Floridians Seek Safety: Patti DiMarco's Move to Hurricane-Resistant Babcock Ranch

Hurricanes have long been a concern for Floridians, sparking a wave of relocations to areas deemed safer. One such individual is Patti DiMarco, a 76-year-old realtor who made the decision to trade coastal living for the hurricane-resistant community of Babcock Ranch, located just north of Fort Myers. After years of managing the stress of hurricane damage and rising insurance costs, DiMarco's move symbolizes a growing trend among residents seeking safety and stability. DiMarco previously resided in a gated community in Naples, Florida, where she witnessed firsthand the devastation wrought by severe storms. The 2017 Hurricane Irma left her community reeling as roofs were torn off homes and cars were damaged, while Hurricane Ian in 2022 resulted in significant garage damage. These experiences, coupled with the aftermath of the tragic 2018 Surfside building collapse, prompted DiMarco to rethink her living situation. The mandatory changes to condominium and homeowners associations aimed at addressing safety concerns only added to her unease about potential financial assessments. Her journey to Babcock Ranch began with a curious exploration sparked by her grandchild’s college project on sustainability. Intrigued, she visited the community, which is designed to withstand extreme weather due to its elevation—sitting 30 feet above sea level—and thoughtful engineering that includes underground utilities and smart lakes for flood management. It didn’t take long for DiMarco to be sold on the idea; she purchased a three-bedroom, three-bathroom home for $480,000 and moved in just two weeks after her first visit in December 2023. Settling into her new home has been a smooth transition. DiMarco is enjoying the community atmosphere, with its welcoming neighbors and family-friendly environment. The facilities, including a field house designed to endure 150 mph winds that doubles as an evacuation shelter, provide an extra layer of reassurance. For the first time in years, she felt relaxed during hurricane season, confident in her decision to relocate. Her flood insurance costs about $600 annually, and she hopes to eliminate it altogether once final elevation readings confirm her home’s safety. DiMarco reflects on the lifestyle changes she has embraced since moving inland. While she misses some of the shopping options in Naples, she appreciates the charm of her new community. Zipping around in her golf cart, she enjoys easy access to errands, the pool, and local restaurants, likening her daily life to that of a quaint village from a Hallmark movie. The residents of Babcock Ranch come from diverse backgrounds, creating a vibrant tapestry of young families, remote workers, and retirees—all drawn to the community’s unique appeal. As concerns over climate change and severe weather persist, more individuals like DiMarco are likely to seek refuge in fortified communities that offer both safety and a welcoming environment. Babcock Ranch represents a shift in how Floridians are approaching the realities of living in a hurricane-prone region, prioritizing resilience and peace of mind.