4 Benefits Midwesterners Will Appreciate About Living in Southwest Florida

There’s a lot to appreciate about life in the Midwest. Not only is it the birthplace of automobiles, but its lakes and landscapes are spectacular, and it is home to some of America’s most iconic cities. Yet with cold winters, Southwest Florida’s Paradise Coast has become a popular choice for those seeking a Gulf and golf lifestyle year-round. But it’s so much more than just warm winters attracting luxury homebuyers to this coveted coastline. Discover just a few of the top reasons why so many are choosing Southwest Florida for their future home.

1. Florida’s Beneficial Tax Environment

As one of only nine states without a state income tax, Florida is an extremely tax-friendly state. Social Security income, pension income, and income from an IRA or 401(k) are not subject to state tax, saving retirees thousands of dollars annually. Florida’s “Save Our Homes” law limits the annual increase in the assessed value of homesteads to 3%, saving homeowners from spikes in property taxes. Florida also does not impose any estate or inheritance taxes, protecting residents and their heirs from state taxes on their descendant’s estate. With abundant natural assets and numerous tax benefits, Southwest Florida is the ideal location for a carefree Florida lifestyle.

2. Environmental Gems Inspire Exploration and Adventure

Southwest Florida naturally inspires residents to live an active outdoor lifestyle. For future residents of The Island at West Bay, a new luxury condominium set to rise in Estero, the brand new private Beach Club on Little Hickory Island will be the perfect place to take in the pristine white-sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico or watch the sunset while enjoying dinner on the Gulf. The area is also well-known as one of the best fishing destinations in Florida, with plentiful tarpon, grouper, red snapper, and more to be found in deep-sea fishing along the Gulf of Mexico and the inshore waters of Estero Bay. Lush nature preserves are popular for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The Rookery Bay Preserve is a favored choice, where visitors can explore over 110,000 acres of pristine mangrove forest and protected waters, or visit the two-story, hands-on Environmental Learning Center. Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary’s protected wetlands are home to the world’s largest remaining virgin bald cypress forest, providing a wildlife sightseeing adventure with manatees, gopher tortoises, and a myriad of bird species calling these protected wetlands home.

3. World-Class Arts, Culture & Entertainment

The greater Naples area is surrounded by seemingly endless art venues, shopping and dining. From designer retailers and boutique shops to art galleries and antique stores, Naples’ Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South are some of the area’s most popular shopping districts. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center and Artis-Naples are favored destinations for modern and contemporary art. Fort Myers also hosts numerous art festivals that showcase more than 200 artists monthly, including the River District Art Walk and the ArtFest. For sports enthusiasts, the region is also well-known as a spring training ground for many popular MLB teams. The Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins hold spring training at Jet Blue Park and Hammond Stadium, respectively. Travel is seamless in and out of the area via Southwest Florida International Airport or Naples Airport for private and charter services.

4. New Luxury Condominium Rising in a Private Resort Lifestyle Community

Located near Bonita Springs just north of Naples, The Island at West Bay is the final neighborhood to be offered for sale within the master-planned gated golf club community of West Bay. This 24-story tower will overlook Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, with 86 luxurious 3- to 4-bedroom residences. Residents will enjoy an unparalleled roster of amenities including a private Beach Club, River Park access to Estero Bay and endless on-site activities.

The Island’s wide array of signature amenities will create inviting social spaces and provide services that elevate everyday experiences into meaningful moments. A dramatic porte-cochere entrance and exemplary on-site staff ensure a memorable arrival experience. Atop The Island’s 24th floor, the Rooftop Amenity Deck creates a breathtaking backdrop for morning yoga in the shaded Fitness & Yoga space, refreshing dips in the adult Relaxation Pool, and sunset celebrations overlooking the expansive Gulf of Mexico vistas. The ground-level amenities include a Resident Club Room, a heated lap pool, a state-of-the-art Fitness Center, private guest suites, refrigerated storage for deliveries, a Kid’s Club Room, and an indoor golf simulator.

Golf Memberships And Beach Club Amenities Are Hard To Find

Future residents of The Island are in luck. Not only will they enjoy their own private sanctuary, but they will also appreciate the championship golf and active lifestyle of the West Bay community. A state-of-the-art fitness center, resort-style pool, and al fresco dining can be found at The Bay House, a luxurious multipurpose activity center. The Sports Complex, complete with eight tennis courts and six pickleball courts, is a great place for pick-up games with fellow West Bay members. The private Beach Club offers direct access to the Gulf of Mexico’s powder-soft sand beaches and is currently being expanded to include an exceptional oceanfront dining venue. Golf Members can also enjoy West Bay Club’s championship golf course, designed by luminaries Pete and P.B. Dye to challenge both beginners and avid golfers alike. These memberships are expected to go quickly.

With a prime location and an unmatched set of amenities, The Island at West Bay provides world-class living within the comforts of a close-knit community. For more information on this exciting new residential offering, please contact (239) 399-5009 or visit IslandWestBay.com to schedule a private appointment with the sales team.