Lely, FL
Population 3,770 · Florida
About Lely, FL
Lely is a small town located in Florida with a population of 3,770 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,029 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 65.7 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Lely features a median home value of $290,400, which is 19% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Lely in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,826, 57% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,740 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (1,453 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (336 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lely shows an unemployment rate of 2.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 8.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Lely have an average one-way commute time of 20.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
31.7% of Lely residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 5.1% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 8.0% Asian residents, with 16.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Lely, FL
Compared to national averages, Lely has a median household income of $65,029 (13% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $290,400, which is 19% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,826 is 57% above the US average of $1,163. Within Florida, Lely's income is 14% below the state average of $75,893, and home values are 18% below the state median of $353,675.
Why Live in Lely, FL?
Lely offers a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.5%, and a low poverty rate of 8.7%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 20.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,029) that falls below the national average. However, Lely’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Lely has a population of 3,770 with a median age of 65.7 years. Compare Lely with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Florida.
Similar Cities Near Lely
Cities in Florida with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Point Baker | 3,757 | $61,442 | $207,600 | Compare |
| Umatilla | 3,793 | $67,206 | $194,500 | Compare |
| Lake Sarasota | 3,802 | $98,689 | $337,700 | Compare |
| Hill 'n Dale | 3,722 | $52,452 | $117,000 | Compare |
| Watergate | 3,709 | $72,641 | $214,200 | Compare |
| Juno Beach | 3,835 | $65,203 | $644,400 | Compare |
| St. James City | 3,846 | $64,539 | $284,800 | Compare |
| Chipley | 3,678 | $34,311 | $132,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Florida
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Lely With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Lely
What is the population of Lely, FL?
The population of Lely, FL is 3,770 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Florida.
What is the median household income in Lely?
The median household income in Lely, FL is $65,029 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lely?
The median home value in Lely, FL is $290,400, which is 19% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Lely?
The median monthly rent in Lely, FL is $1,826, which is 57% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lely?
The unemployment rate in Lely, FL is 2.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Lely, FL a good place to live?
Lely offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 3,770 and a median age of 65.7, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Lely, FL?
31.7% of residents in Lely aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Lely?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lely, FL: median home value is $290,400 (19% above national), median rent is $1,826/month, and median household income is $65,029. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Lely?
The poverty rate in Lely, FL is 8.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Lely, FL?
Lely's population is 5.1% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 8.0% Asian, and 3.6% two or more races. 16.1% of residents are foreign-born.