Driftwood, St. Petersburg,FL

If you’re considering a move to St. Petersburg, Driftwood is a neighborhood that deserves a close look. Nestled in the southeast part of the city, this charming community offers a mix of peaceful residential streets and vibrant local spots that make it a wonderful place to call home. Driftwood’s laid-back vibe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a slower pace while still being connected to everything St. Pete has to offer. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or someone looking to settle down in a friendly neighborhood, Driftwood’s welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community are sure to make you feel right at home.

One of the standout features of Driftwood is its proximity to some fantastic local attractions. The neighborhood is just a short drive away from the beautiful Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, where you can explore hiking trails, observe wildlife, and enjoy family-friendly outdoor activities. Driftwood also boasts several parks and green spaces, perfect for picnics, jogging, or simply unwinding after a busy day. Food lovers will appreciate the variety of dining options nearby, ranging from cozy cafes to fresh seafood restaurants. Plus, with easy access to public transportation, getting around the city is a breeze.

For those who work or like to spend time downtown, Driftwood’s location is incredibly convenient—just about 10 to 15 minutes away by car. This means you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the tranquility of a neighborhood setting and the excitement of downtown St. Petersburg’s arts, culture, and nightlife scenes. Whether it’s catching a show at the Mahaffey Theater, browsing the exhibits at the Salvador Dalí Museum, or enjoying waterfront dining, everything downtown is within easy reach. All in all, Driftwood offers a perfect blend of suburban comfort and urban accessibility, making it an excellent choice for your next move.

13% of the Driftwood population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 13% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Driftwood demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 146 residents, Driftwood is notably smaller than many other St. Petersburg neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Driftwood has a population density of 4,336, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other St. Petersburg neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 49, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

The Driftwood crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Driftwood, home prices come in around $404,200, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Driftwood can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $1,798, rental rates in Driftwood are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Driftwood. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Driftwood can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.