If I Were Moving to Southwest Florida in 2025/26, I’d Move Here

Why People Are Flocking to Southwest Florida

You’re ready for the Florida dream: sunshine, beaches, and that laid-back lifestyle everyone talks about.

But here’s the thing: most people look at the same three areas while overlooking hidden gems that could save them hundreds of thousands of dollars. With the market down 11% this year, the opportunities are everywhere—if you know where to look.

The secret? It’s not about living on the beach—it’s about finding the community that matches your lifestyle. Whether you’re 25 or 75, working or retired, Southwest Florida has a place for you.

Here are the top areas you should know about if you’re thinking about moving to Southwest Florida.

Fort Myers – The Gateway City

Average home price (Summer 2025): $322,000
Metro population: 800,000+

Fort Myers is one of the most affordable places for young professionals and families in Southwest Florida. You’re 20 minutes from the beach, surrounded by a growing city, and thanks to no state income tax, transplants from high-tax states feel like they’ve gotten a raise overnight.

Best neighborhoods in Fort Myers:

• Gateway & McGregor – Perfect for families with great schools, pools, and playgrounds.

• Buckingham & San Carlos Park – More affordable homes with tremendous value compared to Naples.

• Downtown Fort Myers – A transformed nightlife scene with restaurants, breweries, and live music.

Florida Gulf Coast University is also nearby, bringing a young professional energy that’s reshaping the city.

Local tip: Fort Myers Beach is still rebuilding after hurricane damage, but the improvements will make it stronger than ever. And yes, seasonal traffic is real—but locals use McGregor Boulevard and back roads to avoid the gridlock.

If you want city life, affordability, and quick beach access, Fort Myers delivers.

Babcock Ranch – America’s First Solar Town

Average home price (Summer 2025): $430,000
Range: $255K – $4M

Imagine never losing power during a hurricane while nearby towns sit in the dark. That’s exactly what happened in Babcock Ranch, the first fully solar-powered town in America.

This fast-growing community is already ranked #7 among top-selling master-planned communities in the U.S. with 5,000+ homes sold and plans for 20,000 more.

Why people move to Babcock Ranch:

• Free gigabit internet in every home

• 18,000 acres of preserved green space

• Miles of walking trails, lakes, and parks

• A true “neighborhood feel” with weekly events at Founder’s Square

Yes, the beach is a 45-minute drive, but more shops and restaurants are opening every year. With today’s buyer’s market, builders are offering incentives like rate buy-downs, closing cost help, and upgrades.

If you value sustainability, innovation, and community, Babcock Ranch might be your perfect fit.

Corkscrew Corridor & Estero – The Growth Explosion

26,000 new homes planned along Corkscrew Road

Estero is exploding with growth. Once a quiet town, it’s now home to new gated communities, restaurants, and shopping centers.

Why buyers love Estero:

• 35 gated communities with options from affordable to luxury (including Miromar Lakes)

• Central location – 20 minutes to the airport, 15 minutes to Naples, close to Fort Myers

• FGCU influence – a mix of retirees and young professionals keeps the community vibrant

• Coconut Point shopping and new medical centers right in town

HOA fees range from $200–$400 monthly, often including pools, fitness centers, and gated security.

If you want to get in early on the next big growth corridor, Estero is where it’s happening.

Sanibel & Captiva – Island Paradise

Looking for something completely different? These islands offer peace, nature, and exclusivity.

• Sanibel – Famous for its shelling beaches, bike paths, and wildlife. Homes range from $500K inland to $2M+ Gulf-front.

• Captiva – Known for luxury, privacy, and celebrity residents. With fewer than 700 year-round residents, homes average $1.2M but inventory is scarce.

Things to know before buying:

• Causeway toll is $6+ each way

• Groceries and essentials cost about 30% more

• Hurricane recovery can take weeks

If you want world-class beaches and tranquility, these islands are unmatched.

Naples – The Luxury Capital of Florida

Naples is where billionaires and retirees alike come for the ultimate lifestyle.

• Average home price: $590K–$805K

• Luxury homes: $2M+

• Super-luxury estates: Recently sold for $133M

Why Naples? Privacy. Unlike Miami, Naples offers luxury without the paparazzi. It’s also ranked #1 for happiness by U.S. News. With world-class golf, shopping on Fifth Avenue, white-sand beaches, and top hospitals, Naples has it all.

But don’t be fooled—Naples isn’t only for the ultra-wealthy. Some neighborhoods start around $400K, giving buyers an entry point into the Naples lifestyle.

Cape Coral – The Waterfront Paradise

Over 400 miles of canals—more than Venice, Italy

Cape Coral is a boater’s dream. With homes starting around $348K, it’s one of the most affordable places to live on the water in Florida.

Why Cape Coral stands out:

• Waterfront living starting near $400K

• Gulf-access canals for boaters (prices climb closer to $3M+)

• Family-friendly vibe with 244,000 residents and room for growth

• Restaurants and marinas where you can dock your boat right at dinner

If having a boat in your backyard sounds like heaven, Cape Coral can’t be beat.

Making Your Move – What You Need to Know

Each area in Southwest Florida fits a different lifestyle:

• Fort Myers: Affordable, energetic city living

• Babcock Ranch: Innovative, sustainable, community-focused

• Estero/Corkscrew Corridor: Explosive growth and central location

• Sanibel & Captiva: Nature and exclusivity

• Naples: Luxury and privacy

• Cape Coral: Waterfront paradise

Reality check:

• Insurance: Budget $3K–$10K annually

• Property taxes: 1–2% of home value (but no state income tax)

• HOA fees: $200–$2K/month depending on community

• Weather & traffic: Hurricanes, heat, and seasonal gridlock are real—but manageable

Pro tip: Visit in August. If you can handle the summer, you’ll love the other 11 months.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Southwest Florida Home?

At Team John Garuti, we specialize in helping buyers match their lifestyle with the right Southwest Florida community.

📩 Email us at hello@swfloridarealestate.com for a personalized tour and expert guidance. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring options, we’ll help you find your perfect spot in paradise.