Lake Suzy 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Nestled in the heart of sunny Florida, Lake Suzy is an idyllic paradise for retirees seeking an active and vibrant lifestyle. With its warm climate, beautiful natural surroundings, and an array of recreational opportunities, this charming town offers the perfect backdrop for a fulfilling retirement experience. Boasting a rich tapestry of picturesque lakes, residents can indulge in fishing, boating, and kayaking, all while being surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Golf enthusiasts will be delighted to discover an abundance of world-class golf courses that cater to players of all skill levels, ensuring endless hours of enjoyment on the green. The town also embraces a close-knit atmosphere, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its residents. With its laid-back charm and abundant recreational options, Lake Suzy is truly a hidden gem for those seeking a fulfilling retirement in a picturesque Florida setting.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Florida has no state income tax, which is good news for Lake Suzy residents who are hoping to keep more of their earnings, retirement or otherwise. There’s no inheritance tax either, nor an estate tax. 

The sales tax in the Sunshine State is 6 percent statewide. Lake Suzy sales taxes are 7.5 percent total, including city and DeSoto County sales taxes. Non-prepared food and groceries as well as prescriptions and medications are exempt from the sales tax, but alcohol, soft drinks, and prepared foods or single-serving foods will be taxed. 

Property taxes in Lake Suzy, Florida are lower than the Florida state median and the national average. Homeowners will pay around 0.85 percent of their property’s assessed value in annual property taxes. Florida’s effective property tax rate is 0.91 percent. There’s a generous homestead exemption for residents who make Lake Suzy their permanent home as well. The Homestead Exemption allows homeowners to deduct between $25,000 and $50,000 from their home value before they pay taxes when they can prove residency on January 1 of the tax year.

Florida being a tax-friendly state for retirees and others means that the cost of living is also generally low in most parts of the state. This is especially true in Lake Suzy and the rest of DeSoto County, which is about 20 percent below the national cost of living numbers. Especially affordable in this region are things like housing (47.4 percent lower than the U.S. average) and transportation (23.6 percent lower). Grocery bills are in line with what residents pay throughout the U.S. and healthcare costs are actually about 13.7 percent higher.

Climate and Geography

Lake Suzy enjoys a delightful subtropical climate, ensuring that active adult homebuyers can enjoy the outdoors year-round. During the summer months, average midsummer highs are in the low 90s, creating the perfect environment for outdoor activities and water sports. Winters are pleasantly mild, with average lows in the 50s, allowing residents to escape the frigid temperatures experienced in many other parts of the country. The region receives an average annual rainfall of around 52 inches, ensuring lush greenery and vibrant landscapes throughout the year. Lake Suzy is blessed with abundant sunshine, boasting an impressive number of sunny days per year, creating the ideal backdrop for outdoor recreation and a vibrant lifestyle.

Situated in the southwestern region of Florida, Lake Suzy is surrounded by picturesque lakes, providing residents with scenic views and ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. The area is known for its lush vegetation, with palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze and vibrant tropical flora adorning the landscape. The flat terrain and well-maintained roadways make it easy to navigate and explore the surrounding areas. Additionally, Lake Suzy's proximity to other charming towns and cities, as well as the stunning Gulf Coast beaches, allows residents to enjoy a variety of recreational and cultural experiences just a short drive away. Whether you’re interested in exploring nature trails, teeing off on world-class golf courses, or simply savoring the breathtaking sunsets, Lake Suzy provides a beautiful and enriching environment for retirees to embrace and enjoy.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

Lake Suzy and its surrounding area offer recreational activities, cultural events, shopping opportunities, and entertainment options to cater to all interests and preferences.

Golf and Racquet Sports:

• Aileron Golf Club
• Deep Creek Golf Club
• Maple Leaf Golf & Country Club
• Rio Paz Tennis Center

Hiking, Biking, and Boating:

• Peace River State Forest
• Port Charlotte Beach Park
• Ponce de Leon Park
• Myakka River State Park

Museums and Historical Sites:

• Blanchard House Museum
• Punta Gorda History Center
• Museum of The Islands
• Cape Coral Museum of History

Performing Arts:

• Center for Performing Arts
• Lemon Bay Performing Arts Center
• Venice Performing Arts Center
• Punta Gorda Symphony

Shopping:

• Kings Crossing Shopping Center
• Promenades Mall
• Charlotte Square
• Murdock Town Center

Parks and Gardens:

• Deep Creek Park
• Lake Betty Park
• Randy Spence Park
• Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens

Festivals and Fairs:

• Punta Gorda Seafood and Music Festival
• Englewood Seafood and Music Festival
• Charlotte County Fair
• Muscle Car City’s Auto Flea Market

Health and Wellness

Lake Suzy’s convenient location provides access to excellent medical facilities and services. The town is situated in close proximity to major medical centers and hospitals, ensuring peace of mind for active adults. Nearby hospitals such as DeSoto Memorial Hospital and HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital offer comprehensive healthcare services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and advanced medical technologies. These facilities provide a wide range of specialties and are staffed by skilled healthcare professionals who prioritize the well-being and comfort of their patients.

In addition to these major medical centers, Lake Suzy also benefits from a variety of local options for self-care and wellness. From fitness centers and gyms to wellness studios and yoga classes, residents have access to numerous opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. The town's natural surroundings, including parks and walking trails, also provide ample space for outdoor activities that contribute to physical fitness and mental well-being.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Day One

Morning:

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Little Good Times Diner in nearby Punta Gorda, where locals enjoy omelets, breakfast sandwiches, waffles, and more.
• Visit Peace River State Forest, a serene and picturesque location where you can take a leisurely stroll amidst lush greenery.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a delightful lunch at Los Mariachis Bar & Grill, known for its wide selection of Mexican dishes.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the area’s many beaches, including Port Charlotte Beach Park, Blind Pass Beach, and Boca Beach.

Evening:

• Enjoy a delectable dinner at Austin’s Olde World Restaurant, a Robin-Hood themed restaurant serving steaks, sandwiches, and more.

Day Two

Morning:

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Elena’s Restaurant, a favorite local diner in Punta Gorda.
• Embark on a guided tour of Myakka River State Park, where you can witness the region's stunning natural beauty and learn about its ecological significance.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Philadelphian in Port Charlotte, known for its Philly cheesesteaks and hoagies.
• Meet with a knowledgeable local 55places real estate expert to gather valuable insights and information about the available 55+ communities in the area.

Evening:

• Head to The Grill at 1951 for dinner, an upscale establishment with live music and a wide selection of seafood dishes and steaks.

Getting to Lake Suzy, FL

Getting to Lake Suzy is convenient whether you're arriving by car or air. For those driving, major highways such as Interstate 75 and US-17 provide easy access to the area. Visitors can reach Lake Suzy by taking exits from I-75 or following US-17, which run north and south through the region. If you're flying into the area, the closest major airport is Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, located approximately 45 miles south of Lake Suzy. RSW serves as a hub for several major airlines, including American, Delta, and United, offering numerous domestic and international flight options. Active adults traveling to the area can rent a car or take advantage of taxi or rideshare services from RSW.