Thinking about moving to St. Pete? Here’s your green light. WalletHub just ranked 182 U.S. cities by stress level by overall stress levels, looking at factors like work pressure, financial strain, family dynamics, and health and St. Petersburg came in at #115 out of 182. To put that in perspective, Miami ranked #41 and Jacksonville hit #45. So while other Florida cities are busy burning people out, St. Pete is just... coasting. In the best way.

What we love most about St. Pete is that it doesn’t try to be flashy. It just works. You get the creative energy of a city, the laid-back feel of a beach town, and the real-life perks of affordable living. It’s one of the rare places where you can live well without burning out.

Source: WalletHub

St. Pete Homes That Fit Your Life and Budget

Whether you’re browsing St. Petersburg homes online or working with a local realtor, you’ll notice there’s something here for almost every stage of life. In neighborhoods like Historic Kenwood, you'll find colorful Craftsman-style bungalows with big porches and friendly neighbors. Over in Coquina Key, waterfront views are still within reach, especially compared to other Florida markets. With a median sale price just over $350,000, well off of highs, now’s the time to explore your options!

The city offers walkable areas, access to the water, and charming districts that don’t feel overdeveloped. It’s the kind of place where you can actually buy a home and still have money left to enjoy your weekends.

Source: Saint Petersburg Housing Market Overview - Zillow

A Stress-Free Day in St. Petersburg

Weekends in St. Pete aren’t about survival mode. They’re about living. You might start your Saturday at the Saturday Morning Market with a bag of local produce and an arepa in hand, then wander into the Morean Arts Center or get lost in surrealism at the Dalí Museum.

For your caffeine fix, Bandit Coffee Co. is a go-to for clean design and great espresso, while Black Crow Coffee in Old Northeast leans cozy, eclectic, and community-driven.

And if we’re talking beaches, you’re in the sweet spot. St. Pete Beach is just a short drive away and consistently ranked among the best in the country. Want something quieter? Head up the coast to Indian Rocks Beach, Madeira Beach, or Treasure Island for a more laid-back, local feel. You can beach-hop all weekend without leaving the area, and sunset at Vinoy Park or the St. Pete Pier is always the perfect way to wrap up the day.

St. Pete isn’t just low-stress. It’s full of energy and color. The city was recently ranked the #5 Best City for Street Art in the U.S. by USA TODAY’s 10Best, and it totally lives up to the hype. With more than 600 murals across the city, especially around the Central Arts District and along Central Avenue, almost every walk turns into an art tour. Locals treat mural spotting like a casual sport. Visitors snap photos without even trying.

And if you’ve got a dog, you’re in the right place. Last year, WalletHub, St. Pete ranked as the #7 most pet-friendly city in America. St. Petersburg is full of dog parks and over 150 dog-friendly restaurants and cafés. Here, you’ll enjoy easy access to places like Fort De Soto Park, where your pup can run leash-free in the sand. You’ll spot dogs at North Shore Park, catching sea breezes at the pier, and lounging next to their humans at local breweries with water bowls at every table.

Infographic ranking Florida's most and least stressful cities in 2025, based on WalletHub data. Most stressed cities: Miami, Jacksonville, Hialeah. Least stressed cities: St. Petersburg, Pembroke Pines, Tallahassee. Created by Vreeland Real Estate.

Remote Work and Relaxation Coexists in St. Pete

St. Petersburg has quietly become a remote work haven. With coworking spots like Thrive DTSP, reliable internet, and a growing creative community, it's easy to stay productive without the stress. You can take meetings in the morning, then paddleboard in the afternoon. You can build your business and still have a life.

If you’re coming from a high-pressure market, the difference is noticeable right away. There’s less noise, more time, and plenty of places to hit reset. Wellness here is practical, not performative. Locals ride bikes on the Pinellas Trail, take outdoor yoga classes in North Straub Park, and make it to happy hour without needing a planner.

Considering a Move to St. Petersburg?

If you're ready to make the move, start with a team that truly knows the area. Vreeland Real Estate is one of the most trusted names in St. Petersburg real estate. We’ve helped hundreds of clients find the right fit, whether that’s a starter home in Crescent Lake or a dream home by the water.

We’ve been named among the top agents in the region, and we live here too. So we’re not just selling St. Pete — we’re part of the community. In the past 12 months alone, we’ve closed over 250 sales and we’re proud to have earned over 230 five-star Zillow reviews along the way.

If you’re ready to find a place that fits your life, your pace, and your budget, we’re here to help you make it happen.