Hello From

Fort Myers!

 

 

“The City of Palms”

Anna Maria Island

Fort Myers

A City and the County Seat in Lee County, Florida

 

Fort Myers, Florida is a historic and vibrant city located on the southwest coast of Florida along the Caloosahatchee River. Known as the “City of Palms,” Fort Myers is famed for its picturesque riverfront, beautiful beaches nearby, and its rich heritage—including the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. With a subtropical climate, a growing population, and access to barrier islands like Sanibel and Captiva, Fort Myers blends natural beauty, cultural attractions, and modern development, making it a popular destination for tourists, retirees, and families alike.

Fort Myers seamlessly blends historical charm with modern amenities, offering residents and visitors a unique Floridian experience. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or vibrant community life, Fort Myers has something to offer.

Downtown Fort Myers arial view of the marina and the Caloosahatchee River, prior to hurricane Ian. 

Location & Size

Fort Myers, Florida is located in Southwest Florida, along the Caloosahatchee River in Lee County. It’s approximately 40 miles north of Naples and 125 miles south of Tampa, and 10 inland from the Gulf of America.

The city is Approximately 49.04 square miles, with 39.84 square miles of land and 9.20 square miles of water. 

 

Founded

Fort Myers was established in 1841 as a military fort during the Second Seminole War. It was named after Colonel Abraham C. Myers, the son-in-law of the fort’s first commander. After the Civil War, settlers began arriving in the 1860s and 1870s. The area grew slowly but steadily, and Fort Myers was incorporated in 1885.

The city gained national attention when Thomas Edison built his winter home there in 1886. He was later joined by Henry Ford, whose estate was adjacent. Their presence helped establish Fort Myers as a destination for innovation and leisure.

With the construction of the Tamiami Trail and bridges in the 1920s, Fort Myers became more accessible, encouraging tourism and development. It also played a role during World War II as a training site for military personnel

Fort Myers has become a gateway to the southwest Florida region and a major tourtis destination as well as the county seat in Lee County.

 

FORT MYERS WEATHER

Population

The population of Fort Myers was 97,372 as of 2023.

Known For

  • Historical Estates: Home to the winter estates of Thomas Edison (“Seminole Lodge”) and Henry Ford (“The Mangoes”).

  • Cultural Attractions: Features the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, Barbara B Mann Performing Arts, Florida Repertory Theater, Broadway Palm Dinner Theater, IMAG History & Science Center, and Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium.

  • Beaches & Recreation: Proximity to Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island offers residents and visitors access to beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.

  • Education: Hosts institutions like Florida Gulf Coast University (Estera) and Florida SouthWestern State College.

  • Sports: Fort Myers is the spring training home to the Boston Red Sox, and the permanent home to The Fort Myers Mighty Mussels,  a Minor League Baseball team of the Florida State League and the Single-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins.

Cost of living

  • Median Household Income (2023): $62,160.

  • Median Home Value (2025): $341,836, down 7.8% from 2024.

  • Rent: $2,100

 

 

Things to do

  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy kayaking, fishing, and exploring the nearby islands.

  • Events: Attend the annual Edison Festival of Light and other local festivals.

  • Dining & Shopping: Explore the vibrant downtown area with diverse restaurants and shops.

  • Sports: Catch an MLB spring training game for the Boston Red Sox or a game for the minor league Fort Myers Mighty Mussels.

  • Beaches: Spend the day visiting one many local beaches.

Fun Facts

  • Nickname: “City of Palms” due to its palm-lined streets.

  • Historical Ties: The city’s name honors Colonel Abraham Myers, a Confederate officer.

  • Economic Growth: Fort Myers has a growing job market, attracting retirees, young professionals, and families.

  • Film Connection: Downtown Fort Myers was used for the abandoned city scenes in the 1987 movie Day of the Dead film.  

Nearby Cities

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