Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Captiva, FL
Considering a move to Captiva, FL? This charming island community is home to just 318 residents, offering serene coastal living with a median home price of $1.25M and average rents near $2,600. With a notably low violent crime rate (62 per 100K), 71% sunny days, and proximity to quality schools and healthcare, Captiva is perfect for those seeking a quiet, upscale lifestyle. Expect a relaxed pace, short commutes (27.5 min), and beautiful Gulf weather year-round.
Demographics - Captiva, FL
Demographics - Captiva, FL
Captiva, FL is a close-knit island community with a population of just 318 and a median age of 65, reflecting its popularity among retirees. The area is predominantly White (over 96%) with a balanced gender ratio and a small but notable percentage of non-English speakers. Residents enjoy a peaceful, low-density environment ideal for those seeking tranquility and a slower pace of life.
Population:
318
Density:
110 per sq mi
Median Age:
65.0
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.8%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Captiva, FL?
Captiva offers a luxurious coastal lifestyle, with the median home value reaching $1,250,000 and average rents around $2,600 per month. The overall cost of living index is notably high at 152, largely driven by elevated housing expenses, while everyday costs like utilities and groceries remain closer to the national average. Florida’s favorable tax rates help offset some expenses, but living here is best suited for those prepared for premium prices.
Median House Value:
$1,250,000
Gross Rent:
$2,600
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$2,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,200
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$850
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
5.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
152.0
Grocery:
117.0
Housing:
225.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
105.0
Health Care:
98.5
Miscellaneous:
104.0
Crime
Is Captiva, FL a safe place to live?
Captiva is a very safe community, boasting a low violent crime rate of just 62 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 1,600 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime is also relatively low, making it an attractive place for those prioritizing peace of mind. The island’s small population and community-oriented atmosphere contribute to its overall sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
62
Property Crimes Per 100k:
480
Crime Index:
542
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,600
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 208
Weather
What is the weather like in Captiva, FL year-round?
Captiva enjoys a sunny, subtropical climate with 71% of days featuring clear skies and mild winters averaging 56°F to 75°F. Summers are warm but comfortable, with highs around 91°F and ample ocean breezes. The area receives about 54 inches of rainfall annually, supporting lush landscapes and vibrant coastal scenery.

Winter
Min:
56°F
Max:
75°F

Spring
Min:
65°F
Max:
85°F

Summer
Min:
75°F
Max:
91°F

Fall
Min:
68°F
Max:
86°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
71%
Neighbors
Residents of Captiva benefit from a high per capita income of $78,500 and a median household income of $85,000, reflecting the area’s affluence. The community is well-educated, with nearly 96% holding at least a high school diploma and almost half possessing a bachelor’s degree or higher. Low unemployment (3.2%) and a modest poverty rate round out the picture of a stable, prosperous neighborhood.
Median Income:
$46,800
Household Income:
$85,000
Family Income:
$110,000
Per Capita Income:
$78,500
Income Male:
$52,000
Income Female:
$43,200
Poverty Rate:
8.1%
Non English Speakers:
8.5%
Rent:
$2,600
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
27.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
95.6%
Bachelors or More:
48.0%
Education
How are the schools in Captiva, FL?
Families in Captiva have access to quality education options, including The Sanibel School, which offers a student-teacher ratio of 14:1 and serves 350 students. Private and higher education opportunities are available nearby, such as Summit Christian School and Florida Gulf Coast University, located just 30 miles away. The educational environment supports both young learners and adults seeking further education.

Public Schools
Name:
The Sanibel School
Street:
3840 Sanibel-Captiva Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957
Phone:
239-472-1617
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
14:1

Private Schools
Name:
Summit Christian School
Street:
9065 Ligon Ct, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Phone:
239-482-7007
Students:
135

Colleges
Name:
Florida Gulf Coast University
City:
Fort Myers
State:
FL
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
15,900
Healthcare
Captiva residents have access to quality healthcare, including nearby Lee Memorial Hospital in Fort Myers, which offers comprehensive emergency and surgical services. The area is supported by about 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people, and over 91% of residents have health insurance coverage. Healthcare services are readily accessible, ensuring peace of mind for locals and newcomers alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Lee Memorial Hospital
Address:
2776 Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone:
(239) 343-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
73.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Captiva, FL?
The Captiva housing market is characterized by high property values, with a median home price of $1,250,000 and an average 2-bedroom rent of $2,600. Most residents are homeowners (82.5%), and the area has seen healthy appreciation rates of over 7% in the past year. The market remains stable with low foreclosure rates and occasional new construction, appealing to buyers seeking long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$1,250,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,600
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
15.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Captiva residents are handled by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office in Cape Coral. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other DMV services online or by phone, making it convenient to manage transportation needs. Florida’s DMV operates efficiently to serve both locals and newcomers.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
1039 SE 9th Place, Cape Coral, FL 33990
Phone:
1-850-617-2000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.