From Snow to Sunshine: Moving to Naples Florida from the North

1 day ago
8 min read

A Lighthearted Yet Insightful Guide for Newcomers Trading Parkas for Palm Trees ❄️➡️☀️

Man Shoveling Snow photo compared to Florida Coastline photo

If you’ve ever shoveled three feet of snow off your driveway, scraped ice off your windshield with frozen fingers, or waited out a gray, bitter winter just hoping for a glimpse of the sun - you’ve probably daydreamed about moving to Florida from the North.

And if you’ve narrowed it down to Naples, you’re already ahead of the curve. Beautiful beaches, world-class dining, warm winters, and a thriving community make this Southwest Florida gem one of the most desirable places to live in the country.

But here’s the thing: moving from the North to Naples isn’t just a change in climate - it’s a whole new lifestyle. And while the perks are plentiful, many transplants find themselves saying, “I wish someone had told me…”

Well, now someone is. As a local Realtor who’s helped dozens of Northern buyers find their footing here, I’ve compiled a list of the things most people wish they knew before they made the move. Consider this your unofficial “Welcome to Naples” survival guide - with a smile.

1. It’s Not Just Warm. It’s Really Warm. ☀️

Yes, we do live in what many would call paradise - but even paradise has its quirks. Summer in Naples is hot and humid. Think: walking-outside-feels-like-a-sauna levels of steamy.

The good news? We’re built for it. Homes are well-insulated, air-conditioned, and thoughtfully designed for airflow. Most people learn to schedule outdoor activities in the morning or late evening. And once you realize you can go to the beach on Christmas Day… you’ll forgive the sweat.

2. Love Nature? Nature Loves You Too 🦟

You’ll get used to the wildlife pretty quickly, but there’s no denying we have a few more creatures than your average Northern suburb. Lizards on the lanai, turtles in the road, and yes, mosquitoes during certain times of year.

The solution? A good pest control plan, some citronella candles, and maybe a screened lanai. (Oh, and learn what a “no-see-um” is. Trust me.)

3. The HOA Isn’t a Villain - But It Pays to Read the Fine Print 🏠

We have a lot of gated communities in Naples, and they all come with different HOA rules, fees, and perks. Some offer full lawn care, community pools, and social activities. Others are more bare bones.

It’s important to know what you're getting and what you’re responsible for. I've seen more than one buyer surprised by rules about driveway parking, pet limits, or even what color you can paint your front door. A great agent (hi there! ) can help you sort through the options.

4. Yes, You Still Need a Car 🚘

Naples isn’t New York, Boston, or Chicago - we’re not set up for mass public transit. While you’ll find walkable pockets, especially downtown and in certain planned communities, and there are plenty of charming bike paths for leisurely rides, most errands will still require a car. That’s simply part of the Southwest Florida lifestyle.

The good news? Driving here is a very different experience than navigating big-city traffic. Outside of peak tourist season, traffic is generally manageable, and commutes are short compared to larger metros. Even during the busier months, it’s more “slow-and-steady” than “gridlock.” And as a bonus, you can forget about shoveling snow off your car or battling for parallel parking in freezing temperatures. Instead, you’ll enjoy palm-lined streets, sunshine on your morning drive, and the ease of pulling right into a spot year-round.

5. The Lanai Will Become Your Favorite Room 🌴

Ah yes, the iconic Florida lanai. It’s not just a screened-in porch - it’s a way of life. This is where you’ll sip your morning coffee while the world is still quiet, host spontaneous happy hours with neighbors, watch the kids splash in the pool, or simply listen to the birds while the sun melts into a sherbet-colored sky. For many, the lanai becomes the heart of the home, blurring the line between indoor comfort and outdoor living.

And the beauty of it? You can truly make it your own. Some homeowners opt for a simple screened enclosure to keep the bugs away, while others go all out with retractable screens, built-in outdoor kitchens, fire features, or even full living room setups with TVs and plush seating. Flooring can range from pavers to tile to travertine, each giving a different look and feel. Add in a pool or spa, and your lanai becomes a private oasis you’ll never want to leave.

Beyond lifestyle, there’s also a practical perk - a well-designed lanai adds both enjoyment and resale value. In Naples, buyers see it as a “must-have,” not just a nice-to-have. So whether you keep it cozy and simple or turn it into a resort-style retreat, don’t underestimate the role this Florida staple will play in your everyday life.

6. Golf Isn’t Required, But It’s Practically a Language... but so is Pickleball ⛳

Even if you’ve never picked up a club in your life, chances are someone will ask where you golf within your first month of living in Naples. That’s just the culture here - golf isn’t just a sport, it’s a social connector and a big part of the lifestyle. The good news? Whether you’re a scratch golfer or a total newbie, there are communities and courses for every level. And if it’s not your thing, there’s still boating, tennis, pickleball, arts, and more. But in more recent years, pickleball has skyrocketed in popularity, bringing people of all ages together for fun, competition, and community.

And here’s the best part: whether you’re a golfer, a pickleball enthusiast, a tennis player, a boater, or someone who simply enjoys long walks on the beach, Naples has something for you. At the end of the day, this is an active community with countless ways to stay engaged, fit, and connected - no matter what your game happens to be.

7. Humidity Has a Personality of Its Own 😅

Florida’s not just hot - it’s humid. It will flatten your hair, fog your glasses, and test the strength of your antiperspirant. Linen, lightweight cotton, and breathable fabrics will quickly become your go-to wardrobe staples.

But here’s the silver lining: that same humidity that can feel heavy in the summer air is actually a hidden beauty secret. It keeps your skin naturally more hydrated, helping to ward off the dryness and wrinkles that colder, drier climates can accelerate. Think of it as Mother Nature’s built-in moisturizer.

And don’t worry - you do acclimate. Before long, you’ll find yourself embracing the tropical air, and when a “cold snap” in the 60s rolls through, you’ll be reaching for a sweater like a true Floridian.

8. Yes, There Are Hurricanes - But We’re Prepared 🌀

Many Northerners worry about hurricanes, and it’s a valid concern. But here’s the reality: new homes in Naples are built to rigorous codes, with impact-resistant windows and storm protection. Most locals have a storm prep routine they follow like clockwork.

It’s also worth keeping perspective. While hurricanes make big headlines, there are often long stretches of time between major storms. For example, before Hurricane Irma in 2017 and Hurricane Ian in 2022, Naples went about 11 years without a direct impact from a major hurricane. And even when storms do come through, not every home is affected. In fact, in the most recent hurricanes, the majority of homes sustained little to no damage - though those that were impacted were hit hard.

That’s where preparation and smart decisions matter. I can help you evaluate flood zones, insurance costs, and construction quality so you feel confident and safe in your new home.

9. Water, Water Everywhere 🛥️

Between the Gulf of Mexico, our miles of canals, bays, and estuaries, water is truly a way of life here. It shapes not only the landscape, but also the lifestyle. Whether you want to boat out to the Gulf, spend a quiet morning fishing, kayak through mangroves, or simply enjoy the view with a glass of wine at sunset, there’s something undeniably magical about being close to the water in Naples.

And here’s where Naples gets interesting: “waterfront” can mean very different things depending on what you’re looking for. Some buyers dream of Gulf access with a private dock, while others want the serenity of a lake view from their back patio. In fact, many builders in Naples design communities around small man-made lakes - though to be more accurate, I often call them ponds. These sparkling water features might not be boatable, but they create tranquil backdrops for daily living and add to the sense of beauty and calm that makes Naples so unique.

From true Gulf-front estates to canal homes to pond-view patios, I help buyers understand the options, weigh the trade-offs, and find the water experience that best fits their lifestyle.

10. There’s So Much More Than Chain Restaurants 🍽️

Some newcomers are surprised to discover that Naples is, in fact, a foodie town. Our restaurant scene is vibrant, diverse, and full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Sure, we’re known for our pristine beaches and golf courses, but the dining here could rival much larger cities. From dockside shacks serving the freshest Gulf-caught grouper to chic bistros with award-winning wine lists, Naples has a little something for every palate.

Craving authentic Italian? You’ll find family-owned trattorias and artisan pizzerias that feel like a slice of Rome. Prefer something more upscale? Elegant date-night destinations line Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South, each offering world-class cuisine and unforgettable ambiance. And for those nights when casual is the vibe, there are plenty of beachy bars, taco joints, and breakfast spots where flip-flops are the unofficial dress code.

What makes Naples especially fun is the range - you can enjoy a fine-dining tasting menu one night and discover a hole-in-the-wall hidden gem the next. And don’t worry, comfort food lovers: while we’re spoiled with global flavors, you’ll still find familiar staples. (Yes, we still have a Dunkin’. You’re welcome, Northeasterners.)

11. You’ll Be Surprised by the People ❤️

One of the most unexpected joys of living in Naples is how genuinely kind people are. It’s something that catches newcomers off guard - in the best way possible. Whether you’re walking the beach at sunrise, browsing the farmers market on a Saturday morning, or chatting with your neighbors on an evening stroll, there’s a warm, welcoming energy woven into everyday life here.

People smile at strangers. They hold doors without hesitation. They wave from their golf carts as they pass by. They say hello like they’ve known you for years, even if you just met. It’s a rhythm of small gestures that, when added together, make Naples feel more like a true community than just a place to live.

At first, it might feel a little “Mayberry” - like stepping into a friendlier, simpler time. But soon enough, you’ll catch yourself doing the same things: smiling at passersby, striking up conversations in line at the coffee shop, or lending a hand to a neighbor without thinking twice. That’s the Naples effect - it makes kindness contagious.

Ready to Make the Move? 🏠

Moving to Naples isn’t just a change of scenery - it’s a change in lifestyle, pace, and possibilities. I’ve helped so many buyers just like you navigate the transition from snow to sunshine with confidence, clarity, and maybe even a little laughter along the way.