Best Areas to Live in Fort Myers: Top 15 Neighborhoods to Get You Started in 2025

Fort Myers has exploded in popularity over the past few years, and for good reason. With year-round sunshine, no state income tax, and a booming job market, it's attracting everyone from young families to retirees looking for their slice of paradise. But with so many neighborhoods to choose from, where should you actually plant your roots?

We've broken down the top 15 neighborhoods in Fort Myers to help you find your perfect match. Whether you're looking for waterfront living, golf course views, family-friendly communities, or downtown excitement, there's something here for every lifestyle and budget.

Downtown Living & Historic Charm

Fort Myers River District

If you love the idea of walking to dinner and catching live music on weekends, the River District is calling your name. This downtown area sits right along the Caloosahatchee River and offers everything from historic lofts to modern high-rise condos. You'll pay anywhere from $300,000 to well over $1 million for riverfront luxury, but the trade-off is having art galleries, restaurants, and nightlife right at your doorstep.

The best part? You can dock your boat and walk to work. The area has seen massive revitalization in recent years, making it a solid investment opportunity for those looking at both lifestyle and long-term value.

McGregor

One of Fort Myers' most picturesque neighborhoods, McGregor feels like stepping back into Old Florida. Tree-lined streets with towering royal palms lead to charming character homes and waterfront properties along the Caloosahatchee River. Home prices here typically range from $400,000 to $800,000, depending on water access and lot size.

This neighborhood attracts buyers who appreciate history and natural beauty. Many homes date back to the early 1900s, but you'll also find completely renovated properties that blend vintage charm with modern amenities.

Master-Planned Communities for Families

Gateway

Located in East Fort Myers, Gateway is the poster child for master-planned living. This community was designed with families in mind, featuring everything from starter homes around $250,000 to executive properties pushing $500,000. The neighborhood includes multiple parks, The Club at Gateway golf course, and is just minutes from Southwest Florida International Airport.

What makes Gateway special is its infrastructure. Wide roads, sidewalks throughout, and plenty of green space make it feel more like a small town than a subdivision. It's particularly popular with young professionals who appreciate the convenience to I-75 and the airport.

Whiskey Creek

Don't let the name fool you – this family-friendly neighborhood is one of Fort Myers' hidden gems. Located in the heart of the city, Whiskey Creek offers everything from affordable condos starting around $150,000 to waterfront homes exceeding $400,000.

The community features direct access to the Caloosahatchee River, making it perfect for boating enthusiasts. Many homes come with private docks, and the neighborhood has several parks and recreational areas. It's also highly rated for its proximity to quality schools and shopping centers.

Buckingham

If you need space to spread out, Buckingham delivers. This area east of Fort Myers offers larger lots and newer construction, with many homes featuring 3-4 bedrooms and multi-car garages. Prices typically range from $250,000 to $450,000, making it attractive for growing families who want bang for their buck.

The trade-off is a longer commute to downtown Fort Myers, but easy I-75 access makes it manageable. Many residents love the rural feel while still having access to city amenities.

Golf & Resort-Style Living

Colonial Country Club

This gated community epitomizes resort-style living in Fort Myers. Built around a championship golf course, Colonial Country Club offers everything from condos in the $200,000s to custom estates over $1 million. The community features tennis courts, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.

What sets Colonial apart is its sense of community. Regular social events, organized activities, and beautifully maintained common areas create a country club atmosphere year-round. It's particularly popular with retirees and empty nesters who want an active lifestyle without the maintenance headaches.

Pelican Preserve

Designed specifically for active adults 55 and older, Pelican Preserve is like a cruise ship that never leaves port. This community features a 27-hole golf course, spa services, fitness center, and more clubs and activities than you could join in a lifetime.

Home prices range from the high $200,000s for condos to over $600,000 for single-family homes with golf course views. The community's focus on wellness and social engagement makes it one of Southwest Florida's most popular retirement destinations.

Lexington Country Club & Timber Creek

These neighboring golf communities offer similar amenities – championship courses, clubhouses, pools, and organized social activities. Lexington tends to skew slightly more upscale, with homes typically starting in the $300,000s, while Timber Creek offers more variety in the $200,000 to $500,000 range.

Both communities are known for their strong social scenes and well-maintained properties, making them excellent choices for golf enthusiasts and anyone seeking an active community lifestyle.

Affordable & Up-and-Coming Areas

San Carlos Park

Located in South Fort Myers near Florida Gulf Coast University, San Carlos Park has become increasingly popular with young professionals, students, and investors. Home prices remain relatively affordable, with many options under $300,000.

The area's proximity to FGCU creates a built-in rental market, making it attractive for real estate investors. Recent infrastructure improvements and new shopping centers have enhanced the area's appeal, and many predict continued appreciation as Fort Myers expands southward.

Cypress Lake

This neighborhood offers that laid-back Florida vibe at prices that won't break the bank. Located near FGCU, Cypress Lake combines college town energy with suburban family living. You'll find everything from affordable condos to single-family homes with pools.

The area has seen significant growth in dining and entertainment options, and its central location provides easy access to both Fort Myers and Naples. It's particularly popular with first-time homebuyers and young families.

The Forum

One of Fort Myers' newest mixed-use developments, The Forum combines residential, retail, and dining all in one walkable community. Apartments and townhomes range from $250,000 to $400,000, with luxury amenities and modern finishes throughout.

This development represents the future of Florida living – walkable, sustainable, and designed for today's lifestyle. It's particularly attractive to young professionals and empty nesters who want convenience and modern amenities.

Luxury & Waterfront Communities

Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club

This waterfront community offers the ultimate in luxury living, with deep-water access to the Gulf of Mexico and a championship golf course. Home prices typically start around $500,000 and can exceed $2 million for waterfront estates with private docks.

The community features a full-service marina, multiple dining options, and some of the most beautiful homes in Southwest Florida. It's the go-to choice for boating enthusiasts who don't want to compromise on luxury.

The Landings

Another premier gated community, The Landings combines luxury living with family-friendly amenities. The community features multiple pools, tennis courts, a fitness center, and beautifully landscaped common areas.

Home prices range from $400,000 to over $1 million, with many properties featuring water views or golf course frontage. The community's strong HOA ensures property values remain stable while maintaining resort-quality amenities.

Island & Beach Living

Fort Myers Beach

While technically a separate city, Fort Myers Beach deserves mention for those seeking true island living. This barrier island community offers everything from beachfront condos to single-family homes just steps from the sand.

Prices vary widely depending on proximity to the beach, with condos starting around $300,000 and beachfront homes exceeding $1 million. The community rebuilt stronger after recent hurricanes, with many properties featuring the latest storm-resistant construction.

Making Your Choice

Each of these neighborhoods offers something unique, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Families with school-age children might gravitate toward Gateway or Whiskey Creek, while retirees often prefer Pelican Preserve or Colonial Country Club. Young professionals frequently choose downtown River District or The Forum, while boating enthusiasts can't resist Gulf Harbour or waterfront properties in McGregor.

The good news? Fort Myers' continued growth means most of these neighborhoods represent solid investment opportunities. Whether you're looking for your forever home or a smart real estate investment, these 15 neighborhoods represent the best of what Fort Myers has to offer in 2025.

Ready to explore these neighborhoods in person? The team at AnchorPoint Real Estate knows every street, every community, and every opportunity in Fort Myers. We can help you find the perfect neighborhood that matches your lifestyle and budget – because the right home in the right neighborhood makes all the difference.