Lehigh Acres, Florida is a census-designated place (CDP) and unincorporated community located in Lee County. It is situated east of Fort Myers, and south of State Road 82. Although it may have started as a small farming community in the 1950s, the population of Lehigh Acres has grown to over 87,000 people as of 2019.

The history of Lehigh Acres dates back to the mid-20th century when Chicago businessman Lee Ratner purchased 18,000 acres of land in what is now Lehigh Acres. His goal was to create a self-sufficient community that would be primarily centered around farming, especially for retirees seeking to live off the land. Ratner’s vision included building homes on half-acre plots at an affordable cost.

Ratner recruited other businessmen and investors that believed in his vision, and they formed the Lehigh Corporation with plans to incorporate in 1957. However, those plans fell through, and the corporation remained a business hierarchy designed to manage the growth and development of Lehigh Acres.

The initial growth of Lehigh Acres in the mid-20th century was slow because of the lack of infrastructure. The first roads were unpaved, and access to electricity and water was difficult. By 1962, however, more than 700 mid-century modern homes had been built along Lee Boulevard to accommodate the growing population.

In 1965 a group called Regional Development Company acquired the community. The company aimed to improve infrastructure such as utilities, roads and build schools. The goal was to create better living conditions in anticipation of Lehigh Acres becoming an incorporated city at some point in the future.

By 1980, the population of Lehigh Acres had grown to nearly 10,000 people. Large swaths of land were being developed for commercial use, with shopping centers and restaurants catering to residents’ needs. Today, Lehigh Acres is home to a growing number of businesses and residents, with commercial development leading the way.

Modern life in Lehigh Acres today is fast-paced but relaxed, with plenty of amenities available to residents. There are over 40 public parks, playgrounds, and trails within Lehigh Acres, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The community has a variety of commercial developments, including eateries and shops. Additionally, there are a plethora of fitness centers, including gyms and yoga studios.

One of the biggest draws of Lehigh Acres is its affordability; it can be incredibly cost-effective to own a home in the community. There’s little wonder that young families or those who aim to retire are flocking to Lehigh Acres. The area is also less prone to hurricanes than more coastal Florida communities.

In conclusion, Lehigh Acres has evolved from being a small farming community into an unincorporated area that caters to the needs of its residents. From living in mid-century modern homes to modern-day homes and apartments, the community offers many affordable housing options for residents. With plenty of commercial development and a relaxed pace of life, Lehigh Acres is becoming an increasingly popular place to call home.