Happiness in Naples – A City Worth Smiling About

The tropical climate and white sugar sand beaches may be enough for some to make the move in purchasing a home in Florida. The real estate market in these southern most cities is hot, both in the figurative and literal sense. Of these, Naples stands out as having been voted America’s happiest city for the third year in a row, despite a reported decline in overall well-being across the country. Not only is this the happiest city, Compass Real Estate Advisor Kathy Lucas says it is also the healthiest.

Naples is on track to becoming a Blue Zone community as well, Lucas shares. As part of Southwest Florida’s well-being improvement initiative, the Blue Zones Project encourages changes that lead to healthier options in everything from worksites, schools, restaurants, grocery stores, and more. This can lower obesity rates, smoking, and chronic diseases to create a healthier and happier place to live.

“Our beaches are stunning, with white sugar sand and endless shelling,” Lucas shares. “The gulf side is gentle so everyone, especially younger children, enjoy the shoreline. Flowers are always in bloom and it’s probably the lushest city in the US. There is a sense of vibrancy here that makes you feel good day and night. Naples is classified as in the tropics; thus, we also have two growing seasons. We also have 92 golf courses.”

In the second quarter as compared to last year, the overall market is up 2%. In the $2 million and above single-family market, closed sales are up by an astounding 25%. It is believed these luxury homes will remain high in demand. Noting the highest single-family home sale at $48 million cash, Lucas says the demand for ultra-luxury properties in Naples is increasing.

“Naples is a great investment,” Lucas says. “We have a strong rental market for properties at all price points. With baby boomers retiring at rapid rates, they often rent for a season or two and then decide to buy or build. There is a nice selection of luxury single family and condominium options available to rent. One of these properties can expect to rent from $30 – $75K a month during season with prices higher for waterfront homes.”

Lucas shares two listings that are representative of the Naples market and lifestyle, both built by Pegasus Builders. New construction 2175 Crayton Road has four bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms, with the master suite on the first floor. This trend has been particularly popular for baby boomers and other mature adults. Described as “Tropical Modern,” the open concept home is on the market for $3.595 million. Newly acquired by Compass is 2155 Shad Court with four bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms. Sleek and modern in design, the home is listed for $3.895 million.

Buyers in Naples are comparable to those in the Hamptons, often attracting snowbirds to the western side of the peninsula. Navigating the area by car is easy, Fort Lauderdale and Miami are an hour and a half away, Tampa is a two-hour trip, and Orlando and Disney are three hours away. The Naples Municipal Airport accommodates mostly private jets for homeowners flying in and out. Lucas also says the real estate values are stronger in Naples, not to mention lush tropical surroundings that offer a strong sense of rest and relaxation throughout the year.

“Naples is a luxurious and tranquil city located in Southwest Florida that attracts people from the all over the world,” Lucas explains. “Very happy, healthy and friendly people that like to enjoy warm sunshine, sea breezes, organic restaurants, meditation, spa treatments, yoga classes and outdoor activities such as biking, swimming, boating, kite sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, peaceful nature walks and shelling.”

Good health, well-being, and a sense of security can be found in Naples. Find your happy place in the Sunshine State and see what the fuss is all about.