Welcome to Cape Coral, one of the fastest growing cities in the country.
With a population nearing 160,000, Cape Coral is the largest city in Southwest Florida between Tampa and Miami.
But new residents will quickly discover, there’s still a definite “hometown” feel about the city and we’ve managed to escape most big city ills. Cape Coral consistently ranks among the safest cities in Florida for its population.
Our neighborhoods offer housing to almost any taste and pocketbook, everything from luxury waterfront homes and condominiums with every amenity to very reasonably priced starter homes for newcomers looking to make their first purchase.
Cape Coral schools, most of them operated by the School District of Lee County, offer a variety of programs as Lee County is a “school choice” county. New residents with children will find they can choose from among any of the schools in the “West Zone,” including schools that specialize in the arts or schools that offer accelerated academic programs. In addition, there are a number of private schools and two “charter school” systems, one operated by a private organization, the other offering K through high school, operated by the city of Cape Coral.
And if you’re looking for weekend fun or shopping, there’s plenty of each on “this side of the bridges.” Cape Coral has attracted most of the big chains including Kohls, Belk JCPenney. Franchise restaurants include Chili’s, Olive Garden, Panera Bread and Ruby Tuesday.
Shoppers also will find a multitude of hometown stores, shops and restaurants as well as a wealth of specialty emporiums. Be sure to take some time to stroll though Cape Coral’s downtown with its numerous shops and restaurants, many of which offer outdoor dining. Venture off Cape Coral Parkway onto the side streets to discover “where the locals go” to shop and eat.
For those looking for outdoor amusement, parks abound, everything from small neighborhood playgrounds to city landmarks such as the Yacht Club Beach and Pier, which offers a riverfront beach, and some fine fishing, Jaycee Park off Beach Parkway, which offers plenty of places to picnic on the waterfront, and Eco Park, off Southeast 23rd Terrace, which offers nature trails and, in season, kayak rentals.
In the pages that follow, you’ll find some basic information we hope will make your move to our Cape Coral easy. Again, welcome!