Is Naples Considered South Florida?

The classification of Naples as South Florida can vary based on the source and perspective. Geographically and administratively, Naples is often considered part of South Florida, while some might consider it to be distinct due to its proximity to the Gulf Coast.

Geographically, Naples is situated in the southwest part of Florida, at 26.139, -81.795, along U.S. Highway 41 between Miami to the east and Fort Myers to the north. This location makes it less central to the typical South Florida metroplex, which primarily includes areas around Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Broward County.

Conclusion: Naples is officially considered part of South Florida. It lies within Collier County and shares the region’s appeal of beaches, upscale shopping, and golf courses. However, colloquially, some might view Naples as a distinct part of Southwest Florida.

An Exploration of Regional Definitions in Florida

Florida is vast, and its regions are categorized differently by various entities:

Three-Regional Method: This is the most common categorization method, dividing Florida into North Florida, Central Florida, and South Florida. According to this method, South Florida typically begins just north of Fort Myers, making Naples a part of it. Water Management Districts: The South Florida Water Management District includes Naples, as it forms a contiguous region of water management. Regional Planning Councils: The South Florida Regional Planning Council defines its region to include Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe counties. Naples is not in this region. Other Definitions: Some classifications, such as those by the Red Cross and local water management districts, might also place Naples within the broader context of South Florida due to its proximity and shared characteristics.

Conclusion

The classification of Naples as part of South Florida is often accepted based on geographic and administrative divisions. However, colloquially and based on personal perspectives, Naples may be considered distinct, particularly due to its connection to Southwest Florida.