There are a multitude of reasons that people flock to Florida. With the sunshine, lack of snow, and theme parks at the top of the list, one of the biggest reasons people come to Florida is to be near the beach.
The beaches in Florida are special, especially for anyone who has only visited beaches up north. You won’t find yourself walking around cliffs or over rocks to fight your way to the water, as Florida beaches are mostly sand. Some beaches feature a fine white powder, while others have hard compact sand that you can even drive your cars onto.
Another benefit of Florida beaches over their northern counterparts is that you can enjoy them longer than northern coastal areas thanks to Florida’s year-round warm weather.
So you’ve established that you want to be closer to the beach, but which beach is right for you? Maybe you’ve eliminated other coastal areas of Florida or haven’t found the one that suits your needs.
Enter Cape Coral and Fort Myers. Both have that beach appeal, but which is better for your lifestyle?
Read on for some comparisons that just may help you choose.
Cape Coral
Known for its man-made canals, Cape Coral is the epitome of waterfront living. Over 400 miles of canals put Cape Coral on the map, rivaling Venice.
Because Cape Coral was engineered on swamp land, you’ll never find it lacking in nature or natural beauty. There are several nature parks for any outdoor enthusiast, and you’re bound to see alligators, snakes, and the rarest of Florida birds all at your doorstep.
Although a growing area, Cape Coral has been voted as one of the safest cities in Florida. Previously thought of as a retirement town, this watery locale has been growing at an unprecedented rate, surprising even the local government.
This can be a pro or a con depending on how you view it. It’s wonderful for local businesses, but the retirement community may have some other thoughts or concerns.
With its highly rated schools, art galleries, and “mini Key-West” vibe, it’s a wonderful option for families and retirees alike.
Fort Myers
Similar to Cape Coral, a robust portion of the dwellers in this coastal city are retirees. However, this town is also growing at an exponential rate.
With more of a nightlife for the night owls, Fort Myers is a very appealing option for younger families that want the benefits of the beach but also the feel of a big city. For foodies and dancers alike, there’s something for everyone in the River District.
Nature is abundant in leaps and bounds in Fort Myers. Unlike the man-made nature trails in Cape Coral, Fort Myers is naturally picturesque. From Sanibel Island to Fort Myers Beach and dozens of natural trails in between, you’ll never find yourself wanting for fresh air.
Weather
Living in a coastal region always runs the risk of named storms (i.e. hurricanes and tropical storms), flooding, and other types of damage. This type of harsh weather can make home insurance very expensive. Adding flood insurance (trust us, you’ll want it!) can make living there a bit more expensive than somewhere else inland.
The weather can change drastically from one Florida city to the next. But since both Cape Coral and Fort Myers are in southwest Florida along the Caloosahatchee River, the weather is very similar.
For all intents and purposes, this is a tie.
Which Is Best For You?
It all depends on what you’re looking for. If price is a factor, you can compare Fort Myers’ home values with Cape Coral’s. Cape Coral’s home values are considerably higher than Fort Myers’.
If the laid-back lifestyle of living on a canal with immediate boat access and lazing your days on the water sounds appealing, Cape Coral may be the best choice for you.
Conversely, if a bustling city with natural appeal and an active nightlife suits your fancy, put Fort Myers on your radar.
Any move is a significant change, and Cento Moving is here to help with the most stressful part. We strive to get you from point A to point B quickly, efficiently, and safely. That way, you’ll be relaxing on the beach in no time.
Give us a call today for all your moving needs.
