Do you want to retire in the Sunshine State, but skip the crowded streets, expensive housing, and high crime rates of larger tourist cities? Then, Bradenton, Florida might be right for you!

Why Retire In Bradenton, FL?
Bradenton, Florida, self-styled “The Friendly City,” has a population close to 60,000. This means residents can find friendly, quiet neighborhoods and local businesses, while also enjoying some of the perks of larger city living. In fact, Bradenton has one of the highest senior-friendly amenities per capita ratings; shopping and dining, arts and entertainment, a good public transportation system, and excellent healthcare options. And, with its proximity to an international airport (Sarasota-Bradenton), this city offers ease of travel to globetrotting retirees.
Situated on the west coastline of Florida, with Tampa Bay on one side and the Manatee River on the other, Bradenton enjoys some of the state’s best water views and beachfront living. And, with some of the state’s mildest weather (the average local temperature is 60 degrees!), every day is a great day for water sports enthusiasts.
Retiree Sites To See
Bradenton, FL is renowned for its thriving art community, centered around the specially-zoned 36-acre Village Of The Arts, which is located in a reclaimed and revitalized area of town. Here, homes actually do double-duty as galleries and studios! The town also attracts artists with the ArtCenter Manatee – an art education and appreciation center housing galleries, classrooms, an art library, and an artists’ market.
Bradenton is also home to Manatee Memorial Hospital and a number of other modern medical facilities. For more specialized healthcare needs, the nearby cities of St. Pete, Sarasota, Tampa, and Clearwater have plenty of top-of-the-line facilities and medical specialists.
Bradenton 55+ Communities
There are a number of quality 55+ communities in and around Bradenton! Housing prices hover in the low to mid 130s. The newest residential areas are found in the eastern part of town. But, some of the older neighborhoods have the friendly diversity and appeal that retirees are looking for.
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