Things to Know About Naples Before You Move

September 8, 2025

Things to Know About Naples Before You Move

September 8, 2025

White-sand beaches, world-class golf courses, and year-round sunshine—Naples, Florida, sounds like paradise. And for many who relocate here, it is. But before you commit to moving to this Gulf Coast gem, it’s worth understanding what day-to-day life is really like. This guide covers everything you should know about Naples so you can move with confidence and start your next chapter smoothly—especially with the help of Joyce Van Lines, a trusted professional moving company serving Florida and nationwide

1. The Weather is Classic Florida Sunshine

Naples offers the warm, sunny climate that Florida is famous for, but it’s important to know what to expect:

Mild winters: Temperatures average in the 70s and 80s, making it a winter escape for retirees and snowbirds.

Hot, humid summers: Expect high 80s and 90s with regular afternoon thunderstorms.

Hurricane season: Runs June through November; while direct hits are not constant, preparation is key.

Plenty of sunshine: Naples averages 264 sunny days a year—perfect for outdoor living.

2. The Lifestyle is Relaxed and Upscale

Naples is often described as elegant yet laid-back, combining beach-town charm with a refined atmosphere. You’ll notice:

Casual luxury: Designer boutiques next to flip-flop-friendly cafés.

Golf culture: Over 90 golf courses make Naples one of the top golf destinations in the U.S.

Retiree-friendly vibe: A large portion of the population is 65+, though younger families are increasingly moving in.

Community pride: Naples is clean, safe, and well-maintained, with strong community associations.

If you’re looking for a slower pace without sacrificing sophistication, Naples strikes a nice balance.

3. Housing and Cost of Living

Naples is not the cheapest place to live in Florida, but it offers a high quality of life that many find worth the investment.

Real estate: Median home prices hover above $700,000, with luxury waterfront properties reaching several million.

Rentals: A one-bedroom apartment typically ranges from $2,000–$3,000 depending on proximity to the beach.

Property taxes: Florida has no state income tax, which offsets higher housing costs for many.

Utilities: Air conditioning is a must, especially in summer—expect higher electric bills during peak months.

Neighborhoods like Old Naples and Port Royal are prestigious and upscale, while Golden Gate and North Naples offer more affordable suburban living.

4. Getting Around Naples

Naples is less congested than Miami or Tampa, but a car is still essential for daily life.

Driving: Most residents rely on cars; public transportation is minimal.

Traffic: Manageable most of the year, but busier during “season” (winter months when snowbirds arrive).

Airport access: Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is about 40 minutes away.

Walkability: Downtown Naples is pedestrian-friendly, with 5th Avenue South and 3rd Street South offering shopping and dining within walking distance.

If you’re moving from a dense city, you’ll likely appreciate Naples’ ease of driving and parking.

5. Things to Do: Beaches, Nature, and Culture

Naples is more than just beaches—it’s a city full of outdoor adventures, arts, and dining.

Beaches: Naples Pier, Vanderbilt Beach, and Lowdermilk Park are local favorites.

Nature: Close to the Everglades and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, and hiking.

Culture: Artis–Naples hosts the Philharmonic and art exhibits.

Shopping and dining: Upscale boutiques, seafood restaurants, and farmers markets keep the local scene vibrant.

Family-friendly fun: Naples Zoo and Sun-N-Fun Lagoon are popular with kids

This mix of leisure and culture makes Naples attractive to both retirees and young families.

6. Schools, Jobs, and Economy

While Naples is often seen as a retirement destination, it’s also home to growing opportunities for professionals and families.

Schools: Collier County Public Schools includes several highly rated schools. Private schools, such as Seacrest Country Day, are also popular.

Colleges: Florida Gulf Coast University is nearby in Fort Myers.

Job market: Strong in healthcare, hospitality, and real estate. Remote work is also growing.

Economy: Naples ranks as one of the wealthiest U.S. cities in terms of per capita income, supporting a strong service sector.

If you’re moving with kids, researching school zones before buying or renting is highly recommended.

7. Planning Your Move to Naples

Relocating to Naples can be a big transition—especially if you’re moving from out of state. A few tips:

Avoid peak season: Moving between December and April can be more expensive due to high demand.

Plan for heat: Summer moves require extra care to protect belongings from humidity.

Downsize if possible: Many Naples homes are designed for open, minimalist living.

Hire professionals: A trusted moving company like Joyce Van Lines can handle packing, transport, and logistics, making your move stress-free.

Let Joyce Van Lines Get You There

Naples, Florida, offers a unique blend of sunshine, culture, and elegance that makes it one of the most desirable places to live in the U.S. But moving here—especially from across the country—requires planning and expertise.


That’s where Joyce Van Lines comes in. With decades of experience handling local and interstate moves, we provide full-service packing, safe transport, and reliable delivery tailored to your needs. Whether you’re settling into a waterfront condo or a family home in the suburbs, Joyce Van Lines ensures your move is seamless from start to finish.


Request a free moving quote today and let us help you start your Naples journey stress-free.