Best Cities in Florida to Live
Published On: March 4, 2014 Posted by: admin
Whether you’re looking for Florida investment property (to retire at a later date) or are in the market to purchase a Florida home for sale right now, you should have the formula on which you make your location decision well thought out. When choosing between the best cities in Florida to live (and retire), trust us, –it’s vital to do your homework. You may simply be looking for a Florida waterfront property or for something near the beach, but what about crime, diversity, activities, accessibility to transportation, parks, libraries, — you get it, right?
So, before we can determine what the best cities in Florida to live are, let’s first take a look at the criteria we’ve based our choices on:
- Access to health care
- Access to adult education
- Access to public transportation
- A rich culture with plenty of activities
- Low property taxes
- A certain “wow” factor and a friendly, happy vibe
- Job opportunities for older Americans
- Low crime rate
When you’re making your own pros and cons or “must haves” lists, be sure to stick to the most important things on your list.
Here’s our Top Picks of the Best Cities in Florida to Live and Retire
Fort Myers, Florida
Fort Myers, Florida is rich in culture and history. Known for being the winter estate of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, the area just has that special charm and “wow” factor that is missing from so many retirement areas. McGregor, the main historical street that will lead you to the Edison / Ford estate, has that certain flair and welcoming vibe. Just turn down any of the residential streets and you’ll soon see what we mean. Immediately, you’ll feel transported to a different era, when life was a little slower and neighbors sat on the front porch together sharing a glass of iced tea while catching up on the weekly gossip.
Besides the charming McGregor area, Fort Myers also has a lively river district with restaurants and bars, like Fords Garage and The Firestone, that carry on the theme of the mastermind group and extraordinary friendship between Henry Ford, Harry Firestone, and Thomas Edison. Boating, golfing, shopping, theatre, and even monthly art walks will keep your agenda filled with things to do, while the cost of living in Fort Myers (5% less than the national average), will keep your wallet in check as well.
Negatives of Fort Myers? There are a few neighborhoods where crime is prevalent, and traffic can be a problem during season.
Naples, Florida
If you’re looking for an affluent and sophisticated community, with plenty of things to do and extreme “walkability” to get anywhere downtown or the beach, then Naples is for you. With a population of just over 20,000, an extremely low crime rate, and lovely neighborhoods, this is our second choice for best places in Florida to retire.
One stroll down 5th Avenue and you’ll either love the refined yet stylish shops and unique restaurants, or you’ll hate it. Keep in mind, refined isn’t for everyone. Many who move to Florida would rather leave any hint of that behind them.
Another bonus of Naples, Florida is the fact that there are more golf holes per capita than any other town in the country (we thought you’d appreciate that bit of trivia).
Cape Coral, Florida
Our top choice for the best place to retire in Florida is Cape Coral, Florida. For retirees who are interested in a gentle climate, well priced real estate, plenty of activities, and low property taxes, Cape Coral has it all.
What does Cape Coral have that has attracted a 50% increase in population since 2001? We could start with over 400 miles of canals, both fresh water and salt water, with half of the canals having access to the Gulf of Mexico, –this is a fisherman and a boater’s paradise.
Looking for things to do? Cape Coral is very big on community and offers plenty of adult education classes, a community Yacht Club, a lovely library, a downtown area with plenty of unique restaurants, and shops, as well as several resort style gated communities catering to both the golfing and the yachting / boating communities.
If you’re ready to relocate and looking for the best place to retire in Florida, these are our top three picks. Give us a call today and we’ll give you the grand tour of our area. There’s something for everyone, and whether you’re looking to invest in SW Florida property or relocate to Florida immediately, we have the perfect home for you.