Greyhawk Landing vs University Park: Gated Community Showdown
Greyhawk Landing in Bradenton and University Park in Sarasota are two of the most established gated communities on Florida's Suncoast. Both deliver security, resort-style amenities, and access to top-rated schools. But they serve different buyer profiles with different budgets and lifestyle expectations. Here is an in-depth comparison to help you decide.
Community Scale and Character
Greyhawk Landing has approximately 1,100 homes across neighborhoods including Deerwalk, Eagle Run, Falcon Trace, Fox Trails, Hawk's Hammock, Heron Pointe, Osprey Cove, Owl's Edge, and Turtle Bay. University Park is slightly larger with about 1,200 homes and villas spread across 32 distinct neighborhoods. Both communities are mature and well established, with homes built from the early 2000s through recent years. Greyhawk Landing has a family-forward, neighborhood feel. University Park has a country club atmosphere centered on golf.
Home Prices
As of mid-2026, Greyhawk Landing has a median list price near $667,000. University Park has a median list price around $799,000, with homes selling at an average of approximately $868,000 over the past year. University Park's range is broader, from maintenance-free villas starting around $270,000 to estate homes exceeding $2.5 million. Greyhawk Landing offers more inventory in the $500,000 to $750,000 range, making it the more accessible choice for families and move-up buyers looking for space and value.
Golf and Amenities
University Park is built around a championship golf course. Resident membership is required through the community's governing documents, and a Recreational District assessment appears on the annual tax bill in addition to HOA fees. Amenities include golf, tennis, pickleball, racquetball, shuffleboard, a fitness center, a pool, a playground, and walking trails. Greyhawk Landing does not have a golf course but offers two clubhouses, two resort-style pools with waterslides, tennis and basketball courts, soccer and softball fields, a dog park, a fishing dock, and over two miles of trails. If golf is the centerpiece of your lifestyle, University Park is the natural fit. For buyers who want diverse, family-focused recreation without mandatory club assessments, Greyhawk Landing delivers more variety at lower cost.
Fees and Cost of Ownership
Greyhawk Landing HOA is approximately $50 per year with CDD assessments of $2,234 to $3,798 annually. University Park HOA fees range from $553 to $2,638 per month depending on the neighborhood, with additional Recreational District assessments on the tax bill. These University Park fees cover grounds maintenance, building maintenance, roads, the pool, security, cable TV, internet, and recreation facilities. The annual cost of ownership at University Park is substantially higher than Greyhawk Landing, reflecting the country club infrastructure and mandatory membership model.
Location and Schools
Greyhawk Landing is located off SR-64 in Bradenton with direct access to Lakewood Ranch shopping, dining, and highly rated Manatee County schools including B.D. Gullett Elementary, Carlos E. Haile Middle, and Lakewood Ranch High School. University Park sits off University Parkway in Sarasota, closer to University Town Center mall, downtown Sarasota, and Sarasota County schools. Both locations offer convenient Interstate 75 access and are within 20 to 30 minutes of Gulf beaches. The right choice depends on your preferred school district and daily commute.
Which Should You Choose?
University Park is purpose-built for buyers who want a full country club lifestyle with golf at its core. Greyhawk Landing is designed for families and active adults who want exceptional gated-community living at a lower total cost. Both communities are well maintained, hold their value, and sit in one of the most desirable parts of the Suncoast. The decision comes down to lifestyle priorities and budget tolerance for ongoing fees.
For a comprehensive overview of the community, amenities, schools, and more, read our Greyhawk Landing Complete Guide. If you have questions about buying or selling in Greyhawk Landing, contact John Belt, REALTOR® with Keller Williams On The Water.