Sep 53 min read

Is Lehigh Acres, Florida, the New “Boom” Town?

For those familiar with Southwest Florida, the evolution of Lehigh Acres has been nothing short of remarkable. Once characterized by sand roads and a struggling real estate market, Lehigh Acres faced significant challenges during the 2008-2009 recession. Back then, it was the subject of a New York Times article titled “In Florida, Despair and Foreclosures,” highlighting the area’s economic struggles. However, recent trends suggest that Lehigh Acres is transforming into a hotspot for growth and prosperity.

Redfin 2024 Lehigh Acres, FL Housing Market

A Changing Landscape in Lehigh Acres

Since 2021, Cape Coral has seen a surge in residential construction, driven by builders from across the state. The initial COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent supply chain disruptions caused temporary delays and budget issues. Yet, the housing market soon boomed as buyers flocked to the area, driving up land prices and pushing builders to work at an unprecedented pace. This led to soaring home prices and occasionally subpar construction quality due to labor shortages.

The devastation caused by Hurricane Ian on September 28, 2022, further complicated matters. As one of the most destructive hurricanes in Florida's history, Ian caused widespread flooding and infrastructure damage. The recovery effort saw a scramble for labor and materials, with local contractors facing challenges as demand surged. Rental prices soared as displaced residents sought temporary housing, exacerbating the housing market crunch.

Lehigh Acres Emerges as a Viable Alternative

Amid these challenges, Lehigh Acres has emerged as a promising alternative. The area offers more affordable lot prices and is less susceptible to flood insurance issues due to its inland location. Homes priced around $300,000 are still attainable, making Lehigh Acres an attractive option for both investors and homebuyers.

Significant Rise in High Earners

A recent report on income trends highlights Lehigh Acres as a key player in the rise of high earners. According to census data from 2013 to 2021, Lehigh Acres has experienced a remarkable 1,244% increase in households earning over $200,000. This growth places it fifth on the list of U.S. cities with the most significant rise in high-income households. This surge reflects a broader trend of increasing affluence in the area, aligning with the broader growth seen in Florida’s real estate market.

Comparing Growth in U.S. Cities

Across the U.S., cities like Hemet, California, and Miami Gardens, Florida, have also seen significant increases in high-earning households. Hemet leads with a staggering 6,407% rise, while Miami Gardens follows with a 1,678% increase. Florida cities, including Lehigh Acres, Palm Bay, and Deltona, feature prominently on this list, highlighting the state’s dynamic real estate landscape.

The Future of Lehigh Acres

Lehigh Acres is no longer just a fallback option for those priced out of nearby cities like Fort Myers. The area's substantial growth in high-income households and continued development suggest it is becoming a thriving community in its own right. As construction continues and the local economy adjusts, Lehigh Acres is well-positioned to capitalize on its newfound status as a "boom" town.

Stay tuned for more updates on Lehigh Acres as it continues to evolve and attract new residents and investors.

Lehigh Acres real estate boom

People also ask:

What Happened to Lehigh Acres, Florida?

In 1997, Lehigh Acres faced a significant challenge with nearly 90% of its lots remaining vacant. Recognizing the area’s underdevelopment, Lee County, in collaboration with a new developer, designated Lehigh Acres as "blighted" in 1992. This designation allowed the Community Redevelopment Agency to implement measures to enhance infrastructure and address planning deficiencies left by the original developers.

What is the Ethnic Composition of Lehigh Acres?

As of 2022, the predominant ethnic group in Lehigh Acres is White (Non-Hispanic), comprising approximately 38,800 residents. This group is followed by White (Hispanic) residents, totaling around 28,700, and Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) residents, who number about 22,800.

Is Lehigh Acres Expensive to Live In?

Lehigh Acres is ranked 56th out of 273 cities in the U.S. based on the cost of living. The cost of living in Lehigh Acres is 6.8% above the national average, making it a moderately affordable location compared to other cities.

How Far is Lehigh Acres from the Beach?

Lehigh Acres is approximately 30 miles from Fort Myers Beach. The drive typically takes around 46 minutes, providing relatively easy access to the coast for residents and visitors.