The “City of Palms” has long lured vacationers with its year-round warmth, lush flora, waterways and proximity to white sand beaches. These qualities have attracted such notable seasonal visitors as Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone, and help lure new residents to the area, as well. U.S. News & World Report named Fort Myers the #2 best place to retire in their 2020-2021 rankings. Based on affordable homes, low taxes and high ratings for happiness and desirability, Fort Myers came in at the #2 best place to retire in the United States. The city of Fort Myers has once again been named the fastest growing city in America by WalletHub. Fort Myers is among four Florida cities earning a spot on the top 20 list. Fort Myers also came in first in the "jobs and economy" category.
Once thought of as a retirement town, Fort Myers offers an abundance of outdoor activities, like boating, fishing, hiking, biking, tennis, pickleball and golf. It has also grown more diverse, providing myriad cultural and dining diversions, from local theater troupes to an array of cuisines from renowned chefs. If you’re looking to further your education in Fort Myers, you’ll have plenty of institutions to choose from! Earn a two-year or four-year undergraduate degree in one of the 45 academic programs available at the Lee Campus of Florida South Western State College (FSW). Study pre-med, engineering, music, entrepreneurship, or business at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). On a side note the 2012-13 FGCU men’s basketball team remains the only No. 15 seed in NCAA tournament history to reach the Sweet 16. Don't forget to visit our YouTube Channel for more information on SW Florida.