Florida Farmland & Agriculture in Southwest Florida

Written By Jacob Edwards

Rural Land, Agricultural Use & Investment Opportunities Near Fort Myers & Naples

Southwest Florida is widely known for its beaches and coastal lifestyle, but beyond the shoreline lies a vast and important agricultural region. Areas surrounding Fort Myers and Naples are home to productive farmland, ranches, groves, and rural estates that play a major role in Florida’s economy and land market.

For buyers seeking land, privacy, agricultural opportunities, or long-term investment potential, farmland in Southwest Florida offers a unique alternative to traditional residential real estate.

Agriculture’s Role in Southwest Florida

Agriculture has long been a foundational industry across Southwest Florida. The region’s warm climate, long growing season, and fertile soils support a wide range of agricultural operations.

Key agricultural activities include:

  • Cattle ranching

  • Citrus groves

  • Vegetable farming

  • Sugarcane production

  • Nursery and plant cultivation

These operations contribute significantly to the local economy while shaping the character of inland communities.

Farmland Areas Around Fort Myers & Naples

While coastal areas are more residential and resort-focused, agricultural land is most common just inland from the coast.

Inland Lee County

Eastern parts of Lee County transition from suburban development into rural land and agricultural zoning. Properties here often feature:

  • Larger acreage

  • Limited density

  • Space for farming, livestock, or storage

  • A quieter, more private lifestyle

Hendry County

Located east of Fort Myers, Hendry County is one of the most agriculture-focused areas in Southwest Florida.

Common land uses include:

  • Large-scale farming

  • Ranch land

  • Citrus and crop production

This area appeals to buyers looking for working land, long-term investment, or large tracts with minimal development pressure.

Eastern Collier County

East of Naples, Collier County includes expansive rural and agricultural zones.

Characteristics include:

  • Estate-sized parcels

  • Agricultural zoning

  • Privacy and open space

  • Proximity to protected lands and preserves

These areas are popular with buyers seeking land ownership while remaining within driving distance of Naples amenities.

Types of Agricultural & Rural Properties

Southwest Florida farmland typically falls into several categories:

Working Farms & Ranches

Properties actively used for:

  • Livestock

  • Crop production

  • Citrus or specialty agriculture

These parcels are often larger in size and zoned specifically for agricultural use.

Agricultural Estates

Some buyers purchase agricultural-zoned land for:

  • Private estates

  • Hobby farming

  • Horse properties

  • Mixed residential and agricultural use

These properties offer flexibility while maintaining rural character.

Land Investment Parcels

Farmland is also purchased for long-term investment.

Common motivations include:

  • Holding land for future appreciation

  • Leasing land for agricultural use

  • Diversifying investment portfolios

Land values are influenced by location, zoning, water access, and development pressure.

Zoning, Water & Land Use Considerations

Agricultural land in Florida is governed by specific regulations.

Important considerations include:

  • Agricultural zoning classifications

  • Water rights and irrigation access

  • Environmental protections

  • Wetland and conservation overlays

  • Permitted uses and building restrictions

Buyers should carefully evaluate zoning and permitted uses before purchasing farmland.

Tax Benefits & Agricultural Classification

Florida offers agricultural classification benefits for qualifying land.

Potential advantages include:

  • Reduced property tax assessments

  • Lower carrying costs for landowners

  • Incentives for maintaining agricultural use

Qualification depends on land use, size, and compliance with county requirements.

Lifestyle Appeal of Rural Southwest Florida

Beyond agriculture, rural land offers a lifestyle that contrasts sharply with coastal living.

Appeal includes:

  • Space and privacy

  • Open landscapes

  • Lower population density

  • Connection to land and nature

  • Freedom from HOA restrictions

Many buyers combine rural living with proximity to Fort Myers or Naples for shopping, dining, and healthcare.

Farmland vs Residential Real Estate

Farmland and rural properties behave differently than residential real estate.

Key differences include:

  • Longer holding periods

  • Less frequent turnover

  • Value driven by land use and zoning rather than finishes

  • Greater importance of due diligence

These properties often attract experienced buyers and investors with long-term goals.

Final Thoughts

Farmland and agricultural land in Southwest Florida represent an important and often overlooked segment of the real estate market. With strong agricultural roots, favorable climate, and long-term land scarcity, rural properties near Fort Myers and Naples offer opportunity for farming, lifestyle living, and strategic investment.

For buyers seeking land, space, or agricultural use — or those looking beyond traditional residential real estate — Southwest Florida farmland provides options that continue to hold long-term value.

Jacob Edwards