Is Clewiston Safe, Pros and cons of living in Clewiston
Clewiston, Florida, often called “America’s Sweetest Town,” is nestled on the southern shore of Lake Okeechobee. This city boasts a rich history tied to agriculture, particularly sugarcane cultivation, which has shaped its identity and economy for decades. Its location offers a unique blend of rural charm and proximity to larger metropolitan areas, making it an interesting prospect for those considering a move.
The community’s heritage is deeply rooted in the land, with the sugar industry playing a pivotal role in its development since the early 1920s. While sugar remains a significant economic driver, Clewiston has seen diversification in recent years, attracting various businesses and industries. This evolving economic landscape, combined with its natural surroundings, presents a distinct lifestyle for its residents.
Is it Safe to Live in Clewiston?
Clewiston generally presents a crime rate that is lower than the national average. According to NeighborhoodScout’s analysis of FBI crime statistics, Clewiston is safer than 67% of U.S. cities. This suggests a relatively secure environment for its residents compared to many other communities across the country.
When examining specific crime types, Clewiston’s violent crime rate is about average for U.S. communities. However, its property crime rate is noted as being below the national average. This indicates that while violent incidents occur at a rate similar to the national trend, residents are less likely to be victims of property-related offenses like burglary or theft (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
Violent Crime Overview
The violent crime rate in Clewiston stands at approximately 1 per one thousand inhabitants, aligning with national averages. This rate encompasses offenses such as armed robbery, aggravated assault, rape, and murder. For residents, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime is estimated at one in 681 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
While the overall violent crime rate is average, specific neighborhoods within Clewiston may experience different levels of safety. CrimeGrade.org notes that the violent crime rate in Clewiston is 3.902 per 1,000 residents, and residents often consider the eastern part of the city to be the safest. This highlights the importance of understanding local crime patterns beyond city-wide statistics.
Property Crime Trends
Clewiston’s property crime rate is notably lower than the national average. This means residents are statistically less likely to experience incidents such as arson, motor vehicle theft, larceny, or burglary compared to the typical American city (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
Data from CityRating.com indicates that Clewiston’s property crime rate was higher than the Florida state average in 2019, though projected data for 2026 suggests a decrease. Specifically, in 2019, the city’s property crime rate was 23.49% higher than the national average (as reported by CityRating.com).
Demographics and Community Profile
Clewiston’s population was recorded at 7,327 at the 2020 census, showing a slight increase from previous years. The city’s demographic makeup is diverse, with a median age of 36.4 years as of the 2020 census (as reported by Wikipedia).
The racial and ethnic composition of Clewiston is varied. Hispanic residents form a significant portion of the population, alongside White and Black or African American communities. As of 2024, Hispanic individuals make up approximately 50.9% of the population, followed by White residents at 37.5%, and Black residents at 9.5% (as reported by CUBIT, citing US Census Bureau data).
Age and Household Composition
In terms of age distribution, 26.6% of Clewiston’s residents were under 18 in 2020, while 14.9% were 65 or older (as reported by Wikipedia). The median age has been noted as 41.0 years young in recent estimates (as reported by CUBIT, citing US Census Bureau data).
Household structures in Clewiston show that 42.0% of households had children under the age of 18 living with them. The average household size is around 2.93 people, with an average family size of 3.32 (as reported by Wikipedia).
Population Growth and Trends
Clewiston’s population has seen modest growth over the years. The 2020 census recorded 7,327 residents, an increase from 7,155 in 2010 (as reported by Wikipedia). Projections for 2026 estimate the population to be around 7,184, indicating a slight anticipated decrease (as reported by CUBIT, citing US Census Bureau data).
The city’s population density is approximately 1,627.9 people per square mile, reflecting its urban character within Hendry County. Clewiston is considered the principal city of its micropolitan area (as reported by Wikipedia).
Cost of Living and Housing Market
Clewiston’s cost of living is generally considered higher than the national average, primarily driven by housing expenses. The median home value in Clewiston was reported as $253,570 as of March 31, 2026 (as reported by Zillow).
Rentals in Clewiston show a median rent of $1,900 as of May 9, 2026. This represents a decrease of $450 month-over-month and year-over-year (as reported by Zillow). For context, the national average rent was $1,910 as of March 31, 2026 (as reported by Zillow).
Housing Costs and Ownership
The median home value in Clewiston was approximately $202,300 in 2024, with a homeownership rate of 76.3% (as reported by Data USA). This indicates a strong tendency for residents to own their homes rather than rent.
For those looking to rent, a one-bedroom apartment averages around $690 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment averages approximately $2,100 per month (as reported by Zillow). These figures can vary significantly based on location within the city and specific amenities.
Overall Expenses
Monthly living costs in Clewiston, excluding housing, are estimated at approximately $1,245 for a single person. For a family of four, these daily expenses are around $2,919. When rent is included, the estimated monthly cost rises to $2,614 for an individual and $5,215 for a family of three (as reported by CityCost).
Clewiston’s cost of living is noted as being 11% higher than the U.S. national average and significantly higher than Florida’s state average. Housing costs are particularly elevated, being 15.1% higher than the national average (as reported by Salary.com).
Job Market and Employment
Clewiston’s economy is supported by a diverse range of industries, with agriculture, construction, and retail trade being prominent sectors. The U.S. Sugar Corporation, Southern Gardens Citrus, and Okeelanta Corporation are among the major employers, reflecting the city’s agricultural roots (as reported by Wikipedia and Data USA).
The unemployment rate in Clewiston is notably low. As of the third quarter of 2025, the unemployment rate was 0.8%, which is well below the U.S. average (as reported by FloridaJobs.org and Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Average Salaries and Wages
The median household income in Clewiston was reported as $57,222 in 2024 (as reported by CUBIT, citing US Census Bureau data). This figure is slightly above the county median but below the state median. The average salary in Clewiston is estimated to be around $47,744 per year (as reported by ZipRecruiter).
Some popular jobs in Clewiston, such as welders, electricians, and LPNs, can earn significantly more than the city’s average salary. These roles can provide a strong earning potential for those with the necessary skills and qualifications.
Major Employers and Industries
Key industries in Clewiston include Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting, Construction, and Retail Trade, employing a significant portion of the workforce (as reported by Data USA). The city has actively worked to diversify its economy beyond its traditional sugar industry base.
Major employers in the area include U.S. Sugar, Southern Gardens Citrus, and Okeelanta Corporation, which continue to be vital to the local economy. Tourism also plays an increasingly important role, drawing visitors to the region’s natural attractions and recreational activities (as reported by Wikipedia).
Climate and Weather Patterns
Clewiston experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by long, hot, and humid summers, and short, mild winters. The average high temperatures in the summer can reach up to 90°F, with July being the hottest month (as reported by Time and Date).
Winters are generally pleasant, with average daily high temperatures around 77°F and lows around 53°F in January, the coldest month. The city experiences a significant amount of rainfall, particularly during the summer months, contributing to its lush environment (as reported by Time and Date and NOAA).
Temperature and Seasonal Variations
The hot season in Clewiston typically spans from May to October, with temperatures frequently exceeding 87°F. Conversely, the cool season runs from December to February, offering milder temperatures. The temperature typically varies between 52°F and 90°F throughout the year, rarely falling below 36°F or exceeding 94°F (as reported by Time and Date).
The water temperature also follows seasonal patterns, warming to an average of 85°F in August and cooling to around 73°F in February, influenced by its proximity to Lake Okeechobee (as reported by Time and Date).
Precipitation and Rainfall
Clewiston receives a substantial amount of rainfall annually. Average monthly precipitation can range from about 2.58 inches in January to over 7 inches in September (as reported by Time and Date).
The climate is described as oppressive and wet during the summer months, with high humidity contributing to the overall heat. This pattern of heavy rainfall is typical for the region and supports the surrounding agricultural activities (as reported by Time and Date).
Education and School System
Clewiston is served by the Hendry County School District, which includes several public schools. The district aims to provide educational opportunities for students from kindergarten through high school.
Clewiston High School received an overall Niche grade of C, with specific ratings for Academics (C+), Diversity (A-), and Teachers (C). The school has a student-teacher ratio of 26 to 1, with 35% of students proficient in math and 38% in reading, according to state test scores (as reported by Niche).
Elementary and Middle Schools
Clewiston Middle School also holds an overall Niche grade of C. It serves grades 6-8 with a student-teacher ratio of 19 to 1. State test scores indicate that 49% of students are proficient in math and 41% in reading (as reported by Niche).
Other schools in or near Clewiston include Moore Haven Junior/Senior High School (rated B-) and Central Elementary School (rated B-) (as reported by Niche).
High School Performance
Clewiston High School is a public institution serving grades 9-12. While it offers a calm academic environment, its athletic programs are noted as not being a primary focus for students seeking extensive sports opportunities (as reported by Niche).
The school’s rankings place it among other public high schools in Florida, with specific considerations for college preparation and diversity. While state test proficiency in math and reading is reported, the overall grades suggest areas for potential improvement within the school system (as reported by Niche).
Pros and Cons of Living in Clewiston
Clewiston offers a unique lifestyle with distinct advantages and disadvantages for potential residents. Its strong sense of community and connection to agricultural heritage are significant draws for some.
The lower-than-average crime rates, particularly for property crimes, contribute to its appeal as a safe place to live. The city’s affordability, especially in terms of rent compared to some other areas, can also be a positive factor for individuals and families.
Potential Advantages
One of the primary advantages of living in Clewiston is its lower cost of living compared to many other cities in Florida and the nation. While housing is more expensive than the national average, other expenses like food and energy are below average (as reported by Salary.com).
The job market is stable, with a low unemployment rate, and major employers provide consistent economic opportunities. The community’s connection to its agricultural roots and its proximity to Lake Okeechobee offer recreational and lifestyle benefits (as reported by Wikipedia and Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Potential Disadvantages
Clewiston’s cost of living, particularly housing, is higher than the national average, which can be a challenge for some budgets. The city’s median home value, while varying by source, indicates a significant investment for homeowners (as reported by Zillow and Data USA).
The educational system, with grades for its middle and high schools often falling in the C range, may be a concern for families prioritizing top-tier school performance (as reported by Niche). Additionally, the climate, with its hot and humid summers, might not appeal to everyone.