Relocating to the Sunshine State’s Alluring Gulf Coast - Everything You Should Know About Living in Naples, Florida

Known for its miles of gorgeous sugar-soft sands and stunning sunset views, Southwest Florida is a dream come true for many visitors. Living in Naples, Florida, is even more dreamy. But pretty Sunshine State seas and skies aren’t all you get when you move to the Gulf Coast. From fantastic dining to lively events that happen year round, Naples is a great location to settle down. In fact, the city was named the No. 1 place to live in America by U.S. News & World Report for 2024-2025. 

Moving to paradise might sound like a no-brainer, but even with all the accolades, it’s best to get the lowdown before you start packing up and heading south. Luckily, our guide is here with all the essentials — from costs to jobs and things to do in Naples, Florida.

Living in Naples, Florida at a Glance

1. Cost of Living in Naples, Florida  

Is Naples, Florida, expensive? Well, with a cost of living index of 113, it’s pricier than the national average. But while this may seem like a steep number, Naples is still more affordable than other major cities in South Florida, like Miami and Palm Beach, where the cost of living index is 118.9 and 114.1, respectively. 

So how much do you need to live comfortably in Naples? That depends. According to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, the average cost of living in Naples, Florida, requires a salary of around $48,000 before tax. But that’s just for you. If you have a family of four with two working adults, that salary needs to be more like $112,000. Your personal lifestyle will determine how much you will specifically need to earn, though.

Sparkling Gulf waters and beautiful sunsets (just two advantages of living in Naples, Florida) lure millions of visitors to the Naples area every year — and some decide to stay. 

2. Pros and Cons of Living in Naples, Florida

Is Naples, Florida, a good place to live? Some of the general perks are its desirable winter weather and gorgeous sunsets. Cons? Naples is pretty popular with tourists and homeowners — and that’s reflected in certain costs. Here’s a more in-depth look at some of the major pros and cons you can expect when living in Naples, Florida. 

Pro: Picturesque Beaches Wherever You Go

From Barefoot Beach Preserve to the Naples Pier, this lovely seaside haven boasts some of the most picturesque and serene beaches in the world. In fact, in Collier County, there are more than 48 miles of beaches. 

Con: High Housing Prices

Now the tougher news: Is Naples, Florida, expensive? Let’s just say, good luck finding affordable housing on one of those beaches. The Naples, FL, cost of living is higher than both the state and national averages, with housing prices to match. The average home value in Naples is $592,700, while the national average is $362,500.

There are still affordable areas to live nearby, though. You just have to know where to look.

Pro: Naples Is the Golf Capital of the World

The state of Florida offers great golfing opportunities, and Naples is no exception. In fact, Naples is the self-proclaimed Golf Capital of the World. You can find about 90 golf courses throughout the Greater Naples area, with about a third of those accessible to the public.

Con: Hurricanes Can Cause Problems

Moving to Florida means you will quickly become familiar with hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through Nov. 30 and peaks right around Labor Day with the most tropical activity. Remember, though, that while hurricanes are serious, there’s no need to live in fear or let them stop you from moving to the state.

We recommend finding a weather forecaster you trust when a tropical storm or hurricane is approaching. You’ll need to remain more alert since you’re close to the coast, and pay extra-close attention to evacuation warnings that may be issued — and heed them. Have your hurricane kit ready and a plan in place — along with some snacks and plenty of margarita mix. Because that’s how the locals do it.

Con: You’ll Have To Deal With Tourists

It’s no shock that Naples attracts a lot of tourists — especially in the colder months. When snowbirds settle in for the season, traffic in the city can get hectic. Beaches, restaurants, and other things to do in Naples, Florida, have a tendency to get overcrowded, as well. But you’ll eventually learn all the local favorites and become a pro at avoiding all the noise.

3. Naples Housing Market 

Picky about your perfect place? Naples has all kinds of architectural styles, from ranch to Mediterranean to classic contemporary. The average home price in Naples is around $592,700.

4. Renting in Naples 

With an average apartment size of a little more than 1,000 square feet, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Naples is around $2,325. And there are plenty of bigger 2- and 3-bedroom options at more expensive prices, of course.  

Historic grandeur mixes with high-end condos and single-family homes in Old Naples’ residential district.

5. Best Places To Live in Naples 

Planning a move to Naples but not sure where exactly you’ll fit in? Check out a few of the city’s best neighborhoods. 

Pelican Bay

If you’ve been asking yourself whether Naples, FL, is a good place to retire, you should check out Pelican Bay. Ranked as the No. 7 best place to retire in Florida by Niche, this high-end community offers the dream waterfront-living experience. Locals love golfing at Pelican Bay Golf Club, exploring Lovers Key State Park, and taking nature walks along the gulf. 

Coquina Sands

The Coquina Sands neighborhood features a variety of housing options, from single-family houses to condominiums. It is situated near the best of the city's amenities, such as Lowdermilk Park and the Naples Preserve. Locals also love visiting Nectar Lab Kava Bar.

Since they’re close to Downtown Naples, residents of Coquina Sands can bike to the city in about 15 minutes. And for families with school-aged children, Coquina Sands provides access to some of the area's best schools, including Lake Park Elementary School and Naples High School.

Old Naples

Old Naples is a great place to live if you’re looking to be close to all the things to do in Naples, Florida. The area features a mix of high-end condos and single-family homes near Naples Bay and Tamiami Trail. Old Naples residents can enjoy easy beach access through Naples Pier or Naples Beach.

Locals also love visiting the area’s various local restaurants and art galleries along 5th Avenue South. (You definitely won’t want to miss out on the district’s outdoor concerts and street festivals!) And after a nice lunch or dinner, you can head over to Third Street South for some shopping or to grab dessert and coffee at one of the cafes.

6. Traffic When Commuting to the City 

Just as it is in many larger cities, commuting from the suburbs into the city is often difficult — especially during rush hour. The Golden Gate and Immokalee routes are known for having heavy traffic, so make sure you plan out your day ahead of time and leave early before traveling into the city.

Collier County students visit the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, one of the area’s most popular attractions for kids (and grandkids!).
(Source: Collier County Public School District via Facebook)

7. Schools and Higher Education in Naples

The first question parents likely have: “Is Naples, Florida, a good place to live for kids?” And the second question: “How are the schools?” 

With an A grade on Niche and the No. 5 spot on Niche’s list of “Best School Districts in Florida,” Collier County’s public school district is definitely a great place for your kids to learn.

And if you’re looking for higher-education opportunities, you’re in luck. There are three colleges/universities in the area: 

8. Naples Crime Rates

Is Naples, Florida, safe? With fewer than 330 total crimes happening (on average) each year, the city is a relatively safe place to call home. You have a 1 in 386 chance of being a victim of violent crime in Florida, but the chances in Naples are 1 in 934. And according to NeighborhoodScout crime stats, the city is safer than 28 percent of other U.S. cities.9. Favorable Weather All Year

During the summer season, the average temperature in Naples can reach up to 93 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the winter season, the temperature consistently stays in the 70s. 

Remember to take humidity into account, though. The summer months aren’t quite as unbearable as inland parts of the state, since you have the sea breeze, but the heat index can easily reach into the 100s. Once October hits, temperatures are usually much nicer, and the humidity isn’t as high.

9. Weather in Naples

During the summer season, the average temperature in Naples can reach up to 93 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the winter season, the temperature consistently stays in the 70s. 

Remember to take humidity into account, though. The summer months in Naples aren’t quite as unbearable as in inland parts of the state, since you have the sea breeze, but the heat index can easily reach into the 100s. Once late October rolls around, though, temperatures are usually much nicer and the oppressive summer humidity begins to ease. But don’t forget to keep an eye on the tropics, because hurricane season isn’t over til it’s over.

10. Rain in Naples

In Naples, the summer season is characterized as much by rain as by scorching temperatures. The wettest month of the year is August, when the city frequently gets about six inches of rain. The wet season spans from the end of May to the beginning of October. So with all this talk about hurricanes, massive rains, and dangerous heat —- is Naples, Florida, safe? As long as you take the proper precautions when it comes to the weather, yes, you will be fine.

11. The Naples Job Market

If you're looking for a work environment that also offers art, nature, good food, and beautiful beaches, then Naples surely is a great place for you. The tourism industry is a major contributor to the city’s economy — although it’s been not quite as robust in recent months as in years past. Still, many Naples residents work in the service and hospitality sectors. And construction is booming.

Swamp buggy racing season kicks off in early December — one of the more quirky, Florida-style things to do in Naples, Florida.
(Source: Swamp Buggy Races via Facebook)

12. Fun Things To Do in Naples, Florida

Local Events

There’s always something going on in the Naples area. The Naples Craft Beer Fest, for example, takes place every March — a favorite for attendees who enjoy sampling different types of beer while also sampling live music and local dishes. And the Naples Stone Crab Festival, set for late October in Downtown Naples, is another great event for seafood lovers and fans of the Soapy Tuna band.

Outdoor Activities Year Round

You’re moving to Florida, so year-round outdoor activities are a given — with the usual caveat that you really ought to keep an eye on the tropics from June through November. Whether you’re into hiking, kayaking, or bird-watching, the many parks, rivers, and trails surrounding Naples give you easy access to it all. Fishing and boating are also favorite pastimes out on the Gulf of Mexico.

Swamp Buggy Racing

In Naples, a man by the name of Ed Frank is well known because of his ability to navigate through the swamps. In fact, he built a “Tumble Bug” frame out of aircraft tires and gave birth to the swamp buggy! Originally, this was a way for law enforcement and hunters to get around rough terrain. But necessity is the mother of invention, so Tumble Bug has transformed into racing, with lots of events underway every year. Check out the season kickoff in December.

PODS Can Help You Move to Naples

At first, finding a place to live in Naples may seem easy — so many beautiful spots to consider! — but actually moving there might present a challenge. That's why you should consider using a portable moving container from PODS. Flexibility is the name of the game with PODS, as they can deliver a container right to your driveway and you can load it on your schedule. Need help with the heavy lifting? PODS can connect you with local loading and packing services. Need more time between moves? You can keep your container in a PODS Storage Center as long as you need. Basically, with PODS, you call the shots.

Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.