As a long-time resident and business owner here in Lee County, I know that nearly year-round ideal weather isn’t the only reason that brings people to live, work and play in our piece of paradise.
The years of efforts by the stewards of our ever-growing community have continually improved the quality of life and helped attract the businesses and families alike that have made Southwest Florida what it is today.
Earlier this year, Fort Myers ranked No. 1 in its “Fastest growing places” rankings.
As we continue to grow, many companies considering moving to our region look at our quality of life. They need to know that the area can not only support their business, but that their employees can enjoy a lifestyle that will make them want to stay here long-term and make this their home.
The answer to this question is a clear yes for many reasons. These seven factors include:
Training
• In 2023, the Lee County School District graduation rate was 85.1%, the second highest rate in district history.
• There are eight colleges and universities, including technical and vocational colleges.
Healthcare
• Lee Health is consistently ranked among the top 15% of hospitals in the country.
• There are six hospitals in Lee County.
Housing
• Lee County is relatively affordable compared to other parts of the state.
• Rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,450 per month, 7.6% cheaper than the national average of $1,560.
• There are a variety of housing options, from waterfront properties to suburban residential areas.
Infrastructure
• Lee County is planning to spend about $100 million on new roads over the next two years.
• The county has planned significant investments in sewer systems, water management and roadwork, totaling more than $1 billion over the next three to five years.
climate
• The average temperature in Lee County is 75 degrees.
Travel
• 24 new gates are currently being built at Southwest Florida International Airport.
• The airport is planning additional direct international flights.
• As of June 30, 6.5 million passengers have travelled with RSW in 2024, on track for a record year.
• Sports tourism has reached an all-time high with a record 188,000 hotel nights booked for sporting events in 2023.
Entertainment/Food
• There are nearly 2,000 restaurants in Lee County.
• Lee County is a sports mecca and home to two Major League Baseball teams for their spring training (Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins), one Minor League Baseball team (Fort Myers Mighty Mussels) and one Minor League Hockey team (Florida Everblades).
• There are seven entertainment venues with a capacity of over 3,000 people.
We have added 30% more businesses over the last five years, totaling 33,000. We are currently the third strongest office market in the country. This influx of businesses should continue in the coming years as we see much more commercial construction in the region. The Alico Road corridor, Pine Island Road corridor in Cape Coral, Skyplex in RSW and Northeast Lee County are just a few of the 10 million square feet of industrial parks under construction, ensuring sustainable economic growth and prosperity for Southwest Florida.
Mark Stevens is chairman of the Horizon Foundation and president of Stevens Construction, a Fort Myers-based company that provides construction management, general contracting and consulting services to clients and design professionals.
