OK Just Moved to Naples/FtMyers area-Here is a "Virgin" Impression (Jacksonville: sales, how much)

[ChrisA70]

Yep, lived in Fort Myers twice, liked it in S. FM down by Iona. But the ghetto on Metro was hell. I am happier in Estero than anywhere in SWFL. Fort Myers is pretty crappy with a VERY small amount of decent areas. The only reason to go there is to shop... Or if you work there.

[apesxux]

I hear some folks mention income levels. I've read 40k, 65k... and all were considered "middle-class" incomes on the various threads. This question mainly for the locals, and to get some sense of where I might fit in. Where in the scale of the areas does 130k fit into? I mean for each area eg. Fort Myers, Naples and others, what would 130k salary look like? Is it good. Average? Low? Thanks for your attention.

[apesxux]

Originally Posted by Ruby24

I must disagree with you regarding gated communities. They offer a lot more than a false sense of safety. They usually are nicely landscaped, well kempt and have amenities too.
When I bought in a gated community they were clear to point out that it did not mean the neighborhood had a guarantee to be crime free, especially if a gate is unmanned.
I love my gated community. The plantings are lovely and well cared for, we have pathways thru that you can walk and bike without traffic and an awesome pool. My hoa fees are reasonable and worth every penny.

Care to share which community this might be. I am looking for such a place.

[hiknapster]

Originally Posted by apesxux

I hear some folks mention income levels. I've read 40k, 65k... and all were considered "middle-class" incomes on the various threads. This question mainly for the locals, and to get some sense of where I might fit in. Where in the scale of the areas does 130k fit into? I mean for each area eg. Fort Myers, Naples and others, what would 130k salary look like? Is it good. Average? Low? Thanks for your attention.

A lot.

As a former resident that still has lots and lots of family in Lee County, I would consider it huge for that area, which has always been traditionally working class, even before the bust. A lot of the snowbirds are on a tight budget (or so they say, they may die with millions but they sure aren't spending it).

Now, in Naples, the income is significantly higher, but that is money that is not usually made in the county, but brought with them.

But these are demographics that can be pulled up on this website. Median income per household is $40,319 in Lee County and 48,289 in Collier County.

I assume you are bringing this income or already have been offered this position, correct?

[justNancy]

Originally Posted by hiknapster

But these are demographics that can be pulled up on this website. Median income per household is $40,319 in Lee County and 48,289 in Collier County.

When they say "per household" it can include 2 or more wage earners and some people work 2 jobs. So the numbers don't necessarily indicate the quality of life. Also, there are so many retirees in Lee & Collier that I'm sure the average wage is considerably lower. Yes, I agree. $130k is a very high income for this area. I guess it also depends on what crowd you hang out with!

[apesxux]

Originally Posted by hiknapster

A lot.
I assume you are bringing this income or already have been offered this position, correct?

I am a Walgreens pharmacist and would be transferring. Is there a distinction? The transfer location availability will be the determining factor in my decision on a neighborhood. I would like to be relatively close to the store. Does it matter whether it is brought or earned there?

[justNancy]

Originally Posted by apesxux

I am a Walgreens pharmacist and would be transferring. Is there a distinction? The transfer location availability will be the determining factor in my decision on a neighborhood. I would like to be relatively close to the store. Does it matter whether it is brought or earned there?

Of course how you earn your money is your business. There are Naples residents who earn millions per year. There are also wealthy people who live in cabins in the woods. Only you can decide on the lifestyle you want to lead.

[hiknapster]

How funny! There is an unemployment rate of 14 percent in the area. That was the point I was trying to make. No distinction. Just have a job.

If you are gainfully employed, though, you can use this info to your advantage when buying a home.

[nhkev]

I don't mean for this to be a loaded question or offense to anyone, but.... I am seeing a recurring trend here of people that are coming from other parts of the country and getting jobs, or getting transfered to the area/ relocated. Why aren't the locals getting these jobs?

[faithfulFrank]

Originally Posted by nhkev

I don't mean for this to be a loaded question or offense to anyone, but.... I am seeing a recurring trend here of people that are coming from other parts of the country and getting jobs, or getting transfered to the area/ relocated. Why aren't the locals getting these jobs?

Interesting question. We read many employment posts here, and I'd guess the answer is multi-faceted and complex. In the case of our friend apesxux, he stated he is a pharmacist. I'm thinking that with the senior population and the huge amount of pharmacies that seem to be on every corner in Florida, that any licensed Pharmacist would not have a difficult time landing a position there.

I have a few other thoughts, but I'm sure they would get misconstrued and become volatile. Perhaps a SMALL part of the answer may be on an individual level. Perhaps we only see a small part of the whole. There are some folks who may work very hard at relocating. That hard work also shows in their job hunting skills, etc. We may also be just hearing about the success stories and not hearing as much about the less successful situations.

For me, most here already know my situation. I've been blasted for it by some. I plan on taking my very good NY pension and moving to Florida within the next couple of years. I will have my pension to fall back on, but I see plenty of opportunity in Florida. I am even now aggressively going back to school, etc, to start my second career down in Florida. My business plan is in place, and I look forward to running my business down there. I've worked hard all my life, been wise with my finances, etc, and I have every confidence of my success in my new home.

Anyway, sorry for my rambling.......BACK TO TOPIC. Ft.Myers. I'll actually be down there for 6 days next month, so I can see first hand what all you folks continually squabble about.

Frank