St. James City Real Estate
Old Florida Charm on Pine Island
Welcome to St. James City, a hidden gem tucked away on Pine Island in Lee County. With a population of just under 4,000 residents, this charming waterfront community perfectly captures the laid-back vibe and authentic character of Old Florida. Known for its local restaurants, art galleries, eclectic shops, and abundant waterfront living opportunities, St. James City offers an escape to island living without the hustle and bustle of more developed areas.
Whether you’re seeking a waterfront home with your own boat dock, a quiet retreat surrounded by nature, or an investment property with appreciation potential, St. James City combines authentic coastal living with genuine community character
St. James City Real Estate Market Overview
Current Market Snapshot (November 2025):
St. James City offers authentic waterfront living with strong value and unique character.
- Population: Approximately 3,900-4,000 residents
- Price Range: $250,000 to $3 million
- Typical Range: $400,000 to $1.5 million
- Luxury Homes: $1 million to $1.9+ million
- Average Property Type: 2-4 bedrooms, 2-3 bathrooms
- Waterfront Premium: Properties with dock access command premium pricing
Market Characteristics:
- Strong waterfront-focused community
- Quick-selling properties due to limited inventory
- Many properties feature boat docks and slips
- Canal access throughout southern end of city
- Growing demand for authentic Florida lifestyle
Types of St. James City Properties
Waterfront Homes with Private Docks
- Direct water access with boat slips
- Gulf access via Pine Island Sound
- Prime fishing and boating location
- $500,000 to $2+ million range
Canal-Front Properties
- Network of canals providing water access
- Fast path to Gulf of Mexico
- Southern neighborhoods heavily developed with canals
- Various price points available
Single-Family Island Homes
- Diverse neighborhoods throughout city
- Quiet, residential settings
- Properties ranging from $300,000 to $2+ million
- Custom homes and established residences
Vacation & Investment Properties
- Rental income potential
- Tourist and snowbird demand
- Waterfront and near-waterfront options
- Growing second-home market
Gated Communities
- St. Jude Harbors – Waterfront gated community
- Palm Tree Harbors – Established neighborhood
- Eagle Lake Estates – Lake-view community
- Future master-planned subdivision planned for downtown
55+ & Active Adult Communities
- Retirement-friendly options
- Community amenities and social activities
- Maintenance-free living opportunities
- Popular with seasonal residents
Undeveloped Land & Building Opportunities
- Large amounts of available land for custom homes
- Lots with water access
- Development potential on Pine Island
- Growth opportunities in planned subdivisions
Why Choose St. James City?
Authentic Waterfront Lifestyle
Boat-Centric Community
Docks, slips, and boat ramps throughout the community. Most properties feature water access or are located within short distance of waterways.
Canal System
Extensive network of canals throughout southern neighborhoods providing direct Gulf access and boating opportunities.
Fishing Paradise
World-class fishing with easy access to Pine Island Sound and Gulf of Mexico. Deep-water fishing charters available year-round.
Fishing Paradise
World-class fishing with easy access to Pine Island Sound and Gulf of Mexico. Deep-water fishing charters available year-round.
Water Recreation
- Boating and yacht access
- Shelling and beach activities
- Dolphin watching and wildlife viewing
- Water sports and exploration
Small-Town Character
Old Florida Vibe
Authentic island atmosphere with local character, eclectic shops, and community focus.
Population Balance
Small enough (under 4,000) for intimate community feel, yet large enough for essential services.
Genuine Community
Strong local networks, familiar faces, and true sense of place and belonging.
Resort & Recreation
Waterfront Restaurants
Charming eateries scattered throughout town, many with beautiful water views and fresh seafood.
Local Establishments
Family-owned restaurants and bars reflecting island culture and Old Florida character.
Eclectic Dining Options
Diverse menus and casual island atmosphere perfect for relaxed living.
Arts, Galleries & Shopping
Local Art Galleries
Unique art spaces showcasing local and regional artists.
Eclectic Shops
One-of-a-kind boutiques and specialty shops offering unique finds and local goods.
Farmer's Markets & Local Vendors
Farm-fresh produce and local products available throughout the community.
Nature & Wildlife Preservation
Galt Preserve
Protected natural area for nature walks and wildlife observation.
St. Jude Nature Trail
Scenic trail connecting residents to island nature and waterfront.
Abundant Wildlife
Pods of dolphins live just offshore, great blue herons, osprey, manatees, and diverse bird species.
Protected Natural Areas
Large amounts of undeveloped land carefully preserved for wildlife and natural habitat.
Convenient Location
Close to Fort Myers
Only 26 miles to downtown Fort Myers for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Easy Cape Coral Access
Stringfellow Road connects directly to Cape Coral for additional amenities.
Island Position
On Pine Island with easy mainland access while maintaining island atmosphere.
Perfect Year-Round Weather
Winter Temperatures
Comfortable 60s and 70s in winter months ideal for outdoor activities.
Year-Round Recreation
Warm tropical climate supports boating, fishing, and outdoor lifestyle every season.
Perfect Year-Round Weather
St. Jude Harbors
Waterfront community with gated options and water access.
Pine Island Tropical Homesites
Island-style homes with tropical setting.
Manatee Bay
Established neighborhood with water views and wildlife access.
Palm Tree Harbors
Community with waterfront properties and docking.
Caugheys Ranchettes
Residential area with spacious properties and quieter setting.
Eagle Lake Estates
Lake-view community with alternative water access.
St. James City Proper
Central neighborhoods with convenient access to shops and restaurants.
Schools & Education
Serving Schools:
- Pine Island Elementary School – Primary elementary option
- Gulf Middle School – Middle school serving the area
- Ida S. Baker High School – High school option
- Cape Coral High School – Alternative high school
- Oasis Charter Elementary School (Cape Coral) – Private alternative
Note: St. James City has no schools within city limits; students attend Lee County schools in surrounding communities.
Investment Property Potential
St. James City real estate offers excellent investment opportunities:
- Growing Demand: Increasing interest in authentic Florida lifestyle
- Limited Inventory: Preserved natural areas limit future development
- Waterfront Premium: Dock and water-access properties appreciate well
- Vacation Rental Potential: Tourist and snowbird demand strong
- Authentic Location: Unique character attracts discerning buyers
- Appreciation Prospects: Growing recognition of island charm
- No State Income Tax: Florida tax advantages for investors
- Quality of Life: Community focus supports long-term value
Why Work with Carney Properties?
Local Island Expertise
Deep knowledge of Pine Island neighborhoods, waterfront properties, and island lifestyle.
Waterfront Specialists
Experience with dock properties, canal access, boat slip, and water-access real estate.
Investment Property Guidance
Identify vacation rental and investment opportunities with strong potential.
Community Connection
Understanding of St. James City character, local amenities, and authentic island living.
Buyer & Seller Representation
Personalized service for those seeking Old Florida lifestyle and waterfront living.
Full-Service Support
Professional marketing, negotiations, and comprehensive closing guidance.
Ready to Find Your St. James City Home?
Whether you're seeking a waterfront home with private dock, quiet residential property, canal-front estate, or investment property, Carney Properties is ready to help you discover your perfect St. James City home and embrace authentic Old Florida living.
Schedule Your Consultation
Call 239.574.1965
Email info@carneyproperties.com