Is Clearwater, FL Safe to Buy? Home Safety Score 79/100
Score 79/100 · Risk: moderate-high · Water Grade C · Updated 2026-05-03
Clearwater has moderate-to-high risk. Several risk factors require careful evaluation.
Data: EPA SDWIS, FEMA NFIP, Census ACS, EPA Radon Zones Last verified: 2026-05-03
Looking at cost and property data together for Clearwater, remediation sits in the mid-range of the equity-share spectrum — a level that represents a real budget decision, though one that deliberate financial planning can accommodate for most households here.
What is a home safety score?
The home safety score (0-100) combines multiple environmental risk factors into a single number: water quality grade, lead contamination levels, flood zone exposure, radon risk, and air quality. A higher score means lower overall risk. The score helps homebuyers compare neighborhoods at a glance. Clearwater scores 79/100 with a "moderate-high" risk level.
What is the equity trap ratio?
The equity trap ratio measures estimated remediation costs as a percentage of median home value. A high ratio (above 5%) means fixing environmental issues could consume a significant portion of your home equity — a potential "trap" for buyers unaware of hidden costs. Clearwater's equity trap ratio is 1.2%.
Remediation Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Clearwater:
Cost ranges are estimates based on national averages. Actual costs vary by property. Get 3 quotes before proceeding.
Per-ZIP Home Safety Scores
Safety scores vary across Clearwater's 13 ZIP codes.
| ZIP Code | Score | Grade | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 33755 | 71 | B | View report → |
| 33756 | 71 | B | View report → |
| 33762 | 71 | B | View report → |
| 33764 | 71 | B | View report → |
| 33759 | 76 | B | View report → |
| 33760 | 76 | B | View report → |
| 33765 | 76 | B | View report → |
| 33761 | 81 | B | View report → |
| 33763 | 81 | B | View report → |
| 33757 | 86 | A | View report → |
| 33758 | 86 | A | View report → |
| 33766 | 88 | A | View report → |
| 33769 | 88 | A | View report → |
Home Safety Overview
Clearwater, Florida has moderate-to-high risk for homebuyers. The average home safety score is 79/100 across 13 ZIP codes. Several risk factors require careful evaluation during due diligence.
Safety Score Card
A composite view of Clearwater's key risk indicators:
| Risk Factor | Value | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Water Quality | Grade C (66/100) | Moderate risk |
| Lead Risk | 0.0008 mg/L | Low risk |
| Flood Risk | 85% in flood zones | Elevated risk |
| Radon | Zone 2 (Moderate) | Moderate risk |
| Air Quality | AQI 54 (Moderate) | Moderate risk |
Cost to Fix: Remediation Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Clearwater:
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Radon | $400 |
| Filtration | $600 |
| Flood Insurance | $2K |
| Pfas | $277 |
| Total (low estimate) | $2K |
| Total (mid estimate) | $3K |
| Total (high estimate) | $5K |
Cost ranges are estimates based on national averages and local data. Actual costs vary by property condition, contractor, and scope of work. Get 3 quotes before proceeding.
Per-ZIP Home Safety Scores
Home safety varies across Clearwater's ZIP codes. Lower scores indicate more risk factors:
| ZIP Code | Safety Score | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 33755 | 71 | B |
| 33756 | 71 | B |
| 33762 | 71 | B |
| 33764 | 71 | B |
| 33759 | 76 | B |
| 33760 | 76 | B |
| 33765 | 76 | B |
| 33761 | 81 | B |
| 33763 | 81 | B |
| 33757 | 86 | A |
| 33758 | 86 | A |
| 33766 | 88 | A |
| 33769 | 88 | A |
Safety scores range from 71 (33755) to 88 (33769) — a spread of 17 points.
Clearwater vs. Nearby Florida Cities
How Clearwater's overall risk compares to similar cities in Florida:
| City | Water Grade | Lead ZIPs Over Limit | Flood Claims | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clearwater | C | 0 | 2,133 | 622,343 |
| North Palm Beach | C | 0 | 272 | 618,746 |
| Saint Cloud | C | 0 | 188 | 646,698 |
| Saint Petersburg | D | 0 | 33,834 | 555,292 |
Homebuyer Safety Checklist for Clearwater
Before purchasing a home in Clearwater, Florida, complete these checks:
Water Quality
- Request the latest Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from the water utility
- Test tap water for lead, bacteria, and nitrates ($20-$50 for DIY kit)
Radon
- Conduct a radon test ($15-$30 for short-term kit, $150-$300 for professional)
- Clearwater is in Radon Zone 2 (Moderate risk) — testing is strongly recommended
Flood Risk
- Check the property's FEMA flood zone at msc.fema.gov
- Ask about flood history and past insurance claims
- 85% of Clearwater is in flood zones — verify insurance requirements
Lead Paint & Pipes
- For homes built before 1978: request lead paint disclosure
- For homes built before 1986: inspect plumbing for lead solder and pipes
- 69% of Clearwater homes built before 1986 — pipe inspection recommended
General
- Check for carbon monoxide detectors on every level
- Inspect for visible mold, water stains, or musty odors
- Verify the home's connection to a regulated public water system
Data Sources
- Water quality: EPA SDWIS
- Lead: EPA Lead and Copper Rule
- Flood: FEMA NFIP
- Radon: EPA Radon Zones
- Air quality: EPA AirNow
- Home values: U.S. Census Bureau ACS B25077
- Remediation costs: National cost model (EPA, Census, FEMA data)
Updated daily.
Water Quality Map: Clearwater, FL
Each dot represents a ZIP code. Color indicates water quality grade. Tap a dot for details.
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