What’s it Like Living in Naples, FL?

With beautiful scenery and a laid-back lifestyle, Naples is the true jewel of Southwest Florida’s Paradise Coast. The spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, white sandy beaches, abundant arts and culture, high-end shopping, and a stylish atmosphere are just a few of the draws to Naples. This coastal paradise continues to be one of the most desirable places to live in the country. Are you considering relocating to Naples, Florida? Great choice! Naples will charm you from the moment you arrive.

Naples Residents Are Happier

Naples is the ideal locale for retirees, growing families, people with pets, and young adults alike. Residents of this coastal city have consistently ranked number one for overall well-being. According to the Gallup National Health Index, Naples residents report the lowest levels of stress in the country and the highest sense of community and social well-being.

Naples has a population of about 21,750, but if you consider the surrounding Naples-Marco Island, Florida, Metropolitan area, the population far exceeds that number at roughly 379,300 residents.

In recent years, Naples has become a renowned wellness retreat and yoga hub, with classes available in traditional yoga studios and on the beach. For relaxation, residents can visit one of the many spas in the area, some of which are located within top-rated hotels and resorts.

It’s (Almost) Always Sunny in Naples

Boasting some of the best weather in the country, Naples has an average of 264 predominately sunny days each year. That means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to bask in the sun on one of the area’s beautiful beaches. And if you’re moving to Naples from the northern region? You can leave your snow gear behind; an accumulation of snow has never been recorded in Naples, at least according to weather records for the last 70 years.

Niche gives Naples an “A” grade for the weather, and for a good reason: For eight months of the year, the average temperature is above 80F.

The Beaches are Pristine

There’s a reason why Naples has been voted the Best Beach Town to Live in. Aside from having an ideal climate, this Florida paradise boasts miles of wide, white sandy beaches leading into the warm turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

One of the most beloved sites in the area is the historic Naples Pier, located at the West end of 12th Avenue South––known to locals as the “Beach at Naples Pier.” The pier, constructed in 1888, stretches 1,000 feet into the Gulf of Mexico and is a popular fishing and dolphin-spotting destination. The pier is also an idyllic spot to take a sunset stroll and watch as the sun meets the emerald green Gulf waters.

At Clam Pass Park in North Naples, you’ll find a serene family-friendly beach with calm waves and miles of powdery sand. The park is set in a protected 35-acre coastal habitat with a three-quarter-mile boardwalk providing beachgoers access to the beach. It’s a great spot to look for marine wildlife, including turtles, fish, and coastal birds.

Endless Outdoor Adventures

Along with an abundance of gorgeous beaches, the Naples area is home to several environmental gems, including forests, parks, sanctuaries, and protected areas within a short drive, including Everglades National Park, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, Picayune Strand State Forest, and Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

Naples couldn’t be a better place to call home if you enjoy nature-focused activities. The area is perfect for people who love hiking, camping, bird watching, biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, or taking in the area’s natural beauty. It’s not uncommon to catch a glimpse of rare and endangered species around wildlife preserves in the area, such as manatees, American crocodiles, American bald eagles, and Florida panthers.

Naples Has a Rich History

The City of Naples was officially founded in 1886. Throughout the 1870s and 1880s, magazines and newspapers often published stories about the area’s mild climate and abundant fish, comparing it to the sunny Italian peninsula. In fact, the name “Naples” caught on when promoters described the bay as “surpassing the bay in Naples, Italy.” Naples quickly became one of the hottest winter getaway destinations in the country.

The centerpiece of the newly founded community was the Naples Hotel, a spectacular sixteen-room beachfront hotel that quickly became the epicenter of the winter social season. Rose Cleveland, sister of U.S. President Grover Cleveland, was Naples Hotel’s first guest when it opened in 1889.

Downtown Olde Naples is the heart of the city. A perfect blend of the old and the new, this vibrant downtown area began as a tiny fishing village in the early twentieth century. Today, several historic fishing cottages still remain and stand among breathtaking mansions and boutique shopping promenades as timeless reminders of the area’s rich history. Walkability is paramount in Historic Downtown Naples, with plenty of shopping, restaurants, museums, beautiful courtyard gardens, and the beach just an easy walk or bike ride away.

Golf is a Way of Life

As self-titled “Golf Capital of the World,” Naples has more than 80 championship courses, many of which are private and set within luxury home communities. A few of the favorite courses in the area include:

Tiburón Golf Club features two 18-hole, Greg Norman-designed golf courses, The Gold and The Black. Tiburón is consistently rated among the top 20 golf facilities in Florida by Golf Digest and GOLF Magazine.
Old Corkscrew Golf Club boasts a legendary 7,400 yard Jack Nicklaus Signature Design course. The club is also a certified Audubon International Silver Signature Sanctuary.
Glen Eagle Golf and Country Club is a private gated community with 1234 properties. This private golf club offers members and guests a par-70, 18-hole championship golf course, and luxury clubhouse.

Quality Schools

For families with school-aged children, Naples offers a top-rated public school system along with several renowned private and parochial schools. The Naples area is served by three colleges or universities, including Edison State College and Florida Gulf Coast University (both in the Florida State University system), and Hodges University, a private institution.

Real Estate in Naples, Florida

Potential homebuyers interested in purchasing Naples real estate can expect to find a variety of home types and a highly competitive market. Every buyer has desirable home options, from luxury waterfront homes and gated golf communities to stately mansions, historic beach cottages, elegant condos, and charming single-family homes.

Final Thoughts

Known for near-perfect weather conditions, white sand beaches, low crime rates, lush greenery, sunny golf courses, fishing, yachting, fine dining, shopping, and close-knit communities, Naples is an excellent choice for anyone thinking of relocating to Florida’s west coast.

To learn more about living in Naples and see available properties, contact a Signature Naples agent today! We’ll do everything to help you feel confident deciding on your next home.