There was a family I met who moved to Florida for retirement but started seriously considering relocating again due to their children's education. Initially, they came for the weather and taxes, but as their child grew, the school became a more important issue.

The private schools frequently mentioned among Korean parents in Fort Myers are Bishop Verot Catholic High School and Canterbury School. The tuition for Bishop Verot is $16,995 per year for the highest grade level, and the college acceptance rate is reported to be 99 percent according to the school, while Niche reports it as 93 percent. The total amount of scholarships awarded to graduates is known to exceed $13 million annually. Scholarships are typically grants based on academic performance or special talents, while grants based on income are often referred to as financial aid. Many schools operate both types of support, so it's advisable to check each when applying.

Canterbury School has a tuition level of $25,600 per year, which is higher than Bishop Verot. However, it is rated among the top 20 percent of private schools in Florida based on average ACT scores and the number of AP courses offered. Having many AP courses means there are more opportunities to experience college-level classes while still in high school.

Both schools have different curriculum directions that reflect their tuition differences. While Bishop Verot offers relatively accessible tuition with solid college acceptance rates, Canterbury expands its advanced course options with a higher tuition. Depending on the child's personality and budget, one may be a better fit than the other.

Both schools emphasize small class sizes, which allows teachers to pay closer attention to each student's learning pace. If considering applying, it's a good idea to check the open house schedule to observe actual classes.

The GreatSchools rating is given on a scale from 1 to 10 and is primarily a reference point when comparing private schools to nearby public schools. When choosing a private school, it's accurate to look at Niche reviews and individual school college data together.

Now looking at home prices, according to Zillow, the average home value in Fort Myers is $309,562 as of the end of June 2026, which is a 7.3 percent decrease from a year ago. Based on actual transactions, the median sale price as of August 15 is $348,000, down 6.2 percent compared to the previous year. Both indicators show a downward trend, suggesting that the recent market has cooled off.

Along with mortgage rates, Florida's unique homeowners insurance premiums also make up a significant portion of total housing costs. It helps to get estimates from various insurance companies in advance to budget effectively.

This downward trend may indicate more room for negotiation from a buyer's perspective, but it is difficult to say whether this will continue in the future. The increase in insurance premiums during hurricane season has been cited as one of the factors affecting the Southwest Florida market in recent years, so it is advisable to get insurance estimates before viewing properties. Expanding the search area to include Cape Coral or Estero near Fort Myers may provide more options. However, as commute times increase, the convenience should also be weighed.

Florida's lack of a state income tax is attractive to families moving from other states, but it is essential to also consider the burden of property insurance and property taxes to gauge actual living costs. Property tax rates vary by county, so be sure to check the recent tax bill for any properties of interest.

When considering school district ratings, refer to GreatSchools or Niche, but since school district boundaries change frequently, it's wise to confirm the assigned school before signing a contract. This article is not investment or legal advice, and it is recommended to consult with a professional before finalizing any contracts.