Florida is still one of the fastest-growing states in the country. It added about 197,000 residents in the year ending July 2025, second only to Texas, with about 551 people a day moving here from other states and countries. Some are retirees seeking sunshine, others are families relocating for work or school, and more recently, remote workers have joined the wave.
If you’re thinking about moving to Fort Myers Florida or anywhere in Southwest Florida, here’s why people keep choosing this region—and what it means for buyers and investors in 2026.
Key Takeaways (TL;DR)
- Florida added about 197,000 residents in the year ending July 2025, though migration has slowed sharply since its 2022 peak.
- Air conditioning made year-round living possible, fueling growth across Florida after World War II.
- Retirees continue to drive demand for master-planned and amenity-rich communities.
- Remote work during the pandemic supercharged migration from high-cost states.
- Today’s Southwest Florida market offers opportunities for both buyers and investors.
Florida’s Migration Story and Fort Myers’ Role
Florida’s growth story didn’t happen overnight. Population increases have come in waves, influenced by technology, demographics, and lifestyle changes. Fort Myers and Cape Coral stand out as destinations that have consistently attracted newcomers thanks to affordability, access to water, and a better quality of life compared to many metro areas.
How Air Conditioning Changed Florida Living
Florida’s climate was once seen as a barrier to year-round living. That changed after World War II with the rise of residential air conditioning.
- Between 1950 and 1960, Florida’s population jumped more than 78%.
- By 1970, it nearly reached 7 million residents.
- Developers like the Rosen Brothers, who founded Cape Coral in 1957, built entire communities around the promise of comfortable year-round living.
Air conditioning helped turn Florida into a permanent destination, paving the way for decades of population growth.
Retirees and the Southwest Florida Lifestyle
Starting in the 1970s, retirees from the Northeast and Midwest began flocking to Southwest Florida. Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Naples developed golf course communities, gated neighborhoods, and active adult enclaves.
That trend continues today as Baby Boomers reach retirement age. Amenity-rich neighborhoods with maintenance-free homes, villas, and townhouses remain a cornerstone of the Fort Myers housing market.
From the 2000s Boom to the 2008 Crash
The early 2000s brought another surge of growth, with job seekers and families moving for affordability and lower property taxes. The 2008 financial crisis slowed sales, but Florida’s population never stopped growing. Instead, migration shifted—residents left Miami and Fort Lauderdale for quieter, more affordable communities in Southwest Florida.
Remote Work and Recent Migration Trends
The pandemic reshaped migration once again. Remote workers from New York, California, and Illinois prioritized space, lifestyle, and cost of living.
- Migration peaked in 2022, when about 1,640 people a day moved to Florida from other states and countries.
- Waterfront homes, gated neighborhoods, and suburban communities saw strong demand.
- Florida’s lack of state income tax and business-friendly policies accelerated the trend.
Migration has slowed a lot since then. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, moves from other states fell to about 22,500 in the year ending July 2025, down from about 311,000 in 2022. Florida led every state in international arrivals, about 179,000.
What Today’s Market Means for Buyers and Investors
Migration patterns continue to shape Southwest Florida real estate. More homes for sale than in 2021 and 2022 means buyers have time to make thoughtful choices, especially in the condo and townhouse market. Sellers still have opportunities to achieve strong results when they price strategically and present homes well.
At Worthington Realty, we analyze both housing and migration trends to guide our clients. Whether you’re buying in Fort Myers, selling in Cape Coral, or investing elsewhere in Lee County, understanding these patterns gives you an advantage.
For a deeper look at timing the market, download our Free Real Estate Cycle Guide.
If you’re comparing towns, our monthly market pages show recent sale prices, homes for sale and days on market in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Estero, Bonita Springs and Naples. If you’re moving from another state, the Florida relocation tax calculator estimates how your taxes could change.
FAQs About Moving to Fort Myers Florida
The area offers affordability, no state income tax, waterfront living, and year-round sunshine—all major draws for families, retirees, and remote workers.
Yes. While prices have risen, Fort Myers remains more affordable than many coastal metro areas like Miami, Tampa, or Naples.
Absolutely. Baby Boomers continue to drive demand for 55+ and resort-style communities across Lee County. Although, median age continues to get younger year after year.
Remote work accelerated migration from high-cost states during the pandemic, bringing new demand for larger homes and suburban living.
Communities along the Corkscrew corridor, master-planned neighborhoods in Estero, and gated communities throughout Lee County continue to see strong interest.
Final Thoughts
The story of moving to Fort Myers Florida is really the story of migration itself—driven by technology, lifestyle, and opportunity. From air conditioning after World War II to today’s remote work culture, the Greater Fort Myers area has consistently attracted people searching for better living.
If you’re planning a move, explore current Southwest Florida listings and let’s discuss how market cycles, migration trends, and your goals can come together. For the practical side of getting settled, from utilities to homestead, see our Moving to Southwest Florida guide.
Most homeowners feel overwhelmed when it’s time to move. At Worthington Realty, we provide personalized guidance and clear communication so that you feel heard, valued, and confident in your decisions.
