ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Be proud, Sarasota. A national news magazine thinks you're awesome.
U.S. News and World Report has issued its 2019 Best Places to Live listing, and Sarasota came in at No. 18, one step above Washington, D.C.
"Warm temperatures year-round, award-winning beaches and a thriving arts and cultural scene have made Sarasota a go-to place for retirees and families, not to mention a handful of celebrities (including Stephen King and Rosie O'Donnell)," the magazine said.
The magazine also said Sarasota has "great restaurants and plenty of shopping options."
"Living in Sarasota has elements of what many consider paradise, mixed with some hints of reality," it said.
Tampa came in at No. 56, and the magazine said residents "enjoy both a laid-back beach lifestyle and the amenities of a large metropolitan area." And, Lakeland was ranked at No.59, with the magazine saying the city "is infused with Old Florida history and natural beauty."
The No.1 city on the list was Austin, Texas.
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