Fort Myers is located in Southwest Florida in Lee County, along the Caloosahatchee River where it meets the Gulf of Mexico. The city sits at the heart of the Fort Myers-Cape Coral metropolitan area, one of Florida's fastest growing regions.
Fort Myers is ideally positioned near some of Florida's most beautiful destinations. Cape Coral sits directly across the river, connected by several bridges. Bonita Springs and Naples are 20 to 30 miles south, while Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island are just minutes west. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) provides convenient access to domestic and international destinations.
Compared to other Southwest Florida coastal cities like Naples or Sarasota, Fort Myers offers more affordable housing options while still providing access to Gulf beaches and waterfront living. This affordability attracts first time homebuyers, growing families, and retirees seeking value.
While Fort Myers itself is on the river, you're minutes from world class Gulf beaches including Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel Island, and Captiva Island. These pristine beaches offer swimming, shelling, fishing, and stunning sunsets.
Downtown Fort Myers has experienced a renaissance with restored historic buildings, art galleries, restaurants, breweries, and entertainment venues. The River District comes alive with events, farmers markets, and nightlife, creating an urban energy rare in Southwest Florida.
Fort Myers enjoys beautiful weather with average temperatures ranging from 65°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Mild winters (rarely below 50°F) and abundant sunshine (355+ days annually) enable outdoor activities year round.
Florida's lack of state income tax saves residents thousands annually, especially beneficial for retirees, high earners, and business owners.
Lee County's economy is expanding with opportunities in healthcare (Lee Health system is a major employer), construction, tourism, retail, and technology. The business friendly environment attracts companies creating jobs across sectors.
Fort Myers is known as the "City of Palms" and offers endless recreational opportunities including golf, boating, fishing, kayaking, and nature trails. The city is also home to spring training for the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins, attracting baseball fans annually.
Home Prices: Median home prices in Fort Myers range from $250,000 to $450,000, depending on location and features. Waterfront properties and gated communities command higher prices ($500,000 to $1 million+), while inland neighborhoods offer more affordable options.
Rental Costs: Average rentals include:
Utilities: Average $140 to $220 monthly for electricity (higher in summer), plus water and sewer.
Groceries: $300 to $450 per person monthly, slightly above national average.
Transportation: Gas prices align with Florida averages. Car insurance runs $1,700 to $2,400 annually.
Taxes: No state income tax. Property taxes average 0.85% to 0.95% of assessed home value. Sales tax is 7% (6% state plus 1% county).
The heart of the city featuring historic architecture, the River District with restaurants and entertainment, and walkable urban living. Popular with young professionals and those seeking city life.
Newer development area with modern shopping, dining, and entertainment. Home to Gulf Coast Town Center and numerous chain restaurants. Popular with families seeking newer construction.
Historic corridor lined with royal palms leading to Fort Myers Beach. Features beautiful older homes, waterfront properties, and proximity to beaches.
Established neighborhoods with diverse housing options from affordable starter homes to upscale properties. Family friendly with good schools and parks.
Waterfront community offering canal access and boating lifestyle at more affordable prices than beach communities.
Mix of residential neighborhoods close to beaches, golf courses, and shopping. Popular with families and retirees.
Summer (May to October): Hot and humid, 75°F to 92°F, with daily afternoon thunderstorms. Hurricane season June 1 to November 30.
Winter (November to April): Perfect weather, 55°F to 80°F, dry and sunny. Peak tourist and snowbird season.
Fort Myers averages 355 days of sunshine annually, making it ideal for those seeking warm weather year round.
Fort Myers Beach: Wide sandy beach with restaurants, bars, and water sports just 20 minutes from downtown.
Sanibel Island: World famous shelling beach connected by causeway, featuring wildlife refuges and the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
Captiva Island: Quieter island north of Sanibel with beautiful beaches and upscale dining.
Historic downtown offers art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, breweries, and the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. Weekly events include Art Walk and Farmers Market.
Tour the winter homes, gardens, and laboratories of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Beautiful botanical gardens showcase tropical plants and historic buildings.
Spring Training: Watch the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins during February and March spring training.
Golf: Over 100 golf courses in Lee County ranging from public to exclusive private clubs.
Boating and Fishing: The Caloosahatchee River and nearby Gulf waters provide excellent fishing and boating.
Nature: Manatee Park, Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, and Lovers Key State Park offer wildlife viewing and hiking.
Gulf Coast Town Center, Bell Tower Shops, and Coconut Point offer shopping and dining. The restaurant scene ranges from waterfront seafood to international cuisine to farm to table concepts.
Lee County Public Schools serves Fort Myers with numerous elementary, middle, and high schools. Several schools receive A ratings including Fort Myers High School, Riverdale High School, and various elementary schools.
Options include Canterbury School, Bishop Verot Catholic High School, Evangelical Christian School, and various Montessori and preparatory schools.
Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) in nearby Estero offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Florida SouthWestern State College has multiple campuses in Fort Myers providing associate degrees and vocational programs.
Fort Myers' economy is diverse and growing:
Healthcare: Lee Health system is the largest employer with multiple hospitals and facilities.
Tourism and Hospitality: Hotels, restaurants, and attractions employ thousands.
Construction and Real Estate: Rapid growth fuels ongoing construction and development opportunities.
Retail: Major shopping centers and the growing population support retail jobs.
Technology: Emerging tech sector with startups and established companies.
Many residents also work remotely, taking advantage of Florida's lifestyle while maintaining careers based elsewhere.
Affordable for Florida: More affordable than Naples, Sanibel, or other premium Southwest Florida locations.
Beach Proximity: Quick access to multiple beautiful Gulf beaches.
No State Income Tax: Significant tax savings for residents.
Year Round Activities: Sunshine and warm weather enable constant outdoor recreation.
Growing City: New development brings modern amenities, restaurants, and entertainment.
Spring Training: Baseball fans enjoy watching MLB teams train annually.
Downtown Revival: Vibrant River District with arts, dining, and nightlife.
Natural Beauty: River views, tropical landscaping, and nearby islands.
Hurricane Risk: Located in hurricane prone area requiring preparation and expensive insurance.
Hot Humid Summers: June through September can be oppressively hot and humid.
Traffic and Growth: Rapid population growth creates traffic congestion, especially on bridges and main corridors.
Tourist Crowds: Winter months bring snowbirds and tourists, increasing congestion.
Higher Insurance Costs: Homeowners and flood insurance are expensive.
Seasonal Economy: Some businesses and restaurants reduce hours or close during slow summer season.
Limited Public Transit: Car is essential as public transportation is minimal.
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