Hello From

Port Charlotte!

 

 

“A Waterfront Haven in the Heart of Southwest Florida”

Anna Maria Island

Port Charlotte

 A Census-Designated Place and Unincorporated Community in Collier County, Florida

 

Port Charlotte is a peaceful, unincorporated community in Charlotte County, nestled along the scenic shores of the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Known for its abundance of waterways and relaxed lifestyle, Port Charlotte is a favorite destination for retirees, boaters, anglers, and nature enthusiasts. Despite being hit hard by Hurricane Ian in 2022, the community has shown strong resilience and continues to thrive and rebuild.

Location & Size

Port Charlotte is located between Sarasota and Fort Myers in Southwest Florida. It spans approximately 32 square miles, with over 165 miles of waterways, including direct access to the Gulf of Mexico.

Founded

Port Charlotte was developed in the 1950s by the General Development Corporation as part of Florida’s post-war land boom. It grew significantly during the 1960s and 1970s as a planned residential community.

PORT CHARLOTTE WEATHER

Population

As of 2024, Port Charlotte has an estimated population of 65,000 residents.

Known For

  • Canals: Extensive canal systems  with canal front homes and boating access

  • Affordability: Peaceful coastal lifestyle with an affordable cost of living.

  • Retirement: known for its laid-back vibe and as a top retirement destination, having been named one of the best places to retire in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report.

  • Baseball: Spring training home of the Tampa Bay Rays

  • Communiuty: Resilient community spirit following Hurricane Charley & Hurricane Ian

Cost of living

  • Median Household Income: Around $57,000

  • Median Home Price (2024): Approximately $295,000

  • Average Rent (1–2 bedroom): About $1,300–$1,700/month
    The overall cost of living is slightly below the national average, with housing being the most affordable aspect.

Things to do

  • Explore Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park for kayaking, hiking, and birdwatching

  • Visit the Port Charlotte Beach Park, featuring a boardwalk, boat ramp, and fishing pier

  • Catch a baseball game at Charlotte Sports Park, the spring training home of the Tampa Bay Rays

  • Shop and dine at the Port Charlotte Town Center

  • Play a round at Riverwood Golf Club or other area courses

  • Go fishing or boating along the Myakka and Peace Rivers or Charlotte Harbor

Facts

  • Port Charlotte has over 12 golf courses within a 20-mile radius.

  • Charlotte harbor is one of the largest natural estuaries in Florida.

  • Pot Charlotte is part of the larger Punta Gorda Metropolitan Area but remains unincorporated.

  • Port Charlotte is close to island escapes like Boca Grande, Manasota Key, and Englewood Beach.

  • On August 13, 2004, Hurricane Charley made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane with winds exceeding 145 mph, causing catastrophic damage in Southwest Florida — and Port Charlotte was one of the hardest-hit communities. The storm took a sudden and unexpected turn into Charlotte Harbor, directly striking Port Charlotte and nearby Punta Gorda.

Nearby Cities

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