Bonita Springs offers the perfect middle ground for Southwest Florida retirees—close enough to Naples for upscale dining and culture, yet more affordable and laid-back. With beautiful beaches, championship golf, world-class nature preserves, and a charming downtown, Bonita Springs attracts retirees who want beach access without beach prices.
Located between Naples and Fort Myers, Bonita Springs delivers the Southwest Florida lifestyle at 20-30% below Naples pricing.
Why Retire to Bonita Springs?
Bonita Springs consistently attracts retirees seeking quality of life without premium Naples pricing:
- No state income tax on retirement income, Social Security, or pensions
- Beautiful beaches - Bonita Beach and Barefoot Beach Preserve
- Nature paradise - Estero Bay, Corkscrew Swamp, Lovers Key nearby
- Championship golf - Multiple courses including Bonita Bay and Pelican Landing
- Lower costs - 20-30% below Naples for comparable properties
- Central location - 20 minutes to Naples, 25 minutes to Fort Myers
- Established communities - Mature landscaping, proven HOAs, stable neighborhoods
- Excellent healthcare - Access to both Lee Health and NCH systems
Location & Lifestyle
Nestled between Naples and Fort Myers, Bonita Springs provides access to both areas while maintaining its own distinct character.
Geographic Position
- 20 minutes to Naples - 5th Avenue shopping, Artis—Naples, upscale dining
- 25 minutes to Fort Myers - River District, Edison & Ford Estates, spring training
- 15 minutes to RSW Airport - Easy travel for snowbirds and visitors
- 10-15 minutes to beaches - Bonita Beach, Barefoot Beach, Lovers Key
Beach Access
Bonita Beach
The primary public beach for Bonita Springs. Wide sandy beach, calm Gulf waters, and the iconic Bonita Beach pier. Public parking available (fills early on weekends). Beach restaurants and bars within walking distance.
Barefoot Beach Preserve
One of the last undeveloped barrier islands on Florida's southwest coast. Natural beach with gopher tortoises, excellent shelling, and sea turtle nesting. Limited parking (800 spaces) means it's never overcrowded. $8 entry for non-residents.
Lovers Key State Park
Natural barrier island between Bonita and Fort Myers Beach. Tram to beach, kayak rentals, and excellent wildlife viewing including dolphins and manatees. $8 vehicle entry.
Nature & Preserves
Bonita Springs is surrounded by protected natural areas:
- Estero Bay Preserve - 10,000+ acres of mangroves and waterways
- Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary - Ancient cypress forest, world-class birding
- Six Mile Cypress Slough - Boardwalk through wetland ecosystem
- Imperial River - Kayaking and paddleboarding through natural Florida
Cost of Living in Bonita Springs for Retirees
Bonita Springs offers excellent value compared to Naples while maintaining high quality of life.
Housing Costs
| Housing Type | Price Range | Monthly HOA |
|---|---|---|
| Condo (2BR) | $275,000 - $500,000 | $400 - $800 |
| Single Family | $400,000 - $750,000 | $150 - $400 |
| 55+ Community | $350,000 - $600,000 | $200 - $500 |
| Golf Community | $450,000 - $1,000,000 | $300 - $700 |
| Bonita Bay | $600,000 - $3,000,000+ | $500 - $1,200 |
Regional Comparison
| Expense | Bonita Springs | Naples | Fort Myers | Estero |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home | $475,000 | $650,000 | $350,000 | $400,000 |
| Property Tax (per $300K) | ~$4,500 | ~$4,200 | ~$4,800 | ~$4,500 |
| HOA (typical) | $300-600/mo | $400-800/mo | $250-500/mo | $300-500/mo |
| Insurance (annual) | $4,000-7,000 | $4,000-7,000 | $3,500-6,000 | $3,500-6,000 |
Monthly Budget Breakdown
A comfortable retirement in Bonita Springs typically requires:
| Expense | Budget Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,400 - $4,000 | Mortgage/rent + HOA + insurance |
| Utilities | $180 - $320 | Electric, water, internet |
| Healthcare | $400 - $800 | Medicare supplement + copays |
| Groceries | $500 - $850 | Publix, Whole Foods, Fresh Market nearby |
| Transportation | $250 - $400 | Gas, maintenance, insurance |
| Entertainment | $500 - $1,000 | Dining, golf, beach activities |
| Total | $4,230 - $7,370 |
Pro Tip: Many Bonita Springs communities include beach access passes or shuttles in HOA fees—a significant value add that's harder to find in Naples.
Best Neighborhoods for Retirees
Bonita Bay
Southwest Florida's premier resort-style community, Bonita Bay offers unmatched amenities and a range of home styles.
- Age Restriction: None (but popular with retirees)
- Home Prices: $600,000 - $3,000,000+
- HOA: $500 - $1,200/month
- Amenities: 5 championship golf courses, private beach park, marina, tennis, fitness, spa, multiple pools
- Lifestyle: Country club living with extensive social calendar
- Best For: Those wanting the complete resort-style package
Pelican Landing
Master-planned community with golf, tennis, and beach shuttle service at more accessible prices than Bonita Bay.
- Age Restriction: None
- Home Prices: $400,000 - $900,000
- HOA: $300 - $500/month
- Amenities: Golf course, tennis, community beach shuttle, canoe/kayak launch, pools
- Lifestyle: Active community with strong social scene
- Best For: Golfers and active retirees seeking value
Spanish Wells
Golf community with reasonable HOA fees and strong community atmosphere without country club pricing.
- Age Restriction: None
- Home Prices: $350,000 - $700,000
- HOA: $250 - $400/month
- Amenities: Golf course, tennis, community pool, clubhouse
- Lifestyle: Friendly, active without being overwhelming
- Best For: Budget-conscious golfers, social retirees
The Brooks
Nature-focused community straddling the Bonita Springs/Estero line with extensive preserves and walking trails.
- Age Restriction: None
- Home Prices: $400,000 - $900,000
- HOA: $300 - $500/month
- Amenities: Multiple pools, fitness, tennis, nature trails, beach shuttle
- Lifestyle: Nature-oriented, emphasis on walking and outdoor activities
- Best For: Nature lovers, walkers, those seeking tranquility
Worthington Country Club
Bundled golf community offering excellent value with golf included in HOA.
- Age Restriction: None
- Home Prices: $300,000 - $600,000
- HOA: $600 - $800/month (includes golf)
- Amenities: Golf, tennis, pool, clubhouse dining
- Lifestyle: Golf-focused with active social scene
- Best For: Avid golfers seeking bundled value
Coconut Point Area
Newer developments near shopping and dining, offering convenience and modern construction.
- Age Restriction: Varies
- Home Prices: $300,000 - $550,000
- HOA: $350 - $550/month
- Amenities: Pools, fitness, walking distance to shopping
- Lifestyle: Convenient, walkable to amenities
- Best For: Those prioritizing shopping access and modern homes
Healthcare in Bonita Springs
Bonita Springs benefits from proximity to excellent healthcare in both Lee and Collier counties.
Nearby Hospitals
NCH Baker Hospital (15 minutes in Naples)
- Award-winning cardiac program
- Comprehensive stroke center
- Joint replacement specialty
NCH North Naples Hospital (20 minutes)
- Emergency department
- Outpatient services
- Imaging and diagnostics
Lee Health Gulf Coast Medical Center (15 minutes)
- Level II trauma center
- Cardiac care, orthopedics
- Cancer center
Lee Health HealthPark Medical Center (20 minutes)
- Comprehensive medical campus
- Specialty care services
Medical Services in Bonita Springs
- Urgent Care: Multiple locations on US-41 and near Coconut Point
- Primary Care: Numerous practices in medical plazas throughout area
- Specialists: Cardiology, orthopedics, dermatology available locally
- Imaging: Outpatient imaging centers in Bonita Springs
- Pharmacy: CVS, Walgreens, Publix pharmacies throughout area
Healthcare Considerations
- Choice of Lee Health or NCH systems—both excellent
- Most facilities accept Medicare and major supplements
- Specialist appointments typically available within 2 weeks
- Concierge medicine practices available for those wanting premium care
Things to Do in Bonita Springs
Beaches
- Bonita Beach - Primary public beach with pier, restaurants nearby
- Barefoot Beach Preserve - Natural beach, shelling, gopher tortoises
- Lovers Key State Park - Natural barrier island, kayaking, dolphins
- Dog Beach - Off-leash beach area near Big Carlos Pass
Golf
Bonita Springs offers exceptional golf variety:
- Bonita Bay Club - 5 courses for members
- Pelican Landing Golf Club - Semi-private
- Spanish Wells Golf & Country Club - Member and public play
- Worthington Country Club - Bundled golf community
- The Quarry - Public, unique quarry setting
Nature & Outdoors
- Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary - 2.25-mile boardwalk, ancient cypress
- Estero Bay Preserve - Kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing
- Barefoot Beach Preserve - Hiking, wildlife, shelling
- Imperial River - Kayak and paddleboard rentals
Dining
- Coconut Jack's - Waterfront casual seafood
- Angelina's Ristorante - Upscale Italian
- The Bohemian - Live music, American cuisine
- Doc's Beach House - Beachfront dining on Bonita Beach
- Restaurants at Coconut Point - Extensive dining options
Shopping
- Coconut Point - Premier shopping center, 10 minutes
- Miromar Outlets - Designer outlets, 10 minutes
- Promenade at Bonita Bay - Upscale boutiques
- Naples shopping - 5th Avenue, Waterside Shops, 20 minutes
Arts & Entertainment
- Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs - Local theater and visual arts
- Artis—Naples - World-class performances, 20 minutes
- Bonita Springs National Art Festival - Annual February event
- Riverside Park - Concerts, events, community gatherings
Weather & Climate
What to Expect
| Season | Temperature | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 55-75°F | Dry, pleasant, peak season |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 65-85°F | Warming, low humidity, ideal beach |
| Summer (Jun-Sep) | 80-92°F | Hot, humid, afternoon thunderstorms |
| Fall (Oct-Nov) | 70-85°F | Cooling, hurricane season ending |
Hurricane Considerations
- Bonita Springs has both coastal and inland areas—flood zones vary
- Barrier island areas (Bonita Beach) evacuate first in storms
- Hurricane season runs June 1 - November 30
- Most newer construction meets current hurricane codes
- Flood insurance recommended even outside flood zones
- Hurricane shutters or impact windows essential for coastal properties
Moving to Bonita Springs: Practical Steps
Timeline
- 6-12 months before: Visit during season and off-season, tour communities
- 4-6 months before: Work with local realtor, get mortgage pre-approval
- 2-3 months before: Make offer, home inspection, secure insurance quotes
- 1 month before: Arrange movers, transfer utilities, update address
- First month: Establish Florida residency, driver's license, vehicle registration
- First year: File homestead exemption by March 1 (saves ~$50K from taxable value)
Establishing Florida Residency
- Obtain Florida driver's license within 30 days of establishing residence
- Register vehicles in Florida
- Register to vote in Florida
- Update bank accounts and financial institutions
- File Declaration of Domicile with Lee County clerk
- Update estate planning documents to Florida law
Insurance Considerations
- Homeowners: Get quotes early—Florida market is challenging
- Flood: Required if in flood zone, recommended everywhere
- Wind/Hurricane: May be separate policy from homeowners
- Umbrella: Recommended for liability protection
- Citizens Insurance: State insurer of last resort, often expensive
Pros and Cons of Retiring to Bonita Springs
Pros
- No state income tax - Keep more of retirement income
- Beautiful beaches - Bonita Beach and Barefoot Beach within minutes
- Nature access - World-class preserves and waterways
- Value pricing - 20-30% below Naples
- Established communities - Mature landscaping, proven HOAs
- Excellent golf - Multiple championship courses
- Central location - Easy access to Naples, Fort Myers, airport
- Healthcare options - Both Lee Health and NCH systems nearby
- Lower crowds - Less tourist traffic than Naples or Fort Myers Beach
Cons
- Higher than some areas - More expensive than Cape Coral or inland options
- Summer heat - June-September hot and humid
- Hurricane risk - Coastal location, flood zones in some areas
- Seasonal traffic - US-41 congested during peak season
- Limited nightlife - Quiet evenings, Naples better for evening entertainment
- Fewer cultural options - Less than Naples or Sarasota (but improving)
- Beach parking - Can be difficult on busy weekends
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bonita Springs a good place to retire?
Yes. Bonita Springs combines beach access, natural beauty, and excellent amenities at prices 20-30% lower than nearby Naples. The location between Naples and Fort Myers provides access to both areas' attractions and healthcare systems.
What is the average age in Bonita Springs?
The median age is approximately 55, with many active adult and 55+ communities. The area attracts retirees who enjoy outdoor activities, golf, and beach lifestyle.
How does Bonita Springs compare to Naples?
Bonita Springs offers similar lifestyle at 20-30% lower housing costs. Naples has more upscale shopping, dining, and cultural venues, while Bonita Springs feels more relaxed and community-oriented. Beach access is comparable, with Barefoot Beach Preserve rivaling any Naples beach.
What is Bonita Springs known for?
Bonita Springs is known for beautiful beaches (Bonita Beach, Barefoot Beach Preserve), proximity to nature preserves (Corkscrew Swamp, Estero Bay), excellent golf communities, and its location between Naples and Fort Myers.
Is Bonita Springs expensive?
Bonita Springs is mid-range for Southwest Florida—less expensive than Naples or Bonita Bay but higher than inland areas like Lehigh Acres or Cape Coral. Homes start in the mid-$300,000s with luxury options exceeding $2 million.
How far is Bonita Springs from the airport?
RSW (Southwest Florida International Airport) is approximately 15-20 minutes from most Bonita Springs locations, making it convenient for travel and hosting visitors.
Does Bonita Springs flood?
Some areas of Bonita Springs are in FEMA flood zones, particularly near the coast, Imperial River, and Estero Bay. Always check flood zone designation for specific properties. Many communities are outside flood zones with proper drainage.
What's the difference between Bonita Springs and Bonita Bay?
Bonita Bay is a specific premier community within Bonita Springs—one of the most prestigious addresses in Southwest Florida. Bonita Springs is the larger city encompassing many communities including Bonita Bay.
Compare Nearby Retirement Destinations
Not sure if Bonita Springs is right for you? Compare with these nearby alternatives:
- Retiring to Naples - More upscale, world-class dining, 20 minutes south
- Retiring to Fort Myers - More urban, River District, 25 minutes north
- Retiring to Estero - Newer communities, great shopping, 10 minutes north
- Retiring to Marco Island - Island living, more exclusive, 35 minutes south
