The Florida Everglades encompasses a whopping two-million acres throughout central and southern Florida. A unique ecosystem, it's home to 360 species of birds, the critically endangered Florida panther, the West Indian Manatee, and surprisingly -- the bottlenose dolphin. Alligators, crocodiles and around 27 species of snakes live in and near the protected marshes of the Everglades. This area offers compelling views of nature unlike those seen anywhere else in the world, and temperatures here hover between the high 70s and the low 90s year-round. All-in-all, the everglades is often pictured as a beautiful place to visit. But did you know that it's possible to buy a home and live here, too?
More than 736,000 people live in south-central Florida, many on land that was once included in the Florida Everglades. Today, fewer than 600 people actually live inside the area designated as Everglades National Park, but homes on the outskirts are readily available. They offer all the same access to nature and unique wetland features of the Glades, but with all the comforts of home. Here's what you should know if you're considering buying a home that borders the Florida Everglades.
The cost of living here is spot-on with the national average, but it's quite cheap compared to other Florida locales. It's 23 percent more expensive to live in Miami and 17 percent more expensive to live in Fort Lauderdale. The crime rate in the Everglades is lower than the national average, as well, which is a huge selling point for families with small children.
Jobs aren't scarce in and near the Everglades, either. Major employers in the area include:
The Everglades area boasts an unemployment rate of 3.5 percent, as well. This is lower than the national average of 3.9 percent.
Probably the most compelling reason homeowners list for moving to the Florida Everglades, however, is exposure to nature. The Florida Everglades and its surrounding areas are picturesque representations of nature at its finest. Exotic trees and tropical sunsets, coupled with pleasing, year-round temperatures top the list. Tropical storms and flooding may be issues in low-lying areas, however, and potential buyers should educate themselves on these factors. Ideally, however, a move to the Florida Everglades, where nature and beauty abound, might be just what your family needs.
