2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Gainesville, FL vs Fort Myers, FL

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Highlights
Are people in Fort Myers older or younger than people in Gainesville?
- The Median Age in Fort Myers is 13.5 years older than in Gainesville.

Are housing costs cheaper in Fort Myers or Gainesville?
- Fort Myers housing costs are 28.6% more expensive than Gainesville housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fort Myers or Gainesville?
- The average commute for residents of Fort Myers is 7.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Gainesville.

Things to do in Gainesville?
Gainesville, Florida is a lively city in Alachua County. Home to the University of Florida, this city is known for its vibrant college town atmosphere. With plenty of shops and restaurants along bustling downtown streets and nearby outdoor activities like canoeing and kayaking at Paynes Prairie State Park, there's no shortage of things to do here. Gainesville also has great schools and universities, as well as several parks where visitors can take in the beauty of nature. Whether you're looking for an exciting night out or a peaceful afternoon in nature, Gainesville is sure to have something for everyone.

Things to do in Fort Myers?
Fort Myers, Florida is located in the Southwest corner of the state and offers a wide variety of attractions ranging from historical sites like the Edison & Ford Winter Estates to beautiful beaches such as Lovers Key State Park.

 Gainesville, FLFort Myers, FLUnited States
 Population  Unlock84,694329,725,481
 Median Income$40,937  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock40.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$271,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.71  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Gainesville    60 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

I've lived here most of my life. It's changed a lot, and a lot of the locals don't like it. Because it's home to one of the largest universities in the country, we see a  More

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Lovely diverse city! People is nice and there is always something to do. Outdoors activities are awesome! The springs are beautiful and there are plenty of hiking  More

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Gainesville has the highest taxes and electrical rates in the state. The city is run by a bunch of liberals who have no idea what they are doing. Crime and homelessness  More

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Reviews for Fort Myers    54 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

I've lived here for most of my 30 years. I'm moving my family away in a few months. Here are the reasons: Climate- it's hot. Unbearably hot. And it's going to get  More

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I can't wait for all the replies especially from people that are from Florida or from up North that had to deal with extreme ice and snow. But I can honestly say in the  More

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I've lived in SW Florida on & off for most of my life. When my family first came here over 40 years ago the waterways teemed with fish & wildlife and the beaches,  More

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