University Park
Prestigious Golf Course Living
About University Park
University Park is a prestigious 1,200-acre master-planned golf community located just east of University Parkway in Sarasota, offering luxury residential living centered around the University Park Country Club's 27-hole championship golf course. Developed starting in the late 1980s, University Park has matured into one of Sarasota's premier golf communities, known for its beautifully maintained landscape, luxurious homes, and comprehensive country club amenities. The community features approximately 1,200 homes across multiple neighborhoods, each with distinct character while sharing access to the highly-rated country club. University Park Country Club offers 27 holes of championship golf, 11 lighted Har-Tru tennis courts, croquet lawns, fitness center, and elegant clubhouse dining. The community attracts affluent retirees, successful professionals, and golf enthusiasts who appreciate the combination of prestige, amenities, and location. Real estate ranges from villas and condos starting around $400K to luxury custom estate homes exceeding $2 million on premium golf course lots. Living in University Park means enjoying resort-style amenities within a secure, well-manicured community while remaining just minutes from University Town Center (Sarasota's premier shopping destination) and 20 minutes from downtown Sarasota and beaches.
What Makes University Park Special
Lifestyle & Community in University Park
University Park offers a refined lifestyle centered on golf, tennis, and country club social activities. The community attracts predominantly affluent retirees and empty nesters who enjoy an active but sophisticated lifestyle. Days typically involve morning golf rounds or tennis matches, followed by lunch at the country club or at nearby University Town Center restaurants. The country club serves as the community's social hub with year-round events including golf tournaments, tennis events, wine dinners, charity galas, and holiday celebrations. Cultural activities are within easy reach at downtown Sarasota's Van Wezel, Opera House, and galleries (20 minutes). The community is safety-oriented with gated sections and 24-hour security patrol. Volunteer culture is strong with many residents involved in charitable organizations, church activities, and civic groups. Weekends often involve country club activities, mall shopping at UTC, or beach visits to nearby Siesta Key or Lido Beach. The demographic is generally older (median age 65+) and financially secure, creating a peer group for social connections. The pace is relaxed but engaged, ideal for those wanting an active retirement or semi-retirement lifestyle with quality amenities.
Best For:
Neighborhoods Within University Park
Estate Homes
Larger single-family homes on premium golf course lots. Prices typically $800K-$2M+ with beautiful golf views.
Villa Communities
Attached villa homes with maintenance-free lifestyle. Priced $500K-$800K, popular with retirees.
Cluster Homes
Duplex and quad units offering lock-and-leave lifestyle at accessible price points $400K-$650K.
The Preserves
Newer section featuring larger custom homes and updated designs. Prices $700K-$1.5M.
University Park Real Estate Market 2026
Property Types Available
Custom estate homes, villas, cluster homes, single-family residences, golf course homes
Market Insights
University Park real estate market in 2026 remains steady with consistent demand from retiring buyers, particularly from Northeast and Midwest markets. The community's established nature and comprehensive amenities support stable property values. Golf course homes with premium views command significant premiums over interior lots. Country Club membership is separate from home ownership—buyers should factor initiation and monthly fees into overall costs. Full membership initiation is approximately $50,000-$75,000 with monthly dues around $700-$1,200. Villa and cluster homes offer excellent value with lower maintenance responsibility. New construction is limited to remaining lots and teardown/rebuild opportunities. The market benefits from proximity to University Town Center (largest shopping destination in region), Sarasota Airport, and Interstate 75 access. Home turnover is moderate—many owners settle in for 10-20 year holds, creating stable communities. HOA fees are additional to any country club dues and cover community-level services and security.
Schools Serving University Park
University Park falls within Manatee County school district despite proximity to Sarasota. Kinnan Elementary is A-rated. Braden River High School is highly regarded. The community has fewer school-age children as demographics skew older, but families do relocate here for the amenities and neighborhood quality. Private school options are available nearby including Out-of-Door Academy.
Elementary
- • Kinnan Elementary (A-rated)
- • Emma E. Booker Elementary
Middle School
- • Sara Scott Harllee Middle
High School
- • Braden River High School (A-rated)
Things to Do in University Park
University Park Country Club
Country Club27-hole championship golf course, 11 tennis courts, croquet lawns, fitness center, and elegant clubhouse dining. Comprehensive amenities.
University Town Center (UTC)
Shopping & DiningSarasota's premier shopping destination with 200+ stores including Macy's, Nordstrom, Apple, Whole Foods, and 30+ restaurants.
Nathan Benderson Park
Recreation5 minutes to world-class rowing venue and 600-acre park with trails, fitness stations, and community events.
Sarasota Polo Club
Sports Events10 minutes to Sarasota Polo Club matches (November-April). Popular Sunday activity with tailgating culture.
Getting Around University Park
Airport Access
Sarasota-Bradenton Airport (SRQ) - 5 minutes
Highway Access
Interstate 75 - 5 minutes via University Parkway
Walkability
Walk Score: 25 (car-dependent) - Beautiful for walks within community, but external destinations require driving
University Park: The Complete Picture
✓ Pros
- +27-hole championship golf course
- +Comprehensive country club amenities
- +Proximity to University Town Center shopping
- +Excellent Sarasota Airport access (5 minutes)
- +Gated sections offer security
- +Well-established community with mature landscaping
- +Strong homeowner association services
- +Diverse housing options within community
⚠ Considerations
- −Country club membership fees are substantial
- −20-25 minutes to beaches
- −Car-dependent for most activities
- −Older demographic may not suit families
- −Some sub-communities have significant HOAs
- −Limited new construction opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions About University Park
Do I need country club membership to live in University Park?
No, country club membership is optional for University Park residents. However, approximately 60-70% of residents belong to the country club for social and recreational benefits. Full initiation is approximately $50,000-$75,000 with monthly dues around $700-$1,200. Different membership levels are available (full, golf, tennis, social). Non-members can still enjoy their homes and community grounds but miss out on club amenities and social events. Membership can significantly enhance the University Park lifestyle experience.
How much are homes in University Park?
University Park homes have a median price of $785,000 in 2026. Villa homes and cluster homes offer entry points from $400,000-$650,000. Standard single-family homes range from $700K to $1.2M. Estate homes on premium golf course lots typically sell for $1M-$2M+. New construction and heavily updated homes command premium prices. The variety within University Park allows different budgets and lifestyle needs to find suitable options.
Is University Park close to shopping and dining?
Yes, University Park is exceptionally well-located for shopping and dining. University Town Center (UTC), Sarasota's premier shopping destination, is just 5 minutes away with 200+ stores and 30+ restaurants. Whole Foods, Costco, and multiple grocery stores are nearby. The community itself has country club dining and a nearby commercial center. Downtown Sarasota is 15-20 minutes with its extensive dining scene. This shopping and dining access is a major advantage for University Park residents.
What amenities does University Park Country Club offer?
University Park Country Club offers extensive amenities: 27-hole championship golf course (three 9-hole courses), 11 lighted Har-Tru tennis courts, croquet lawns (rare in Florida), swimming pools, fitness center, pro shops, formal and casual dining, event spaces, and year-round social calendar. The club hosts golf tournaments, tennis leagues, wine events, holiday parties, and charity fundraisers. Croquet is particularly notable as University Park is one of few Florida communities with dedicated croquet facilities. The clubhouse itself is elegant with multiple dining rooms and event spaces.
Explore University Park
Nearby Sarasota Areas
Ready to Explore University Park Real Estate?
Contact George Predescu, REALTOR® with Horizon Realty International, for expert guidance on University Park homes for sale.