Fort Myers is a city loved by many Americans for its warm weather, affordable housing, and relaxed atmosphere, but it is still known as a relatively quiet and small community for Koreans.

It is not a place where large Korean towns have formed like in Miami or Orlando, but in recent years, the number of Korean immigrants looking to retire and run small businesses has steadily increased. Currently, the Korean population in Fort Myers and nearby Cape Coral, Estero, and Bonita Springs is estimated to be between 700 and 1,000 people.

The Korean community in Fort Myers is mostly made up of self-employed individuals and professionals. Hair salons, nail shops, laundries, markets, real estate, insurance, accounting, dentistry, and small business operators are predominant. Unlike large cities, competition is not fierce, and the long-lasting relationships with customers are an advantage of businesses in this area.

The number of Koreans settling after retirement is also gradually increasing. Fort Myers is considered an ideal city for retirees due to its warm climate year-round, affordable housing prices, and quiet living environment.


Although the four seasons are not distinct, the average temperature remains around 20 degrees even in winter, making it popular among Korean seniors looking for warm areas for their health. Some move here from large cities like Miami or Orlando for a quieter lifestyle.

The 'Fort Myers Korean Church' serves as the central community hub. Although it is not large, it connects Koreans through various activities such as worship, Korean language school, family gatherings, and community service.

In recent years, young Koreans have also been gradually moving in. With remote work becoming common, young Koreans working in IT, design, healthcare, and accounting are attracted to the affordable cost of living and high quality of life in Fort Myers.

They connect in different ways from the existing Korean community and interact through social media or online communities. As a result, a new Korean society composed of a much more diverse age group and professions is forming compared to the past.

Although still a minority, the Korean community in Fort Myers is quietly growing.