Estero (zip 33928), FL

The Florida climate is generally pleasant, and the southerly and slightly inland location of Fort Myers provides particularly nice and dry winter weather. But on the downside, the area is far from big-city amenities such as arts and culture, entertainment, and air service. While employment has been a concern at times, current and future projections are strong. The area is also spread out and growing more so, creating some sprawl-related problems.

Fort Myers is located on the south bank of the Caloosahatchee River about 15 miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico. The terrain is level and low with a mix of coastal plain and wet oak, magnolia, and evergreen forests. The climate is subtropical with a strong Gulf influence. High temperatures generally range from the low 60’s in winter to the low 80’s in summer. Winters are mild with many bright, warm days and moderately cool nights. Occasional cold snaps drop temperatures to the 30’s, but rarely to the 20’s.

About two-thirds of annual precipitation occurs June through September, mostly as cooling late afternoon thunderstorms 2 out of every 3 days. There are frequent long dry periods in winter. Late summer and fall tropical storms and hurricanes cause occasional torrential downpours, delivering perhaps 6 to 10 inches in 24 hours.