While Fort Myers was considered a spot for retirees, that has changed over the last few years. The city is currently a mixture of young professionals, artisans, business owners, retirees, and social workers. More importantly, it’s an ideal destination for many vacationers, given its attraction sites and outdoor lifestyles.So, what’re the pros and cons of living in Fort Myers?
The advantages of living in Fort Myers, include great weather , plenty outdoor activities , affordable living costs , historic downtown and great schools. On the other hand, living in Fort Myers has its downsides: extreme weather conditions , dense population , few public transportation , many bugs and critters and heavy traffic.
Quick navigation
Living in Fort Myers PROS
1. Great Weather
Fort Myers, Florida is a great place to live for many reasons, but one of the best things about it is the weather. The average temperature is a warm 75 degrees, and there are very few days when the weather is so bad that you can’t go outside and enjoy yourself. Whether you’re looking to spend a day at the beach or take a walk through one of the many parks, Fort Myers has something for everyone to enjoy.
2. Plenty Outdoor Activities
Fort Myers, Florida is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. With plenty of sunshine and warm weather, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. From fishing and swimming to hiking and biking, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
There are also plenty of parks and nature trails to explore. And for those who enjoy a challenge, there are several golf courses in the area. Fort Myers is a great place to enjoy the outdoors all year round.
3. Affordable Living Costs
Fort Myers, Florida is a great place to live for those on a budget. The cost of living is very affordable, and there are plenty of opportunities to save money. The city has a variety of affordable housing options, and the cost of living is lower than the national average. There are also many free or low-cost activities to enjoy in the city. Fort Myers is a great place to live for those who want to save money.
4. Historic Downtown
Fort Myers, Florida is a beautiful city with many historic landmarks, a vibrant river district, and stunning beaches. As the gateway to Southwest Florida, Fort Myers is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike.
The Historic Downtown area is home to many of the city’s most popular attractions, including the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, the Imaginarium Science Center, and the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. Downtown Fort Myers is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
The River District is a popular spot for dining and entertainment. The district is home to a number of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as the Lee County Manatee Park. The River District is also a great place to take a walk or bike ride along the scenic riverfront.
The beaches of Fort Myers are some of the best in Florida. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and kayaking. Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island are two of the most popular destinations in the area.
5. Great Schools
Fort Myers, Florida is a great place to live for many reasons, but one of the best reasons is the great schools in the area. No matter what type of school your child is looking for, they are sure to find a great option in Fort Myers.
There are a number of public schools in the area that are highly rated, including Cypress Lake Middle School and Fort Myers High School. If you are looking for a private school option, there are also many great choices, such as Bishop Verot Catholic High School and Canterbury School.
No matter what your child’s educational needs are, you can be confident that they will be well-served by the schools in Fort Myers. If you are considering a move to this area, be sure to check out the schools – you won’t be disappointed!
Living in Fort Myers CONS
1. Extreme Weather Conditions
Fort Myers, Florida is no stranger to extreme weather conditions. The area is susceptible to hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms. In the event of extreme weather, it is important to be prepared. Here are some tips to help you weather the storm:
-Have a plan. Know what you will do in the event of severe weather.
-Be sure to have an emergency kit stocked with supplies like food, water, and first aid supplies.
-Stay informed. Keep up with the latest weather forecast so you know when severe weather is headed your way.
-Take action. When severe weather is imminent, take steps to protect yourself and your property.
By following these tips, you can be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
2. Dense Population
Fort Myers, Florida has a dense population. The city has a population density of 1,256 people per square mile. This makes it the second most densely populated city in the state of Florida. The city is located in the southwestern part of the state and is the county seat of Lee County. It is the principal city of the Cape Coral – Fort Myers Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population of the metro area is 679,513. The city was founded in 1866 and was named after Colonel Abraham Myers.
3. Few Public Transportation
Fort Myers, Florida is a beautiful city with many things to do. However, it can be difficult to get around without a car. There are few public transportation options, and taxis can be expensive. If you are visiting Fort Myers, or even if you live here, it is important to plan ahead and know your transportation options.
The best way to get around Fort Myers is by car. There are several rental car companies located in the city, and many hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport. You can also use Uber or Lyft, but keep in mind that traffic can be heavy during peak times.
If you don’t have a car, the next best option is to take the bus. The LeeTran bus system offers several routes throughout Fort Myers. You can view a map of the routes on their website. fares range from $1-$2, and you can purchase a day pass for $5.
Another option is the trolley, which runs from October through May. The trolley runs on a loop from Downtown Fort Myers to Edison Mall. fares are $1 per ride, or you can purchase a day pass for $3.
If you are visiting Fort Myers, or even if you live here, it is important to plan ahead and know your transportation options. By renting a car or taking advantage of public transportation, you can easily get around this beautiful city.
4. Many Bugs and Critters
Fort Myers, Florida is known for its many bugs and critters. From mosquitoes and sand flies to cockroaches and rats, there are many pests that call this city home. While most of these pests are harmless, they can still be a nuisance. If you’re planning a trip to Fort Myers, be sure to pack your insect repellent and be prepared for some unwanted guests.
5. Heavy Traffic
Fort Myers, Florida is notorious for its heavy traffic. The city is constantly congested with cars, trucks, and buses, making it difficult to get around. Traffic is especially bad during rush hour, when everyone is trying to get to work or school.
There are a few ways to avoid the worst of the traffic. One is to leave early in the morning, before the roads get too crowded. Another is to take side streets instead of the main roads. And finally, you can try to avoid peak hours altogether.
Of course, sometimes you just have to deal with the traffic. In that case, it’s important to be patient and stay calm. Road rage is a serious problem, and it only makes the situation worse. So take a deep breath and remember that everyone else is in the same boat as you.
Is Fort Myers, Florida a great place to live?
Fort Myers is a great place to live for many reasons. The weather is wonderful, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, the cost of living is affordable, and the schools are excellent. However, there are also some downsides to living in Fort Myers. The extreme weather conditions can be a bit too much for some people, the population density can be a bit overwhelming, there is very little public transportation, and the bugs and critters can be a bit of a nuisance. But overall, Fort Myers is a great place to live.