Southwest Florida Lakeside Community Revealed As a Peaceful Retreat for Retirees Seeking Low Stress

Cypress Lake, Florida, was recently named one of Investopedia’s top 100 places to retire in the U.S. This a quiet, established community in Southwest Florida is known for its calm surroundings and everyday comfort. Retirees will enjoy low-stress living, privacy, and a residential feel without the busyness and crowding of Florida’s popular tourist destinations.

Cost of Living and Housing

Cypress Lake is an affordable place for retirees to settle. The cost of housing is moderate compared to nearby coastal markets such as Fort Myers Beach or Naples. As of December 2025, the average home value in Cypress Lake was $190,157, compared to $473,018 in Fort Myers Beach and $540,544 in Naples. Retirees in Cypress Lake who decide to rent will also find manageable costs. In February 2026, the average rent in Cypress Lake’s 33919 ZIP code area was $1,856, compared to $4,148 in Fort Myers Beach and $5,875 in Naples.

At a median monthly cost of $1,078, housing in Cypress Lake is also lower than the national average. The average home value in the United States was $357,275, while the average rent payment was $1,995 per month.

Many of the mature, established neighborhoods in Cypress Lake offer single-family homes, while lower-maintenance living options such as condos support aging in place.

Florida does not have a state income tax, which increases its affordability for retirees. It also does not have an estate tax or inheritance tax. Homeowners will pay an effective 0.74% rate in state property tax, and Lee County (where Cypress Lake is located) has a property tax rate of about 0.38%.

Lakeside and Outdoor Lifestyle

Cypress Lake is a tranquil community filled with green spaces, tree-lined streets, and, of course, many beautiful lakes. It’s an ideal area for a slower pace of life that includes walking, bird watching, and gentle outdoor recreation. The warm climate allows retirees to enjoy a year-round outdoor lifestyle without the crowds that can be found in many of Florida’s beach communities.

Popular clubs for outdoor recreation include the Golfview Golf and Racquet Club, the Cypress Lake Golf Club, and the Myerlee Country Club. Along the nearby Caloosahatchee River, you’ll also find multiple marinas, as well as the Gulf Harbour Yacht and Country Club.

Community and Daily Living

Cypress Lake is primarily a residential community with a strong retiree presence. Residents are a short drive away from nearby shopping and dining destinations, such as the Bell Tower shopping mall, Edison Mall, Miromar Outlets, and Fleamasters Flea Market.

Getting around is straightforward, without the challenge of congestion and commuter traffic. The community has a quiet, predictable pace that suits many retirees who prefer suburban life over city living.

Location and Accessibility

Cypress Lake has convenient access to the amenities, beaches, and cultural attractions of Fort Myers. Sports fans will enjoy being close to Hammond Stadium and JetBlue Park, where the Minnesota Twins and Boston Red Sox hold their spring training, respectively. Other popular spots to visit include the historic Burroughs Home & Gardens and the Edison & Ford Winter Estates.

Accessing these destinations is an easy drive for residents, without the need to live directly in high-traffic areas. For retirees who don’t drive or need extra help, Lee County offers LeeTran, a bus and trolley service that also offers paratransit for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-qualified riders and the transportation-disadvantaged.

Healthcare Access

With five hospitals in the county and nearly 2,000 health facilities in total, residents of Cypress Lake have easy access to healthcare. There are many specialists and emergency care facilities throughout the Fort Myers area, all only a short drive away. And for retired veterans, there’s a VA clinic in Lee County.

The Bottom Line

Cypress Lake, Florida, is a calm retirement destination that offers convenience and stability. With affordable housing costs and no state income tax, it will appeal to budget-conscious retirees who prefer quiet suburbs and country club amenities to busy city living. Retirees here will enjoy a relaxed, comfortable, low-stress lifestyle.