Calusa Manor, Coral Gables, FL

Calusa Manor Neighborhood Overview

Calusa Manor: A Serene, Established Coral Gables Enclave

Nestled in the northern quadrant of Coral Gables, Calusa Manor is a quiet, residential neighborhood prized for its mature landscaping, spacious lots, and a strong sense of community. Unlike the bustling downtown "Gables" core with its Mediterranean Revival architecture, Calusa Manor offers a more relaxed, suburban feel characterized by mid-century and modern homes set along winding, tree-canopied streets. Its location provides an ideal balance: a retreat-like atmosphere just minutes from the world-class amenities, employment centers, and international buzz of Coral Gables, Miami, and the Dadeland business district.

The neighborhood's history is intertwined with the broader post-war development of South Florida. Developed primarily in the 1950s and 1960s, Calusa Manor was built to accommodate the growing professional class seeking quality homes in the prestigious Coral Gables school district. The name itself evokes Florida's indigenous history, adding a layer of local character. Its position north of Sunset Drive and west of Le Jeune Road (SW 42nd Ave) offers exceptional accessibility to major thoroughfares like US-1, the Dolphin Expressway (SR 836), and the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826), making commutes to Downtown Miami, Brickell, and Miami International Airport remarkably efficient.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Calusa Manor is predominantly composed of single-family homes, with architectural styles ranging from classic Florida ranch and Mid-Century Modern to larger, updated two-story residences. Lot sizes are typically generous for Coral Gables, often exceeding 10,000 square feet, allowing for expansive yards, pools, and lush tropical greenery—a key differentiator from denser areas. The median home value of approximately $391,500 reflects a market with a mix of original, well-maintained homes and significantly renovated or rebuilt properties, with prices ranging from the high $300,000s for fixer-uppers to over $700,000 for fully modernized estates.

Calusa Manor is overwhelmingly an owner-occupied community, with a rental rate significantly lower than the Miami-Dade County average. This high rate of ownership fosters neighborhood stability and pride. Recent market trends show steady appreciation, driven by the enduring demand for Coral Gables addresses, the neighborhood's lot sizes, and its top-tier school zoning. While not subject to the strict architectural review of the City's historic districts, many homes have seen substantial reinvestment, with buyers valuing the opportunity to customize on sizable parcels.

Lifestyle & Amenities

Residents enjoy a lifestyle centered on convenience and family-friendly recreation. While primarily residential, Calusa Manor's perimeter and nearby corridors offer essential shopping and dining. The Shops at Sunset Place and the Shops at Merrick Park are short drives away, providing high-end retail, cinema, and diverse restaurants. Daily needs are met at nearby plazas along Sunset Drive and Red Road (SW 57th Ave), featuring supermarkets, banks, and casual eateries. The neighborhood itself is highly walkable and bikeable for leisure, with low traffic volumes and shaded sidewalks.

Proximity to major parks is a significant amenity. The renowned Venetian Pool is just to the south, and the sprawling Tropical Park—with its sports fields, aquatic center, walking trails, and festival grounds—is immediately to the north and west. Public transit is accessible via Miami-Dade Transit bus routes along major arteries, with the Douglas Road Metrorail Station a short drive away, connecting residents to the broader county transit system. The overall vibe is one of tranquil, convenient living where residents can quickly access the vibrant Coral Gables and Miami scene but return to a peaceful home environment.

Schools & Education

Calusa Manor is zoned for the highly sought-after Coral Gables school district, a primary driver of its real estate demand. Students typically attend Coral Gables Elementary School, Ponce de Leon Middle School, and the iconic Coral Gables Senior High School. These are all "A"-rated schools within the Miami-Dade County Public School system, known for strong academic programs, extensive extracurricular activities, and the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program at the high school level.

In addition to these exceptional public schools, the neighborhood is surrounded by a plethora of top-tier private and parochial institutions, including Gulliver Preparatory, Riviera Day School, and St. Theresa Catholic School, among others. The presence of the University of Miami just a few miles to the south further enriches the educational environment. For families, this access to a continuum of high-quality educational options, from elementary through university, represents a cornerstone of the neighborhood's value proposition.

Community & Demographics

Calusa Manor is characterized by a stable, family-oriented demographic profile. The median household income of approximately $81,599 indicates a community of educated professionals, including university staff, healthcare workers, and business executives. The population is culturally diverse, reflecting the broader South Florida mosaic, with a significant presence of both long-term residents who have raised families in the area and newer buyers attracted by the schools and location.

The age distribution is typically mixed, with a strong concentration of middle-aged homeowners (35-54) and school-aged children, alongside a segment of empty-nesters who have aged in place—a testament to the neighborhood's enduring appeal. The community character is active yet private, with neighborly interaction often centered around block parties, school events, and casual encounters while walking dogs or tending to gardens. There is a palpable pride of ownership, evident in the well-kept properties and manicured streetscapes.

Real Estate Market Insights

For real estate professionals, Calusa Manor represents a compelling market segment within Coral Gables. It offers a more accessible price point for entry into the coveted Gables school district compared to the historic, higher-priced areas south of Miracle Mile. The neighborhood's investment potential is bolstered by consistent demand from families prioritizing education, lot size, and a quieter lifestyle. The trend of teardowns and significant renovations is a key market dynamic, as buyers capitalize on the value of the land to build custom dream homes.

Current buyer/seller dynamics show a competitive but balanced market. Well-priced, move-in ready homes in good condition attract multiple offers, while properties requiring updates present value-add opportunities. The median home value, while healthy, still leaves room for equity growth, especially as Coral Gables' overall prestige continues to rise. For agents, understanding the nuanced appeal of Calusa Manor—its schools, lot sizes, and convenient tranquility—is crucial

Calusa Manor Market Data

Top Real Estate Agents in Calusa Manor, Coral Gables

Nearby Neighborhoods in Coral Gables, FL

← Back to all Coral Gables, FL real estate agents

← Back to all Florida real estate agents