If you’re nearing retirement and dreaming of sunny skies, white-sand beaches, and a relaxed, upscale lifestyle, you might wonder: Is Naples, Florida a good place to retire? This vibrant Gulf Coast city consistently ranks among the top retirement destinations in the U.S. From its world-class golf courses and resort-style communities to its tax-friendly policies and access to quality health care, Naples offers a unique blend of luxury and livability.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Naples so appealing to retirees and help you decide if it’s the right place to start your next chapter.
The Pros and Cons of Retiring in Naples
Pros
- The beaches – If you’ve always pictured yourself lounging on the beach during retirement, you could hardly find a more promising spot. Grab your sunscreen and spread out your towel at Naples Pier, Clam Pass Park, and plenty of other pristine beaches in and near the city.
- The golf courses – Naples has more than earned the title of “Golf Capital of the World.” The city has nearly 100 18-hole courses. Get your clubs and practice your swing at some of the most beautiful courses in the world.
- Luxury living – Some retirees imagine spending their days in the lap of luxury, and Naples is happy to provide. The city is known for its resort-style amenities and high-end vibe for shopping, dining, golfing, and living.
Cons
- The tourist crowd – Naples beaches and golf courses aren’t for locals only. The city attracts a steady stream of tourists who want to experience some of that beachfront living for themselves. If you don’t care for crowds, this could be a con on your list.
- The weather – Florida is, of course, the Sunshine State, but Naples is located right on the coast, and that means a heavy wet season and vulnerability to hurricanes.
- Cost of living – If you’re looking to be cost-conscious in your retirement, you might find Naples’ expensive home prices and high cost of living to be a downside.
Naples Weather and Climate
Summer in Naples tends to be humid and wet. If you’re looking for dry heat, Naples is not the place to find it. Temperatures peak in August at an average high of 89 degrees, according to WeatherSpark. But the winter months of December to early March are a pleasant average of 77 degrees. Keep in mind that hurricane season runs through early summer to fall.
During the muggy months, many Naples residents find respite at the beach. When temperatures drop, the golf courses might start calling your name. Plus, Naples is located not far from the Everglades for nature aficionados who want to spend their time looking for wildlife.
Understanding Taxes in Naples
Taxes in Naples are generally considered favorable for retirees, thanks to Florida’s overall tax-friendly status. For example, Florida does not impose estate or inheritance taxes, which is beneficial for retirees planning their legacy. Here’s a detailed look at the tax environment in Naples:
Naples Retirement Income Taxes
Florida, including Naples, does not tax individual income, which means:
- No tax on Social Security benefits
- No tax on pensions
- No tax on IRAs or 401(k) withdrawals
- No state income tax on any other retirement income
Naples Property Taxes
Florida offers relatively moderate property tax rates, and Naples is no exception. Located in Collier County, the average effective property tax rate in Naples is 0.90% (lower than the national average of 1.02%), according to Ownwell. However, because the median home value in Collier County is in the low $400s, the median annual tax bill is about $3,400 (higher than the national average of $2,400).
Naples Tax Exemptions for Seniors
Retirees who make Florida their permanent residence can apply for a homestead exemption, reducing the taxable value of their home by up to $50,000. Also, the “Save Our Homes” cap limits annual increases in assessed value for a homesteaded property to 3% or the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower.
Health Care Access in Naples
While you’re living your best life during retirement, you want to know that you’re within easy reach of quality health care. Some of the major hospitals and medical centers in Naples include NCH Baker Hospital, Physicians Regional-Pine Ridge Hospital, and Landmark Hospital of Southwest Florida, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Major Health Care Providers in Naples
NCH (Naples Comprehensive Health) is a not-for-profit alliance comprising over 1,100 physicians and multiple medical facilities throughout Southwest Florida. It operates two primary hospitals—Baker Hospital Downtown and North Naples Hospital—with a combined total of 716 beds. NCH has been recognized among America’s 50 Best Hospitals for 2025 by Healthgrades, placing it in the top 1% nationwide for overall care excellence.
Physicians Regional Healthcare System includes three hospitals in Naples: Pine Ridge, Collier Boulevard, and North, totaling 357 licensed beds. It offers a range of services, including cardiology, neurovascular care, stroke care, and orthopedics, supported by a medical staff of over 300 physicians.
Best Places to Retire in Naples
Walk a few blocks in most cities and you’ll experience a noticeable change in atmosphere. Distinct neighborhoods and areas are part of the appeal of settling down in an urban area, but if you’re unfamiliar with a city, narrowing down where you’d like to live can be an overwhelming process. Here are a few spots retirees might like to get to know in Naples:
Lely Resort: Luxury and Leisure Combined
Lely Resort is a sprawling community in Naples. If you’re looking for the resort lifestyle, it’s right there in the name. The gated community stretches out among a series of lakes. It has three of its own golf courses and a multitude of clubhouses. This gated community has no age restrictions.
With more than 4,000 homes and a variety of neighborhoods, Lely Resort has plenty of options. You can opt for a condo if you’re looking to downsize, or you can spread out in an estate. Wherever you settle down, you won’t be far from a golf course, spa, or pool.
Lely Resort’s crowning jewels are the Players Club & Spa and the Village Center. The area’s residents come to the Players Club & Spa to float in the lagoon-style pool, exercise in the outdoor lap pool, compete on the tennis courts, and socialize at the bar. The Village Center, exclusively available to residents, has restaurants, cafes, and plenty of other amenities.
Pelican Bay: Coastal Living With Natural Beauty
Pelican Bay is located right on the coast, giving residents easy access to the warm waters of the Gulf. If you’re coming to Florida to enjoy some wildlife along with your relaxation, this active lifestyle community is recognized for its preservation efforts. You can visit the Clam Bay mangrove preserve for some restorative time outdoors.
This area of Naples has a total of 58 neighborhoods, which include thousands of homes. You can opt for a waterfront condo, or you can settle down in a villa with a view. Pelican Bay isn’t a gated community and doesn’t it have any age restrictions, but it does emphasize low-maintenance living, a feature many retirees will appreciate.
Pelican Bay has impeccably maintained beaches that stretch for three miles along the coast as well as a tram system that helps residents easily travel around the area. Sun yourself on the beach and catch the tram to make your dinner reservations. Also, if you have visitors coming into town, Pelican Bay has plenty of hotels.
Pelican Bay also has a large community center complete with a fitness studio and a tennis pro shop. The pro shop comes in handy for many residents who spend their time out on the court. If golf is your game of choice, Pelican Bay also has a member-owned golf club. Additionally, the area has plenty of trails for walking and bicycling.
Old Naples: Historic Charm by the Sea
Old Naples, like the name suggests, is a historic part of the city. It’s a coastal neighborhood that includes both Naples Beach and Naples Pier, two of the city’s most iconic beach hangout spots. While you can find plenty of new construction in Naples, this part of the city is known for its architecture dating back to the turn of the century. Retirees with a taste for the classics might find themselves right at home in Old Naples. You won’t find any age restrictions in this part of the city.
While Naples Beach might be the biggest name in ocean-side relaxation, the entire western edge of the neighborhood is made up of beaches. Take your pick for sand and surf. You can lounge and bask in the warm waters, or you can find an outlet for indulging your sailing hobby. You can also get your dose of the green at Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club.
If shopping is on your list of retirement leisure time activities, the neighborhood’s Third Street South has you covered. This part of Old Naples has a bevy of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. It also has an outdoor farmers market. Strolling through this part of town gives you plenty of opportunities to do more than just window shop.
Old Naples is also home to NCH Baker Downtown Hospital, which gives the neighborhood’s residents easy access to health care. Additionally, the neighborhood is bordered by U.S. Route 41, making it easy to drive to other parts of the city and the state.
Ready to Make the Move? 55places Can Help!
So, is Naples Florida a good place to retire? With its stunning coastline, vibrant community life, favorable tax climate, and abundance of top-tier amenities, many retirees would say yes. Whether you’re drawn to beachfront living, championship golf, or peaceful nature preserves, Naples has a little something for everyone.
If you’re ready to explore your options, the expert team at 55places.com is here to help. Contact us today, and we’ll connect you with a local real estate professional who can guide you to the perfect 55+ community and help you find your dream retirement home in Naples, Florida.
