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Moving to Fort Myers, FL: Things to Know Before You Move

No author • October 10, 2024

Are you looking to relocate to a city with sunny weather, a laid-back coastal vibe, and a lower cost of living compared to other Florida cities? If so, Fort Myers, FL might be the perfect spot for your next move! Before you begin packing, let’s dive into what you need to know about living in this growing Gulf Coast city.

The Benefits of Living in Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers offers a variety of lifestyle perks, making it a great place to settle down for families, retirees, and young professionals alike. Here are some of the key benefits of living in this coastal community:

Beautiful Weather Year-Round: Fort Myers boasts more than 270 sunny days annually, making it ideal for those who love the outdoors.

Affordable Housing: Home prices and rents are more budget-friendly compared to many other Florida cities.

Access to Pristine Beaches: Residents can enjoy easy access to beautiful beaches like Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island.

Outdoor Recreation: The area is known for its excellent golf courses, fishing spots, and hiking trails, as well as parks like Lakes Park and Caloosahatchee Regional Park.

The Average Cost of Living in Fort Myers, FL

The cost of living in Fort Myers is slightly above the national average but still lower than other major Florida cities like Miami or Sarasota. Overall, the cost of living index for Fort Myers is 104.2, which is 4.2% higher than the U.S. average​ (BestPlaces).

Overall Cost Index: 104.2 (U.S. average = 100)

Grocery Index: 103.2

Housing Index: 92.5

Utilities Index: 97.5

The cost of living includes housing, groceries, utilities, and transportation. While healthcare expenses in Fort Myers are higher than the national average, transportation costs are relatively low.

The Job Market in Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers has a growing job market with opportunities in healthcare, tourism, and retail. Top employers include Lee Health, Chico’s FAS, and Gartner. The city’s expanding population has led to more jobs in real estate and construction as well. With its proximity to major tourism hotspots, Fort Myers also sees seasonal job growth in hospitality and entertainment.

Top Jobs and Average Salaries in Fort Myers, FL

Some of the top jobs in Fort Myers and their average annual salaries include:

Registered Nurse: $68,000

Financial Analyst: $65,000

Hotel Manager: $60,000

Operations Manager: $75,000

These salaries are in line with state averages, reflecting the city’s expanding economy.

The Average Home Cost in Fort Myers, FL

The median home price in Fort Myers is around $349,500, which is slightly more expensive than the national average but lower than the state average of $362,400​ (BestPlaces). The housing market in Fort Myers is diverse, offering options for all budgets, from affordable family homes to luxury waterfront properties.

The Average Rent in Fort Myers, FL

For those looking to rent, Fort Myers offers reasonable options. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is about $1,390 per month, which is 2.8% lower than the national average and significantly cheaper than other Florida cities like Miami​ (BestPlaces). Renting is a great choice for newcomers who want to explore different neighborhoods before committing to buying a home

Schools in Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers has several well-regarded public and private schools, making it a suitable place for families. The Lee County School District serves the area and offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs.


Top-rated schools in the Fort Myers area include:

Elementary Schools: Allen Park Elementary, Ray V. Pottorf Elementary, and Orangewood Elementary.

Middle Schools: Cypress Lake Middle School and Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School.

High Schools: Fort Myers High School, Cypress Lake High School, and Bishop Verot Catholic High School.

Higher education is supported by Florida Gulf Coast University and Hodges University, providing advanced educational opportunities for residents.

Taxes in Fort Myers, FL

One of the biggest advantages of living in Fort Myers is Florida’s lack of a state income tax, allowing residents to keep more of their earnings. The city’s sales tax rate is 7%, and property taxes are relatively moderate, making the overall tax burden lighter compared to other states​ (BestPlaces).

Things to Do in Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers is a hub for outdoor and cultural activities:

Beaches and Parks: Relax at Fort Myers Beach or explore nature at the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve.

Historic Attractions: Visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates to learn about the city’s rich history.

Arts and Culture: Check out the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center or catch a show at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall.

With its vibrant art scene, numerous waterfront restaurants, and active community events, there’s always something to do in Fort Myers.

Weather in Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers has a warm and humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot summers. Average winter temperatures are in the 70s°F, while summer temperatures can reach the 90s°F. The area experiences a rainy season from June through September, so be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms during these months​ (Livingcost).

Ready to Move to Fort Myers, FL?

If you’re excited to experience a laid-back lifestyle, sunny weather, and access to beautiful beaches, Fort Myers could be your ideal new home! Contact Colonial Moving & Storage today for a free quote and let us handle your move to Fort Myers with ease and professionalism. We’re here to make your relocation smooth and stress-free so you can start enjoying everything this vibrant city has to offer.

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