What to know when moving to Lehigh Acres, FL
TL;DR: Lehigh Acres at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 31.7% of residents are renters and the median household income is $48,260.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $1,260, making it a budget-friendly option for housing.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 19.4%, some residents face financial challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 1% of commuters use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,260/month rent to secure a place here.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Lehigh Acres has a population of about 27,287 people, with a median household income of $48,260. Education levels are relatively low, with only 13.7% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The area has a significant renter presence, with 31.7% of the population renting their homes. The low public transit usage, at just 1%, suggests that most residents rely on cars for commuting. This combination of factors may appeal to those looking for affordability in housing but may not be ideal for those seeking a highly educated community.
Probably not your spot if: high poverty rates are a concern, as 19.4% of residents live below the poverty line.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,260, making it a reasonable option for those on a budget.
- Median home value stands at $205,500, which is accessible compared to many other areas.
- Education level is modest, with only 13.7% of the population holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
- The poverty rate is 19.4%, indicating financial challenges for some residents.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Schools & Higher Ed
There are 7 postsecondary institutions available in the nearby area, providing a range of educational opportunities.
- Florida Academy
- Florida Gulf Coast University
- Fort Myers Technical College
- Hodges University
- Keiser University-Ft Myers
- Paul Mitchell the School-Fort Myers
- Rasmussen University-Fort Myers
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Lehigh Acres offers access to various parks and outdoor activities for residents looking to enjoy nature.
- Manatee Park - 4.5 stars (6,037 reviews)
- Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve - 4.8 stars (4,455 reviews)
- Koreshan State Park - 4.7 stars (2,670 reviews)
- Caloosahatchee Regional Park - 4.7 stars (828 reviews)
Source: Google Places API.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Lee County, where Lehigh Acres is located, the unemployment rate is currently 4.9%. The labor force consists of approximately 376,820 individuals, with 358,183 employed.
- Unemployment rate: 4.9% (December 2025)
- Employment: 358,183
- Labor force: 376,820
Source: BLS Local Area Unemployment Statistics.