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Wondering if Stuart, Florida is a good place to live? Looking at Stuart as a place to move in Florida means you're likely thinking about owning your own slice of paradise without the tourist crowds or sky-high prices.
This East Coast Floridian city offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with small-town charm, pristine nature, and a thriving community.
With a current population of 20,689 and an annual growth rate of over 3%, Stuart has seen a nearly 18% population increase since 2020. That kind of growth doesn’t happen accidentally—it reflects the city’s rising appeal.
Tucked along the Treasure Coast in Martin County, Stuart offers a rare blend of small-town charm, coastal access, and a lifestyle that balances relaxation with opportunity.
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What makes Stuart, Florida a good place to live?
Stuart offers a rare mix of affordability, natural beauty, and community spirit.
Unlike larger Florida cities, it maintains a small-town feel while offering access to healthcare, a walkable downtown, and strong local schools.
Whether you're starting fresh, raising a family, or planning for retirement, the Stuart, Florida lifestyle is low-stress and high-reward.
Top neighborhoods in Stuart
Stuart has a neighborhood for just about every kind of homeowner, from the avid boater to the weekend bruncher.
Sailfish Point
This private, gated, oceanfront community offers luxury living with direct water access. It’s exclusive and built for those who want privacy and a view.
North River Shores
North River Shores is a boating-friendly area with wide canals and larger homes. It's ideal if you're looking for more space without sacrificing convenience.
Downtown Stuart
Want walkable streets, art fairs, and being steps from local cafés and boutiques? Downtown Stuart is your spot.
Rocky Point
A laid-back waterfront neighborhood with a strong local feel. It’s popular with both retirees and families.
South Sewall’s Point
Sitting between two waterways and offering tranquility without isolation, South Sewall's Point is a magnet for anyone wanting natural beauty and stunning luxury homes.
Each neighborhood has its own personality, but all share that laid-back, coastal energy Stuart is known for.
Cost of living in Stuart vs. other Florida coastal towns
Living near the beach usually comes with a high price tag—but Stuart manages to keep things balanced.
Stuart, Florida is noticeably more affordable than places like West Palm Beach or Naples.
Housing
Although Stuart's waterfront properties are expensive, more affordable housing options are widely available—especially compared to larger coastal cities in Florida.
Utilities and transportation
Utility costs in Stuart are generally consistent with the Florida state average. Downtown residents often save on transportation thanks to the area’s walkability and access to local transit.
Daily costs
Stuart's groceries, healthcare, and entertainment are priced on par with similar mid-sized Florida cities. Dining out is often more affordable than in larger metro areas like Miami or Tampa.
Stuart lets you enjoy the coastal lifestyle without blowing your budget. This is especially true when you compare Stuart to Florida’s more high-profile beach towns.
Outdoor lifestyle and recreation
If your idea of a good weekend involves the water, you’ll feel right at home here.
Boating and fishing
Stuart’s nickname, the “Sailfish Capital of the World,” says it all. With access to the river and the ocean, boating is a way of life.
Beaches
From family-friendly Stuart Beach to snorkeling at Bathtub Reef Beach, the coastline is pristine and inviting.
Golf
Courses like The Florida Club and Willoughby Golf Club keep golfers busy year-round.
Nature trails
Parks like Halpatiokee and Jonathan Dickinson offer hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.
Water sports
Paddleboarding, kayaking, and diving are all part of the local rhythm.
Now you see why Stuart isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to live outside.
What’s the job market like?
Stuart isn’t a major metro center, but its job market is stable and steadily expanding.
The local economy supports a mix of essential industries and offers solid in-person and remote work opportunities.
Healthcare
Cleveland Clinic Martin Health is a great example of one of the area’s largest employers. It offers clinical care, administration, and support services positions.
Tourism and hospitality
With year-round visitors drawn to its beaches and events, Stuart maintains a strong hospitality sector that fuels jobs in restaurants, lodging, and local attractions.
Marine industry
Surrounded by waterways, Stuart has a robust marine economy—including boat manufacturing, repair services, and yacht sales.
Professional services
A growing number of legal, financial, and consulting firms serve the region, making it a viable market for white-collar professionals.
Remote work
Reliable infrastructure and a low-stress lifestyle make Stuart an appealing base for remote workers seeking balance without isolation.
Community events and local culture
Stuart may be small, but it is mighty. The town’s event calendar includes festivals, live music, and cultural gatherings that bring the community together year-round.
Stuart air show
A high-energy weekend featuring stunt pilots, vintage aircraft, and family-friendly attractions.
Downtown Stuart art festival
The historic downtown turns into an outdoor gallery, showcasing regional and national artists.
Stuart boat show
One of the largest on Florida’s east coast, attracting marine vendors, boaters, and enthusiasts from across the state.
Rocking the Riverwalk
Live music on the waterfront every Sunday—casual, free, and a local favorite.
Taste of Little Italy
A celebration of Italian food, music, and culture that draws big crowds and bigger appetites.
Why choose Stuart for your next home?
Stuart delivers the coastal lifestyle without the crowds or chaos.
In Stuart, you get the beaches, sunshine, and easy outdoor living pace without the jumbo price tags or constant traffic of Florida’s larger cities.
Some come for the water, others for the quiet or the community feel. Either way, it's the place that’s easy to imagine calling home.
Ready to claim your slice of Stuart, FL?
Stuart isn’t just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
Lock in your rate today with MIDFLORIDA’s local mortgage experts:
- Save thousands with competitive rates (and no state income tax!)
- Close faster with a lender who lends in Stuart’s hidden-gem neighborhoods
- Skip the stress—we handle the paperwork, you pick your paradise
Apply for your mortgage with MIDFLORIDA in seconds.
Prefer to talk first? Call (863) 688-3733 or toll-free (866) 913-3733 for a no-pressure strategy session.
