Seminole

About Seminole

Seminole is a fairly small town near the western coast of Florida, though it’s grown significantly in recent years. For years, the city’s most recognizable landmark was a large water tower painted by well-known artist Tom Stovall. Though the water tower has now been replaced with a public park, it remains one of the city’s great icons.

The History of Seminole

The land where Seminole is now located has been referenced as far back in history as the 1520s. The peninsula that makes up modern-day Pinellas County was part of the land invaded by the Spanish, who arrived in search of gold. However, the first homestead settlement wasn’t officially established until 1879, when the Mearles family arrived in the area. Together with their 10 children, Albert and Dell Mearles built a home that also served as the area’s post office. Families for miles around would come to the gathering place to hear news, collect their mail and enjoy each other’s company.

Seminole wasn’t officially declared a city until nearly a century later, in 1970. Throughout the second half of the 20th century, the community grew steadily.

Living in Seminole

The city of Seminole may be small, but there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the area. The parks and recreation department coordinates a number of programs for locals of all ages, including preschool children, teens and seniors. Thanks to a variety of fitness classes and spaces, an active lifestyle is very accessible in Seminole. You and your family can partake in sports and activities including pickleball, youth basketball, cross country and the city swim team. Programs include supervised field trips, movie nights and sleepovers in a specially designed teen room at the recreation center. For Seminole seniors, group day trips are a popular activity, as are regular luncheons and movie showings.

Arts and culture programs are also available at the Seminole Recreation Center. Painting, wood-craft and other artistic forms are taught in several different classes. The neighborhood dance studio provides dance training for children up to 18 years of age, while the city’s free Digital Den is a convenient place to access high-tech computers and software.

You’ll find many special events to enjoy in Seminole, which offer a great way to get to know your new neighbors. Flicks ‘N Fins is a regular summer event, with popular movies showing at the city pool. During the fall months, Fridays are host to Music in the Park, a live event that draws many locals. Community parties celebrate special events like the start of a new school year, providing entertainment for children and adults alike.

Seminole Schools

Seminole County Public Schools and Pinellas County Schools serve the public schools in the Seminole area. There are also a handful of private schools throughout the city, primarily faith-based campuses.

Resources for Moving to Seminole

If you're planning a move to Seminole, the following resources will be useful:

• Utilities: Seminole’s primary energy provider is Duke Energy, while Pinellas County supplies water and sewer services.
• Garbage and Recycling: Waste Management facilitates weekly trash collection services. If you’re planning to live in a single-family home, you can generally expect curbside pick-up.
• Transportation: The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority manages the public transportation services throughout the area.

Seminole Housing Information

Homes in Seminole tend to be slightly more expensive than those in nearby Tampa, with prices driven higher by the desirability of living in a quiet community with a small-town feel. You can find both new and established neighborhoods with a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly starter homes all the way up to expansive estates priced at several hundred thousand dollars. There are also condos and townhouses throughout the city, ideal if you’re looking for a low-maintenance property.