Pine Ridge, FL

122 Apartments for Rent

With an average annual temperature of just 75 degrees, you'll be basking in luxury _and _sunshine within a pristine landscape just minutes from a world-renowned cultural hub.

Pine Ridge sprawls along the Tamiami Trail in one of Florida's wealthiest cities. Here, in the region described as more beautiful than Italy, world famous beaches meet world class golf courses, and the smallest of tropical storms take on epic proportions in the news. From sea kayaking to exquisite botanical gardens, uncover Naples' best kept secrets all while living a step away in the serene and upscale Pine Ridge.

The Italy of the New World

You are moving to paradise, and paradise has a price tag. The warm winters, perfectly manicured city and laid back tropical atmosphere have made Naples a choice haven for the One Percent for the last 120 years. The tranquil, opulent vibe of Pine Ridge in particular draws those with cash. High-quality, artistic architecture of the houses encapsulates this richness. Most of your neighbors will be millionaires or wealthier. You'll need to match that, at least in appearance, to have any success living here. Welcome to the big league. Here's how you do it.

Plan Ahead

First, don't just pack up your car and drive here one weekend expecting to move. For spaces as modest as one bedroom apartments, waiting lists abound and they're longer in the winter when the snowbirds fly down. To avoid getting stuck living in a motel for six months, time your move carefully. Aim to move in the late spring. Yes, southern Florida has the same zip code as Hell, which means come summer you may roast. The ocean breeze will help offset that, and you'll also be able to find rental housing with much greater ease.

Consider Your Credit

Even if you manage to pull off impeccable timing, the amount of paperwork and approvals necessary could trip you up. Fully expect the rental agencies and community associations to grill your bank, credit card company, IRS and anyone who ever knew you about your financial habits--because that's what they'll do. Cash is nice, but if those three precious numbers aren't up to par with the community's standards, you'll have a hard time finding anything. Rates and deposits vary according to your credit score, so if your numbers are below average, best patch that up before moving there. Got to look the part, remember? The rich don't live off their credit cards.

Choose Your Gem

Once your credit makes it through its grueling interrogation, it's time to start looking for places to rent. Here are a few suggestions to whet your palate.

Autumn Woods: This super-chill gated community rests comfortable along the east side of Pine Ridge, just two and a half miles from the beach. It boasts easy access to greater Naples plus nearby upscale restaurants and entertainment. Rental homes typically have two to four bedrooms and come with mid range prices, but if you want a pool like everybody else, expect to double your rent easily.

Pelican Marsh: The gem of North Naples, the community of Pelican Marsh sprawls for 1,100 acres replete with numerous lakes, nature preserves and a world class golf course. Only minutes from the beach, you can enjoy Florida's native wildlife, from great blue herons to Tiger Woods. For these luxury amenities, you'll pay a pretty penny, but it's easier to find a house to rent here because vacationers like the area. You can find annual leases in addition to leases for just a few months.

Other Options: Those who neither need nor want a spacious palace to enjoy this tropical heaven have plenty of other options too. Paradise has something for everyone, right? Scale down a bit and find an apartment for rent in Pine Ridge. You'll find several complexes east of the Autumn Woods community, and a few more on the southwest edge of Pelican Marsh. While still spendy, an apartment may mean it's easier to buy groceries. And you'll still be only a few minutes from the beach.

Choosing Pine Ridge will mean tropical contentment, a relaxed community and plenty of walks along a flawlessly white shore. Whether you choose a grand house or a comfortable apartment, you're now armed with the knowledge necessary to make your relocation as smooth as the warm, breezy climate of southwest Florida. Enjoy that sunshine.