A Cuban woman in Lehigh Acres, Florida, posted a video on TikTok that has sparked multiple reactions among those, like her, who live in this city in the southwest of the state. In the video shared by the user @fernandadylanyordy1999, she issues a direct warning to those considering moving to the area.
“Gentlemen, if you are thinking about coming to live in Lehigh, I’m just going to say that you should think it over, very carefully,” he begins. He claims that he has seen “several people lately who have moved here and are complaining that there is no work in Lehigh.”
Although he acknowledges some positive aspects, such as that "the schools are very good" and "houses are super cheap," he emphasizes that "there are no jobs in Lehigh." He states that "more than 60% of the people who live in Lehigh, and I’m not talking about those who just arrived, but those who have been living here for years, do not work in Lehigh; they work outside."
"Here there is only a Walmart, a Fresco y Más, and a Bravo. There are no other job options here," he insists. "If you are thinking of coming to live here because you were told there is a lot of work, believe me, they are not telling you the truth."
The video prompted dozens of comments from people who resonate with its message. One user wrote: “Don't come, go somewhere else. It's bad here, everything is expensive, there's no work, nothing. Closed due to capacity. Shuuuu, go over there, over there.” Another commented: “You are right. Here it's just new houses and wilderness. There’s nothing.”
Some people questioned the supposed benefits of living in Lehigh. "I don't know which houses in Lehigh are cheap, and definitely not any new constructions," commented one user. Another added, "My whole life in Lehigh... of course there's no work. And about the houses being cheap? I don’t know where you got that."
Personal stories also emerged. One user shared: “A year ago, I bought my little house here and I was working in Miami. When I arrived here, after four months, I lost my job and I haven't been able to find another one. What I'm doing now is dedicating myself to making my sweets.”
One more person expressed: “There’s nothing in Lehigh. I’m dying to leave.” Another comment summed it up: “What we deal with here is a lot of work.”
There were also those who mentioned that jobs can only be found outside the area. "The jobs are in Naples, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral, the closest ones," said one person. Another noted, "A large part of Lehigh also works in Naples." One user pointed out, "Here there is only one factory, one large clothing store. And yes, there are schools to work at, and school bus drivers. That's it. Other alternatives: Burger King, McDonald's, things like that... medical offices if you work in that field and a hospital."
The testimony of this Cuban is not isolated. In another case, the user @yeli_95_ reported that she bought a five-bedroom house for less than 400 thousand dollars and that her eyelash business thrived in Lehigh, but she also said: “There are no jobs, don’t let them lie to you. If you have a degree, it may be easier, but if not, it’s complicated.”
@guajira40 warned about other issues such as water quality, hair loss, and pests: “Your hair will fall out,” and added that well water stains all the floors and bathrooms. She also alerted: “Here, you need to fumigate. Fumigate all week or have a pest controller come every three months, which is what I do.”
In defense of Lehigh, the creator @ernestozaldivar0 highlighted that he pays less rent than in Miami and stated that “I get paid in dollars just like you do”.
@yaimasanchez84, for their part, also shared that “the first months were unbearable,” but assured that they have already adapted. “You always find a way,” they said, referring to selling flan or mowing grass to make ends meet.
Amid warnings, complaints, and defenses, Lehigh Acres remains at the center of the debate among Cubans seeking a better quality of life outside of Miami, but who also face new challenges far from major urban centers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Lehigh Acres, Florida
Is it true that there are few job opportunities in Lehigh Acres?
Yes, the lack of employment in Lehigh Acres is a common concern among its residents. Many people who live in Lehigh work outside the city in places like Naples, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral due to the shortage of local jobs.
What are the advantages of living in Lehigh Acres?
Some advantages of living in Lehigh Acres include the low cost of housing and quality schools. Additionally, tranquility and space are aspects highly valued by many residents, especially those looking to escape the urban hustle of Miami.
What is the water quality like in Lehigh Acres?
The quality of water in Lehigh Acres has been criticized, as well water can stain surfaces and it is advisable to have a filtration system to improve its quality.
What do residents think about life in Lehigh Acres?
Opinions on Lehigh Acres are divided. Some residents appreciate the tranquility and lower cost of living, while others criticize the lack of infrastructure, job opportunities, and services. Comments on social media reflect a diversity of personal experiences.
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