Immokalee, FL

About the City
Geography
Climate and Weather
Landmarks and Institutions
Transport
Museums
Sport and Sports Legends
Universities and Educational Institutions
Healthcare Facilities and Services

Immokalee is an unincorporated farming community in Florida, known as a major US tomato producer and home to the Seminole Tribe's casino.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Official Name: Immokalee (pronounced ih-MOK-(ə)-lee). As an unincorporated community, it does not have a formal municipal charter .
Administrative Status: It is a Census-Designated Place (CDP) located in Collier County, Florida, USA. It is part of the Naples–Marco Island metropolitan area .
Region: Collier County is known for its stunning Gulf Coast beaches, high-end resorts in Naples, and the western portion of the Everglades.

Historical Names and Nicknames

Original Name: The area was initially known as Gopher Ridge by the Seminole and Miccosukee nations .
Name Origin: The name "Immokalee" is derived from the Mikasuki language and means "your home" .

Founding Date and Age

First Permanent Settlement: Founded in 1872 . The region was inhabited by the Calusa and later the Seminole peoples for centuries before this .
Current Age: As of 2026, the permanent settlement is 154 years old.

Geographical Position and Coordinates

Geographic Coordinates: 26°25′07″N 81°25′02″W (26.41861, -81.41722) .
Location: Situated in northern Collier County, it lies in the flat, interior prairie region of Southwest Florida, characterized by low elevation and drained swamplands used for agriculture .
Elevation: The center of the community is at an elevation of 33 feet (10 meters) above sea level .
Settlement Type: It is a rural, unincorporated community and agricultural hub.

City Type and Economic Specialization

Immokalee is a specialized agricultural and service center.

Its economy is overwhelmingly dominated by agriculture, particularly the cultivation of tomatoes, citrus, bell peppers, and cucumbers. It is one of the nation's major centers for tomato growing .
It also serves as a tribal service and gaming center, being the location of a Seminole Tribe of Florida reservation and the Seminole Casino Immokalee .
The community is also home to a significant population of farmworkers, leading to the presence of strong grassroots organizations like the Coalition of Immokalee Workers .

Population and Demographics

Population: 24,557 residents as of the 2020 United States census .
Population Class: It is a small town or large unincorporated community.
Demographic Features: Immokalee is a diverse community with a unique demographic profile. A significant majority, 75.53%, identify as Hispanic or Latino, with a large Black or African American population of 19.85% . It is a key destination for migrant farming families and immigrant workers from Mexico, Guatemala, and Haiti, which is reflected in its multicultural fabric .

"City's Business Card" (In Brief)

Immokalee is a vital, unassuming heart of American agriculture, known as one of the nation's primary sources of winter tomatoes. It is a place of deep cultural heritage, home to the Seminole Tribe of Florida, and a community defined by the resilience of its farmworkers, whose story has been told in national reports and documentaries .

Geography

Water Bodies

Lake Trafford: Located just north of Immokalee, Lake Trafford is a large, natural freshwater lake. While it has faced environmental challenges in the past, it remains a significant local geographic feature and is used for recreational fishing and boating. It is the namesake for a local elementary school .

Unique Landscapes and Nearby Natural Areas

Florida Everglades: Immokalee is situated on the northern fringe of the Everglades, about 20 miles (32 km) north of Interstate 75 (Alligator Alley), which traverses the vast "River of Grass" . This proximity makes it a gateway to this unique and iconic ecosystem.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary: Operated by the National Audubon Society, this sanctuary is nearby and protects one of the largest remaining stands of ancient bald cypress in North America. It features a famous 2.25-mile boardwalk through pine flatwoods, wet prairie, and the swamp itself, offering a glimpse into the region's pre-drainage natural landscape .

National and Nature Parks

Big Cypress National Preserve: While not directly in Immokalee, this national preserve is located to the east and is closely associated with the region. It protects over 729,000 acres of the Big Cypress Swamp, a crucial watershed for the Everglades and a habitat for diverse wildlife, including the Florida panther .

Islands and Archipelagos

Nearby Gulf Coast Islands: The famous barrier islands of the Gulf of Mexico, such as Marco Island and the islands around Naples (like Keewaydin Island), are located approximately 40-50 miles southwest of Immokalee and are easily accessible for day trips .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Immokalee has a climate that is on the border between a humid subtropical climate and a tropical climate . It is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The area experiences a distinct wet season from June through September.

Average Temperatures by Month

The information below is based on 1991–2020 normals .

Hottest Month: July and August, with average daily maximums of 92.3°F (33.5°C) and 92.0°F (33.3°C) .
Coldest Month: January, with an average daily minimum of 52.2°F (11.2°C) .
Extreme Temperatures: The record high temperature is 102°F (39°C) , and the record low is 20°F (-7°C) .

Precipitation and Humidity

Average Annual Rainfall: Approximately 48.01 inches (1,219 mm) .
Wettest Month: June, with an average of 7.87 inches (200 mm) of rain.
Driest Month: November, with an average of 1.53 inches (39 mm) of rain .
Rainy Days: The wet season is pronounced, with June through September each averaging over 15 days with measurable precipitation .

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

Winter (December - February): This is the peak "season" for visitors, especially those seeking to escape northern cold. Daytime highs are mild and pleasant (mid-70s°F / low 20s°C), and nights are cool, with lows in the 50s°F (10-14°C). This is the best time for outdoor exploration and enjoying the area's natural attractions.
Spring (March - May): Temperatures rise steadily. March and April offer comfortable weather before the summer heat and humidity arrive. May begins to see the return of heat and humidity.
Summer (June - September): This is the hot, humid, and rainy season. Daily thunderstorms are common, but they are often brief. While the weather is less ideal for extensive outdoor activity, it is a good time for visiting air-conditioned attractions like the casino.
Fall (October - November): This is a transitional period. October remains warm but less humid, and November sees a return of the mild, pleasant winter weather. It is another excellent time for a visit.

Landmarks and Institutions

[Seminole Casino Immokalee]

Name: Seminole Casino Immokalee.
Year Opened: 2004 (current facility), with gaming operations beginning earlier on the reservation.
Operator: Owned and operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
Location: Located within the Immokalee Indian Reservation.
Significance: This casino is a major economic engine for the region and a key landmark. It offers slot machines, poker, table games, and off-track betting, along with several restaurants and entertainment venues. It represents the successful economic enterprise of the Seminole Tribe in Florida .
Unique Features: It was the first casino in the state of Florida and paved the way for the tribe's acquisition of other major properties like the Hard Rock brand.

[Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch]

Name: Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch.
Location: A historic ranch site within the community.
Significance: This museum preserves and interprets the history of pioneer settlement and ranching in the Immokalee area. It provides a tangible link to the community's 19th and early 20th-century agricultural past, showcasing a historic home, buildings, and artifacts that tell the story of the hardscrabble life of Florida's "Crackers" and ranchers before the advent of modern agriculture .
What to see: The museum is centered around the restored Roberts ranch house and includes a barn, outbuildings, and exhibits on daily life and ranching techniques from a bygone era.

[Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) and WCIW-LP]

Name: Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) and WCIW-LP Radio.
Location: The CIW's office is in Immokalee, and its radio station, WCIW-LP, broadcasts from the community.
Significance: While not a traditional tourist landmark, the CIW is an internationally recognized human rights organization. Its work to improve wages and working conditions for farmworkers has made Immokalee a focal point for social justice movements .
Unique Features: WCIW-LP (107.9 FM) , the "Voice of the Immokalee Workers," is a low-power community radio station built by volunteers. It broadcasts in Spanish, Haitian Creole, and Indigenous languages like Mam and Kan, serving as a vital communication link for the diverse immigrant community and a symbol of its organizing power .

[Lake Trafford]

Name: Lake Trafford.
Location: Immediately north of the Immokalee CDP.
Significance: As the largest lake in the region north of the Everglades, Lake Trafford is a significant natural landmark. For years, it was a premier bass fishing destination. After undergoing a massive restoration project to address water quality issues, it is once again becoming a popular spot for fishing, boating, and bird watching.
Unique Features: The lake's restoration is a major environmental success story. Visitors can launch small boats, kayak, or fish from the shore, enjoying a large open-water environment that is a stark contrast to the surrounding agricultural fields and cypress swamps.

Transport

Main Airports in the Region

While Immokalee has its own small airport, major commercial service is provided by airports in nearby coastal cities.

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW): Located in Fort Myers, approximately 40 miles northwest of Immokalee. It is the primary airport for the region, handling the vast majority of commercial flights.
Naples Municipal Airport (APF): Located about 30 miles southwest in Naples. It primarily serves general aviation and private jets, with limited commercial airline service.
Immokalee Regional Airport (IATA: IMM): A public-use airport owned by Collier County, located one mile northeast of the central business district. It is used for general aviation and does not have scheduled commercial flights .

Public Transportation System

Collier Area Transit (CAT): The local public bus service for Collier County. The CAT system provides vital connections for Immokalee residents :
- Route 5: Connects Immokalee to the Creekside Transfer Center in Naples.
- Route 8A: Provides local circulation within the Immokalee area.
- Route 7: Offers limited trips connecting to Marco Island.

Major Highways and Roads

State Road 29 (SR 29): The main highway running directly through Immokalee. It is the principal north-south route, connecting the community to LaBelle to the north and Alligator Alley (I-75) to the south .
Interstate 75 (I-75) / Alligator Alley: Located about 20 miles (32 km) south of Immokalee, this major trans-Florida highway connects the region to Tampa/St. Petersburg on the west coast and Fort Lauderdale/Miami on the east coast .
County Road 846 (CR 846): An important east-west county road in the region.

Museums

Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch

For those interested in local history, the Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch offers a significant glimpse into Southwest Florida's past . This 15-acre living history museum is located at the site that was once home to cattleman Robert Roberts and his family, making it the longest-running ranch in South Florida . Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum features 19 carefully preserved original buildings that tell the story of the "cow hunters," ranchers, and pioneer families who tamed this wilderness on the edge of the Big Cypress Swamp in the early 1900s . The site, whose name comes from a Seminole word meaning "my home" or "his home," provides a rare and authentic look at daily life on a Southwest Florida pioneer homestead and citrus grove .

Sport and Sports Legends

High School Sports and Local Athletics

In Immokalee, community life is closely tied to its high school sports teams. Immokalee High School's Gary Bates Stadium serves as a central hub for local athletics, hosting not only football but also track and field events . The stadium has been the site of numerous high school meets, including FHSAA district competitions and annual events like the Immokalee Field Festival .

The Immokalee High School Indians boys lacrosse team represents the growing interest in the sport in Southwest Florida. Competing in Class 2A, the team is supported by the SWFL Lacrosse club, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to building a legacy of teamwork and sportsmanship in the community. In 2025, player Cherlin Michel received 2nd Team All-NDN honors, highlighting local athletic achievement .

Universities and Educational Institutions

Immokalee Technical College

For higher education and vocational training, Immokalee Technical College (iTech) is the city's key public post-secondary institution . Located on North 9th Street, this 2-year public college offers a range of certificate programs designed to provide students with practical career skills. With a low student-to-faculty ratio of 7 to 1, iTech provides focused instruction in high-demand fields .

The college's largest program is in Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training, a 14-month program. Other significant areas of study include Heavy Equipment Maintenance, Computer Systems Networking, Cosmetology, and Building Construction Technology. iTech also serves the community by offering distance education, academic counseling, and on-campus daycare for students' children .

Healthcare Facilities and Services

Florida Department of Health in Collier County - Immokalee Clinic

Public health services in Immokalee are provided by the Florida Department of Health in Collier County - Immokalee Clinic, located on North 1st Street . This clinic serves as a vital community resource, offering a comprehensive range of services including testing for HIV, hepatitis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, as well as the HPV vaccine, are also available .

The clinic operates on a sliding fee scale based on income and accepts various forms of insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid. Importantly, some services like hepatitis C testing are offered free of charge. The facility provides case management and participates in the Ryan White program, catering to a diverse population including at-risk persons, low-income individuals, and the Hispanic or Latino community .

Proximity to Natural Wellness

While not a traditional healthcare facility, the vast natural areas surrounding Immokalee contribute to the community's wellness. The nearby Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, managed from an office in Immokalee, offers extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation and stress relief . Visitors and locals can access the refuge's Marsh Trail, an observation tower, and paddling trails, all of which promote physical activity and mental well-being through connection with nature . This refuge is part of the largest mangrove forest in North America, providing a unique natural escape .

Wildlife as a Cultural and Economic Cornerstone

Immokalee is increasingly recognized for its unique position as a gateway to two major national wildlife refuges: the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge and the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge . The latter is dedicated to protecting the endangered Florida panther, with an estimated 230 adults remaining in the wild. While sightings are rare, visitors to the refuge's trails can look for tracks and other signs of these elusive big cats .

This abundance of wildlife, including bobcats, otters, Florida black bears, and over 200 species of birds, makes Immokalee a destination for ecotourism, directly impacting local businesses and services .

Seminole Casino Hotel

The Seminole Casino Hotel is a major landmark and entertainment destination in Immokalee . This facility features over 1,400 slot machines and a wide variety of table games like craps, blackjack, and poker, operating alongside the city's natural attractions .

Within the casino complex, visitors can find several dining options, including the Italian restaurant 1st Street Deli and the EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill . The hotel itself provides comfortable accommodations, making it a convenient base for exploring the region .

Local Dining and Nightlife

Beyond the casino, Immokalee's dining scene includes local establishments that cater to the community. El Cubano Restaurant, a pub and bar on Main Street, offers a local spot for evening dining and drinks, opening its doors from Thursday to Sunday, 8 PM to 2 AM, and specializing in grill-based cuisine . This establishment represents the more intimate, community-focused side of Immokalee's food and beverage offerings.