Manatee vs Sarasota

Manatee and Sarasota Counties have grown up side by side. Manatee is located just north of Sarasota and just south of Tampa Bay. Here's a look at some interesting facts.

Manatee; Sarasota
Population: 306,779; 367,867
Square Miles: 740; 620
Registered Republicans: 86,698; 116,808
Registered Democrats: 64,076; 76,783
Starbucks: 4; 8
Golfcourses: 29; 40
Public School Students: 41,898; 41, 752
Starting teache salary: $35,000; $35,190
Births (2004): 3,496; 2,935
Hospitals: 4; 4
Median Home Price: $302,000; $352,700

Source: Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau; Sarasota County Government, plus others.