Is Fort Myers getting better or worse?

Jose W. Sep 30, 2025

Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Good luck with whatever you decide..

33 upvotes

Santiago Flores Sep 16, 2025

OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a project manager, 53, moved here 12 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Highland and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The school system situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for singles. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: More affordable, family-friendly.

**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.

**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Charlotte, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $100K-$120K here.

**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.

29 upvotes

Aria Robinson Oct 1, 2025

This.

19 upvotes

Isabelle K. Sep 19, 2025

Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Happy to answer more specific questions..

9 upvotes