In another program, a glass-bottom boat named the Carefree Learner is used to teach students about marine biology. The arts scene is quite active with more than 1,000 county residents working full time in arts-related jobs, according to the Sarasota County Arts Council. There are a number of different cultural amenities such as theater, jazz, ballet, opera, art museums and galleries and international film festivals. Sarasota County hosts several national and international film festivals throughout the year, including the Cine-World International Film Festival and Project Black Cinema. There are tons of outdoor activities that can easily fill up a calendar.
Water sports are plentiful and the beaches are picturesque.
Residents and visitors enjoy the many professional boating events including the Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix and the Labor Day Regatta. Those who love golf don't have to look any further than the county's 65 public and private courses. Baseball enthusiasts can enjoy a day watching the Cincinnati Reds in spring training. Sarasota earned its No. 1 ranking based on its incredible economic outlook, moderate cost of living index, diverse industries, exceptional healthcare, high educational standards and an unbeatable quality of life. For those reasons and many more, Sarasota is the best place to live and work.