July 2026 brought a steady pulse of growth to Florida’s housing market, with single-family home sales rising 5.1% and condo-townhome sales up by 11%. The median price for single-family homes climbed to $425,000 (a 3.7% increase), while condo prices held firm at $295,000. Inventory stayed stable, offering buyers and sellers a sense of predictability rarely seen in past summers.

As someone who’s called Naples home since childhood—and as a second-generation Realtor—I see these numbers reflected in our local neighborhoods. The balance of rising sales and steady inventory means buyers have fresh opportunities, while sellers benefit from strong values. My experience with local construction, flood zones, and resale potential helps clients cut through the noise and focus on what matters most for their next move. Whether you’re navigating a transition, investing, or simply curious about what these trends mean for your own plans, I’m here to offer clarity and honest guidance, drawing on decades of firsthand Southwest Florida insight.

It’s no surprise to see Florida leading as America’s most desirable state to live in, with Nashville, Denver, and San Diego topping the list for metro areas. As someone who has called Naples home since childhood and witnessed firsthand what makes our communities unique, I understand why the allure is so strong—factors like low crime, affordability, and great weather are at the heart of it. Yet, it’s striking that 54% of Americans say they can’t afford to move where they truly want to be. Having spent decades experiencing Southwest Florida’s growth and helping people navigate important life changes, I know the value of local insight—especially in a market where dreams and budgets don’t always align. Chicago found itself at the bottom of the list, but for those considering a move, understanding each area’s true character and cost is essential. Whether you’re dreaming about a fresh start or planning a transition, clarity and honest strategy make all the difference.

The top 10 best places to retire in Florida include cities offering diverse lifestyles, from vibrant urban settings to relaxed coastal towns. Highlights are Jacksonville for its amenities and beaches; Port Charlotte and Bonita Springs for affordable, slower-paced Gulf Coast living; Cape Coral with extensive canals; and Homosassa Springs, ranked best for its laid-back lifestyle and low rent. Median home values and incomes vary widely, reflecting different cost and lifestyle options.

Having witnessed firsthand how Naples and other Southwest Florida communities have changed over the years, I understand why so many retirees are drawn here—but also why affordability is becoming a real concern. Many of the most popular retirement cities are seeing home prices rise, along with insurance, taxes, and healthcare costs. As a Senior Transition Specialist and longtime local, I always encourage retirees and their families to look at the full picture—total expenses, not just the sticker price of a home. Sometimes, it makes sense to consider more affordable areas nearby or even explore renting before deciding to buy. My experience navigating these changes helps clients weigh all their options carefully, so major life transitions can be a little less overwhelming and a lot more informed.

As someone who’s watched Southwest Florida grow and change for decades, I find it fascinating to see Florida ranked among the top three states for remodeling activity in Q1 2026, alongside California and Texas. According to NAHB, California holds 8% of the U.S. remodeling market at $22.2B—but Florida is right there, reflecting the strong demand to update and personalize homes. What stands out is that, even with some states seeing negative growth, overall inflation-adjusted remodeling spending climbed over 10% from 2023 to 2025, fueled by rising home equity. In our area, I see firsthand how homeowners invest in renovations to boost value, comfort, and long-term enjoyment. Having grown up in Naples and learned the business from both a broker and a contractor, I know how much thoughtful updates can mean—not just for resale, but for truly loving where you live.