Dunedin just earned a national spotlight. Travel + Leisure named the coastal Pinellas County city one of the “10 Best Small Towns to Live in the U.S., According to Real Estate Experts.” The list highlights towns that offer access to healthcare and education, green spaces, cultural activities, and affordable housing. Dunedin checked every box.
Just north of St. Pete, this charming coastal town continues to shine, even after facing two major storms in recent years. With a population of approximately 36,000, Dunedin is the largest on the list, yet it still maintains its small-town charm.
Dunedin is a walkable and bikeable paradise in Pinellas County
You can bike there from downtown St. Pete along the scenic Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail. The 50-mile trail runs through the heart of the city, offering a unique way to explore the area. Kafe Racer, located along the trail, provides bike rentals so you can hop on and ride at your own pace. Built on a former railroad corridor, the trail offers a safe and green route for biking, walking, jogging, and skating.
Once you arrive, downtown feels like a step back to simpler times. Colorful storefronts, local restaurants, and cozy breweries line the walkable streets. Real estate advisor Jim Henkel calls Dunedin “one of the true small-town gems,” noting its access to natural beauty and historic charm. He highlights Honeymoon Island State Park, Caladesi Island, and the recently restored Dunedin Golf Club as top draws for homebuyers.
Exploring Hammock Park and more natural wonders
Beyond its natural appeal, Dunedin is also practical. The cost of living is about 6 percent lower than the national average, and the crime rate is 52 percent lower than the Florida average. Residents enjoy kayaking, beach days, and Gulf breezes year-round, along with community events and access to great parks.
One standout is Hammock Park, a 75-acre preserve at 1900 San Mateo Drive. The park includes five miles of wooded trails, a butterfly garden, a treehouse-themed playground, and a wildlife observation platform. It’s also featured in the “Great Florida Birding Trail Book,” making it a hotspot for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Rich cultural history on full display
Dunedin’s Scottish roots date back to 1885, when Scottish merchants John O. Douglas and James Somerville opened a general store and helped name the local post office Dunedin. The name pays tribute to Edinburgh’s Gaelic name, Dùn Èideann, meaning “castle on the rock.”
With its walkable downtown, natural beauty, and rich cultural history, Dunedin offers the perfect blend of livability and charm. Now, thanks to Travel + Leisure, the rest of the country is taking notice too.
