Moving to Naples, FL? Read This Relocation Guide from Cogent Bank

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Inside Cogent        Blog        Moving to Naples, FL? Read the Essential Guide to Your New Home
Moving to Naples, FL? Read the Essential Guide to Your New Home
July 12, 2024

Moving to Naples, FL? Read the Essential Guide to Your New Home

Whether you’re recently retired and looking for an idyllic locale to enjoy your post-work years or you’re looking to escape the cold North and relocate to the Sunbelt, Naples, Florida has become a premier destination for transplants from across the country. 

With a current population of less than 20,000 residents, Naples balances the charm of a cozy coastal town with world class amenities, from top tier golf courses to sophisticated fine dining. Combined with the splendor of the Gulf of Mexico, it’s no wonder our region has been nicknamed “Paradise Coast.”

Considering a move to Naples? This post will provide a guide to our city, its schools, neighborhoods, and premier attractions. Keep reading to learn more about what it means to call Naples home!

Naples History

Founded in 1887, Naples’s development took off after the construction of the Tamiami Trail in the 1920s, which linked Tampa and Miami and still cuts through the heart of Naples today. Reminding early settlers of the Italian peninsula by its subtropical climate, the city was named after Naples, Italy. 

The later completion of the Seaboard Air Line Railway further spurred growth in Naples, bringing both tourists and new residents to support the increasing need for the hospitality economy. By the mid-20th century, Naples had been transformed from a small fishing village into a popular tourist destination and a haven for the retired.

Cost of Living in Naples

Naples is home to many luxury properties, and as a mecca for retirees looking to enjoy their golden years, the cost of living can be higher than other parts of Florida (about 10% higher) and the rest of the country (about 13% higher). While living inland can help you reduce expenses (especially for homeowners’ insurance!), residents will pay a premium for both the proximity to the Gulf and the upscale amenities found in many Naples homes.

Here are just a few facts about living in Naples, Florida:

  • Ranks 10th highest in per capita income in the U.S. 
  • Annual basic income for a family of 2 needed: $66,693
  • Median price of recent homes sold: $665,000
  • Unemployment rate: 2.7%

However, the lack of personal state income tax can play a major role in offsetting the higher cost of living—and it’s possible to find more affordable properties, especially if you are willing to venture inland. If you’re looking to purchase a home, our residential lending team can help you find the right mortgage in Naples to fit your needs. Contact us to learn more about our home loan options, from Conventional Home Loans to Jumbo Mortgages Loans.

Neighborhoods in Naples

When choosing a location for your homebase, you’ll have an abundance of options, from gated HOA communities with waterfront access to affordable neighborhoods convenient to Naples’s many attractions. 

Some of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Naples include:

  • Old Naples: Known for its charming historic homes, lush landscaping, and proximity to the beach, Old Naples offers a quaint, walkable area filled with boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining. Home to the Naples Pier, its sites make it a sought-after location.
  • Pelican Bay: Featuring luxury condos, single-family homes, high-rise buildings, and beautiful landscaping. Pelican Bay is ideal for those seeking a resort-style living experience. Pelican Bay also offers private beach access and beach clubs as well as a wide range of recreational amenities.
  • Park Shore Naples: With its scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico and Venetian Bay, Park Shore is renowned for its high-rise condos, upscale shops, and dining options at the Village Shops on Venetian Bay. 
  • Aqualane Shores: Combining the charm of Old Naples with modern luxury, Aqualane Shores features many beautiful waterfront properties with direct Gulf access. The neighborhood is conveniently located near Third Street South and Fifth Avenue South, known for their dining and shopping.
  • Golden Gate: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse community, Golden Gate offers reasonably priced single-family homes and condos, with easy access to parks, schools, and shopping centers. The neighborhood is conveniently located near major roadways, putting all of Naples within easy reach. 

This list is far from complete, and there are many more great niches found within Naples and greater Collier County including in the City of Everglades and Marco Island.  

neighborhood in Naples FL

Education Options

Collier County Schools offers a robust education for children living in Naples, with 50,000 students spread across 64 schools including traditional schools, charter schools, and virtual options. With opportunities for students to take dual-enrollment college courses and a wide variety of Advanced Placement and Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) courses available, older students can get a jumpstart on their higher education—while still in high school. All students benefit from Collier County’s team of quality, well-educated staff. In fact, nearly half of its teachers hold advanced degrees. 

If you’re looking for a specialized curriculum for your children, there are also many private school options available in Naples. This is in part due to Florida’s “School Choice” program, which uses public funding to provide scholarships for private K-12 education.

Some well-regarded private school options in Naples include:

For a complete list of private schools in Collier County, visit the Florida Department of Education’s Private Schools Directory

Utilities Providers

Whether you’re buying a home or renting an apartment or condo, you’ll need to set up utilities for your place of residence. Contact your new local utility providers for electricity, water, gas, internet/cable, and waste disposal, providing them with your move-in date to make sure services are activated promptly and ready to go upon your move in.

In Naples, local utility services include:

Residents may also wish to explore national satellite and 5G options for internet and cable, or look into cable and internet bundle packages for additional savings. 

Country Clubs & Golf Courses in Naples

Often called the “Golf Capital of the World,” Naples is home to dozens of courses and clubs, many designed by world-class course designers. Individuals come from around the world to enjoy the breadth of courses found in our county.

Top courses to check out include:

  • Tiburón Golf Club: Featuring two 18-hole championship courses designed by Greg Norman, Tiburón is a local favorite.
  • Lely Resort Golf & Country Club: Located on Lely Resort Boulevard, Lely Resort Golf & Country Club is home to three championship courses, including the Mustang Course designed by Lee Trevino.
  • Naples National Golf Club: The Naples National Golf Club is a private club known for its challenging course and beautiful natural setting.
  • TwinEagles Golf & Country Club: With two 18-hole courses, including the Talon Course designed by Jack Nicklaus, and a plethora of other amenities you can spend endless afternoons at this beloved club.
  • The Old Collier Golf Club: The infamous Old Collier is an exclusive private club with a reputation for excellence.
  • Forest Glen Golf & Country Club: This public course on Forest Glen Boulevard, Naples features an 18-hole layout seat amidst the scenic beauty of Collier County.
  • The Country Club of Naples: This storied private club features a recently renovated 18-hole course.
  • Pelican Marsh Golf Club: Looking for a challenge? The private Pelican Marsh club features a Robert von Hagge-designed course known for its strategic play.

For a complete list of courses, visit the PGA’s directory of Golf Courses in Naples, FL.

golf course in Naples FL

Local Sports

Golf is certainly the top sport in Naples. As the host of the LPGA Golf Tournament for over a decade and with the abundance of world class courses and professional golfers who call Naples and the surrounding areas home, it’s no wonder golf reigns supreme.

However, there’s more to Naples than just golf. Popular sports to watch and take part in include:

Tennis: With numerous clubs and public courts, tennis is a popular sport in Naples, offering a great way to stay active in the warm climate and enjoy competitive or recreational play.

  • Pickleball: In addition to many public and private courts at clubs, parks, and in communities, Naples hosts several tournaments, including the US Open Pickleball Championships, each year.
  • Boating: With access to the Gulf of Mexico and numerous inland waterways, boating is a favorite pastime in Naples, providing opportunities for sailing, cruising, and exploring coastal waters.
  • Fishing: Hand in hand with boating, Naples offers excellent saltwater and freshwater fishing opportunities for passionate anglers and hobbyists.
  • Soccer: The city is home to two semi-pro soccer teams, Naples United FC and Naples City FC
  • Cycling: A well-developed bike infrastructure with over 30 miles of bicycle paths and mild weather for most of the year create a perfect environment for cyclists. 
  • Swamp Buggy Races: For over 75 years, Naples has been home to a robust community of swamp buggy enthusiasts, as well as 4 major racing events.  

Public Parks & Beaches

Whether you’re looking to swim in the gulf, play a game of tennis, or launch your boat, Naples public parks and beaches offer many opportunities to enjoy the sand, sun, and water of Southwest Florida. 

Naples Beaches

You don’t need to own a waterfront property to experience the white sands and soft tides of the Gulf Coast. The best public beaches in Naples include:

  • Lowdermilk Park/Beach: Offering restrooms, showers, picnic tables, concessions, and a pavilion for events.
  • Naples Beach: Well-known for the Naples Fishing Pier, this beach has metered parking, restrooms, outdoor showers, and a snack bar.
  • Vanderbilt Beach: This family-friendly beach provides showers, lifeguards, grills, picnic tables, restrooms, and bath house, as well as a boat ramp and observation tower to allow you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the county.
  • Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park: Looking for a new picnic spot? In addition to bathhouses/restrooms, and a boat-launching ramp and boardwalk, this park has ample tables and barbecues available for use. 
  • Clam Pass Park/Beach: Rent a kayak or catamaran (or just a beach chair!). Clam Pass Park also has outdoor showers, restrooms, and a snack bar. 
  • Lely Barefoot Beach: Off of Bonita Beach Road in North Naples, with fishing ramps and fishing gear rental this beach is great for anglers. They also offer restrooms, showers, and a snack bar. 
beach in Naples FL

Parks

Many of Naples’s beaches are part of Florida’s robust state park system. But Collier County also offers a number of additional recreational opportunities and facilities for residents and their guests to enjoy. 

  • Cambier Park: See a concert at the bandshell, take the grandkids to the playground, or enjoy their tennis courts, softball field, and bocce courts.
  • Fleischmann Park: With a community center, fitness center, playground, skate park, and sports fields, this park is ideal for active individuals.
  • Baker Park: Enjoy the natural beauty of the region at Baker Park, with its convenient kayak launch and walking trails. Family-friendly, this park also has a playground and picnic areas.
  • Gordon River Greenway: If you’re looking to experience the nature of the Gulf Coast, visit Gordon River Greenway for walking and biking trails, boardwalks, and their kayak launch.
  • Naples Dog Park: Featuring separate areas for small and large dogs, water stations, and shade structures, the Naples Dog Park can help you exercise your furry friend while getting to know our dog-friendly community.  

Local Attractions & Events

From cultural events to popular attractions, Naples provides a wide array of entertainment options for families and individuals. 

Must-See Attractions

Whether you’re looking for an evening in town or an excursion to entertain the grandchildren or children in your life, Naples has many notable sights to see and places to visit.

  • Naples Pier: The Pier is worth another mention as an attraction unto itself—even if you don’t plan on relaxing on the beach. This historic pier provides opportunities for fishing, watching dolphins and other marine life, and stunning sunset views.
  • Naples Botanical Garden: This 170-acre garden featuring tropical plants, walking trails, and themed gardens is a destination for all ages.
  • The Baker Museum: From its wide array of curated rotating exhibitions to a permanent collection which includes works artists ranging from Chihuly to Magritte, this contemporary art museum is just one of the major cultural attractions you’ll find in Naples. 
  • Third Street South: Our charming shopping and dining district is known for its high-end boutiques and gourmet restaurants.
  • Naples Zoo: Naples’s historic zoo and botanical garden features exotic animals, interactive exhibits, and a primate expedition cruise.

Local Events 

Representing Florida’s unique Gulf Coast culture and natural beauty, our festivals can provide fun and enriching experiences for the whole family. 

  • Naples Seafood and Music Festival: Held in February, enjoy fresh seafood, live music by local and regional musicians, and an arts and crafts marketplace​ at the Italian American Club.
  • Naples Craft Beer Fest: Held in the halcyon days of March, the Naples Craft Beer Fest offers a wide selection of craft beers, food vendors, and live entertainment.
  • Stone Crab Festival: In October, celebrate the local stone crab harvest with fresh seafood, live music, and family-friendly activities.
  • Burrowing Owl Festival: Held in February, this wildlife-focused festival brings attention to the conservation of the burrowing owl and Florida’s natural landscapes and features educational exhibits and activities.
  • Sizzle Dining Restaurant Week: For three weeks in, local restaurants offer special prix-fixe menus, celebrating the culinary landscape of Naples.
  • Live Fest: For music lovers, Live Fest at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón features performances by top artists and offers a range of VIP experiences​.

To discover more great events, check out the Naple’s Florida Travel Guide’s Annual Events List.

Business Opportunities in Naples

Our thriving, diverse economy makes Naples a great place to do business. Bolstered by tourism, real estate, and healthcare, our local economy provides a stable foundation for a variety of types of businesses. And the favorable tax climate (no personal state income tax and a low corporate tax rate) can significantly enhance the profitability of your new enterprise. Lastly, our city offers a supportive business community, from networking through the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce to a talented local workforce

Additional resources in Collier County to assist business startups include:

In addition to a supportive economy and a wealth of small business resources, businesses in Naples can lean on a wealth of professional business partners from a strong and skilled legal presence to robust banking and financial services. At Cogent Bank, we offer a wide range of supportive services, from International Banking Services and Treasury Management to Business Deposit Accounts, Commercial Real Estate Loans, SBA Lending, and Business Lines of Credit.  

For more insights on operating your business in Naples, visit the City of Naples’s Doing Business page or explore our Business Banking options. 

Cogent, Your Naples Banking Partner

From individuals and families to small and large businesses, trust Cogent to be your reliable banking partner. Our growing services offer flexible options tailored to your unique needs—no matter where you are on your journey. 

To learn more about all we have to offer, call or visit our Naples Banking Center, located conveniently off of the Tamiami Trail (Route 41) on Vanderbilt Beach Road.