According to a report published by Retirement.com, Cape Coral in Lee County Florida is the No. 1 destination for Snowbirds during the winter months.
The report was based on cities that have a population of over 150,000 people. Some of the criteria used to arrive at their conclusion, was climate, affordability and crime rates.
Cape Coral is the largest city in Lee County and is located off the Gulf of America, close to Fort Myers. Cape Coral has a population of over 220,000 as of 2023, and a median home sale price of $389,888 as of January, 2025. It has one of the lowest crime rates in all of Florida with violent and property crime coming in at the second and third lowest in the state.
With an average temperature of 67.2 degrees fahrenheit and the seventh highest number of clear days between November and March, Cape Coral offers snowbirds one of the best climates to enjoy during retirement. And speaking of retirement, Cape Coral has the highest percentage of residents over the age of 60 years old, making it very comfortable for seniors and retirees alike.
Another reason that makes Cape Coral a popular choice for retirees are the number of golf courses in the area. It has the second highest number of golf courses in Florida per 1000 people.
Some other cities in Florida to make the list:
#4) Port St. Lucie – Population appx. 245,000 ( 2023 ) and a median home sale price of 395K ( 12/24 )
#7) Hialeah – Population appx. 221,000 ( 2023 ) and a median home sale price of 460K ( 12/24 )
#10) St. Petersburg – Population appx. 253,000 ( 2023 ) and a median home sale price of 427.8K ( 12/24 )
