Sanibel Island attracts many people who choose to live year-round. It creates a very distinct and passionate local community, making Sanibel more than a vacation destination.

Yes, you can live on Sanibel Island in February 2026, though the community is still actively navigating the long-term recovery process following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Ian in late 2022. By early 2026, the island’s infrastructure has been largely restored, with the Sanibel Causeway fully operational and most essential services back in place. However, the island is currently undergoing a major legislative and social "rebirth" as it reaches its 50th anniversary. The city has established the Sanibel Plan Update Steering Committee, which is meeting throughout early 2026 to revise the comprehensive plan that guides housing, historic preservation, and environmental stewardship. While many residents have returned to rebuilt homes, some areas still feature vacant lots or ongoing construction. Prospective residents should be aware that insurance costs and stricter building codes are now a permanent part of life on the island, aimed at ensuring the community's resiliency against future storm surges and rising sea levels.