News & Blogs for Sarasota's LGBT community.

U.S. News ranked Sarasota #1. Here's why we KNOW we're #1!

4/3/2024

U.S. News named Sarasota Florida as the #1 best place to live in the Sunshine state. U.S. News reported that Sarasota offers a unique blend of vibrant arts, beachy atmosphere, and rapidly growing food culture. In summary, the U.S. News said:

Sarasota's appeal is broadening beyond retirees to include young professionals, especially in areas like the Rosemary District, known for its eclectic murals and modern living spaces. Sarasota is celebrated for its outdoor activities, with beautiful beaches like Lido Key and Siesta Key. The city's cultural scene is rich with the Sarasota Orchestra, the Asolo Repertory Theatre, and the Ringling Museum of Art, among others. While the cost of living and housing prices are on the rise, the absence of state income tax and potential property tax benefits through the state’s homestead exemption help balance expenses. The weather in Sarasota is warm year-round, though summers can be hot and humid. The city's infrastructure is evolving with its growth, making a car essential for getting around, despite improvements in public transit and increasing popularity of bicycling. The community is diverse, with a significant retiree population but a growing number of young professionals and families, supported by local colleges and a robust public school system. The job market is healthy, with opportunities especially in the service, hospitality, and healthcare sectors, driven by the region's status as a tourist destination and its elderly population.

Here's why we KNOW we're #1!

SarasotaOUT.com has been featuring Sarasota as a growing space for LGBTQ+ individuals for the last 7 years. SarasotaOUT.com stands as a pivotal platform dedicated to uniting and fortifying the LGBTQ+ community through spotlighting non-profits, advocating for inclusivity, and promoting LGBTQ+ friendly events and businesses. It's a platform that not only highlights the inclusivity of Sarasota but also actively participates in fostering a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies. Below are the reasons SarasotaOUT.com knows Sarasota is #1.

The ALSO Youth organization, founded in 1992, offers crucial support to LGBTQ youth through education, peer support services, and advocacy. Its Drop-in Center provides a safe space for teens to engage in healthy dialogues about LGBTQ issues and focuses on support and empowerment for LGBTQ youth, highlighting the community's dedication to supporting young individuals.

Project Pride SRQ stands out as a significant organization in the area, dedicated to expanding awareness and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community through strategic partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and governments. Their mission encapsulates fostering an all-inclusive community where equality, support, and celebration prevail. Events such as the annual Grand Carnival showcase Sarasota's commitment to diversity.

Sarasota's nightlife is enriched by its LGBTQ+ community, with events like the Drag Queen Bingo Extravaganza at McCurdy's Comedy Club, a monthly sell-out affair that will have you screaming with laughter. The Purple Rhino Lodge stands out as a home base for the community, operating as a non-profit membership club that offers a plethora of activities, including weekly drag shows, themed bingo nights, piano bar evenings, and dinners. Importantly, it channels its proceeds to local AIDS charities, illustrating the vibrant and philanthropic spirit of Sarasota's LGBTQ+ nightlife.

For the LGBTQ+ adult population, Sarasota boasts a variety of social and networking opportunities. Prime Timers Sarasota, for instance, organizes social activities for mature gay and bisexual men, fostering friendships and community spirit. The city also boasts events like the highly popular G2H2: Gay Group Happy Hour, offering a laid-back environment for community members to connect while visiting different LGBTQ+ friendly venues.

The cultural scene in Sarasota is equally inclusive, with events like the OUT@Asolo Rep series at the Asolo Repertory Theatre, which combines art with social activism. The Diversity chorus, Sarasota's LGBTQ+ choral group, exemplifies diversity within the community.

Sarasota's calendar is packed with LGBTQ+ friendly events, including the Big Gay Beach Party, and multiple pride events like The Fabulous Arts Foundations 3 day Pride festival and Sarasota Pride. These events reflect the community's vibrant spirit and dedication to inclusivity beyond Pride Month. To view more LGBTQ+ Friendly events visit SarasotaOUT.com's event calendar.

Sarasota's LGBTQ+ community thrives not only in arts and nightlife but also in sports, boasting inclusive teams that welcome everyone. "A League of Our Own" is not just a clever name but a spirited LGBTQ+ bowling league that rolls strikes for both competition and camaraderie. Similarly, the LGBTQ+ Kickball league offers a lively and engaging way to enjoy the outdoors, make new friends, and stay active, proving that Sarasota's commitment to diversity and inclusivity extends well beyond the traditional venues and into the realm of sports. "Go Sports!"

Sarasota's vibrant atmosphere is further enriched by a diverse array of LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ-friendly businesses, from cozy cafes like BLVD Cafe, and unique boutiques like The Bazaar at Apricot & Lime to professional services like Richard Dean Insurance, just to name a few, all which embrace and support the community. For those looking to explore, connect, or support these inclusive establishments, SarasotaOUT.com's business directory serves as a comprehensive guide, showcasing the city's commitment to diversity and inclusivity across all sectors.

Sarasota's recognition as the #1 Best Place to Live in Florida for 2023-2024 is not only a testament to its beautiful landscapes and cultural offerings but also to its unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. This distinction highlights Sarasota as a model of diversity and inclusivity, where everyone is celebrated and supported.

Tell us why you think Sarasota is #1 below in the comments. ⬇️

Here's why we KNOW we're #1!

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