| Sarasota County is part of the Sarasota-Bradenton-Venice Metropolitan Statistical Area in the central west coast of Florida. The total area is 725 square miles with 154 square miles of it is water. Incorporated communities in Sarasota County are the City of North Port, Venice, Town of Longboat Key and Sarasota, the county seat. The Gulf of Mexico borders Sarasota, and Sarasota Bay separates portions of it, which is made up of the mainland and barrier islands. Sarasota is known for its clean air, sunny climate, and sparkling beaches. It is a great place to live, work and raise a family not only because of its recreational and cultural scene, but because of its small town ease of living. Other great aspects of Sarasota County are the thriving business climate, along with top rated schools and affordable cost of living. Sarasota is home to many cultural activities such as the Florida West Coast Symphony, the Sarasota Music Festiva which isl a three-week event of international importance, Sarasota Ballet, Sarasota Opera, The Players, and numerous other musical, dance, artistic, and theatrical venues. |