Does Cape Coral Offer a Desirable Living Experience? (The Pros & Cons)

After years of research, you have finally made the decision to uncover whether Cape Coral is a desirable place to reside. Luckily, living in this city is generally a delightful experience with more advantages than drawbacks. Nevertheless, it’s essential to comprehend a few downsides of relocating to this area as no city can be considered perfect.

Cape Cod is a unique city that boasts a variety of interesting features, including its geography, economy, education, and other significant factors. If you’re considering living in Cape Coral, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons, focusing on important aspects like comfort and stability. To make your move easier to understand, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions that will provide you with valuable information.

If you’re considering a move to Cape Coral or planning a visit to the area, we highly recommend reading this blog. Not only will you discover the many distinctive features of this city, but you’ll also gain valuable insights into the advantages and disadvantages of living in the area. Our team conducts thorough research to deliver information that goes beyond what’s typically included in other lists.

It’s crucial to have a family meeting and deliberate on the advantages and disadvantages of residing in Cape Coral. This data can help everyone grasp if this city meets their needs or even spark enthusiasm in your children about relocating here. Taking this significant step can make it less daunting for you and your loved ones to adjust to a new environment.

Cape Coral at a Glance

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Cape Coral is a planned community in Florida that was established in 1957. With a population of over 130, it ranks as one of the largest cities in Florida in terms of both size and population. If you’re considering moving to Cape Coral, it’s essential to examine various aspects of the city to gain a comprehensive understanding of it.

Population and Diversity

Since its incorporation in 1970, Cape Coral’s population has swelled from under 3,000 to 194,016 people as of 2020, marking a 26% increase since the 2010 census. The city’s demographics are comprised of 88.2% Caucasian, with “white Hispanic” individuals included in that percentage. Non-Hispanic white people account for around 73.5% of the population, while Hispanic people make up 19.5%. The remaining 4.3% of residents are African Americans, and 1.5% are Asian. Similar to neighboring Fort Myers, Cape Coral is home to a significant Cuban expatriate population who arrived during the Castro regime.

Landscape Facts

Cape Coral spans 120 square miles and comprises 91% land and 9% water. The city is situated on a vast peninsula, close to Fort Myers, and boasts of more than 400 miles of navigable waterways, the highest in the country. The region offers a range of fishing opportunities, including Sanibel Island, Matlacha Pass National Wildlife Refuge, and the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve.

When relocating to this area, it’s crucial to keep in mind the abundance of wetlands that could potentially impact your living situation. The high concentration of wet landscapes here often results in a significant mosquito population, which Lee County manages through a variety of aerial missions and treatments. Additionally, the rainy seasons bring about increased humidity levels due to the influx of water in the region.

Geography and Climate

Cape Coral’s unique geography is characterized by its peninsula layout. The town is surrounded by the Caloosahatchee River and the Matlacha Pass, creating a charming and secluded atmosphere that many residents find appealing. Being situated directly on the Gulf of Mexico, Cape Coral experiences the effects of the Gulf heavily, resulting in long, hot, and humid summers and brief winters.

It’s not uncommon to experience fog and high humidity in this region, along with the potential danger of hurricanes from June to November. The area receives an average annual rainfall of about 52.8 inches, with the heaviest precipitation occurring between June and September. During the winter months, tourists flock to the area to enjoy the comfortable warmth and low humidity. The city’s numerous meandering waterways are also a popular attraction for visitors.

Schools and Universities

If you’re a parent searching for exceptional schools in the area, you’ll be delighted to know that there are several options available to you. Among the top-rated choices are Christa McAuliffe Charter Elementary School, Cape Elementary, Oasis Charter Middle School, Challenger Middle School, Oasis Charter High School, and Mariner High School. These schools offer a stellar education that will give your children the best possible learning experience.

Charter schools are abundant in Cape Coral, offering an alternative education with smaller classrooms, student-centered learning, and higher standards that cater to various learning techniques. These institutions provide an excellent option for parents seeking a more specialized educational experience for their children.

Cape Coral boasts six nearby educational institutions that offer associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, making it an excellent option for your teenagers who may be interested in pursuing higher education. However, it is important to conduct thorough research before making a selection as not every school provides all of these degrees. Remarkably, around 6,872 individuals graduate from colleges in this region annually, which is quite a significant number for a community of this magnitude.

When it comes to considering schools in this area, there are a few great options to look into. Franklin University, Ave Maria School of Law, Southern Technical College, and Hodges University all offer a variety of age ranges, catering to both traditional 20-year-old students and those seeking more adult-oriented education. Additionally, these schools offer both in-person and online learning opportunities, giving you the flexibility to choose the method of learning that best suits your needs.

Interesting Facts About Cape Coral

In 1957, two brothers from Baltimore, Leonard and Jack Rosen, discovered the peninsula that would eventually become Cape Coral during a flyover of Redfish Point. Initially named Redfish Point, the city was incorporated in the 1970s and renamed Cape Coral. Over the years, the city has witnessed significant economic growth in various sectors.

Cape Coral boasts of a robust economy, as evidenced by a projected 41% job market increase within the next decade and an unemployment rate of 4.6%, which is lower than the national average. This signifies the city’s continuous growth and expansion. The job opportunities in Cape Coral span across various industries, including healthcare, retail, real estate, construction, and tourism, providing both residents and visitors with ample employment options.

Cape Coral boasts of more than 30 recreational parks in the region, ranging from nature preserves, sports fields, to seven golf courses and waterparks, among others. Its location near Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach makes it a tranquil and comfortable location for visitors. However, before deciding to move in, it is crucial to consider the following advantages and disadvantages of living in Cape Coral.

Pros of Moving to Cape Coral

Before making the decision to move to Cape Coral, it’s crucial to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of living in this city. Let’s begin with the positives, as it’s always pleasant to start with optimism. Fortunately, there are numerous reasons to adore this city. Keep reading to discover what this city has to offer.

Low Crime Rates

Cape Coral has made a name for itself as one of the safest cities in Florida due to its remarkable decline in crime rates in recent years. According to different statistics, the city has witnessed a 5% decrease in crime between 2019 and 2020, and it continues to trend downwards. The crime rates in Cape Coral are well below the acceptable threshold, with minimal occurrences of murders, rapes, robberies, and assaults being reported in recent years.

Strong Educational Options

If you’re considering moving to Cape Coral with your family, you’ll be glad to know that there are several schools in the area that could be a great fit for your children. You’ll find a variety of options in nearby Fort Myers, including private, public, and charter institutions. To ensure that your kids will have a positive educational experience, it’s important to research the available schools. You can begin your search by checking out this list on US News, which includes information on schools that are highly regarded in the area.

Affordability

Living in Cape Coral is surprisingly affordable, as it only requires an estimated income of $62,779 to maintain a comfortable standard of living on a salary of $70,000. This is an impressive 12% lower than the national average. Additionally, housing costs are 27% lower than the national average, while utilities are 5% lower. Although transportation costs are 7% higher, this is offset by the savings you can enjoy in other areas.

Waterfront Property Options

Cape Coral is an ideal location if you’re looking to purchase waterfront property because a significant portion of the area comprises water-rich regions. There are diverse properties and houses situated on various lakes, rivers, and even the Gulf of Mexico. Undoubtedly, waterfront properties come with a higher price tag, but they’re definitely worth the investment if you’re able to afford them.

Diverse Age Groups

Cape Coral in Florida is often thought of as a retirement destination, but this city is actually much more diverse in terms of age ranges. While it’s true that almost a quarter of the population consists of senior citizens, there’s also a significant percentage of young people. Around 17.4% of the city’s residents are under 18 years of age. This also means that the majority of Cape Coral’s population, specifically 58.2%, falls between the ages of 18 and 65. With such a wide variety of age groups, there’s a great opportunity to meet people from all walks of life.

Other Benefits

Living in Cape Coral offers several other advantages that are worth mentioning:

• • Strong economy
  • Fun art festivals
  • Reasonable cost of living and land price
  • Great shopping options
  • Plenty of amazing dining choices

Cons of Moving to Cape Coral

If you are considering living in Cape Coral, it’s essential to be aware of some of the negative issues that can impact the area. While Southwest Florida is undoubtedly a beautiful place to live, it’s not without its challenges. Therefore, it’s crucial to take a moment and evaluate the potential drawbacks of residing in this region. By doing so, you can have a better understanding of the issues that might affect your life in Cape Coral.

Heavy Storms and Floods

If you’re considering moving to Cape Coral, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with living in this part of Florida. Like many other cities in the state, Cape Coral is prone to hurricanes and the devastation they can bring. While it may not experience hurricanes as frequently as other areas, it’s still a significant concern for residents. Additionally, due to its distinctive geography, the city is also vulnerable to floods. It’s important to keep these factors in mind when weighing the pros and cons of living in Cape Coral.

High Humidity

Living in Cape Coral can be uncomfortable for those who are sensitive to humidity. The city experiences humidity percentages of at least 55% during the least-wet seasons of November through March and between 65% to nearly 80% for the rest of the year. This makes for a pretty wet environment, considering the already hot climate. So, if you’re planning on moving to Cape Coral, keep in mind the high levels of humidity.

Fewer Activities for Young People

Although Cape Coral offers some activities suitable for families, it’s not necessarily a destination known for catering to younger children. The population breakdown shows that a mere 17.4% of residents are under 18, and only approximately 5% are under five years old. This indicates that there may not be a strong emphasis on providing kid-friendly entertainment options in the area, potentially leading to boredom for children.

Many Pests to Manage

Living in Cape Coral, Florida can be tough due to the presence of various pests that can be quite frustrating. According to BugOfff, a prominent treatment team, there are over 12,500 different insect species in the state, including roaches, yellow flies, no-see-um midges, wolf spiders, fire ants, and termites. Additionally, other pests like snakes, rodents, and reptiles can also invade your home, making it even more challenging to live in the area.

Minimal Public Transportation

Although Cape Coral is serviced by Lee County Transit, the public transportation options available are relatively limited compared to other cities of similar size. Unfortunately, there are no subway systems in Cape Coral and very few taxi options, leaving residents and visitors alike to rely on personal vehicles for transportation. However, navigating the city’s roads can be a challenge due to frequent traffic congestion and long wait times during peak hours.

Other Cons of Living in Cape Coral

If you are thinking about living in Cape Coral, it’s important to weigh the cons as well. Some of the drawbacks of living in this city include:

– Limited job opportunities: While the city has been growing, it still lacks the job opportunities that larger cities offer. Many people who live in Cape Coral commute to nearby Fort Myers for work.
– High crime rate: Cape Coral has a higher crime rate than the national average, particularly when it comes to property crimes like theft and burglary.
– Extreme weather: As with many cities in Florida, Cape Coral can experience extreme weather events like hurricanes and heavy rainstorms. This can lead to flooding and property damage.
– Lack of cultural amenities: While Cape Coral has plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities, it lacks the cultural amenities (like museums and theaters) that some people may be looking for.

So, before making a decision to move to Cape Coral, it’s important to consider these potential drawbacks and determine if they are deal breakers for you.

• • Confusing layout
  • The heavy tourist industry might annoy some
  • Lower wages than in some Florida cities
  • Air pollution concerns

How to Decide If Cape Coral is a Good Place to Live for You?

If you’re wondering whether Cape Coral is the right place for you and your family to call home, you’re not alone. We understand that weighing the advantages and disadvantages of living in Cape Coral requires a thoughtful and well-rounded approach. To help you make the best decision for your unique needs, we’ve compiled a list of key factors to consider before moving to the city.

Lifestyle

Are you more of a city or country person? If you lean towards the latter, Cape Coral may not be the right place for you. It’s a bustling urban center with a lively atmosphere and lots of traffic. However, if you’re a fan of water-based activities such as fishing and swimming, you might be surprised to find that Cape Coral could be a great place to call home.

Budget

If you’re planning to live in Cape Coral, it’s crucial to have a decent income to afford the homes. Although the home prices in the area are below the national average, standing at $394,000 compared to $420,385, you still need a stable and sizeable income. It’s recommended to have a personal earning power of at least $70-10K to comfortably settle in the area. If that’s not feasible, consider finding friends or partners who can help you out.

Career Goals

If you’re aiming for a career outside of the retail or healthcare industries, Cape Coral may not necessarily be the most suitable place to relocate. Although the city boasts a robust economy and potential for expansion, it falls short in terms of high-paying job opportunities. To gauge the job market in the area, browse through online job platforms like Indeed and other similar websites to determine if the available job types align with your professional aspirations.

Family Needs

If you’re looking for a family-friendly place to live, Cape Coral might be a great choice for you. Although activities for very young children are limited, the city does offer a range of assistance programs to help families with car repairs, transportation, rent and mortgage payments, and more. These programs can help alleviate some of the financial strain associated with living in the area and make it a more comfortable place to call home.

Education Level

If you’re considering moving your family to Cape Coral, it’s important to know the educational background of the local community. A significant 92.9% of the population has graduated from high school, with 9.2% pursuing some college, 15.6% completing a two-year degree, 23.6% completing a four-year degree, and 1.5% completing a master’s degree. Clearly, the residents are highly educated and well-versed in academic knowledge.

Temperature Tolerance

If you’re someone who enjoys basking in the warmth of the sun, then Cape Coral might be the perfect place for you. With temperatures ranging from 56 to 91 degrees Fahrenheit, and rarely dropping below 44 or exceeding 94, this city offers a consistently warm climate. However, it’s worth noting that the humidity levels here are quite high, which can make the weather feel even hotter. So before you decide to move to Cape Coral, make sure you’re comfortable with the humidity and how it can affect your comfort.

Aversion to Hurricanes

Cape Coral, despite experiencing less severe hurricane damage, is still vulnerable to the direct impact of these devastating storms due to its location on the Gulf of Mexico. For those who fear the destruction caused by such natural disasters or believe that they cannot afford the necessary repairs, it is advisable to steer clear of Cape Coral and, for that matter, most of Florida.

Relative Isolation

Located in Florida, Cape Coral is a peninsula within a peninsula, which creates a unique sense of seclusion. While some individuals appreciate being disconnected from the rest of the world, others may struggle with the isolation and its impact on their mental well-being. The city, however, is a thriving hub with a vibrant tourist industry, ensuring that you will encounter numerous people daily.

Tips for Moving to Cape Coral

Moving to Cape Coral with your family can be an exciting adventure, but it’s crucial to take certain precautions to ensure their safety. By following a few simple steps, you can minimize any issues and ensure that everyone is content. When relocating to this sought-after destination, keep in mind the following factors:

• • When to Move: Due to the city’s heavy humidity and heat during the summer, it’s probably best to move here in the late fall or early winter. The temperatures are lower, the humidity more manageable, and the area far less busy. The fall is also a good time to move because it beats the heavy rush of tourists that come to the region in the cold of winter or during spring break.

• • Where to Live (and Avoid): Some of the best, safest, and most comfortable places to live in Cape Coral include Coral Lakes, Pelican, Lochmoor Waterway Estates, and Cape Harbour. While Cape Coral is mostly a safe and comfortable city, neighborhoods like Southeast and Northeast Cape Coral, as well as areas like Veterans Memorial Parkway, should be avoided.

• • Job Types in Cape Coral: Cape Coral has a very heavy retail and health market, with cashiers, servers, sales associates, office managers, administrative assistants, receptionists, and certified nursing assistants being some of the most popular in the area. Check online job sites and newspapers to see what kind of gigs are available when moving to the area.

• • Renting vs. Buying: In a study about renting versus buying, it was found that buying was a much better idea in Cape Coral than renting due to very high rent prices. Median rent is $2,400, with just 723 rentals in the area, while median home prices have dipped by 4.3% in the last year to $396,937, which is a trend likely to increase as the real estate market drops.

• • Moving Companies: When moving to Cape Coral, it’s important to find moving companies that can help you. There are many movers in the region for you to consider, such as M4M Triunfo Delivery, E&E Moving, Real Moving and Storage, and ICN Logistics. Choose these businesses based on things like their services, proximity to you, and their overall costs.

Read More:

• Top 10 Best Places To Live In Ohio (+3 Places To Avoid)
• Top 10 Best Places To Live In Philadelphia (+ 3 Places To Avoid)

FAQs

Is Cape Coral a safe place to reside?

Based on Crime Grade evaluations, Cape Coral boasts a commendable safety rating of B+. Incidents occur approximately every two hours and 12 minutes within the city, with a notable emphasis on its positive standing regarding violent crime. The predominant offenses include theft, burglary, and drug-related incidents.

Is Cape Coral an expensive locality?

Cape Coral’s cost of living surpasses the national average by 2.6%, reflecting a 1.5% uptick from the previous year. Elevated expenses in groceries, healthcare, and transportation contribute to this increment, although relatively reasonable housing and utility costs help counterbalance these additional financial considerations.

Is flooding prevalent in Cape Coral?

Regrettably, Cape Coral’s construction on a floodplain, coupled with its average elevation of merely five feet above sea level, results in recurrent instances of minor to substantial flooding, particularly during the hurricane season. Alarmingly, over 90,000 properties in Cape Coral face a 26% likelihood of flooding.

Is Cape Coral susceptible to hurricanes?

Situated in Southwest Florida, Cape Coral generally experiences a lower hurricane risk compared to other regions in the state. The city has been fortunate in evading significant damage during some of the most severe hurricanes. Nevertheless, Cape Coral does encounter its share of adverse weather conditions on an annual basis.

Is the snake population high in Cape Coral?

Cape Coral’s snake population aligns with the prevalence found in the state’s wetlands and includes species such as the cottonmouth or water moccasin and rattlesnakes throughout the area. Numerous snake management teams in the vicinity are adept at handling these occasionally invasive pests.