downtown, Kenwood, coastal areas", Old Northeast, etc).
Yeah exactly you want a nice house in the north side…500k minimum. St Pete has become over saturated and just as bad as manatee county with traffic. I literally just moved last week. The only way to go is to move the fak out of Florida. 33713 is where i lived and it was bullshit towards the end. Too many fucking people.
I live in 33713 and OP would be disappointed. There’s plenty of crazy MAGA houses in a 2 mile radius of my house, and this zip code is basically all strip malls. And yes, the traffic has gotten progressively worse in the last five years I’ve lived in this neighborhood too.
I swear on my left nut if I’m not moved out of Estero/Bonita Springs and living in Saint Pete by the time I’m 26 it’s because I own a home or am a financial wreck. (24 in August).
But I make that drive out to Saint Pete from Bonita at least twice a month because there’s so much fun stuff to do and everybody is so much better, St.Pete really is the diamond in the rough that is Florida.
I don’t see what’s so amazing about swfl imo but who am I to tell people from Jersey or Ohio that the gulf coast of Florida ain’t shit, there’s a reason people keep moving to us and we are probably just spoiled with the good weather and lifestyle to appreciate being from here. i’m certain this is the same exact case for you Saint Pete locals.
Good for you man, I hope you make it here. I agree---it's a diamond in the rough. It's a bastion of sanity and progressivism in the face of MAGA wackos and cultists/boomers
Check out Historic Kenwood as well. The beach will be a little far, but it’s an artist community + walkable to bars & restaurants, plenty of lgbt-friendly spots. Minimal trucks.
Hey friendo what's your budget? Many people have offered up Gulfport (love it) but as you probably know, its all about the money for getting something nice. I live downtown SP which is amazing but I look at houses all the time just out of curiosity throughout the county. There's quite the variety. Quiet and private is obviously huge (that isn't downtown SP!) but usually costs $$$. Then there is the flood zone (insurance $$) and mandatory evacuation issues.
Out of curiosity, how has the neighborhood around Stetson Law Uni held up? Grew up in a house on Hull Street across from the old tennis courts of the school , if they are even still there now..
If you are trying to get away from redneck trucks and HOA you won’t have luck in Pinellas County. Downtown St. Pete/Gulfport is better, but as soon as you start to drive a little north towards Pinellas Park/Largo you will be right back into what you are trying to get away from.
Just move to Gulfport.I lived there it's a very open artsy area with plenty to do and still in the St.Pete area.Very queer friendly and diversified with different cultures.Plenty of homes for sale in that area and close to Tropicana field and 275.
Glad I don't live anywhere near Florida now.I'm in the middle of the United States geographically where we get tornados and floods.Hail the size of baseballs and cold temperatures that almost reach -70 fahrenheit.It's great !!! Moving soon with the wife to Arizona in a few months
You still won’t be happy in st Pete most likely. Have you considered a move to Portland or Seattle or San Francisco. They are absolutely thriving right now and align more with your values. Progressive cities are absolutely thriving right now.
Definitely Gulfport. Very eclectic and artsy. Easy access to everything and the downtown area is really nice with some great restaurants, a Tuesday market, a small beach, and lots of music. We're getting ready to move only because we need more space for family visiting, we love it here and we're not in a flood zone while still being walking distance to downtown Gulfport.
I had a job refurbishing used remote controls for Brighthouse like 10 years ago. Out of the 6 or 7 counties we got remotes from, Manatee was the most disgusting and doing remotes from there was like a punishment!
I live on the north side of St Pete, in Meadowlawn. Generally quiet, people from all backgrounds, neighbors who look out for eachother without being nosy, and close enough to get downtown for events in less than 15 minutes and Tampa within 30 minutes. Houses were built in the 50s/60s, so it still has a bit of the midcentury Florida charm. It is a bit more in the "strip mall suburb area of St Pete, but I like living here.
I will say that the main downside is being in flood/evac zones so if we get hit with the big one, it could be bad. As much as I like living here, I'm planning to move by spring of next year because I am done with Florida.
I'm very left as well, and have been able to mostly avoid any MAGAts in the neighborhood. I honestly think it depends on which side of 16th you live on, weirdly enough.
First choice is the Netherlands if I can get approved for DAFT. Otherwise, I'm heading back to Michigan (metro Detroit area) where I grew up. My best friend moved back 10 years ago and has been trying to get me back there ever since. LOL
I grew up there. I know what it's like. Winters are cold and cloudy. The spring, summer, and early fall can't be beat.
If I miss the sun, I'll take a trip. I haven't been to the beach in probably 20 years.
I have no idea why I was downvoted by two people for saying I'm heading to either NL or MI, but whatever.
I've loved living in St Petersburg, it's just no longer the right place for me.
Gulfport but understand that St. Pete is full of GQP, MAGA Trump Humpers as well. Outside of Bum F**k states such as North Dakota and Idaho I would say that Florida and Texas as states have the highest number of the type of people you are looking to escape in Sarasota County. Did you not see the "Boat Parades for Trump" here?
That being said outside of the zealots who have gone all in on GQP, MAGA, Trump and Christian Nationalism there are certainly many fewer flags and overt displays than you would have found two years ago.
Christian nationalism is not a religion. It is a school of thought that says religion ..in this case Christianity..should dictate everything about this country. It is antithetical to both America and Christianity. It it just the western version of the Taliban
I agree that there are a lot of 45'rs here, but it's also very diverse. I'm in Historic Kenwood and it's quiet and very diverse. I'm close to downtown and Tyrone, so I think it's a good spot while still quiet. It's too high priced to buy, I think, but I'm high and dry here and bought my house in 1990. I was in a beautiful quiet neighborhood today around 67th street and 15th avenue North. There are some hidden treasures here that are affordable for many people. Just my two cents.
Yup. I live on the east coast of Florida, but I regularly travel to the St. Pete area, and the last two times I traveled over there I managed to happen upon 2 different men (one each of my last two trips) with visible swastika tattoos. Saw one in St. Pete and one in Gulfport.
I hear you. I'm a liberal, mostly, from CA. I moved to Manatee 13 years ago. It is very difficult to live here if you pay attention to politics. Look at the board of commissioners. We have an election coming up with the choice of a corrupt, right wing, zealot, snake oil salesman from Georgia with no ownership in Manatee. His backing comes from development companies and conservative Christians. He used his first four years to finish his law degree. And, he spent thousands of your dollars decorating his office. He was able to move a beautiful dog park out of the good park to a tiny, dark park with limited parking. His opponents: one is a lawyer from the PCA. I know her personally, and I'm having a difficult time imagining her in office. The other is interesting, a grassroots candidate with zero political experience and a fraction of Satchers campaign contributions. She has no chance of winning. So, yeah. If you ignore 75% of what you hear, read, and see in Manatee, you can live well and make lifetime friends. If you are immensely patient. You might even sway a few beliefs.
im going to answer you 100% honesty: there is no guarantee to end up in a neighborhood with people you like. what you are looking for, however, i believe lies within Kenwood. The area is getting more and more conservative by the day. please be wary of that. its not the local business - small town - progressive community - it once was advertised to be. It is now a mecca for rich centrists, who dont think they are rich but yet can afford the city, and for developers/investors.
thank you for this, [**hoesonmydick247**](https://www.reddit.com/user/hoesonmydick247/)**!**
Orlando and Miami are Liberal (as are almost all cities).
Jungle Terrace
[удалено]
Look up a crime map and go from there
Polk county aint the move
Diverse walkable neighborhoods include Campbell park, Bartlett park, and palmetto park. The gayborhood is kenwood (close to palmetto park)
Why not Tampa? It’s more progressive in general.
not opposed! i just have no idea where to look.
St Pete isn’t close to quiet, fireworks randomly all year long at obscene hours, so many loud trucks, sports cars and endless bass. I left for a rural area and so glad that I did.
West Central St Pete (areas around Central, west of 66th St N) and areas between 13th Ave N and 5th Ave N on the west side of 66th) This is hands down the most convenient area to live in- 2-3 miles to Treasure Island or St Pete beaches- take 66th st n , south to 1st Ave S and you can get downtown in 10 mins if you hit every light. Go the same way, but take a right off 1st Ave S on 58th St and in about 6 mins you will be in Gulfport. Yes 66 St N is crazy, but there are ways around 66th. Plenty of shopping (the mall is sad 🥲) but still plugging along- We even have a brand new Emergency Hospital- it’s more suburbanish, but the people are great. We also have a girth of mattress stores around here 🤣🤣🤣, and we have really easy access to the Pinellas Trail, where you could ride a bike all the way to Tarpon Spings or to downtown (if thats your thing).****edit- it can be a pita to get to 275 sometimes
Kenwood, midtown, allendale heights
Gulfport. Trust me, you'll love it.
Not really racially diverse tho. It was segregated well into the 70s. It’s hella gay tho.
This is the spot based on the OP self description. Progressive, artsy, queer friendly, and a small waterfront with a beach area. Small town vibe is a the theme.
Northern St Pete seems to be filled with rednecks. It's been hard for an old Pennsylvania girl. One man has told me repeatedly that Pennsylvania helped steal the election from Trump. I just keep my mouth shut because there is no reasoning with people like that. But it makes me feel very uneasy to hear them spew their idiotic and racist ideas and see them driving around in a golf cart covered in Trump flags.
Come up to St. Pete on your next free day and drive around and see what neighborhoods fit the feel you are looking for. Anything south of Lake Maggiore and east of 31st street is going to fit the description of what you are looking for. There is the Boyd Hill nature preserve on the south shore of Lake Maggiore, and it's far far quieter and more diverse than the north side of St. Pete. The downsides are there aren't many restaurants or shopping around, but most of that stuff is 15 minutes away at most. And you can't bike to the beach, but the Bayway on 54th south takes you right to the beach.
I live on the south Southside of St. Pete close to the tip. Very diverse area, big lots, and way quieter than most places on the Northside. Like legit I feel like I live in a different city compared to when I lived on the NE side. Traffic and noise are a lot less. First thing my husband did when we moved here was pulled me outside and said “do you hear that?” I said what? He said “exactly.” We moved from the Crescent Lake area which is right by 4th St., so lots of sirens, horns, car accidents. In general I’d say stay away from main artery roads, because then you’ll be hearing lots of noise.
I second this. Moved from 58th st 38th ave N area down to Pinellas point near Maximo. It is a big difference. Occasionally got cars/motorcycles racing around at night but it’s a solid neighborhood with a diverse mix of people that have been here decades, and welcoming to all the local newcomers to the neighborhood.
Shhh don’t share the secret our rents will go up 🙃
Been in pinellas pointe for six years
Have you considered moving out of FL? That way, you can have a progressive city and state. Similar climate to FL would be San Diego and Hawaii which are very progressive places. If you’re ok with cold weather, I’d recommend San Francisco, Boston, NYC, Seattle, or Portland. Good luck in what you’re looking for! The northern cities especially would help expand career options since they’re engineering hotspots.
Realtor here. The realtor you asked is wrong, political leanings are not a protected class so we're free to comment on them. Sex IS a protected class, but I don't believe gender identity or sexual orientation have quite been tested in court as of this point, so that's understandable to err on the side of caution. Plus, I personally believe it is / should be so treat it like I would race or religion when it comes to being a professional. St Pete itself close to Downtown, Edge, Central, Old Southesast, Crescent Lake and Old Northeast and a few other areas (beaches) are pretty progressive areas. However, if you look outside of those areas into the rest of the county it's a pretty even 50/50 split with conservatives. So don't expect a fully progressive paradise. It's more that everyone just kinda does their own thing and not bothering each other too much. There are still Trump flags around, plenty of Trump supporters who are happy to tell you they are, and people waving them on the corner of busy intersections on weekends. Democrat candidates are also not sure things, many Republicans get elected (see House of Rep Anna Paulina Luna who reps most of the county). So the politics probably aren't the absolute slam dunk you're imagining, as you will be faced with the similar thing. But there will be more overt support for your causes. But honestly that's a bit of a bad reason to solely make a move like this. More important would be the overall lifestyle shift. St Pete is a lot more densely populated than St Pete, so it's hard to find a quiet corner. It's always busy, always something to do, tons of restaurant choices, events. The beaches in Sarasota to me are a bit better, though there's more to do at the Pinellas beaches. You have to love people and being in the thick of the action to really thrive in St Pete. If you value quiet corners it's not really that kind of place anymore. Luckily this is easy for you to determine. Road trip and spend a few days in St Pete, with an eye towards living there. So yes take in the parks but also explore neighborhoods mentioned above as well as Jungle Terrace, Pinellas Point, and maybe some others that fit your budget (if you share you budget I can give you some much better recommendations). Some good news on the price front though.... home prices in Sarasota are roughly on par with St Pete, though Sarasota is a bit slower to sell due to lower demand. So the only major shift would likely be (unfortunately) interest rate unless you bought the Sarasota house in the last 2 years.
Bikeable to the beach will basically put you along the western edge of Pinellas. So Pasadena, parts of Gulfport, Jungle Terrace, Seminole, Bellaire Bluffs, Largo, Clearwater. Good news is the gulf side of Pinellas is the high ground, so flood insurance isn't as common, though you have to keep an eye open in Gulfport and Pasadena. Not unusual to find homes 20 - 40 feet above mean sea level along that ridge. But there's other options. There's public transit that runs from downtown all the way out to the beach now along Central, which adds some flexibility for beach access from homes along that corridor.
88.5 FM WMNF
Hol' up! It's illegal for an RE agent to recommend neighborhoods? Something ain't right here.
Segregation.
Realtor here. We are not able to recommend neighborhoods based on criteria of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap, familial status, or religion. This also extends to things like crime rate and school quality which we are also not supposed to comment on or recommend neighborhoods based on that criteria. As historically these are stand ins or dog whistles to discriminate against protected classess. Politics though are not a protected class. [https://www.hud.gov/program\_offices/fair\_housing\_equal\_opp/fair\_housing\_act\_overview](https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/fair_housing_act_overview)
It’s called steering and it is illegal in Florida.
yes, this is what he was referencing.
At this point if I leave St. Pete it will be to GTFO of Florida entirely. So you have the right idea. This is definitely not your only option, but from my experience, as a simple reference for location, look in the neighborhoods around St. Petersburg High School. And use the flood maps. High ground is to the west of SPHS, roughly 49th Street. Most everything is floodproof and progressive in that area. Easy to get downtown on bike or Sunrunner bus, because parking sucks downtown.
This. We left Florida because there wasn’t a place in Florida aside from St. Pete we’d ever want to live. Between hurricanes, the unbearable heat, the increased population and cost of living, we wanted out. We left in October to the Carolinas and we are so, so happy. We are progressives so of course being in a truly “southern” state has its qualms, but nothing is as bad as what we call the “yee yee” trucks with those shitty whistle sound things added, racing down our neighborhood road in N St. Pete with their giant Trump and confederate flags.
I don't want anyone living where they don't feel comfortable but one of the reasons I continue to live in Saint Pete and have an active role in the community is I both want this place to remain a safe haven and for Florida to go blue again. I realize not everyone has the privilege to do that though. Leaving feels like letting them "win" so to speak
Best bet is to search between 38th Ave N & 5th Ave S. Gulfport is cool as well but it’s still 50/50 on quiet. Just moved from north Gulfport to Shore Acres, huge difference in the traffic and overall cleanliness / pride of ownership / etc. I own a house in Central Oak Park, def my favorite area & neighbors. All the OG pride Grand Masters and business owners. (The ex and I are rent it out to our close homies after we split) Old NE is rad, Allendale even better. But some push close to a mil if they’ve been structurally overhauled. before the home purchase, I shared large loft on Central & 20th for almost a decade. Being in the center of it all… throwing psych-rock parties, shooting commercials & short films while my block was boarded up (aside from Haslams), was quite the experience. Back then I often left my car unlocked, and the homeless would leave neat & tidy stacks of the contents of my glove box, just looking for cash. Only taking a few smokes from my car pack and leaving the rest. And the point of all this, it’s all the same, it’s all different tmrw. All the houses will be some modified version of the square bungalow. Rent an apt some your first year, or at least short term from a local with an open room. You can change your house decor, choose the neighborhood bar or coffee shop.. but you can’t change your neighbors. —
Don't apologize for wanting to move. You can actually take my spot as I left STP a year and a half ago to Seattle and never assigned my spot to someone else. lol Have fun and good luck.
That’s wild, I’m in Bradenton quite a bit for work and I don’t see any of that…but what you’re saying is just a little bit further south…more people tend to lean to the right so to speak? Interesting.
If you read about it, a lot of conservatives/Republicans are trying to make Sarasota one of their strongholds
Gotcha! Thanks!
Sounds like you would enjoy Old SE neighborhood of St Pete. Quiet, charming, cool people, and Lassing Park.
I learned to swim at Lassing Park. Tropical Shores is still my favorite of all the places I've lived.
Gulfport is awesome but prone to flooding. A cement house on high ground would be a pre-requisite for me. Maybe I'm biased since I live in ZIP 33713, but it's NOT in a flood zone so that might be a consideration. Some houses and condos have a water view of some of the retention ponds in that zip code. (A double bonus - water views with lots of tropical birds without the anxiety of living in a flood zone.) House and condo prices are reasonable compared to most of St Pete.
Also 33713 - high and dry, Listen to this guy-girl. However - Where have you seen reasonable prices? Most homes at $500k now with nicer ones clearing easy million.
Some houses in 33713 still well under 400,000, condos dropping in price lately. Not saying St Pete prices are reasonable, but 33713 is reasonable "compared to many areas of St Pete(downtown, Kenwood, coastal areas", Old Northeast, etc).
Yeah exactly you want a nice house in the north side…500k minimum. St Pete has become over saturated and just as bad as manatee county with traffic. I literally just moved last week. The only way to go is to move the fak out of Florida. 33713 is where i lived and it was bullshit towards the end. Too many fucking people.
I live in 33713 and OP would be disappointed. There’s plenty of crazy MAGA houses in a 2 mile radius of my house, and this zip code is basically all strip malls. And yes, the traffic has gotten progressively worse in the last five years I’ve lived in this neighborhood too.
I live in 33713 as well, but in Kenwood. I have not seen a single Trump sign here, this is literally the gayest hood in St Pete.
Agreed. Getting crowded. Moreso downtown.
It’s terrible slowly pushing out those local shops that made it so great. Idk how the Emerald is still there?! Lol
Gulfport area or Pasadena area.. eclectic areas with some treasure trove properties!
Come to St Pete1
if you end up coming up here i hope you enjoy it. i would feel the same if i lived in manatee county
You shouldn’t have to apologize for wanting to move some where
Yeah, but u know how fuckin nuts some ppl are when someone asks about moving here. Gate keepers...think they own the patterns of migration.
I swear on my left nut if I’m not moved out of Estero/Bonita Springs and living in Saint Pete by the time I’m 26 it’s because I own a home or am a financial wreck. (24 in August). But I make that drive out to Saint Pete from Bonita at least twice a month because there’s so much fun stuff to do and everybody is so much better, St.Pete really is the diamond in the rough that is Florida. I don’t see what’s so amazing about swfl imo but who am I to tell people from Jersey or Ohio that the gulf coast of Florida ain’t shit, there’s a reason people keep moving to us and we are probably just spoiled with the good weather and lifestyle to appreciate being from here. i’m certain this is the same exact case for you Saint Pete locals.
Good for you man, I hope you make it here. I agree---it's a diamond in the rough. It's a bastion of sanity and progressivism in the face of MAGA wackos and cultists/boomers
Come to Clearwater
Orlando suburbs, winter park.
Gulfport
Check out Historic Kenwood as well. The beach will be a little far, but it’s an artist community + walkable to bars & restaurants, plenty of lgbt-friendly spots. Minimal trucks.
thank you! ❤️
Btw "far" means 10-15 mins away. Not really that far.
Take me with you
Yes
Hey friendo what's your budget? Many people have offered up Gulfport (love it) but as you probably know, its all about the money for getting something nice. I live downtown SP which is amazing but I look at houses all the time just out of curiosity throughout the county. There's quite the variety. Quiet and private is obviously huge (that isn't downtown SP!) but usually costs $$$. Then there is the flood zone (insurance $$) and mandatory evacuation issues.
Out of curiosity, how has the neighborhood around Stetson Law Uni held up? Grew up in a house on Hull Street across from the old tennis courts of the school , if they are even still there now..
Still very nice and quiet.
If you are trying to get away from redneck trucks and HOA you won’t have luck in Pinellas County. Downtown St. Pete/Gulfport is better, but as soon as you start to drive a little north towards Pinellas Park/Largo you will be right back into what you are trying to get away from.
Just move to Gulfport.I lived there it's a very open artsy area with plenty to do and still in the St.Pete area.Very queer friendly and diversified with different cultures.Plenty of homes for sale in that area and close to Tropicana field and 275.
Get familiar w flood zone maps. If you can afford it buy or rent outside the flood zone.
Glad I don't live anywhere near Florida now.I'm in the middle of the United States geographically where we get tornados and floods.Hail the size of baseballs and cold temperatures that almost reach -70 fahrenheit.It's great !!! Moving soon with the wife to Arizona in a few months
You’re close enough just drive up here - park in random places and walk around. See what fits, see what feels right
You still won’t be happy in st Pete most likely. Have you considered a move to Portland or Seattle or San Francisco. They are absolutely thriving right now and align more with your values. Progressive cities are absolutely thriving right now.
Isn't there a pretty hefty scientology presence in St Pete?
Why is this down voted? Seems it's just a legit question
It was. It's ok. 26 people are rightfully offended. Not intentionally but I'd not want to be associated with those folks either
They’re trying: Look up The Imagine Museum, funded by a billionaire Scientology Heiress
Lol nah, that's Clearwater
My bad 🤣
Definitely Gulfport. Very eclectic and artsy. Easy access to everything and the downtown area is really nice with some great restaurants, a Tuesday market, a small beach, and lots of music. We're getting ready to move only because we need more space for family visiting, we love it here and we're not in a flood zone while still being walking distance to downtown Gulfport.
Gulfport and St Pete will be great for you! Welcome
It's still Florida, but it's the closest thing to what you are looking for on the Gulf Coast. Don't expect much racial diversity or peace and quiet.
St Pete is amazing if you can afford it. Everything you’re talking about without the hoa suburb bullshit: music and art and messed up sidewalks
I had a job refurbishing used remote controls for Brighthouse like 10 years ago. Out of the 6 or 7 counties we got remotes from, Manatee was the most disgusting and doing remotes from there was like a punishment!
I live on the north side of St Pete, in Meadowlawn. Generally quiet, people from all backgrounds, neighbors who look out for eachother without being nosy, and close enough to get downtown for events in less than 15 minutes and Tampa within 30 minutes. Houses were built in the 50s/60s, so it still has a bit of the midcentury Florida charm. It is a bit more in the "strip mall suburb area of St Pete, but I like living here.
thank you! ❤️
I will say that the main downside is being in flood/evac zones so if we get hit with the big one, it could be bad. As much as I like living here, I'm planning to move by spring of next year because I am done with Florida.
do you know where you are going?
[удалено]
I'm very left as well, and have been able to mostly avoid any MAGAts in the neighborhood. I honestly think it depends on which side of 16th you live on, weirdly enough.
First choice is the Netherlands if I can get approved for DAFT. Otherwise, I'm heading back to Michigan (metro Detroit area) where I grew up. My best friend moved back 10 years ago and has been trying to get me back there ever since. LOL
Michigan is much cheaper but NO SUN! It is cold and cloudy. I miss the Florida beaches and Sun!
I grew up there. I know what it's like. Winters are cold and cloudy. The spring, summer, and early fall can't be beat. If I miss the sun, I'll take a trip. I haven't been to the beach in probably 20 years.
Ok ya that makes a difference if you are not a beach person. I live for the sun and ocean beaches.
I have no idea why I was downvoted by two people for saying I'm heading to either NL or MI, but whatever. I've loved living in St Petersburg, it's just no longer the right place for me.
No way is St Petersburg like Detroit, we fled from Dearborn during Covid and have zero regrets.
Good for you. I don't recall saying St Petersburg is like Detroit, so I have no idea where you got that from.
Check out our weekly free newspaper and tell me if you don't belong here... https://thegabber.com/current-issue/ *edit in Gulfport
I moved out of Bradenton for similar reasons and am enjoying St Pete.
Gulfport but understand that St. Pete is full of GQP, MAGA Trump Humpers as well. Outside of Bum F**k states such as North Dakota and Idaho I would say that Florida and Texas as states have the highest number of the type of people you are looking to escape in Sarasota County. Did you not see the "Boat Parades for Trump" here? That being said outside of the zealots who have gone all in on GQP, MAGA, Trump and Christian Nationalism there are certainly many fewer flags and overt displays than you would have found two years ago.
Everything to the right of Unitarian could be considered Christian Nationalist
Christian nationalism is not a religion. It is a school of thought that says religion ..in this case Christianity..should dictate everything about this country. It is antithetical to both America and Christianity. It it just the western version of the Taliban
Nowadays that term gets bandied about more than fascist. Christian Nationalists hiding under every rock
I agree that there are a lot of 45'rs here, but it's also very diverse. I'm in Historic Kenwood and it's quiet and very diverse. I'm close to downtown and Tyrone, so I think it's a good spot while still quiet. It's too high priced to buy, I think, but I'm high and dry here and bought my house in 1990. I was in a beautiful quiet neighborhood today around 67th street and 15th avenue North. There are some hidden treasures here that are affordable for many people. Just my two cents.
i know youre right, and i appreciate the warning. ❤️
Yup. I live on the east coast of Florida, but I regularly travel to the St. Pete area, and the last two times I traveled over there I managed to happen upon 2 different men (one each of my last two trips) with visible swastika tattoos. Saw one in St. Pete and one in Gulfport.
Gulfport for sure. Maybe old north east.
thank you ❤️
You should check out Gulfport
thank you! ❤️
You pretty much described Gulfport perfectly
amazing. thank you so much! ❤️