(Mar 27, 2023)
From hilltop estates boasting panoramic views to family-friendly neighborhoods perfect for raising children, something here is sure to meet any need and budget.
With the entire city close at hand and multiple features right around each corner, living in Clermont offers an incredibly desirable lifestyle that continues to draw new residents daily.
Overview of Clermont, Florida and Its History
Clermont is a small town in Florida that was founded in 1884. Located on 16 square miles of land, Clermont is known for its thriving citrus plantations and rich history. Over the years, the town has attracted residents from all over the country who are drawn to its beautiful natural landscape and welcoming community.
Edward Denslow organized a group of citrus growers (mainly retired postal workers) and purchased land in Clermont, laying the foundation for one of Florida's premier agricultural communities. Over time, other settlers came to the area seeking a quiet life, making Clermont an attractive place to live and work. According to the 2020 population estimate, the city has a population of 45,877, making Clermont the 91st largest city in Florida.
Railroads once helped attract people to the area, bringing new commercial and residential development to the town. With its rich history and beautiful natural landscapes, Clermont has become a popular destination for people from all walks of life.
Today, Clermont is still known for its rich agricultural heritage and picturesque natural landscapes. With miles of hiking and biking trails, abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, and a thriving local community, it's easy to see why so many people love living in Clermont.
The city of Clermont has a historical village where you can see old buildings, the World War II Museum, the train depot, and Herring Hooks Schoolhouse, among others. Clermont is also home to Citrus Tower, which allows residents and visitors to connect to the city's roots.
Today, Clermont is home to a diverse population of residents, including over 71% white, 6% Asian, 12% black or African American, and smaller percentages of Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders, Native Americans, and people of other ethnicities.
Clermont is a great place for people of all backgrounds and ethnicities to settle, with plenty of work, recreation, and cultural enrichment opportunities. The median household income of $71,726 reflects the area's economic prosperity and makes Clermont an attractive place for those looking to settle down.
Real Estate Market & Homes For Sale in Clermont, Florida
The real estate market in Clermont is robust right now. Home prices have been rising steadily for the past few years, and there is a healthy inventory of homes for sale. Clermont is a great place to buy a home, and with interest rates still near historic lows, now is a great time to get into the market.
Clermont is a highly sought-after area, so homes tend to sell quickly. However, with patience and perseverance, you should be able to find the perfect home for you and your family. Several Clermont FHA homes for sale have family-friendly features such as private backyards, community pool access, and walking trails.
For growing families, many of these features are ideal for quality time spent together. Furthermore, with the range of affordable prices, families can find the perfect starter home that suits their needs.
The average price of a home in Clermont is $481,000, an increase of 20.3% from a year ago. This is slightly higher than the average price in Florida, which is $407,000. However, prices can change significantly depending on the home's size, location, and amenities.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Home in Clermont, Florida
If you're considering buying a home in Clermont, you're about to embark on a fantastic adventure, and you have a lot of exciting things to look forward to.
Before you dive head-first into the process, there are some crucial considerations that potential homebuyers should consider.
Location
Like real estate agents always say, "location is key" when buying a home. What type of neighborhood do you want to live in? Are there any school districts or churches nearby that matter to you and your family?
Is the location central enough for easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, and other amenities? Take the time to research these questions before deciding on your new home.
Cost of Living & Budget
In addition to the cost of purchasing your new home in Clermont, it's essential to be aware of the overall cost of living in the area. Are any hidden costs associated with moving, such as insurance or additional taxes, that may affect your budget?
Research all potential expenses beforehand so you can make sure they fit within your budget and don't come as a surprise later down the road.
Future Plans & Goals
Do you plan on staying in this house long-term, or do you anticipate selling it shortly? If so, what kind of return on investment can you expect from your purchase?
Make sure that whatever your plans or goals for this house are feasible to the current market conditions. Considering these factors will help ensure you buy a home that meets all your needs now and down the line.
Recreation Activities
Aside from its proximity to Orlando, Clermont also boasts several outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, swimming at Lake Louisa State Park, or taking in the surrounding views from Citrus Tower, just a few among many options.
There are also dozens of golf courses nearby and numerous restaurants perfect for an evening out with friends and family.
School Systems in Clermont, Florida
If you are considering a move to Clermont, you'll want to know all about the schools available in the area. Clermont has a wide range of excellent schools, from public to private.
The Public School System
Clermont is part of the Lake County Schools district, which serves around 42,000 students. The district offers a variety of academic programs, ranging from traditional instruction to specialized magnet schools and alternative learning centers.
These include the International Baccalaureate program, the Pre-Kindergarten evaluations, Advanced Placement (AP) classes, adult education, and ESL programs. There are also plenty of extracurricular activities like sports teams and clubs for students to get involved.
The top-ranking public schools in Clermont include:
- Cypress Ridge Elementary School
- Pinecrest Lakes Academy
- Imagine Schools At South Lake
- East Ridge Middle School
- Lake Minneola High School
- Lost Lake Elementary School
- Grassy Lake Elementary School
- Minneola Conversion Charter School
The Private School System
Several excellent private schools are available for those seeking private education options in Clermont. Some include:
- Angel Academy Christian School
- Better Life K4c Christian Academy
- Family Christian Center School
- Citrus Heights Academy
- Kingdom Preparatory Academy
- New Hope Christian Academy
- Land Of Lakes Montessori School
- Wesley Christian Academy
- Real Life Christian Academy
- Believers Christian Academy
- South Lake Montessori School
These schools provide high-quality education focusing on spiritual growth and development while offering smaller classes than public schools. They also provide after-school activities such as sports teams and clubs so that parents can be sure their children receive an all-around educational experience.
Higher Education Opportunities
Clermont also offers several higher education opportunities for those seeking to further their studies beyond graduation.
Lake Sumter State College has two campuses located nearby. It offers associate's and bachelor's degree programs in criminal justice technology, business administration, and health science technology.
Valencia College also has a campus nearby that provides various certificate programs and associate's degrees to help students jumpstart their careers or advance their current job skills.
Other colleges include:
- University of Florida
- Disney University
- Everglades University - Orlando
- Nova Southeastern University
- Seminole State College of Florida - Altamonte Campus
Charter Schools
Lastly, several charter schools in Clermont offer parents an additional educational option for their children. Charter schools are independent public schools that operate under a contract with the state or local government agency.
They grant them autonomy over most operations, including curriculum design, staffing, budgeting, and assessment processes. While still being accountable for student achievement results.
Examples of charter school options in Clermont include:
- FMI S.T.E.M. Academy
- Corner Charter Academy
- Chancery Charter High School
Trade Schools and Technical Colleges
There are a lot of trade and technical schools in Clermont, Florida. These schools offer training so that students can become professionals in various fields. The most popular areas include welding, HVAC technician, truck driving, and mechanics.
These colleges include:
- Southern Technical College
- Roadmaster Drivers School
- Florida Technical College
- Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Culture and Cuisine in Clermont, Florida
Clermont has several cultural attractions for visitors and residents alike to enjoy. The city boasts several museums, including the Clermont Historical Village Museum, the Lake Eustis Museum of Art, and the Leesburg Historical Museum.
Cultural events are held throughout the year, including Weekends at the Winery, Pastfinders Cultural and Genealogical Community Showcase, and Lake Mary Farmers Market.
The food scene in Clermont is thriving as well. There are a variety of restaurants offering delicious eats from all over the world. You can find classic American fares like burgers and hot dogs at local eateries such as The Southern on the 8th. You can also try something new with Indian-inspired dishes at Guru Indian House Restaurant.
If you're looking for something with a Mexican flair, head to San Jose's Original Mexican Restaurant, where they serve up dishes like chimichanga dinners, burritos, and enchiladas.
Fun Things to Do in Clermont, Florida
Clermont is one of the best cities to live in. You'll always be energized in this vibrant community with plenty of parks, restaurants, and activities to explore.
Whether looking for a fun day out with the family or a date night with your partner, Clermont has something for everyone.
The Clermont Waterfront Park
The Clermont Waterfront Park is a scenic spot overlooking Lake Minneola. You can relax by strolling along the lakeshore or participating in kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding.
The park also offers picnic areas and playgrounds for kids so that families can enjoy their time outdoors. Afterward, you can refuel at one of the nearby restaurants, like Lake Minneola Inn-Tiki Bar & Grill or Oakwood Smokehouse & Grill Clermont.
Presidents Hall of Fame
Clermont, Florida, is home to the President's Hall of Fame, the only museum in the world dedicated to all 44 presidents.
Open since 1960; it is unique museum housing some of America's most treasured artifacts and replicas, including a Lincoln Memorial statue, lifelike wax figures for each president, and presidential mementos.
Take in Some Culture at Citrus Tower
The Citrus Tower offers some of the best views in Central Florida from its observation deck, which rises 226 feet above ground level.
Built in 1956 as a tribute to the state's citrus industry, this tower also features an interactive museum where you can learn about local history and explore artifacts from the past. In addition, there are plenty of fun souvenirs available for purchase.
Visit Historic Downtown Clermont
For those who prefer their adventures on two feet rather than two wheels or paddles, historic Downtown Clermont offers plenty of attractions worth exploring.
This charming district contains dozens of shops and eateries offering everything from vintage clothing to delicious seafood dishes.
The area also hosts annual festivals, such as the Sunday farmer's market and First Friday food trucks, that let visitors taste authentic Floridian culture.
Lakeridge Winery & Vineyard Tours
Lakeridge Winery & Vineyard Tours offers visitors an exclusive experience in one of Florida's most prominent wineries. Enjoy complimentary wine tastings while learning about wine production and grape growing techniques from knowledgeable tour guides.
Afterward, explore their gift shop full of wines and snacks. They also have special events like music nights where guests can sip their favorite wines while listening to live bands play classic tunes.
Visit Lake Louisa State Park
Clermont is home to one of Florida's most beautiful state parks. At Lake Louisa State Park, you can spend the day exploring nature trails and discovering rare plants and animals.
If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or canoe for an enjoyable day on the lake. Fishing fans will also find plenty of opportunity here, with bass, sunfish, and catfish all plentiful in the area's waters.
Three Best Places to Live in Clermont, Florida
Clermont is one of the fastest-growing areas in Central Florida. With its proximity to Orlando and other popular attractions, it's no surprise that people are flocking to this vibrant city. However, with so Clermont FHA homes for sale in different neighborhoods, how do you know which neighborhood is right for you?
Here's a look at three of the best places to live in Clermont.
Ardmore Reserve
Ardmore Reserve is perfect for those who don't want to give up the charm of small-town living but still want access to all the amenities that come with big-city life.
This gated community offers spacious lots with plenty of room for you and your family to spread out, as well as a variety of amenities such as an outdoor pavilion, swimming pool, and kids' playground.
In addition, Ardmore Reserve has conveniently located a 5-minute drive to the Minneola turnpike and 30 minutes to Orlando downtown.
Legends
If you're looking for an active adult community that offers world-class amenities without sacrificing convenience or affordability, Legends might be right for you.
Located just minutes from downtown Clermont and major highways, this community offers resort-style pools, fitness centers, pickleball courts, walking trails, and more—all designed for an active lifestyle.
Homes here range from single-family homes to condos and villas. No matter what size or style of home you're looking for, there's something here just waiting for you.
Waterbrooke
Situated in central Clermont, Waterbrooke offers residents a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life without being too far away from everything that makes Clermont great. This gated community features townhomes and single-family homes, with plenty of options in both styles.
The community also boasts a swimming pool with plenty of seating area, walking trails, a dog park for furry friends, plus plenty of nearby shopping and dining options within walking distance.
Bottom Line
Clermont real estate is an excellent option for relocating to Central Florida. With its convenient location and accessible amenities, Clermont provides residents with everything they need to live a comfortable life.
If you're interested in relocating to the area, check out Clermont FHA homes for sale. You won't be disappointed.
(Mar 27, 2023)
