



Manatee County
Explore the Greater North Port metro →
- Population
- 429,792
- Area
- 742.76 sq mi (1,923.74 km²), 221.27 sq mi water
- Median age
- 49.6
- Households
- 176,747
- Persons per household
- 2.4
- Median household income
- $78,457
- Median house value
- $391,400
Demographics: 2020–2024 ACS
Sun, surf, and serenity await in Manatee County, Florida! Bradenton, the county seat, offers a vibrant cultural scene with museums and art galleries. But the real star of the show is the stunning coastline. Relax on pristine beaches, kayak through mangrove forests teeming with life, or encounter gentle giants on a manatee watching tour. Nature lovers will find adventure in Myakka River State Park, home to alligators, bobcats, and a vibrant ecosystem. Hike or bike along scenic trails, or take a boat tour through the lush wilderness. History buffs can explore Spanish moss-draped cemeteries and pioneer settlements, remnants of a bygone era. Manatee County promises an unforgettable Florida experience, blending natural beauty with cultural charm.
Local News

McClatchy layoffs could impact local journalism with cuts to Bradenton Herald staff
Explore the McClatchy group layoffs, where AI is given more, and local reporters are getting removed from the news.

Bradenton Times Podcast: Thomas Schwarz, Bradenton City Council candidate
Coming up this Sunday: Mitch Maley and Dawn Kitterman are joined by Thomas Schwarz to discuss his campaign.

The Islander Newspaper E-Edition Wednesday, September, 30, 2026

AID announces agency closure
Cornelia Zanetti, president for some 15 years of the organization known as All Island Denominations, an affiliation of the island’s […]

Holmes Beach roadwork continues, snarls island traffic
Work replacing a water main at the Marina Drive-56th Street intersection in Holmes Beach, shown above on Sept. 25, has closed the intersection and mucked up traffic since it began in August, but there’s hope it will end soon. Paving was set to begin Sept. 28 but also was pending…