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Mount Plymouth, Florida

Mount Plymouth is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lake County, Florida, United States. As of the 2010 census, the CDP population was 4,011, up from 2,814 in 2000. It is part of the Orlando–Kissimmee Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
The focal point of a golf resort for the region was the Historic Mount Plymouth Hotel, which was constructed in 1926 at a cost of $350,000. The hotel became a center of activity in the area. Guests such as Al Capone, Connie Mack, Babe Ruth and Kate Smith were able to utilize the hotel's airfield for arrival.

Four 18-hole golf courses patterned after the St. Andrews course in Scotland were originally planned for the resort. However, the Florida real estate crash of 1926 prevented completion of three of the four courses. The first course, called Mount Plymouth Golf Club, closed in 2007. Lucia Mida would use Mount Plymouth as her temporary place of residence while participating in Florida state golfing tournaments.

In 1959, Florida Central Academy occupied the building and grounds of the 150-room hotel. Originally a boys boarding school, in 1971 the academy began accepting girls. The school remained operational until June 1983. The building, condemned by county health officials, quickly became the target of vandals. In 1986 and 1987, fire destroyed the building.

Geography
Mount Plymouth is located in eastern Lake County at 28.79917°N, -81.53167°W. It is bordered to the south by the city of Apopka in Orange County. Florida State Road 46 passes through the center of the community, leading east 17 mi to Sanford and west 7 mi to Mount Dora. Tavares, the Lake county seat, is 12 mi west of Mount Plymouth. Florida State Road 429, the Wekiva Parkway, passes east and south of Mount Plymouth, leading south around the west side of the Orlando area 42 mi to Interstate 4.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Mount Plymouth CDP has a total area of 7.9 km2, of which 7.5 km2 are land and 0.4 km2, or 4.91%, are water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2010, there were 4,011 people, 1,080 households, and 811 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 1,010.8 PD/sqmi. There were 1,171 housing units at an average density of 420.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 88.33% White, 5.06% African American, 0.92% Native American, 0.62% Asian, 0.18% Pacific Islander, 2.84% from other races, and 2.22% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 9.37% of the population.

There were 1,080 households, out of which 33.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.5% were married couples living together, 8.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.9% were non-families. 18.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 2.97.

In the CDP, the age distribution of the population shows 25.2% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 18 to 24, 30.8% from 25 to 44, 24.1% from 45 to 64, and 13.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.8 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $42,530, and the median income for a family was $45,089. Males had a median income of $31,324 versus $21,621 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $17,182. About 2.1% of families and 6.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 1.8% of those under age 18 and 7.8% of those age 65 or over.

Notable person

 * Nancy Walters, actress

title: Mount Plymouth, Florida


text:
Okahumpka, Florida

Okahumpka is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lake County, Florida, United States. The population was 267 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Orlando–Kissimmee Metropolitan Statistical Area.

It is the location of the Historic Campbell House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
Okahumpka is located in western Lake County. County Road 33 passes through the community, leading northeast 1.5 mi to U.S. Route 27, which leads 3 mi farther north to Leesburg; and south 12 mi to Mascotte. County Road 48 leads east 1 mi to US-27 and southwest 9 mi to Center Hill. County Road 470 leads west 3 mi to an interchange with Florida's Turnpike.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Okahumpka CDP has a total area of 0.64 km2, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 251 people, 108 households, and 72 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 1,049.1 PD/sqmi. There were 113 housing units at an average density of 472.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 98.80% White, 0.80% African American, 0.40% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.80% of the population.

There were 108 households, out of which 26.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.4% were married couples living together, 14.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.3% were non-families. 25.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 2.74.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 18.7% under the age of 18, 9.6% from 18 to 24, 29.9% from 25 to 44, 30.3% from 45 to 64, and 11.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 106.1 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $19,219, and the median income for a family was $50,268. Males had a median income of $25,313 versus $20,179 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $12,684. About 17.5% of families and 31.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 74.4% of those under the age of 18 and 29.6% of those 65 or over.

Notable People

 * Virgil D. Hawkins (1906–1988), civil rights attorney, born in Okahumpka

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Okahumpka, Florida


text:
Paisley, Florida

Paisley is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lake County, Florida, United States. The population was 818 at the 2010 census, up from 734 at the 2000 census. It is part of the Orlando–Kissimmee Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Paisley is the closest community to Boy Scout Camp La-No-Che on the north shore of Lake Norris, and the community is also host to the Toronto Argonauts' pre-season training and free agency camp.

History
A post office called Paisley has been in operation since 1886. The community was named after the town of Paisley in Scotland. Earlier names for the area include Acron and Lightwood.

On the morning of February 2, 2007, a tornado touched down in the community and was blamed for at least 14 deaths.

Geography
Paisley is located in northern Lake County. It was in Orange County before Lake County's creation on 27 July 1887. The CDP includes the communities of Paisley, Johnsons Corner, and Blue Lakes Ridge. Paisley is on the southern edge of the Ocala National Forest and is 17 mi northeast of Eustis and 16 mi west of DeLand.

The main arteries of the town of Paisley are Lake County Road 42 and Maggie Jones Road.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 8.7 km2, of which 8.1 km2 are land and 0.6 km2, or 6.70%, are water. There are at least seven small named lakes within the community and several more unnamed ones.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 734 people, 317 households, and 217 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 223.7 PD/sqmi. There were 396 housing units at an average density of 120.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 97.41% White, 0.68% Native American, 0.54% Asian, 1.23% from other races, and 0.14% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.63% of the population.

There were 317 households, out of which 24.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.3% were married couples living together, 10.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.5% were non-families. 24.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 2.73.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 22.8% under the age of 18, 4.6% from 18 to 24, 25.9% from 25 to 44, 24.0% from 45 to 64, and 22.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 43 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.6 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $29,000, and the median income for a family was $38,500. Males had a median income of $29,732 versus $26,111 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $12,798. About 14.0% of families and 17.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.1% of those under age 18 and 15.8% of those age 65 or over.

title: Paisley, Florida


text:
Pine Lakes, Florida

Pine Lakes is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lake County, Florida, United States. The population was 862 at the 2010 census, up from 755 at the 2000 census. It is part of the Orlando–Kissimmee Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Pine Lakes is located in northeastern Lake County. The CDP includes the communities of Pine Lakes, South Pine Lakes, and Florida Hills.

Florida State Road 44 passes through Pine Lakes, leading northeast 10 mi to DeLand and southwest 17 mi to Mount Dora.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 4.4 km2, of which 4.1 km2 are land and 0.3 km2, or 6.48%, are water. There are at least eight named lakes in the CDP, the largest being Pine Lake and Crystal Lake.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 755 people, 282 households, and 205 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 486.9 PD/sqmi. There were 345 housing units at an average density of 222.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 96.95% White, 0.93% African American, 0.40% Native American, 0.13% Asian, 0.93% Pacific Islander, 0.40% from other races, and 0.26% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.78% of the population.

There were 282 households, out of which 34.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.9% were married couples living together, 13.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.0% were non-families. 20.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.68 and the average family size was 2.94.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 27.9% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 27.5% from 25 to 44, 22.1% from 45 to 64, and 14.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 106.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 104.5 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $28,333, and the median income for a family was $26,250. Males had a median income of $28,194 versus $23,889 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $11,232. About 29.5% of families and 32.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 55.9% of those under age 18 and 15.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Pine Lakes, Florida


text:
Pittman, Florida

Pittman is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lake County, Florida, United States. The population was 180 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Orlando–Kissimmee Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Pittman is located in northern Lake County and is bordered to the west by Marion County, to the east by Lake Dorr, and to the north by Ocala National Forest. Florida State Road 19 passes through the community, leading south 11 mi to Eustis and north 52 mi to Palatka.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Pittman CDP has a total area of 3.3 km2, of which 0.07 km2, or 2.25%, are water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 192 people, 69 households, and 58 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 149.7 PD/sqmi. There were 85 housing units at an average density of 66.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 83.85% White, 11.98% African American, 2.60% from other races, and 1.56% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.21% of the population.

There were 69 households, out of which 34.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.7% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 15.9% were non-families. 15.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.78 and the average family size was 2.97.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 23.4% under the age of 18, 12.5% from 18 to 24, 23.4% from 25 to 44, 29.2% from 45 to 64, and 11.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 118.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 104.2 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $16,375, and the median income for a family was $4,896. Males had a median income of $31,250 versus $0 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $17,113. About 52.2% of families and 28.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under the age of eighteen or sixty five or over.

title: Pittman, Florida


text:
Silver Lake, Florida

Silver Lake is a census-designated place (CDP) in Lake County, Florida, United States. The population was 1,879 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Orlando–Kissimmee Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Silver Lake is located in central Lake County and is bordered to the south by the city of Leesburg. U.S. Route 441 runs just south of Silver Lake, leading west 5 mi to the center of Leesburg and east the same distance to Tavares, the Lake county seat.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Silver Lake CDP has a total area of 7.2 km2, of which 5.4 km2 are land and 1.8 km2, or 24.50%, are water. Silver Lake, a lake with the same name as the city, is entirely within the CDP.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,882 people, 810 households, and 563 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 768.5 PD/sqmi. There were 872 housing units at an average density of 356.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 90.91% White, 3.88% African American, 0.11% Native American, 3.40% Asian, 0.05% Pacific Islander, 0.64% from other races, and 1.01% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.23% of the population.

There were 810 households, 24.7% of which had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.0% were married couples living together, 5.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.4% were non-families. 24.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.32 and the average family size was 2.77.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 20.5% under the age of 18, 5.6% from 18 to 24, 23.2% from 25 to 44, 28.7% from 45 to 64, and 22.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.2 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $55,347, and the median income for a family was $73,750. Males had a median income of $44,053 versus $30,750 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $27,258. About 6.5% of families and 8.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.5% of those under age 18 and 6.3% of those age 65 or above.

title: Silver Lake, Florida


text:
Sorrento, Florida

Sorrento is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in Lake County, Florida, United States. The population was 861 at the 2010 census, up from 765 at the 2000 census. It is part of the Orlando–Kissimmee Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Sorrento is located in eastern Lake County and is bordered to the east by Mount Plymouth. Florida State Road 46 passes through Sorrento, leading west 5 mi to Mount Dora and east 19 mi to Sanford.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Sorrento CDP has a total area of 3.3 km2, of which 0.05 km2, or 1.52%, are water. It is part of the Wekiva River watershed.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 765 people, 269 households, and 203 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 591.2 PD/sqmi. There were 286 housing units at an average density of 221.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 89.54% White, 0.78% African American, 0.78% Native American, 6.80% from other races, and 2.09% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 17.39% of the population.

There were 269 households, out of which 36.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.6% were married couples living together, 11.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.5% were non-families. 18.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.84 and the average family size was 3.23.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 28.6% under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24, 32.4% from 25 to 44, 20.4% from 45 to 64, and 9.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.0 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $39,318, and the median income for a family was $41,343. Males had a median income of $25,845 versus $17,101 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $17,569. None of the families and 2.2% of the population were living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 15.1% of those over 64.

title: Sorrento, Florida


text:
Tavares, Florida

Tavares is a city and the county seat of Lake County, Florida. The population at the 2020 census was 19,003, and in 2019 the population was estimated to be 17,749. It is part of the Orlando–Kissimmee–Sanford Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Organized in 1885, and completed in 1888 on land donated by St. Clair-Abrams, the Union Congregational Church was the first church in Tavares.

Tavares was founded in 1880 by Alexander St. Clair-Abrams, a newspaper and railroad man from a Creole family in New Orleans. He gave it the surname of a Portuguese ancestor. In 1883 a post office was established; by the next year, a hotel, three stores, a sawmill, and eight cottages were built. St. Clair-Abrams's dream of Tavares as the state capital was not realized, but in 1887 it was designated the county seat of Lake County. St. Clair-Abrams later chartered a railroad from Tavares to Orlando. In 1919, Tavares incorporated as a town.

Groveland Four
In 1949, the Groveland Four, were wrongly accused of raping a white woman in 1949. One was killed after fleeing, and three were convicted at trial in Tavares. The two adults were sentenced to death and the minor to life in prison. The Supreme Court of the United States overturned the verdict and ordered a new trial for the two capital defendants. One was killed while being transported to Tavares in 1951. Walter Irvin survived the shooting by the sheriff and was convicted again at trial. In 1955, his death sentence was commuted to life. He was paroled in 1968 and died in 1970. In 2016, the city of Groveland and Lake County formally apologized to families of all the men for injustice; in 2017, the Florida Legislature issued a formal apology and exonerated the men, calling on the governor to officially pardon them.

Geography
Tavares is at 28.80167°N, -81.73361°W (28.801670, –81.733548). It sits on an isthmus between Lake Eustis to the north and Lake Dora to the south. The city of Eustis borders Tavares to the northeast, and Lake Harris is to the west.

U.S. Route 441 passes through the north side of Tavares, leading east 6 mi to Mount Dora and west 10 mi to Leesburg. Florida State Road 19 joins US 441 through part of Tavares, but leads northeast 5 mi to Eustis and southwest 14 mi to Florida's Turnpike in the outskirts of Groveland. Tavares is 32 mi northwest of Orlando and 43 mi southeast of Ocala.

According to the United States Census Bureau, Tavares has a total area of 35.6 km2; of this, 31.5 km2 are land and 4.1 km2, or 11.62%, are water.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 19,003 people, 7,610 households, and 4,337 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 13,951 people, 6,070 households, and 3,749 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 9,700 people, 4,471 households, and 2,821 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,368.3 PD/sqmi. There were 5,475 housing units at an average density of 772.3 /sqmi. The city's racial makeup was 88.98% White, 7.70% African American, 0.30% Native American, 0.80% Asian, 0.07% Pacific Islander, 1.04% from other races, and 1.10% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.46% of the population.

In 2000, there were 4,471 households, of which 16.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.8% were married couples living together, 9.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.9% were non-families. 33.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.01 and the average family size was 2.48.

In 2000, in the city, 14.1% of the population was under the age of 18, 5.8% between 18 and 24, 19.8% between 25 and 44, 22.2% between 45 and 64, and 38.0% over 64. The median age was 56. For every 100 females, there were 92.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.9 males.

In 2000, the median household income was $31,337, and the median family income $36,243. Males had a median income of $28,911 versus $20,271 for females. The per capita income was $19,942. About 6.6% of families and 10.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.2% of those under age 18 and 6.9% of those 65 or older.

Libraries

 * Tavares Public Library
 * The Lake County Library System is headquartered in Tavares.

Transportation
The Tavares Seaplane Base is a city-owned, public-use seaplane base on Lake Dora in Tavares. The base is popular and gives rise to the city's nickname, "America's Seaplane City".

The LakeXpress is Lake County's public transportation and has been active since May 2007. It is a fixed-route transportation service that runs every hour from Lady Lake to Mount Dora with circulator routes in Leesburg and Mount Dora.

Notable people

 * Alfred St. Clair-Abrams, politician
 * Alexander St. Clair Abrams, politician and town's founder
 * Melton Haynes, early settler
 * Mallory Horne, member of the Florida Legislature
 * Fireball Roberts, NASCAR driver
 * Jermaine Taylor, NBA player

title: Tavares, Florida


text:
Umatilla, Florida

Umatilla is a city in Lake County, Florida, United States. The population was 3,685 at the 2020 census. Umatilla is known as the Gateway to the Ocala National Forest, located in northern Lake County.

History
The city was named after Umatilla, Oregon. In 1998 it was the site of a Mediterranean fruit fly outbreak at the Golden Gem citrus plant.

Geography
The City of Umatilla is in northern Lake County, and its exact coordinates are located at 28.93306°N, -81.66444°W (28.933134, –81.664430).

Florida State Road 19 passes through the center of town, leading south 11 mi to Tavares, the county seat, and north 58 mi through the Ocala National Forest to Palatka. Umatilla is 38 mi northwest of Orlando and 49 mi southwest of Daytona Beach.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 11.0 km2, of which 9.3 km2 are land and 1.8 km2, or 16.00%, are water.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 3,685 people, 1,680 households, and 1,061 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 3,456 people, 1,403 households, and 968 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,214 people, 867 households, and 582 families residing in the city. The population density was 871.4 PD/sqmi. There were 987 housing units at an average density of 388.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 93.54% White, 3.52% African American, 0.23% Native American, 0.32% Asian, 0.95% from other races, and 1.45% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.93% of the population.

In 2000, there were 867 households, out of which 29.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.8% were married couples living together, 13.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.8% were non-families. 28.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.48 and the average family size was 3.01.

In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 24.3% under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 26.3% from 25 to 44, 20.5% from 45 to 64, and 20.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 81.1 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $29,628, and the median income for a family was $37,500. Males had a median income of $25,500 versus $21,741 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,739. About 7.2% of families and 11.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.9% of those under age 18 and 17.9% of those age 65 or over.

Parks and recreation
The city offers many outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, camping and hiking. Nearby Alexander Springs features a section of the Florida Trail, an unpaved hiking trail, 1300 mi long, spanning the state of Florida from north to south.

Notable people

 * Al Hofmann, drag racer and drag car owner in the funny car division
 * Jonathan Lucroy, catcher for the Chicago Cubs
 * Willis V. McCall, sheriff of Lake County
 * Robert M. McTureous, Jr., recipient of the Medal of Honor
 * Julia Nesheiwat, United States government official
 * Will Radcliff, creator of the Slush Puppie; owned a ranch surrounding Umatilla
 * Dennis K. Stanley, professor and coach
 * Jaclyn Stapp, beauty queen
 * Howard Van Hyning, percussionist with the New York City Opera

title: Umatilla, Florida


text:
Yalaha, Florida

Yalaha is an unincorporated area and census-designated place (CDP) in Lake County, Florida, United States. The population was 1,364 at the 2010 census, up from 1,175 at the 2000 census. It is part of the Orlando–Kissimmee Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Yalaha is located in central Lake County on the south shore of Lake Harris. It is bordered to the west by the Leesburg city limits and to the southeast by the town of Howey-in-the-Hills. The center of Yalaha is 9 mi southeast of the center of Leesburg, 16 mi north of Groveland, and 10 mi southwest of Tavares, the Lake county seat.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Yalaha CDP has a total area of 37.3 km2, of which 14.7 km2 are land and 22.6 km2, or 60.60%, are water. Most of the water area is part of Lake Harris, part of the upper Ocklawaha River basin.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,175 people, 521 households, and 385 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 188.0 PD/sqmi. There were 601 housing units at an average density of 96.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 83.66% White, 11.83% African American, 0.17% Native American, 0.77% Asian, 2.38% from other races, and 1.19% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.68% of the population.

There were 521 households, out of which 18.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.7% were married couples living together, 6.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.1% were non-families. 23.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.24 and the average family size was 2.62.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 17.1% under the age of 18, 3.7% from 18 to 24, 20.8% from 25 to 44, 29.0% from 45 to 64, and 29.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 50 years. For every 100 females, there were 94.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.4 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $31,940, and the median income for a family was $38,026. Males had a median income of $31,932 versus $22,829 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $19,734. About 6.0% of families and 11.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.2% of those under age 18 and 11.5% of those age 65 or over.

title: Yalaha, Florida


text:
Alva, Florida

Alva is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States, situated on the Caloosahatchee River. The population was 2,725 at the 2020 census, up from 2,596 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Alva is located in the northeast corner of Lee County at 26.71039°N, -81.62865°W. It is bordered to the west by Olga, to the south by Lehigh Acres, and to the east by the community of Fort Denaud in Hendry County. Florida State Road 80 passes through Alva, leading east 12 mi to LaBelle and west 18 mi to the center of Fort Myers.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 47.7 km2, of which 45.2 km2 are land and 2.5 km2, or 5.23%, are water. The Caloosahatchee River flows from east to west through the center of the community.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,182 people, 912 households, and 673 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 121.5 PD/sqmi. There were 1,017 housing units at an average density of 56.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 96.33% White, 0.18% African American, 0.32% Native American, 0.18% Asian, 0.14% Pacific Islander, 1.24% from other races, and 1.60% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.89% of the population. According to the 2010 census, the population had risen to 2,596, 96.47% of whom were white, 0.35% African American, 0.50% Asian, 0.31% Native American, 0.58% mixed race, 0.81% other single race.

There were 912 households, out of which 22.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.9% were married couples living together, 5.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.2% were non-families. 21.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.39 and the average family size was 2.73.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 18.9% under the age of 18, 4.1% from 18 to 24, 22.1% from 25 to 44, 31.7% from 45 to 64, and 23.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.1 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $41,938, and the median income for a family was $48,073. Males had a median income of $35,300 versus $25,656 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $24,353. About 5.9% of families and 7.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.4% of those under age 18 and 2.7% of those age 65 or over.

Historic library and museum
Alva is the home of a small library dating back to 1909 and a chapel that opened in 1901. The Alva Library was the first library in what is today Lee County and was constructed in the classical revival style.

The Alva Library grew from the private Alva Book Club into the first public library in southwest Florida, thanks in part to donation of land from Captain Peter Nelson. The founder of the book club and Alva's first librarian was Esther Hovey. The library closed in 1937, but the building continued in use over the years for various purposes such as high school art classes and a community center. In 1974, the Alva Garden Club turned the building into a museum with the Library Association trustees' permission.

Both the library and the 1901 chapel are open to the public and house the town's nonprofit museum, featuring Seminole artifacts and objects from the town's founding families.

Notable people

 * Chad Chastain (1998–) current part-time driver in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for Niece Motorsports
 * Ross Chastain (1992–) current NASCAR Cup Series driver for the Trackhouse Racing Team
 * Mindy McCready (1975–2013), former American Country Music Artist, buried in Alva

title: Alva, Florida


text:
Bokeelia, Florida

Bokeelia is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located on Pine Island in Lee County, Florida, United States. As of the 2020 census, the CDP had a population of 1,855, up from 1,780 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. Bokeelia is still home to one of Lee County's first pioneer families, the Padillas, who came by way of Cayo Costa.

Geography
Bokeelia is located in western Lee County at 26.68806°N, -82.14528°W (26.687960, -82.145249). It sits at the northern end of Pine Island and is bordered by water on three sides: Pine Island Sound to the west, Charlotte Harbor to the north, and Matlacha Pass to the east. Bokeelia is bordered to the south by the unincorporated communities of Pineland and Pine Island Center.

The original settlement of Bokeelia is on Bokeelia Island, connected to Pine Island by a short bridge on Stringfellow Road (County Road 767), the main road through the community, and which ends at the town's short Main Street along Charlotte Harbor. To the south Stringfellow Road leads 7 mi to Pine Island Center, from where County Road 78 leads west to Cape Coral on the mainland.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Bokeelia CDP has a total area of 28.9 km2, of which 23.2 km2 are land and 5.7 km2, or 19.87%, are water.

Little Bokeelia Island, formerly owned by Charles Burgess, is a private island off Bokeelia.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,997 people, 907 households, and 631 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 225.7 PD/sqmi. There were 1,436 housing units at an average density of 162.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 98.05% White, 0.25% African American, 0.05% Native American, 0.30% Asian, 0.85% from other races, and 0.50% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 12.47% of the population.

There were 907 households, out of which 16.1% had children under 18 living with them, 60.5% were married couples living together, 5.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.4% were non-families. 24.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.20 and the average family size was 2.55.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 15.0% under the age of 18, 6.7% from 18 to 24, 18.2% from 25 to 44, 31.9% from 45 to 64, and 28.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 52 years. For every 100 females, there were 110.2 males. For every 100 females aged 18 and over, there were 112.0 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $36,319, and the median income for a family was $42,250. Males had a median income of $24,271 versus $28,854 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $27,613. About 12.4% of families and 17.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 25.6% of those under age 18 and 3.2% of those aged 65 or over.

title: Bokeelia, Florida


text:
Bonita Springs, Florida

Bonita Springs is a city in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 53,644 at the 2020 census, up from 43,914 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area, on the state's southwest coast.

History
Bonita Springs' history dates back approximately 8,000 years, with evidence of early inhabitants including the Calusa Indians. In the 1870s, the US Army Corps of Engineers surveyed the area, establishing a camp along what is now the Imperial River. This site became known as Survey, and the river was called Surveyor's Creek.

In the 1880s, Braxton Comer bought 6,000 acres around Survey and brought indentured families to work on his plantation. By the early 20th century, developers decided to rename the area Bonita Springs to make it more appealing to settlers and investors. By 1912, streets and avenues were laid out, and the names Survey and Surveyor's Creek were changed to Bonita Springs and the Imperial River, respectively.

The completion of a road to Fort Myers in 1917 and the extension of the Fort Myers-Southern Railroad to Bonita Springs in the 1920s spurred significant growth. The Tamiami Trail, completed in 1928, further contributed to this development. During this time, Bonita Springs experienced a land boom, leading to the establishment of citrus groves and various tourist attractions, including the Everglades Wonder Gardens and the Shell Factory.

The advent of air conditioning, the construction of Interstate 75, and the opening of Southwest Florida International Airport in the late 20th century brought more tourists and retirees to Bonita Springs. Today, it is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury golf courses, and a thriving community, attracting both residents and businesses.

Geography
Bonita Springs's approximate coordinates are 26.34972°N, -81.79083°W.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has an area of 41.0 sqmi, of which 35.3 sqmi is land and 5.7 sqmi (13.95%) is water.

The city is on both Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The area called Bonita Beach is on Little Hickory Island, a road-accessible barrier island that lies between the Gulf of Mexico and Estero Bay. The Imperial River flows through the city's downtown district and empties into Estero Bay.

Climate
The city lies in the tropical climate zone, more specifically a tropical monsoon climate (Köppen climate classification: Am), having a mean January temperature of 65 °F.

Hurricane Charley made landfall north of Bonita Springs on August 13, 2004. Hurricane Wilma made landfall south of Bonita Springs on October 24, 2005. On September 9–10, 2017, Hurricane Irma, at the time a slow-moving Category 3 storm, passed over Florida's southwest coast. The eyewall/eye passed overhead in Bonita Springs. Many structures were damaged or destroyed and the city experienced significant flooding.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 53,644 people, 24,377 households, and 16,267 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 43,914 people, 19,137 households, and 12,917 families residing in the city.

2000 census
The 2009 estimated median income for a household in the city was $53,452, and the median income for a family was $53,436. Males had a median income of $31,227 versus $25,358 for females. The per capita income for the city was $37,958. About 6.2% of families and 10% of the population were below the poverty line, including 20.2% of those under age 18 and 5.2% of those aged 65 or over.

In 2009, 16.7% of households had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.2% were married couples living together, 4.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.5% were non-families. 27.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.15 and the average family size was 2.55.

As of 2000, the population density was 929.4 inhabitants per square mile (358.8/km$2$). There were 31,716 housing units at an average density of 661.1 /sqmi.

In 2000, the city the population was spread out, with 13.9% under the age of 18, 5.9% from 18 to 24, 19.8% from 25 to 44, 28.8% from 45 to 64, and 31.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 54 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.6 males. For every 100 females aged 18 and over, there were 103.9 males.

Arts and Culture
Bonita Springs boasts a rich cultural scene with institutions like the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs, which offers art classes, exhibitions, and performances. The city hosts several annual events, including the Celebrate Bonita festival and various arts and craft fairs.

The Bonita Springs Historical Society offers walking tours that highlight the city’s historical sites, such as the Liles Hotel and the Bonita Springs Elementary School. These tours provide insights into the area's past and its development over the years.

Public art is an integral part of the city’s cultural landscape, with numerous sculptures and murals adorning public spaces. The Everglades Wonder Gardens, a historic attraction, continues to draw visitors with its botanical garden and wildlife exhibits.

Education
Bonita Springs is served by the Lee County School District.

Elementary schools

 * Bonita Springs Elementary School
 * Spring Creek Elementary School

Middle school

 * Bonita Springs Middle School

High school

 * Bonita Springs High School

Charter schools

 * Bonita Springs Charter School
 * Oak Creek Charter School

Private schools

 * Bonita Springs Preparatory School
 * Royal Palm Academy Catholic School
 * Discovery Day Academy Private School

Higher learning

 * Florida Institute of Music

Airports

 * Southwest Florida International Airport in nearby South Fort Myers serves over 8 million passengers annually.
 * Naples Municipal Airport in Naples is a smaller airport primarily for private aviation

Major highways

 * [[Image:I-75.svg|20px]] Interstate 75
 * [[Image:US 41.svg|20px]] U.S. Route 41 "South Tamiami Trail"
 * [[Image:Lee County Road 865 FL.svg|30px]] (County Road 865) Bonita Beach Road / Hickory Boulevard

Mass transportation
Fixed-route bus and trolley service is provided by the Lee County Transit Department, operated as LeeTran.

Rail
Seminole Gulf Railway owns and operates a line that passes through the city. The company offers freight service and local, daytime excursions.

Newspapers
Bonita Springs is served by local editions of the Fort Myers News-Press and Naples Daily News.

Radio
The metropolitan area is home to 36 radio stations. With an Arbitron-assigned 879,600 listening area population, the metropolitan area of which Bonita Springs is one part ranks 61/274 for the fall of 2013. Arbitron Standard Radio Market: Ft. Myers-Naples-Marco Island.

Television
Nielsen Media Research designated market area: Ft. Myers-Naples.

2013 - 2014 estimate U.S. rank: 62/210 (517,920 TV Homes)

 * WBBH – NBC affiliate
 * WFTX – Fox affiliate
 * WGCU – PBS member station
 * WINK – CBS affiliate
 * WXCW – CW affiliate
 * WZVN – ABC affiliate
 * BTV 98 – Government-access television operated by the city of Bonita Springs

Points of interest

 * Barefoot Beach Preserve Park, a 342 acre park on the border of Collier and Lee Counties. In 2013, Forbes ranked the park's beach the sixth-best in the country.
 * Bonita Beach Park, a 2.5 acre beachfront park with a boardwalk and swimming area
 * Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs, an arts organization that hosts local, regional, and national traveling art exhibitions. The organization has two campuses, the 10-acre Center for Visual Arts with galleries, studios, classrooms, art library, and offices; and 1.8 miles south, the four-acre Center for Performing Arts, which has two auditoriums, a black box theater, a film center, music rooms, and studios for study of performing arts. The organization's Bonita Springs Art Festivals are held January, February, and March in downtown Bonita Springs.
 * Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, a bald cypress reserve under management of the National Audubon Society
 * Bonita Spring's Wonder Gardens features a large collection of Florida wildlife, including exotic birds, alligators, and flamingos. It opened in 1936 as both a wildlife exhibition and a refuge for injured animals and has a botanical garden and a natural history museum.
 * Little Hickory Island Beach Park
 * Lover's Key State Park, a 1616 acre park made up of four barrier islands, is within the city, just north of Bonita Beach. It has nature trails for hiking and bicycling, a canoe launch, kayak and canoe rentals, acres of unspoiled mangroves and miles of pristine beaches. A haven for wildlife, the islands and their waters are home to West Indian manatees, bottlenose dolphins, roseate spoonbills, marsh rabbits and bald eagles.
 * There are also 10 beach accesses with public parking up and down Bonita Beach.
 * Everglades Wonder Gardens, established in 1936, is a historic botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary. Originally created as a roadside attraction, it features a variety of exotic and native plants, as well as wildlife exhibits. The gardens have become an integral part of Bonita Springs' history and culture, providing educational and recreational opportunities for visitors.

Sister cities

 * Gruenstadt, Germany
 * Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico

Notable people

 * Glenn Steil Sr., member of the Michigan Senate

title: Bonita Springs, Florida


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Buckingham, Florida

Buckingham is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 4,443 at the 2020 census, up from 4,036 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Historic Buckingham School is located there.

Geography
Buckingham is located in northeastern Lee County at 26.66667°N, -81.73333°W (26.6592, -81.7343). It is bordered to the southwest by Fort Myers, the county seat, and to the south and east by unincorporated Lehigh Acres.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Buckingham CDP has a total area of 47.8 km2, of which 47.2 sqkm are land and 0.6 sqkm, or 1.36%, are water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,742 people, 1,283 households, and 1,008 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 197.3 PD/sqmi. There were 1,360 housing units at an average density of 71.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 94.20% White, 2.32% African American, 0.19% Native American, 0.51% Asian, 1.92% from other races, and 0.86% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.68% of the population.

There were 1,283 households, out of which 31.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.3% were married couples living together, 6.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 21.4% were non-families. 15.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.67 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 20.9% under the age of 18, 5.2% from 18 to 24, 32.9% from 25 to 44, 30.7% from 45 to 64, and 10.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 109.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 110.6 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $51,068, and the median income for a family was $55,719. Males had a median income of $33,176 versus $25,676 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $19,103. About 6.4% of families and 16.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.8% of those under age 18 and 8.8% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people
John Ashley- outlaw and occasional pirate active in southern Florida during the 1910s and 1920s.

title: Buckingham, Florida


text:
Burnt Store Marina, Florida

Burnt Store Marina is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 1,890 at the 2020 census, up from 1,793 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Burnt Store Marina is located in northwestern Lee County at 26.76639°N, -82.05139°W (26.766473, -82.051327). It is bordered to the south by the city of Cape Coral and to the north by Charlotte County. The west side of the community fronts on Charlotte Harbor, and the east side follows Burnt Store Road. It is 20 mi northwest of Fort Myers, the Lee county seat, and 13 mi south of Punta Gorda.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 3.5 km2, of which 2.8 km2 are land and 0.8 km2, or 21.50%, are water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,271 people, 672 households, and 534 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 1,040.9 PD/sqmi. There were 1,176 housing units at an average density of 963.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 98.51% White, 0.94% African American, 0.08% Native American, 0.16% Asian, and 0.31% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.94% of the population.

There were 672 households, out of which 2.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 78.3% were married couples living together, 0.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 20.4% were non-families. 17.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.89 and the average family size was 2.09.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 1.9% under the age of 18, 0.6% from 18 to 24, 4.2% from 25 to 44, 51.5% from 45 to 64, and 41.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 63 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.6 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $61,786, and the median income for a family was $68,542. Males had a median income of $31,750 versus $17,163 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $46,050. About 3.4% of families and 3.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under the age of eighteen or over sixty-five.

title: Burnt Store Marina, Florida


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Cape Coral, Florida

Cape Coral is a city in Lee County, Florida, United States, on the Gulf of Mexico. Founded in 1957 and developed as a planned community, the city's population had grown to 194,016 as of the 2020 census, a 26% increase from 154,309 at the 2010 census, making it the ninth-most populous city in Florida. With an area of 120 sqmi, Cape Coral is the largest city between Tampa and Miami in both population and area. It is the largest and principal city in the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city has over 400 mi of navigable waterways, more than any other city on earth.

History
The original inhabitants around the Cape Coral area were the Calusa. After Florida became a state in 1845, multiple pioneers started selling and buying land in what is now Cape Coral under the Homestead Act. Cape Coral's modern history began in 1957 when two brothers from Baltimore, Maryland, Leonard and Jack Rosen, flew over the peninsula known as Redfish Point, across the Caloosahatchee River near present-day Fort Myers. The brothers, who were real estate developers, purchased a 103 sqmi tract with a small group of partners for $678,000 and in 1958 began development of the city as a planned community.

The Gulf American Land Corporation (GALC) was formed to develop the area. GALC developed a marketing model that was a departure from traditional selling methods. Approval was secured from Lee County to master-plan the entire property into lots. Instead of listing the lots with real estate agents, GALC developed the land sales, dinner-party model, operating from banquet rooms in local hotels. People were invited to attend by offering a free dinner for two. The model, referred to as team-selling, allowed for a well-trained team to close deals in 90 minutes. Buyers would sign a contract and agree to come to the property within six months and cancel if not satisfied. Ezio Valentini, an Italian real estate developer, joined GALC and became director of sales. The program was so successful that offices were opened in 24 states, and an arrangement was made with an airline to charter flights to fly buyers to the property.

Instead of borrowing from banks and lenders, the developers factored the sales contracts to pay for building the infrastructure. Canals were dug, streets paved, houses and businesses built. Cape Coral was promoted like no other Florida development. Celebrities were brought in to tout the benefits of "the Cape", as it is known locally. The first building in Cape Coral was the Rosens' sales office. It was built where George's Auto now stands, at Cape Coral and Coronado Parkways. Cape Coral's first permanent resident was Kenny Schwartz, the Rosens' general manager. Cape Coral's first four homes were completed in May 1958, on Riverside and Flamingo Drives.

Development continued through the early 1960s, mostly on Redfish Point, south of Cape Coral Parkway. By 1963, the population was 2,850; 1,300 buildings had been finished or were under construction; 80 mi of road had been built, and 160 mi of canals had been dug. The public yacht club, a golf course, medical clinic and shopping center were up and running. A major addition for Cape Coral was the construction of the 3,400 ft long Cape Coral Bridge across the Caloosahatchee River, which opened in early 1964. Before the bridge, a trip to Fort Myers was more than 20 mi via Del Prado Boulevard and over the Edison Bridge to cross the river.

The city incorporated on August 18, 1970, and its population continued to grow rapidly until the real estate slowdown that gripped the region beginning in 2008. On September 28, 2022, Cape Coral suffered major damage when Hurricane Ian made landfall nearby.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 120 sqmi, of which 110.09 sqmi is land and 9.91 sqmi (9%) is water. Cape Coral is a large peninsula and is bordered in the south and east by the Caloosahatchee River and in the west by Matlacha Pass. Fort Myers lies across the Caloosahatchee River to the east, and Matlacha and Pine Island lie across Matlacha Pass to the west. Matlacha Pass is home to Matlacha Pass National Wildlife Refuge and the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve.

Flora and fauna
The area supports waterfowl, wading birds, migrant songbirds, gopher tortoises, dolphins and reptiles. Rotary Park is home to wading birds, raptors, butterflies, foxes and other wildlife. Nature enthusiasts can track exotic birds and native fish from the boardwalk at Lake Kennedy and watch the West Indian manatees at Sirenia Vista Park. Cape Coral is home to the largest population of burrowing owls in Florida.

Invasive species
Cape Coral is home to three invasive species, the green iguana, the spiny-tailed iguana, and the Nile monitor, which was discovered in 2009. The iguanas are found throughout southern Florida and generally do not pose a threat. The Nile monitor is however a large (3–7 feet), fast traveling, fast swimming carnivore with a wide diet, which can include fish, fowl, and small mammals. The city's many waterways work against its capture and provide an easy transportation route around the city.

Climate
The city features a borderline tropical savanna climate (Köppen climate classification: Aw), bordering on a tropical monsoon climate (Köppen climate classification: Am). The area averages 355 days of sunshine per year and experiences precipitation on 145 days per year. While the wet season (May to October) is hot and humid with rather erratic tropical downpours, dry seasons (November to April) tend to be pleasantly warm and see only sporadic precipitation. The city receives about 56 inches of rain each year, the majority of which falls from June to September. During the summer months, afternoon thunderstorms are heavy yet brief. The city is affected by the annual hurricane season, which begins officially on June 1 and continues through November.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 194,016 people, 69,912 households, and 48,359 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 154,309 people, 56,313 households, and 40,405 families residing in the city.

, Cape Coral is the eighth largest city in Florida by population. Nearly 60% of the population is between the ages of 18 and 64; residents under 25 outnumber residents over 65. Southwest Florida's 18–24 age group is growing at a faster rate than the state of Florida and the United States.

, there were 74,387 households. The median income for a household in the city is $65,282. The per capita income for the city was $34,586. 9.9% of the population are below the poverty line.

As of 2000, 87.18% of residents spoke only English at home as a first language, while 7.61% spoke Spanish, 1.70% spoke German, 1.20% spoke Italian, 0.61% spoke French, and 0.41% spoke Tagalog. In total, 12.81% of the total population spoke languages other than English.

Economy
The economy in Cape Coral is based on healthcare services, retail, and real estate/construction. The city's Economic Development Office promotes and incentivizes business relocation to Cape Coral. In 2016 the city's top five employers were the Lee Memorial Hospital, Lee County School System, Publix Supermarkets, City of Cape Coral and Walmart.

Acute care is provided by Cape Coral Hospital. Trauma Services are provided by Gulf Coast Medical Center in Fort Myers or Tampa. In December 2012, the Lee County VA Healthcare Center opened on Diplomat Parkway, providing a large range of medical services to veterans. Lee Health plans to expand healthcare services throughout the 2020s. Lee Health is planning to open a new hospital by 2030. Lee Health is expanding the ICU at Cape Coral Hospital from 22 beds to 34 beds. Furthermore, Lee Health is partnering with Florida State University to bring an Internal Medicine Residency Program to Cape Coral Hospital. Lee Health will also open a new outpatient center as a part of the Bimini Basin project near Downtown Cape Coral. Other plans include expansion of the existing outpatient center.

In 2021, Bayfront Health, now Shorepoint, opened a freestanding Emergency Room & Urgent Care in Northeast Cape Coral along Del Prado Blvd. The following year, HCA Florida opened a 24/7 Freestanding Emergency Room along Pine Island Rd.

In 2022, Encompass Health opened a 40-Bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital at the corner of NE Pine Island Rd. and Pondella Rd.

Arts and culture
Mike Greenwell founded an amusement park named Mike Greenwell's Bat-A-Ball & Family Fun Park that opened in February 1992. The facility changed ownership in April 2019, and it was renamed to Gator Mike's Family Fun Park. The facility includes a mini-golf course, Go-Karts, zip lining, bungee jumping, and more.

Both city libraries are part of the Lee County Library System. Cape Coral Lee County Public Library had 175,000 books in 2002. Northwest Regional Library holds over 70,000 items.

Parks and recreation
Parks and recreation includes:
 * SunSplash Water Park.
 * A sandy beach and fishing pier on the Caloosahatchee River at the public Yacht Basin and Club.
 * Over 30 recreational parks which includes playgrounds, open fields, pavilions, workout equipment, walking paths, and golf courses.
 * The largest population of burrowing owls in Florida.
 * Ecological preserves, and an elevated nature trail through Florida mangroves at Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve.

Government
The city of Cape Coral operates under the council–manager form of government. City Council members are elected at large from seven districts. The mayor is also elected at large and is the eighth member of the council. The mayor presides over council meetings. On January 13, 2021, Mayor Joe Coviello died, and the City Council unanimously decided to appoint a mayor, rather than have a special election. The City Countil voted 6–1 to appoint council member John Gunter to the position of mayor. The City of Cape Coral provides police and fire services within the city.

Education
Cape Coral has continuously expanded public and private school systems with high performance standards. Cape Coral is part of the Lee County School District, which is operated by the Lee County Board of Education. , the Board of Education operated 8 elementary, 6 middle, and 5 high schools in the Cape. There are four public high schools in Cape Coral: Cape Coral High School, built in the late 1970s; Mariner High School, which opened in 1987; Ida S. Baker High School, founded in 2004 and named after one of the early principals of Cape Coral High School, which opened in 2005; and the newest, Island Coast High School, which opened its doors for the 2008–2009 school year. Cape Coral has created a municipal charter school system, known as Oasis Charter Schools. The system consists of two elementary schools, Oasis Middle School, and Oasis High School. The charter schools use the Core Knowledge and Cambridge Curricula. Since the system is public, there is no tuition. The municipal charter schools are available exclusively to children who live in Cape Coral.

The main campus of Florida SouthWestern State College is located immediately east of Cape Coral in Fort Myers. The college offers associate and bachelor's degrees, plus technical training in fields such as allied health programs, computer networking & programming, business administration, paralegal, criminal justice and fire science. 2009 enrollment was more than 16,000 students on four campuses. One of Florida's youngest state universities, Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), opened in 1997 in nearby Fort Myers and now serves more than 12,000 students. FGCU has established a Cape Coral satellite facility, which provides Cape students with a growing offering of core courses. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees, including an executive master's program, a college of business and engineering and biotechnology programs. Other colleges and universities serving the area are Hodges University, Southwest Florida College and Rasmussen College.

Cape Coral Technical College is a postsecondary educational institution operated by the Lee County public school system. It provides training in medical, computer and food-science fields. Employer-specific training, both on and off-site, is available through Business and Industry Services of Lee County which maintains an office in Cape Coral.

Canals
The city has over 400 mi of canals. Most of the canals are navigable, and some have access to the Gulf of Mexico. Cape Coral's canal system is so extensive that local ecology and tides have been affected. The system provides many residents with waterfront living with access to the Gulf of Mexico via the broad Caloosahatchee River and Matlacha Pass. The Parks and Recreation Department maintains three public boat launching facilities. The Gulf of Mexico provides access to smaller tropical islands, rookeries, and sports fishing grounds.

Roadways and bridges
Interstate 75 passes within 10 mi of Cape Coral and connects northward to Tampa; and southeastward to Miami. Cape Coral borders on U.S. Highway 41. U.S. 41 and I-75 can be accessed from State Route 78 (Pine Island Road). Within the city a network of arterial roadways are established. Cape Coral has approximately 1100 mi of roadways. In general, the north–south routes are evenly spaced apart every one or 2 mi, and most of them have at least four lanes.

Cape Coral is connected to the south side of the Caloosahatchee River by two bridges. The 3,400 ft long Cape Coral Bridge connects Cape Coral Parkway to College Parkway in McGregor. The Midpoint Memorial Bridge connects Veterans Parkway to Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers. Several other bridges span the Caloosahatchee River east of Cape Coral in adjoining North Fort Myers. In 2026, the Lee County Department of Transportation and the City of Cape Coral plan on constructing a new westbound span for the Cape Coral Bridge. The westbound span, which was built in 1964, does not meet requirements set forth by Lee County. The $185 million project will include a new pedestrian bridge, an expansion to 6 lanes on both spans, removal of the toll booth on the Fort Myers side, and an expansion of the Cape Coral Parkway and Del Prado Boulevard intersection.

Transportation
Public transit services in Cape Coral are provided by LeeTran. LeeTran operates 18 fixed-route bus services, including six within Cape Coral.

Cape Coral is 14 mi from Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), which serves nearly 10 million passengers annually. In 2010, eighteen national and two international airlines, as well as the two major cargo companies, served the airport. Cape Coral is also served by Page Field, a general aviation airport in Fort Myers 8 mi from Cape Coral. Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) is located in Punta Gorda, 10 mi north of Cape Coral.

Utilities
In 1977, Cape Coral became the first municipality in the United States to use the reverse osmosis process on a large scale with an initial operating capacity of 3000000 USgal per day. By 1985, the city had the largest low pressure reverse osmosis plant in the world, capable of producing 15 MGD (56,780 m3/day).

Sewage is collected and highly treated to produce reclaimed water, locally known as "rescued water". Reclaimed water is distributed throughout the city through a dual water pipe system and used for irrigation. Alternatively, reclaimed water can be discharged into the Caloosahatchee River.

The Cape was among the first in Florida to deploy the new 4.9 GHz pre-WiMax wireless channel authorized by the FCC in 2003 for exclusive public safety use.

Notable people

 * Nate Allen, NFL safety
 * Pat Burke, NBA player
 * Stacy Carter, professional wrestler
 * Dustin Diamond, actor
 * Earnest Graham, NFL running back
 * Mike Greenwell, MLB player
 * Jessica Holmes, TV host and news anchor
 * Hilary Hemingway, author and niece of Ernest Hemingway
 * Jeff Lindsay, author
 * Shane McClanahan, MLB pitcher
 * Joseph Mercola, physician and alternative medicine proponent
 * Seth Petruzelli, mixed martial arts fighter
 * Niko Price, mixed martial arts fighter
 * Jason Smith, Olympic curler
 * Greg Spires, NFL player
 * Angela Watson, actress
 * Michael Wendler, German singer
 * Karey Lee Woolsey, singer-songwriter
 * Mike Zunino, MLB catcher
 * Tony Bruno, Radio personality

title: Cape Coral, Florida


text:
Captiva, Florida

Captiva is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States. It is located on Captiva Island. As of the 2020 census, the population was 318, down from 583 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Located just offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, the island is just north of Sanibel Island. Captiva is accessed by a small bridge that crosses Blind Pass from Sanibel Island. There is a toll to use the causeway that goes from the mainland to Sanibel Island.

Many of Captiva's homes, condominiums, and businesses were destroyed during Hurricane Charley in 2004, but the island recovered shortly thereafter. In September 2022, Hurricane Ian caused significant damage to the causeway and to the infrastructure of the island.

Geography
Captiva is located in western Lee County at 26.51806°N, -82.19111°W (26.518028, -82.191057). The CDP comprises the entire island, bordered to the west by the Gulf of Mexico and to the east by Pine Island Sound. Captiva Drive is the main road on the island, running from the town center south to the Blind Pass bridge to Sanibel. It is a 13 mi drive from Captiva to the Sanibel Causeway and a total of 31 mi by road from Captiva to the center of Fort Myers.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Captiva CDP has a total area of 4.3 km2, of which 3.1 km2 are land and 1.2 km2, or 28.15%, are water.

Originally part of neighboring Sanibel Island to the southeast, it was severed in 1926 when a hurricane's storm surge created a new channel, Blind Pass. The channel filled in over subsequent years, but was reopened by dredging in the summer of 2009. Like Sanibel, Captiva is a barrier island to Pine Island (to the east of Captiva and north of Sanibel), however it is much narrower. The only automobile access to Captiva is via the Sanibel Causeway and Sanibel-Captiva Road, which ends in the CDP of Captiva, the island's only CDP. Captiva was homesteaded in 1888 and a tiny cemetery next to The Chapel by the Sea has the grave of the original resident, William Herbert Binder (1850–1932), an Austrian. Half the island is in private ownership, with "Millionaire's Row", luxury homes on the gulf and bay sides of Captiva Drive. The South Seas Island Resort entry gate is at the end of this road. Roosevelt Channel on the east side of the island, is named for Theodore Roosevelt who fished there.

North Captiva Island or Upper Captiva is another island, in turn severed from Captiva in a 1921 hurricane, creating Redfish Pass. North Captiva has power from lines that originate on the north end of Captiva, and is privately owned. The island can only be accessed via boat or small plane.

Captiva was seriously damaged in August 2004 when the eastern eyewall of Hurricane Charley struck North Captiva, immediately before hitting Charlotte Harbor to the north-northeast. Initial reports indicated that 160 buildings were destroyed and another 160 seriously damaged. Reports indicate that the storm surge cut a path 491 yd wide across the narrowest part of North Captiva, separating the island. The separation of the two halves of the island began three years earlier during a series of tornadoes caused by Tropical Storm Gabrielle that passed through the area in September 2001. The new pass filled in within a few years and is now back to its pre-Charley state. Most of the invasive Australian pines on the island blew over in the hurricane, making room for native mangroves and sabal palms.

In September 2022, Category 4 Hurricane Ian made landfall in Upper Captiva with sustained winds of 150 mph. The Sanibel Causeway was heavily damaged by the hurricane.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 379 people, 194 households, and 130 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 305.3 PD/sqmi. There were 1,150 housing units at an average density of 926.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 98.42% White, 0.79% Asian, 0.26% from other races, and 0.53% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.79% of the population.

There were 194 households, out of which 10.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.9% were married couples living together, 1.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.5% were non-families. 25.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.95 and the average family size was 2.25.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 8.2% under the age of 18, 1.1% from 18 to 24, 14.2% from 25 to 44, 44.1% from 45 to 64, and 32.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 58 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.6 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $64,821, and the median income for a family was $120,488. Males had a median income of $31,875 versus $44,861 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $76,139. None of the population or families were below the poverty line.

Economy
Travel, tourism and hospitality rank as the number one industry on Captiva Island (and its sister island immediately to the south, Sanibel). Noted guests to Captiva include Teddy Roosevelt, Charles Lindbergh (who regularly landed his plane on the beach in front of 'Tween Waters Inn), Anne Morrow Lindbergh and J.N. "Ding" Darling. Both the Old Captiva House restaurant and a number of guest cottages have been designated historically-significant sites by Lee County, Florida.

The Bubble Room was built on Captiva Island in 1979 by the Farquharson family. It is a multi-themed restaurant featuring old toys from the 1930s and 1940s and the collection continues to grow each day. The Bubble Room plays music from the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s. The Bubble Room was one of the first establishments on Captiva Island to originate the bright pastel colors now widely used there.

South Seas Island Resort and Yacht Harbor, a 330 acre resort, occupies the northern two miles (3 km) of Captiva Island.

Pepperidge Farm created a cookie in honor of the island. It is a Dark Chocolate Brownie cookie called Captiva.

The Wall Street Journal selected Sanibel and Captiva Islands as one of the 10 Best Places for Second Homes in 2010.

History
According to local folklore, Captiva got its name because the pirate captain José Gaspar (Gasparilla) held his female prisoners on the island for ransom. However, the supposed existence of José Gaspar is sourced from an advertising brochure of an early 20th-century developer, and may be a fabrication.

Around 3000 B.C., the sands of Captiva started to erode, resulting in the eventual formation of Sanibel Island. The Gulf of Mexico waters were eight feet lower than they are today. It is said that the first inhabitants of Captiva were the Calusa Indians. The population of the Calusa is believed to have reached as many as 50,000 people. "Calusa" means "fierce people", and they were described as a war-like people. The Calusa Indians were resistant to colonization and attacked any explorers who came into their territory. Calusa Indians built their houses on stilts without walls. They wove palmetto leaves together to build roves (twisted strands of fibers). The Calusa Indians fished for food on the coast, bays, rivers, and waterways. They did not farm. "The Calusa Indians did not farm like the other Indian tribes in Florida. Instead, they fished for food on the coast, bays, rivers, and waterways. The men and boys of the tribe made nets from palm tree webbing to catch mullet, pinfish, pigfish, and catfish. They used spears to catch eels and turtles. They made fish bone arrowheads to hunt for animals such as deer. The women and children learned to catch shellfish like conchs, crabs, clams, lobsters, and oysters." The Calusa Indians used the shells on the island for utensils, jewelry, tools, weapons, and ornaments.

By the late 1700s most of the Calusa Indians had died out. Many were captured and sold as slaves while others died from diseases such as smallpox and measles.

An Austrian named Binder (b. 1850) was on a German freighter headed to New Orleans when the ship crashed and he was shipwrecked off Boca Grande. He then washed up to shore on what has been since 1921, Upper Captiva. "He lived for several weeks on what the unoccupied island had to offer, built a makeshift raft, and got himself to Pine Island, where he was helped to return to his home. By 1888, due to his having fought with the U.S. Army, he became naturalized, and was allowed to homestead on Captiva in 1888, when he was 38 years old. For 10 years he was Captiva's first and only modern-era inhabitant. He died in 1932."

Notable residents
Captiva was the full-time home of artist Robert Rauschenberg. His home still stands there.

Roy Lichtenstein, American pop artist, also had a home on Captiva.

In media
In the 1997 movie G.I. Jane, Captiva Island is the location for the S.E.R.E. (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape) training for the fictional U.S. Navy Combined Reconnaissance Team.

In the 1986 movie Manhunter, Captiva Island is where FBI psychologist Will Graham has retired to.

title: Captiva, Florida


text:
Charleston Park, Florida

Charleston Park is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 235 at the 2020 census, up from 218 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Charleston Park is located in the northeast corner of Lee County at 26.70528°N, -81.58167°W (26.705258, -81.581678). Florida State Road 80 forms the northern border of the community; the highway leads east 10 mi to LaBelle and west 20 mi to the center of Fort Myers, the Lee county seat.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 0.32 km2, all land.

2020 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 411 people, 112 households, and 85 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 3,379.5 PD/sqmi. There were 117 housing units at an average density of 962.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 8.03% White, 83.70% African American, 6.33% from other races, and 1.95% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 11.92% of the population.

There were 112 households, out of which 51.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 38.4% were married couples living together, 26.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.1% were non-families. 18.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.67 and the average family size was 4.19.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 44.5% under the age of 18, 10.7% from 18 to 24, 23.8% from 25 to 44, 14.1% from 45 to 64, and 6.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 22 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.4 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $24,464, and the median income for a family was $26,625. Males had a median income of $20,962 versus $15,625 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $7,528. About 20.0% of families and 18.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.1% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

title: Charleston Park, Florida


text:
Cypress Lake, Florida

Cypress Lake is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 13,727 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Cypress Lake is located in central Lee County at 26.53806°N, -81.90167°W (26.538054, -81.901533). It is bordered to the west by McGregor, to the north by Whiskey Creek, and to the east by Villas, all unincorporated communities that are census-designated places. It is 7 mi south of Fort Myers, the county seat.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Cypress Lake CDP has a total area of 10.4 km2, of which 10.0 sqkm are land and 0.4 sqkm, or 4.28%, are water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 12,072 people, 6,348 households, and 3,548 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 3,035.7 PD/sqmi. There were 7,994 housing units at an average density of 2,010.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 96.66% White, 1.04% African American, 0.12% Native American, 0.62% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 0.55% from other races, and 0.97% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.62% of the population.

There were 6,348 households, out of which 12.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.1% were married couples living together, 6.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 44.1% were non-families. 38.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.89 and the average family size was 2.42.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 11.7% under the age of 18, 4.3% from 18 to 24, 19.5% from 25 to 44, 25.3% from 45 to 64, and 39.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 57 years. For every 100 females, there were 82.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 78.8 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $35,405, and the median income for a family was $45,605. Males had a median income of $31,663 versus $25,958 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $22,799. About 4.4% of families and 7.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.1% of those under age 18 and 5.0% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Public K-12 schools in Cypress Lake are operated by the School District of Lee County. Cypress Lake is home to Cypress Lake High School and Cypress Lake Middle School. The community is also the location of the main campus of Florida SouthWestern State College. Students also have the option of attending Canterbury School, a private college preparatory school. Additionally, the community also has three pre-schools: Bright Beginnings Early School located within Cypress Lake United Methodist Church, Growing Room Child Development Center, located at the southern end of the community, and ABC Learning Center.

title: Cypress Lake, Florida


text:
East Dunbar, Fort Myers, Florida

East Dunbar is a former census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 1,935 at the 2000 census. The area has been annexed by the city of Fort Myers and is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
East Dunbar is located at 26.63333°N, -81.84333°W (26.633400, -81.843207). According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 0.8 sqmi, of which 0.8 sqmi is land and 1.23% is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,935 people, 627 households, and 432 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 2,427.3 PD/sqmi. There were 710 housing units at an average density of 890.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 3.67% White, 91.99% African American, 0.41% Native American, 0.05% Asian, 2.38% from other races, and 1.50% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.08% of the population.

There were 627 households, out of which 30.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 31.9% were married couples living together, 30.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.1% were non-families. 23.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.98 and the average family size was 3.61.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 31.6% under the age of 18, 10.0% from 18 to 24, 23.3% from 25 to 44, 22.8% from 45 to 64, and 12.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.4 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $22,941, and the median income for a family was $25,809. Males had a median income of $24,688 versus $23,859 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $9,567. About 30.4% of families and 37.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 44.5% of those under age 18 and 46.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: East Dunbar, Fort Myers, Florida


text:
Estero, Florida

Estero (Spanish for "estuary") is an incorporated village in Lee County, Florida, United States, located directly beside the first aquatic nature preserve established in Florida: The Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve, otherwise referred to as Estero Bay Preserve State Park which is within Estero Bay, Florida. At the time of the 2010 census, Estero was an unincorporated community and census-designated place, but incorporated as a village on the last calendar date of 2014. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2020 census, the population was 36,939.

Sandwiched along Florida's Gulf Coast between Naples to the south and Fort Myers to the north, Estero is known as a popular destination for high-end shopping and dining as well as for exploring history and wildlife at its two state parks: Mound Key Archaeological State Park, which is only attainable by boat, canoe, or kayak and the Koreshan State Historic Site. Estero is also known for its many golfing opportunities as there are 11 golf courses within its borders consisting of 5 public and 6 private courses. There are also another 89 golf courses within 20 miles of Estero, including 23 public, 1 municipal, and 65 private courses. Estero encompasses some 35 gated communities and is recognized as one of the safest places in Florida.

Estero is the home of Hertz Arena, which hosts the home games for the Florida Everblades ECHL ice hockey team. Florida Gulf Coast University borders the Estero village limits and the Southwest Florida International Airport is located less than 5 miles to the north of Estero. The corporate headquarters of Hertz Corporation is located in Estero.

In 2019, Estero was ranked #8 by USA Today for cities where the most people own their homes for having a homeownership rate of 85.5%.

History
Mound Key, located in Estero Bay, is believed to have been the ceremonial center of the Calusa Indians when they were encountered by the Spanish in the early 1500s. German homesteader Gustave Damkohler began planting mulberry trees in 1882 along the Estero River, followed by others who established fish camps and the region's first citrus groves. In 1894, Damkohler donated property to the followers of Cyrus Teed, who proposed a theory that people live on the inside of the Earth's outer skin, and that celestial bodies are all contained inside the hollow Earth. This theory, which he called Koreshan Unity, drew followers to occupy and develop Damkohler's original 320 acre tract. They were business-oriented and lived communally, prospering enough to found their own political party ("The Progressive Liberty Party") and incorporate the town on September 1, 1904, as Estero. At the behest of other local officials, the Florida legislature abolished the municipality of Estero in 1907.

During the 1910 US census, the population was 299. By the 1920 US census, it increased to 340 residents.

The 1908 death of Teed (who claimed to be immortal) was a critical blow to the group's faith, whose membership dwindled into the 1960s. The foundation remains as "The College of Life Foundation", which contributed (for example) at least $25,000 to the Gulf Shore Playhouse in or around 2007. The Koreshans' original tract is now owned by Florida as the Koreshan State Historic Site.

Access to Estero was greatly improved in the 1920s when Tamiami Trail, a highway linking Tampa and Miami, and two railroads were built through the area. Tamiami Trail was fully complete in 1928. The Atlantic Coast Line Railroad (via its Fort Myers Southern Railroad subsidiary) began service through Estero in 1925. A competing railroad, the Seaboard Air Line Railroad (via its Seaboard-All Florida Railway subsidiary) also began service through Estero in 1927. Today, the former Atlantic Coast Line tracks are still in place east of US 41 and have been owned by Seminole Gulf Railway since 1987. The former Seaboard tracks were removed in the 1940s and its former route west of US 41 is now an FPL power line corridor.

Estero incorporated as a village on December 31, 2014.

Geography
The Village of Estero is located in southern Lee County at 26.43222°N, -81.80944°W (26.432237, –81.809447). It is bordered to the south by the city of Bonita Springs and to the north by unincorporated San Carlos Park and Three Oaks.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the village of Estero has a total area of 65.7 km2, of which 63.1 km2 are land and 2.7 km2, or 4.05%, are water.

Historically and culturally, the heart of Estero is the spring-fed Estero River, which flows to Estero Bay. Some of the earliest settlers of the area (notably the Alvarez, Fernandez, Johnson, and Soto families) were fishing families that lived on Mound Key, a mangrove-ringed island that dominates Estero Bay. During the early 20th century, these families moved upriver to the settlement which came to be known as Estero. Estero is also the location of a utopian community called the Koreshan Unity, which is now preserved as the Koreshan State Historic Site. Until the 1970s, most settlement and development in Estero was near the river.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 9,503 people, 4,608 households, and 3,336 families residing in Estero. The population density was 450.7 PD/sqmi. There were 7,345 housing units at an average density of 348.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the community was 97.43% White, 0.64% African American, 0.11% Native American, 0.35% Asian, 0.01% Pacific Islander, 0.77% from other races, and 0.69% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.19% of the population.

As of 2000, there were 4,608 households, out of which 10.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 68.2% were married couples living together, 2.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.6% were non-families. 23.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.01 and the average family size was 2.31.

In 2000, in the community, the population was spread out, with 9.2% under the age of 18, 4.9% from 18 to 24, 14.1% from 25 to 44, 31.1% from 45 to 64, and 40.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 61 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.6 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in Estero was $43,734, and the median income for a family was $51,227. Males had a median income of $38,886 versus $27,883 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $30,521. About 1.9% of families and 3.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 1.1% of those under age 18 and 3.2% of those age 65 or over.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2010 United States census, there were 22,612 people, 10,444 households, and 7,484 families residing in the village.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 36,939 people, 15,763 households, and 10,706 families residing in the village.

As of the census 2022: ACS 5-Year Estimates, the median income for a household in the village of Estero, Florida was $100,543, the median income for a family was $114,112 and the median income for Married-couple families was $119,269. The significant and sustained increase in median income in Estero can be attributed to a long-term influx of affluent households through inbound migration.

As of the census of 2020, there were 36,939 people, 17,751 households residing in Estero. The racial makeup of the community was 32,527 White, 534 African American, 43 Native American, 761 Asian, 20 Pacific Islander, 795 from other races, and 2,259 from two or more races. There was a total of 2,884 Hispanic and Latino people of any race.

Economy
On May 7, 2013, the Hertz Corporation announced it was moving its corporate headquarters and about 750 jobs to Estero from its former bases at Park Ridge, New Jersey and Tulsa, Oklahoma. Hertz built a $75 million building at the southeast corner of US-41 and Williams Road on a previously vacant lot and cleared parcel that already contained a retention pond. The land is immediately south of Corkscrew Village and about a mile north of Coconut Point Mall.

Arts and Culture
Estero is home to the Art Council of Southwest Florida which runs the nonprofit cooperative COCO Art Gallery at Coconut Point Mall in Estero, Florida. In 2023 the Artistic & Operations Center for the Southwest Florida Symphony relocated to Coconut Point Mall in Estero, Florida. In addition to the Coconut Point shopping center, Estero is also home to Miromar Outlets, with over 140 stores and the 400,000-square-foot Miromar Design Center. Additionally, Gulf Coast Town Center is located just 3 miles from the northern border of Estero.

Parks and Recreation
Estero is home to two state parks Mound Key Archaeological State Park and the Koreshan State Historic Site. Additionally it is home to the Estero Park and Recreation Center. As of April 2024 the Estero government is in the planning stages for an approved Estero Entertainment Center to be built via a privet public partnership on land owned by the Village of Estero.

title: Estero, Florida