Reviewed movers in Clearwater
What to know when moving to Clearwater, FL
TL;DR: Clearwater at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 42.3% of residents rent and the median household income is $59,613.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to outdoor spaces like Honeymoon Island State Park, rated 4.7 stars by over 23,000 visitors.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 22%, budget carefully to manage costs.
- Commute:
- 8% use public transit, making it a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for 44.4 inches of rain annually, so invest in good rain gear.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Clearwater, with a population of 28,057, presents a mix of economic backgrounds, reflected in its median household income of $59,613 and a significant poverty rate of 22%. About 24.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, indicating a moderately educated community. With 42.3% renting, housing costs are a notable factor, as the median gross rent is $1,340. Annual rainfall of approximately 44.4 inches means residents should be prepared for a fair amount of wet weather.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for low housing costs, as the community faces a significant poverty rate.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,340, while the median owner-occupied home value is $300,200.
- 24.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, highlighting a community with some higher education.
- The poverty rate stands at 22%, which may affect the overall economic landscape.
- 42.3% of the population rents, indicating a significant rental market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Schools & Higher Ed
Clearwater has access to a total of 9 postsecondary institutions, providing options for higher education in the area.
- Aveda Institute-Tallahassee
- Center for Neurosomatic Studies
- Keiser University - Clearwater
- National Aviation Academy of Tampa Bay
- Pinellas Technical College-Clearwater
- Ultimate Medical Academy
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Clearwater receives about 44.4 inches of rain annually, with an average of 97 rainy days. The region enjoys a warm climate, with no snowfall reported.
- Honeymoon Island State Park - 4.7 stars from 23,812 reviews
- Pier 60 Park - 4.7 stars from 12,613 reviews
- Sand Key Park - 4.7 stars from 10,223 reviews
- Clearwater Beach - 4.7 stars from 5,108 reviews
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Pinellas County, where Clearwater is located, the unemployment rate is 4.3% as of December 2025, with a labor force of 499,205 people.
- Unemployment rate: 4.3% (December 2025)
- Employed: 477,800
- Labor force: 499,205
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
