Punta gorda : Florida

What Punta Gorda is like for active adults
Punta Gorda Florida is a small community on the Gulf Coast of Florida, between Sarasota and Fort Myers. Many active adults choose this city as their retirement community because of its sub-tropical warmth, its small town feel, and it a bit more sophisticated and upscale than neighboring towns like Port Charlotte. Punta Gorda was the scene of massive destruction when Hurricane Charley, a Category 4 hurricane, came through the city on August 13, 2004. Punta Gorda is located in Charlotte County.

Punta Gorda was settled in the late 1800’s and quickly became the southern terminus of the American railroad system. In its early days it became an example of a community where all the classes lived together; it was both a tough frontier town and a haven for the rich seeking a warm climate. The city has an up to date strategic plan to help prepare for the future. Some of its initiatives include creating affordable housing, historic preservation, a diversified economy and tax base, and improved communications and emergency management.

Real estate is a popular destination for active adults considering retirement than in some other parts of coastal Florida. Average prices in mid-2008 of a home in Punta Gorda have been much more stable than other parts of south Florida - holding at about $240,000.

Find out about more about what it is like to retire in Florida or nearby Sarasota
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What is special about this retirement community
• 14 public parks with many facilities • Gilchrest Park – 11 acres on Charlotte Harbor • Ready access to the Gulf of Mexico • A history of diversity • Mallory Square and evening sunsets • The Blanchard House and Museum of African American History Old Town • Many active adult communities • Babcock-Webb Wildlife Area
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What is not special about this retirement community
• Crowds in season • Over development is always a risk • Punta Gorda does not have an active cultural scene • Hurricane season
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What kinds of people like retiring here
Punta Gorda attracts a community of retirees who want to live in an understated community in a warm climate. The median age is about 65
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Local economy is driven by
Tourism, retail, services, and real estate are important to the economy
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Climate and Physical Environment
Punta Gorda is located on the southwest coast of Florida.
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Cultural environment
The Blanchard House and Museum of African American History. While cultural resources in Punta Gorda are limited, a short drive to Sarasota or Ft. Myers offers tremendous variety.
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Medical facilities
Charlotte Regional Medical Center Hospital is here. Many others are nearby in Port Charlotte and Ft. Myers
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Transportation
Charlotte County Airport is 5 miles. Southwest Florida International, one of the largest in Florida, is 34 miles away in Ft. Myers.
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Facts about PUNTA GORDA
  • State: FL
  • Environment: Coastal,Small Town,
  • City Population: 10,000-25,000
  • Median age of Population: 45-64
  • Avg Jan Temperature: 61 +
  • Median HH Income: 41,001-60,000
  • Average Home Price (MLS): $200,001-$300,000
  • Annual Property Tax on a $200,000 house: Less than 2000
  • Total Crime Index: 81-90 (low)
  • Cost of Living Index: 101-110 (slightly above average)
  • Culture Index: 81-90 (low)
  • State Sales Tax: Yes
  • State Income Tax: No
  • Name of the Guide: jfb48

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1. Rating: 3.0/5 ( 1 vote cast)

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