Updated November 3, 2026 · Local data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020–2024 5-year estimates
Clearwater at a glance
Local notes: Clearwater
The county seat stretches from Clearwater Beach on its barrier island, through downtown, to the newer Countryside area in the north. Beach condos, 1970s–80s single-family subdivisions and 55+ communities all trade here.
Hurricane Helene's 2024 storm surge flooded many homes on Pinellas barrier islands. Under the National Flood Insurance Program's substantial-damage rule (the "50% rule"), a heavily damaged or heavily renovated older home may have to be elevated or brought up to current flood code. That affects price, insurability and renovation plans, so ask for permits, damage determinations and an elevation certificate.
Condos are a big part of the Clearwater market. Florida's post-Surfside condo safety laws require milestone structural inspections and fully funded structural reserves for many buildings. Review the association's reserve study, milestone reports and any special assessments before you buy or list.
Housing stock in Clearwater
Clearwater has about 61,123 housing units. 45% are single-family homes and 36% are in buildings with 10 or more units, and 5% are mobile or manufactured homes. 56% of homes were built before 1980 and 16% were built in 2000 or later. The median resident is 46.6 years old. About 10% of housing units are seasonal or occasional-use homes, so part-time residents are a meaningful slice of the market.
Condo owners need an HO-6 policy. Read the master policy to see what the association covers and what falls on you.
What drives insurance prices in Clearwater
- Home age. The median build year here is 1978. That predates the 2002 Florida Building Code, so expect underwriters to ask about roof age, wiring and plumbing.
- Roof age and shape. This is often the single biggest factor in Florida. Hip roofs and newer roofs rate better.
- Wind mitigation features. Roof straps, impact openings and secondary water barriers earn credits that insurers must offer by Florida law.
- Flood. Standard homeowners policies exclude flood. Coastal and low-lying parts of Clearwater make a separate flood quote essential.
Clearwater vs. similar communities
| Community | Median value | Median year built |
|---|---|---|
| Clearwater | $361,300 | 1978 |
| Gulfport | $366,200 | 1963 |
| St. Petersburg | $371,100 | 1969 |
| South Pasadena | $350,200 | 1978 |
| Seminole | $348,500 | 1979 |
| Oldsmar | $380,300 | 1988 |
What happens after you ask
We read your request, then introduce you to a single licensed insurance agent who works in Clearwater. They reach out directly, typically the same business day. You decide whether to work with them, and there's no cost or commitment from you.
Frequently asked questions
Does homeowners insurance cover flooding in Florida?
No. Flood is a separate policy, through the NFIP or a private flood carrier.
Will I need a 4-point inspection in Clearwater?
Likely, for older homes. The median home here was built in 1978, and many carriers require a 4-point once a home is roughly 25–40 years old, depending on the carrier.
How does the 50% rule affect homes in Clearwater?
If a home's damage or planned improvements reach 50% of the structure's market value, NFIP rules generally require it to meet current flood elevation standards. That can mean elevating or rebuilding. Ask the local building department for any substantial-damage determination on the property.