Wondering What Living in Fort Myers Is Like? We’ll Answer 12 of Your Questions.
Discover the reasons why the Fort Myers lifestyle stands out, from beaches and dining to jobs and affordable living.
Thinking of making a move for good? From the lush landscapes of Tennessee to the calm coastal charm of the Outer Banks, there are plenty of nice places to live, but few are as inviting as our beloved Fort Myers.
Located along the shores of Southwest Florida, Fort Myers is rich in history, brimming with nature, and buzzing with entertainment.
Renowned for its idyllic beaches, lush parks, and lively culture, this city attracts both vacationers and those looking to make a home in the Sunshine State.
Every year, more people are choosing to make the move down south, for good, from retirees to younger folks, all looking for a more relaxed lifestyle.
With its easygoing atmosphere and slower pace, Fort Myers offers a refreshing contrast to many other American cities.
While it’s a popular spot for retirees, the city is also seeing a surge in young professionals, drawn by economic opportunities and an appealing lifestyle.
Wondering what it’s like to live in Fort Myers? Below, we answer the following questions:
What Makes Fort Myers an Appealing Place to Live?
How Are the Beaches and Parks in Fort Myers?
What Is the Weather Like in Fort Myers Year-Round?
How Lively Is Downtown Fort Myers?
How Close Is Fort Myers to Other Florida Destinations?
What Community Events and Festivals Take Place?
What Is the Food Scene Like in Fort Myers?
How Strong Is the Job Market in Fort Myers?
What Is the Cost of Living in Fort Myers?
What Education Options Exist in Fort Myers?
What Are the Downsides of Living in Fort Myers?
Should You Consider Living in Fort Myers?
Bonus: Experience Fort Myers Before Moving
At Sun Palace Vacations, we offer stunning vacation homes in Fort Myers Beach. We consider ourselves Fort Myers Beach experts, and from the best shopping spots and top-notch restaurants to a comprehensive guide on fishing and hunting in the area, we’ve got you covered in our blog.
In this blog, we’ve rounded up the main questions people ask about living in Fort Myers and answered them, offering a taste of what life is like in this Southwest Florida haven.
1. What Makes Fort Myers an Appealing Place to Live?
A Balanced Coastal Lifestyle
Living in Fort Myers appeals to people seeking year-round sunshine, affordable living, and a strong sense of community.
Fort Myers combines natural beauty, historic charm, and modern amenities. The city is home to award-winning beaches, a growing job market, and affordable housing. Compared to other Florida destinations, it maintains a relaxed lifestyle while still offering plenty of entertainment.
In recent years, Lee County has been one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States, with a population increase of 38% since 2010.
Why It Matters
- Combines affordability with coastal living
- Offers both small-town charm and city amenities
- Popular among retirees and professionals
2. How Are the Beaches and Parks in Fort Myers?
A Natural Playground at Your Doorstep
Beaches and parks are among the strongest reasons people move to Fort Myers.
The area is home to Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel Island, and Captiva, all offering soft sand and calm Gulf waters. Residents enjoy water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing year-round.
Beyond beaches, there are scenic parks and preserves, including:
- Lakes Park
- Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
- Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium
These spaces make outdoor living an everyday activity, encouraging fitness and relaxation.
Why It Matters
- Daily access to beaches and preserves
- Encourages an active, outdoor lifestyle
- Provides family-friendly recreation options
3. What Is the Weather Like in Fort Myers Year-Round?
Sunlight, Warmth, and Coastal Breezes
Fort Myers enjoys a subtropical climate with warm, sunny weather most of the year.
Average daytime highs range from 74°F in January to 92°F in July. The area gets more than 260 days of sunshine annually, making it one of the sunniest cities in the U.S.
The city does experience a rainy season from June through September. Afternoon showers are common, but they are usually brief and followed by sunshine. Hurricanes remain a seasonal risk, but residents adapt with storm-ready infrastructure and insurance.
Why It Matters
- Sunshine supports an active lifestyle
- Year-round warmth reduces seasonal downtime
- Residents adapt to weather risks with preparation
4. How Lively Is Downtown Fort Myers?
Culture and Nightlife Along the River District
Downtown Fort Myers is vibrant, offering restaurants, nightlife, and cultural attractions.
Known as the River District, downtown features historic architecture alongside modern entertainment venues. Residents can visit the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, browse independent shops, or enjoy outdoor dining.
Weekly events like the Fort Myers Art Walk bring locals together and support small businesses.
Why It Matters
- Strong cultural and arts presence
- Encourages community interaction
- Supports small businesses and local economy
5. How Close Is Fort Myers to Other Florida Destinations?
A Central Hub for Sunshine State Adventures
Fort Myers offers excellent proximity to other major Florida destinations.
It is a 2.5-hour drive to Orlando, 2 hours to Tampa, and 2 hours to Miami. The Florida Keys are just 3 hours away, making weekend trips easy. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) connects residents to over 40 U.S. cities and several international destinations.
Why It Matters
- Convenient for weekend getaways
- Quick access to major Florida attractions
- Strong air travel connections for residents
6. What Community Events and Festivals Take Place?
Celebrations That Build Community Spirit
Fort Myers is known for its strong community spirit, reinforced by festivals and seasonal events.
Popular annual events include:
- Fort Myers Seafood & Music Festival
- River District Holidays
- Shrimp Festival Parade
- Fort Myers Beach Film Festival
- American Sand Sculpting Championship
These events create opportunities for residents to connect while celebrating local food, music, and art.
Why It Matters
- Builds lasting community ties
- Offers year-round entertainment
- Attracts visitors and supports tourism
7. What Is the Food Scene Like in Fort Myers?
Fresh Seafood and Diverse Dining Options
The Fort Myers dining scene combines fresh seafood with diverse international influences.
Local favorites include: Fresh Catch Bistro, The Dixie Fish Co., The Veranda, and Salty Papa’s Shrimp House.
Farmers markets also thrive, offering local produce and artisanal goods. The Downtown Farmers Market and Southern Fresh Farms are staples for residents who enjoy cooking with fresh ingredients.
Why It Matters
- Easy access to fresh seafood and produce
- Diverse dining options for every budget
- Strong farm-to-table and local food culture
8. How Strong Is the Job Market in Fort Myers?
A Growing Economy Beyond Tourism
The job market in Fort Myers is strong and projected to grow faster than the U.S. average.
Tourism and hospitality drive much of the economy, but healthcare, education, and public administration are also major employers. Florida Gulf Coast University contributes to job creation through research and innovation.
Why It Matters
- Provides opportunities beyond seasonal work
- Healthcare and education add stability
- Job growth supports population increase
9. What Is the Cost of Living in Fort Myers?
Affordable Living With Big Savings on Taxes
The cost of living in Fort Myers is generally lower than the national average.
- Housing: Median home price is about $380,000
- Utilities: Roughly 7% lower than the U.S. average
- Taxes: No state income tax
This affordability makes Fort Myers especially attractive for retirees and families relocating from higher-cost states.
Why It Matters
- Affordable housing compared to many U.S. cities
- Tax savings improve quality of life
- Lower costs attract newcomers long-term
10. What Education Options Exist in Fort Myers?
Schools and Universities for Every Stage
Fort Myers offers a wide range of schools and higher education institutions.
Lee County Public Schools manage more than 120 schools, including magnet and STEM programs. Charter schools and private schools provide additional options. Florida Gulf Coast University offers undergraduate and graduate programs, while vocational schools serve residents pursuing trade careers.
Why It Matters
- Families have multiple school choices
- Strong higher education opportunities
- Access to both public and private education
11. What Are the Downsides of Living in Fort Myers?
The Challenges That Come With Sunshine Living
Like any city, Fort Myers has its challenges.
The most common issues include: heavy tourist traffic during peak season, seasonal hurricanes, and rising housing costs.
Despite these drawbacks, the city’s popularity continues to grow.
Why It Matters
- Helps newcomers prepare for realistic trade-offs
- Encourages storm-readiness and planning
- Rising demand highlights the city’s popularity
12. Should You Consider Living in Fort Myers?
Balancing Lifestyle, Cost, and Opportunity
Living in Fort Myers is ideal for anyone seeking year-round sunshine, affordable living, and a vibrant coastal lifestyle.
The city offers beaches, job opportunities, and a thriving downtown, all at a lower cost than many U.S. cities. Its proximity to other Florida destinations adds even more appeal.
Why It Matters
- Combines lifestyle and affordability
- Great for families, retirees, and professionals
- Flexible enough for different life stages
13. Bonus: Experience Fort Myers Before Moving
Live Like a Local With a Vacation Rental
Making a move to a new city is a big decision, and one of the smartest steps you can take is to experience life in Fort Myers before making it permanent. Spending a few weeks here allows you to do more than just sightsee — you’ll get to explore different neighborhoods, try out local restaurants, and see what day-to-day life feels like on the Gulf Coast.
By staying in one of our vacation rentals, you can truly live like you would in your own home. Cook meals in a full kitchen, relax in a private living space, and connect with neighbors and local businesses nearby. Even if it’s just for a few weeks, the experience helps you decide if Fort Myers is the right fit for your lifestyle.
Why It Matters
- Lets you test the lifestyle before committing long-term
- Vacation rentals provide a home-like environment
- Helps you discover the community and local amenities
- Offers a low-pressure way to explore different neighborhoods
Wondering Where to Stay in Fort Myers Beach?
A move needs to be carefully planned. Before making any decision, a great way to experience Fort Myers and get a feel for what it’s like to live in the city is to spend some time there as a local. To experience the highest quality in amenities, decor, and cleanliness, book your stay with Sun Palace Vacations. We guarantee you’ll have the most authentic, enjoyable, and relaxing time ever!