Cape Coral is the largest city between Tampa and Miami w/an area of 120 sq. miles. Estimates are that by 2020 The Cape’s population will be 200,000 with median age of 41. Mostly residential with 10% of the land being commercial or industrial. The Cape is about 60% built out and is divided into four sections, The SE, SW, NE & NW. Most of The North Cape is on septic and well systems, but utility expansion is on-going. All of the South Cape is on central utilities of water, sewer and irrigation. Many of the properties owned here in Cape Coral and Southwest Florida are second homes and or utilized to generate income for seasonal rental. And of course, we have a number of people who’ve retired here and as many who live and work here full-time.
Known for its numerous canals, Cape Coral boasts more canals than Venice (albeit the view is different). Two thirds of the canals are fresh water with one third being Gulf Access. The gulf access canal system allows you to boat to The Gulf of Mexico via the Intracoastal Waterway. Properties located on fresh water canals may enjoy a lovely boat ride to other fresh water canals or lakes but not to the Gulf of Mexico. The majority of the Gulf Access canals are in The South Cape and the western section of the NW Cape west of Burnt Store Road. Visit my Waterfront Description page for more information about the various types of waterfront living.
There are fewer planned/gated developments in The Cape compared to Fort Myers, Estero and Bonita Springs. There are four bridges with access to Fort Myers. The Cape is a terrific location to get to “the big cities” for the day or the weekend; Miami is about 2 .5 hours away, Tampa/St. Petersburg-2 hours or so, Orlando-3-4 hours, Sarasota – 1.5 hours and Key West is about 6 hours.
Locally, we have MANY festivals and events for people who enjoy the local music scene, food, art, (juried and not), live theatre, Naples Symphony and numerous art galleries. Most of the outdoor festivals take place December through April. And of course, we have The Everglades, Big Cypress Preserve and other nature preserves and state parks which offer some wonderful outdoor experiences. And don’t forget, sailing, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, off shore and inshore fishing. And Golf!
The local real estate market is going strong and continues to afford opportunities. If you haven’t been here before and you’re kickin’ around the idea of moving to The Cape or Southwest Florida, come visit and get a feel for the area. There are so many choices to consider; canal front living, close to the beach, beach or bay front living, condo or single family, gated community or not, 55+ community, investment property or personal use or both, golf course living? There’s much to learn and even more to enjoy! Contact me for more information, I’m happy to help! 239-823-6917