Fort Myers Shores, Lee County, FL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
15,899
8.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$85,279/yr
8.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,662
8.1% year-over-year change

Fort Myers Shores population

How many people live in Fort Myers Shores

Fort Myers Shores is home to 15,899 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52% of Fort Myers Shores locals are male, and 48% are female.

Total population
15,899
8.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52%
8,259
Female
48%
7,640
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,259 52% 8.3%
Female 7,640 48% 8.6%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Fort Myers Shores is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.1% are children under 15, then 10.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.7% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
45
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.1%
15 to 24
10.7%
25 to 44
23.7%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
23.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,717 17.1% 7.3%
15 to 24 1,705 10.7% 11.1%
25 to 44 3,762 23.7% 8.4%
45 to 64 3,958 24.9% 9.0%
Over 65 3,757 23.6% 7.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Fort Myers Shores, 78.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 8.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 12.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 67.5% of locals are Caucasian, 7.5% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 16.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
8.6%
Non-citizens
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,486 78.5% 4.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,370 8.6% 23.0%
Non-citizens 2,043 12.8% 28.5%
Racial breakdown
White
67.5%
Black or African American
7.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.2%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
16.1%
Other
3.6%
Value Percent
White 10,729 67.5%
Black or African American 1,198 7.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 346 2.2%
Asian 488 3.1%
Two or more races 2,561 16.1%
Other 576 3.6%

Households in Fort Myers Shores

A peek inside Fort Myers Shores households

Fort Myers Shores has 5,851 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67% are families, while the remaining 33% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,851
8.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,931
Family households
3,920
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,931 33% 12.5%
Family households 3,920 67% 7.2%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Fort Myers Shores

The housing landscape of Fort Myers Shores

Fort Myers Shores's housing consists of 6,662 units, with 72.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 9.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,662
8.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,801 72.1%
1 unit, attached 309 4.6%
2 units 176 2.6%
3 or 4 units 99 1.5%
5 to 9 units 162 2.4%
10 to 19 units 75 1.1%
20 to 49 units 168 2.5%
50 or more units 169 2.5%
Mobile home 649 9.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 54 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
886
126.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fort Myers Shores

In Fort Myers Shores, the median construction year is 1998. About 1.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 18.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 13.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 113 1.7% 18.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 98 1.5% -1.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 215 3.2% 22.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 335 5% 1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,003 15.1% -6.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 850 12.8% -10.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 590 8.9% -2.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,363 20.5% 0.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,209 18.2% 10.9%
Built in 2020 or later 886 13.3% 126.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Fort Myers Shores occupancy rates

Out of the 5,851 occupied housing units in Fort Myers Shores, 75.6% are owner-occupied, while 24.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,851
8.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,425
Owner occupied
4,425
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,425 24.4% 15.8%
Owner occupied 4,425 75.6% 6.8%
Unoccupied housing units
12.2%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Fort Myers Shores housing costs

Housing costs in Fort Myers Shores come to a median of $1,413 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,846.

Median housing costs per month
$1,413/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Fort Myers Shores
$1,846/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Fort Myers Shores

Fort Myers Shores education at a glance

About 34.8% of the population in Fort Myers Shores went to high school, while 21.2% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 18.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 958 7.6% 8.6%
High school diploma 4,403 34.8% 6.1%
College diploma 2,686 21.2% 9.2%
Associate degree 1,145 9.1% -3.7%
Bachelor's degree 2,361 18.7% 23.4%
Graduate degree 1,091 8.6% 5.5%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Fort Myers Shores

How much people earn in Fort Myers Shores

The average annual household income in Fort Myers Shores was $108,049 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $85,279, reflecting a +8.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fort Myers Shores
$108,049/year
-2.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fort Myers Shores
$85,279/year
8.2% year-over-year change

Fort Myers Shores income by age

In Fort Myers Shores, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,998. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $99,798 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $66,328, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $64,173 in earnings. Overall, 91.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $66,328 6.8%
25 - 44 $91,998 2.2%
45 - 64 $99,798 13.2%
Over 65 $64,173 16.7%
Above poverty level
14,138
Below poverty level
1,387
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,138 91.1% 9.2%
Below poverty level 1,387 8.9% 1.9%

Average renter income in Fort Myers Shores

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fort Myers Shores, their median household income was $64,420 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$64,420
Rent-to-income ratio
34.4%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Fort Myers Shores

Workforce and job types in Fort Myers Shores

78.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.6% run their own businesses, 65.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
5,776
Blue collar
1,613
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,776 78.2% 16.6%
Blue collar 1,613 21.8% 7.8%
Employer type
Self employees
15.6%
Private companies
65.7%
Governmental workers
12.3%
Not for profit companies
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,153 15.6% 26.8%
Private companies 4,856 65.7% 11.3%
Governmental workers 907 12.3% 4.1%
Not for profit companies 473 6.4% 53.1%

Transportation in Fort Myers Shores

How people get around in Fort Myers Shores

In Fort Myers Shores, the average commute time is 6 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 97.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
6 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,581 97.2% 8.0%
Taxicab 30 0.5% 66.7%
Bus or trolleybus 50 0.9% 56.2%
Railroad 9 0.2% -18.2%
Motorcycle 22 0.4% 22.2%
Bicycle 4 0.1% -66.7%
Walk 49 0.8% -7.5%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about Fort Myers Shores demographics 

What is the total population of Fort Myers Shores?

Fort Myers Shores has a total population of 15,899 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +8.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fort Myers Shores?

The gender ratio in Fort Myers Shores is as follows:
  • 52% males (8,259 residents)
  • 48% females (7,640 residents)

What is the median age in Fort Myers Shores?

The median age in Fort Myers Shores is 45.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fort Myers Shores?

The age distribution in Fort Myers Shores is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.1% (2,717 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.7% (1,705 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.7% (3,762 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (3,958 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.6% (3,757 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fort Myers Shores?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fort Myers Shores is as follows:
  • White: 67.5% (10,729 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.5% (1,198 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.2% (346 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (488 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.1% (2,561 residents)
  • Other: 3.6% (576 residents)

What percentage of the population in Fort Myers Shores are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.5% of the population in Fort Myers Shores.

How many housing units are there in Fort Myers Shores?

There are 6,662 housing units in Fort Myers Shores, reflecting a +8.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Fort Myers Shores and what is the average household size?

Fort Myers Shores has a total of 5,851 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fort Myers Shores?

Fort Myers Shores has a median household income of $85,279, representing a +8.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Fort Myers Shores?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.2% (5,776 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.8% (1,613 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.6% (1,153 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.7% (4,856 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.3% (907 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.4% (473 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025