Punta Gorda, FL 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Climate & Geography in Punta Gorda

Punta Gorda experiences a subtropical climate, with very hot summers and warm and dry winters. Located on the south bank of the Peace River and the eastern shore of the Charlotte Harbor, most residential areas are on the water. As with much of Florida, summers are part of the wet season, where the city receives more rainfall than the rest of the nation. However, there are still approximately 267 days of sunshine a year, and Punta Gorda receives no snow or frost.

Recreation, Culture & Entertainment in the Punta Gorda Area

Punta Gorda is known for its emphasis on wildlife and outdoor recreation. Three centers, the Peace River Wildlife Center, Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary and Rehabilitation Center, and the Babcock Ranch Preserve all offer wildlife tours and education. There are plenty of parks with walking and biking trails, including the Harborwalk and Laishley Park.

Rather than a traditional downtown, Punta Gorda’s main city center is the Fishermen’s Village. It boasts over 30 small boutiques, five restaurants, and water cruises and tours on a waterfront marina. Fans of history and automobiles will enjoy visiting the Muscle Car City Museum.

Cost of Living & Taxes

The overall cost of living is higher than the national average because of the cost of housing. Health care, utilities, and transportation are all far below the national average, whereas groceries are inline with national averages.

Without income tax in Florida, residents only pay sales and property taxes. The local sales tax is 7 percent, which is typical of the state. Property taxes are below average and Punta Gorda has not raised property taxes in over 5 years.

Health Care

The Fort Myers metro area usually scores very well on Gallup’s Well-Being Index. Last year it ranked in the top 6 metro areas across the country.

Punta Gorda does not have any nationally ranked hospitals. However, Bayfront Health Punta Gorda is within city limits.  Port Charlotte is home to Fawcett Memorial Hospital and Bayfront Health Port Charlotte. Both hospitals are ranked by U.S. News as high performing. Additionally Lee Memorial Hospital in nearby Fort Myers is ranked the No. 14 hospital in Florida.