Forget Madonna’s “La Isla Bonita,” Bonita Springs, Florida offers the real deal!
Located on the Gulf of Mexico’s shimmering coast, this southwestern Florida city might just be your paradise. Sunshine practically drips from the sky, pristine beaches beckon with soft sand, and there’s a good chance you’ll have a golf course close to your backyard.
Know this: Bonita Springs is more than just a scenic beauty. Sure, living in Bonita Springs, FL, screams comfort, a high-quality experience, and coastal bliss, all mixed with a friendly community to boot.
But is there something hiding beneath the surface of this seemingly perfect suburban haven?
Before you book a ticket or make that move, this guide will provide you with information on living in Bonita Springs, helping you decide if it’s the Sunshine State escape you’ve been searching for.
In the Dream: Cost of Living in Bonita Springs
Imagine waking up every day in a place that feels like a vacation. That’s Bonita Springs!
While the cost of living in Bonita Springs, FL, is a tad higher than the national average, it’s a small price to pay for the comfort it brings. Although it’s not the cheapest, it’s certainly more affordable than many coastal towns.
You can pay slightly above the national average for groceries, healthcare, and utilities. But living here also affords you all-day access to the beach.
Sounds like a fair trade, right?
Well, the many people who contribute to the booming business of moving companies in Bonita Springs offer a 4.8% net positive migration change in the city’s population think so.
| Overall cost of living | 13% higher than the national average |
| Groceries | 8% higher than the national average |
| Utilities | 3% higher than the national average |
| Transportation | 8% higher than the national average |
| Healthcare | 4% higher than the national average |
Rent vs Buy: Bonita Springs Housing Guide
Are you asking, ‘Is Bonita Springs expensive to live in?’ Or, are you a commitment phobe or someone ready to settle down?
In Bonita Springs, you have many options.
Renting is perfect if you want to try the waters first. Cozy one-bedroom apartments in cheaper neighborhoods start at about $1,944 per month, but there are more luxurious options available if you want to splurge.
However, buying is the way to go if you’re ready to call Bonita Springs home. Mind you, housing in Bonita Springs is 42% higher than the national average.
But you can rest easy knowing you’ll choose bungalows and waterfront estates with appreciating value. Either way, you’re winning.
- Average Rent: $2,458
- Median Home Sale Price: $725,000
Taxation Matters
Here’s some great news to brighten your day: Florida has no state income tax.
However, if you run a business, you will have to pay a corporate income tax at the rate of 5.5%.
Property taxes in Bonita Springs are reasonable, too. Although they are higher than the national average of 1.10%, they are fair considering the premium location of Bonita Springs real estate.
- Sales Tax Rate: 6.5%
- Property Tax Rate: 1.33%
Getting Involved in Bonita Springs’ Economy and Politics
Bonita Springs has a buzzing economy with lots of job opportunities.
Living in Bonita Springs, FL, gives you access to an open and growing tourism, healthcare, retail, and construction job market. With an unemployment rate of 3.5%, slightly below the national average, you’ll find plenty of ways to make a living here.
If you’re feeling civil-minded, one thing to note about Bonita Springs is that this Lee County city leans conservative. Residents typically favor Republican candidates in elections.
In the past few years, over 57% of the residents have voted for the Republican Party, whereas only about 38% of votes go to the Democrats.
The city’s political atmosphere reflects values of monetary responsibility and support for local businesses. However, the community is diverse, with a mix of conservatives and liberals and a predominantly white population.
- Population: 53,644
- Median Household Income: $84,668
- Unemployment Rate: 3.8%
- Persons Living in Poverty: 7.9%
Outdoor Activities
Bonita Springs is an outdoor nirvana.
With over 10 parks and recreational areas, boredom is simply not an option here. Nature lovers can explore the Everglades Wonder Gardens and Lovers Key State Park.
Don’t forget fishing. The local fishing spots are top-notch.
Other things to do in Bonita Springs include:
- Hit one of the area’s 10+ golf courses: Bonita Springs is a golfer’s paradise with over ten world-class golf courses to choose from. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, you’ll find a course that suits your skill level.
- Attend the Bonita Springs Concert Band at Riverside Park: For a dose of culture and community, head to Riverside Park to enjoy Bonita Springs Concert Band performances.
These concerts offer a delightful mix of musical genres, bringing together residents and visitors for an evening of entertainment and relaxation.
- Paddle through mangroves
- Hunt for seashells at Barefoot Beach Preserve
Weather and Climate Expectations
Everyone knows about Florida sunshine and, by extension, sunny Bonita Springs.
But how sunny does it get here? Are there other surprises from the elements in Bonita Springs?
These are some of the things to know before moving to Bonita Springs.
Bonita Springs boasts warm and sunny weather most of the year. It receives an average of 300 days of sunshine in a year. Summers are hot and humid, with average temps above 86°, making it one of the hottest cities in Florida.
August has the most rainy days for rainfall, as the annual average rainfall reaches over 50 inches. It’s just enough to keep everything lush and green.
Local Education
Have kids, or are you planning to continue your education? You’re in luck!
Bonita Springs’ education needs are met by two school districts: the Lee County School District and the Collier School District.
Lee School District, headquartered in Fort Myers, FL, boasts several highly rated public schools, such as Bonita Springs Elementary and Bonita Springs Middle Center for the Arts.
Meanwhile, Collier School District, headquartered in Naples, FL, also has good schools for its residents.
Private and charter school options, such as the Bonita Springs Charter School, also abound. For higher education, the nearby Florida Gulf Coast University and other local colleges offer fantastic opportunities.
Crime Rate
In case you’re wondering, how safe is Bonita Springs? One thing you can count on is its low crime rate. It is currently safer than 32% of all U.S. cities.
Despite being a wealthy area with a higher likelihood of property crime, residents don’t worry much about vandalism, nor do they have to literally clutch their pearls.
Property crime is lower than the national median. The violent crime rate is 1.44 per 1,000 residents, posing a 1 in 696 chance of being a victim of a violent crime.
| Per 1,000 residents | Bonita Springs Average | National Average |
| Violent Crime | 1.44 | 4.0 |
| Property Crime | 12.21 | 20.0 |
Bottom Line—Living in Bonita Springs, FL
Think of living in Bonita Springs, FL, like being on a permanent vacation.
With its stunning beaches, friendly vibes, and endless activities, it’s ideal for families, retirees, and anyone looking for a chill relaxation location.
The cost of living and housing options cater to all kinds of lifestyles, and with no state income tax, your dollar stretches further.
Not to mention the unlimited access to beach areas. If pocket-friendly luxury is your kind of living, prepare to make Bonita Springs your new home.
