9 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a renowned destination thanks to its stunning beaches, vibrant arts and culture scene, and diverse events. The city offers something for everyone, from shopping on Las Olas Boulevard to gondola rides on the picturesque canals to exploring the historic riverfront district. Situated on the Atlantic Coast north of Miami, Fort Lauderdale’s seaside location and multiple waterways make it a boater’s paradise.
Families who want to settle down will find Fort Lauderdale has plenty to offer, including a tropical climate, excellent beaches, and many activities for kids. Those same amenities make it popular with retirees and young professionals. As a bonus, it has a thriving economy and lower cost of living than other Florida oceanfront cities.
Not sure where to live in Fort Lauderdale? You’re at the right place. Let’s look at what to know about living in Fort Lauderdale and get our top picks for Fort Lauderdale’s best neighborhoods.
About Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a beach city in Broward County, Florida. The city’s population is over 180,000, and it is the seventh-largest in Florida. Its Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is one of the largest boat shows in the world, running in October and celebrating 63 years in 2023.
Fort Lauderdale has a tropical wet and dry climate. The average high temperatures range from 76F-90F and lows from 49F-76F during the year. Summer months are the rainiest, with September averaging 15 days of rain. But don’t worry; these usually aren’t all-day washout rains but pop-up afternoon thunderstorms. However, as an Atlantic oceanfront town, it is vulnerable to tropical storms, so you’ll need to be aware of that risk factor if you want to live near the waterfront.
Fort Lauderdale is known for its beautiful beaches, which are some of the best in the world. Visitors come for its sands, the cruise port terminal, and special events like the Boat Show.
The cost of living in Fort Lauderdale is higher than the national average (18%) and Florida’s average (15%). Still, it’s cheaper than cities like Miami. Much of the higher cost is because of the ample waterfront living opportunities.
The November 2022 market had 2,144 homes for sale with a median list price of $600,000. Fort Lauderdale has 72 distinct neighborhoods to choose from, some offering affordable housing options, others with houses selling for millions of dollars. So which is right for you? Check out a few of our top picks:
Las Olas Isles

Not to be confused with the popular shopping district along Las Olas Boulevard, this residential community is part of the larger Venice area in Fort Lauderdale. Modeled after the Italian Venice, it is a series of peninsulas and canals, meaning you live on the waterfront in Las Olas Isles.
The famous shopping district runs across the isles. Top-tier shopping and dining are walkable from the residences. Locals hop on Las Olas Boulevard to either head to Fort Lauderdale’s beaches or the mainland. After a day away, residents come home to the peace and quiet afforded by living on a residential peninsula.
The real attraction to Las Olas Isles is the waterfront out your door and the stunning views. Predominantly custom single-family homes, there are a few luxury condominium complexes. The median list price for the 24 homes for sale was $6.7 million in November 2022, and prices ranged from $419,500 to $35 million.
Central Beach

This is a desirable place to live thanks to its central location and access to the beautiful white sandy beaches. Central Beach is situated between Fort Lauderdale Beach and the Intracoastal Waterway, offering residents plenty of swimming, boating, fishing, and paddleboarding opportunities. Central Beach provides miles of coastline and boardwalk for residents to explore along the oceanfront.
If you are interested in experiencing authentic nightlife and a busy urban atmosphere, this beach town is for you. With a variety of events and attractions, there’s always something to do here. Up and down A1A are beach boutiques, bars, clubs, and dining options.
Access Central Beach from Las Olas Boulevard (live minutes from the shopping district) or Sunrise Blvd. Up and down A1A are beach boutiques and dining options. The Hugh Taylor Birch State Park has walking trails and open green spaces just north.
Most of Central Beach’s housing is condominiums of all sizes, styles, and pricing. The median list price in November 2022 was $939,900 for 149 homes, ranging from $240,000 to $15.5 million.
Harbordale

This desirable Fort Lauderdale neighborhood is located on the Stranahan River, with everything from colorful townhomes to luxury high-rise condos. Locals love the flourishing culinary scene—the neighborhood houses some of the best seafood restaurants in Fort Lauderdale—and its excellent public schools, like Harbordale Elementary School, which has an A rating from Great Schools.
An in-neighborhood Publix Supermarket makes your grocery runs convenient. Fort Lauderdale Beach is a short drive away on Seabreeze Blvd, as are Las Olas Boulevard and the Fort Lauderdale Port Everglades Terminal. Living here, you can watch cruise ships and tankers come and go.
The median list price in November 2022 was $437,000, with 27 homes for sale. It had inland and waterfront properties available.
Victoria Park

Situated on the eastern side of town, Victoria Park is a historic neighborhood with a distinct character in Fort Lauderdale. This community developed in the early 1950s and embodies the old Florida allure while still having a modern edge.
Residents live in a central place in Fort Lauderdale and enjoy quality of life and a strong sense of community. With the Intracoastal, Middle River, and Isles of Olas on the east, Sunrise Blvd on the north, and Federal Highway on the west, it’s easy to get around to the city’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment. The Galleria Mall and the vibrant activities on Las Olas Boulevard are just a few minutes’ drive away and even accessible by bike.
Victoria Park has nearby access to five parks, including the large Holiday Park and Evert Tennis Center. Locals are also near the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Parker Playhouse, and War Memorial Auditorium.
This area is home to around 10,000 residents and has a lively civic association. There are plenty of historic homes, most of them restored 1950s-style single-family homes, but homebuyers can also find newer townhomes, and other construction styles. There were 104 homes for sale in November 2022, with list prices ranging from $190K to $6M.
Sailboat Bend

This unique Fort Lauderdale neighborhood is one of the oldest in the city, established in 1905 along the New River and offering great quality of life to these days. Sailboat Bend is a hidden gem, with easy access to the city’s museums, concert venues, and parks. The riverfront at the Wharf Fort Lauderdale has a playground and plenty of space to have a picnic or take your dog for a walk. A nature preserve is being created by the city along the riverfront.
Despite its name, there are no sailboats in Sailboat Bend—the canals are too narrow. But you will see plenty of yachts docked along the New River that runs through the neighborhood. Fort Lauderdale’s central business district is just minutes away on Las Olas Boulevard, as is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
With stunning Art Deco homes on the inner blocks and chic condos along the riverfront, there’s sure to be something that catches your eye. The November 2022 real estate market had 20 homes for sale with a median list price of $697,000.
Rio Vista

This boating community south of Downtown Fort Lauderdale has waterfront homes and yachts along the canals. The neighborhood’s eastern side is filled with homes right off the water, allowing families to get their boats and yachts onto the river—and even to the ocean—in just a few minutes. Both the New River and Tarpon River run through Rio Vista.
In Rio Vista, residents have one of the city’s safest neighborhoods. The Lauderdale Yacht Club is a gathering place for members and offers boat slips, private member dining, and events. Virginia Young Park has recreational space for walking the dog or enjoying the Florida sunshine.
Reach Fort Lauderdale Beach via Seabreeze Boulevard, or drive quickly to Las Olas Boulevard and the Port Everglades Terminal.
The median list price in November 2022 was $2 million, with 34 homes for sale. It had inland and waterfront properties available.
Flagler Village
This creative, urban community is one of Fort Lauderdale’s up-and-coming neighborhoods. Located just north of Downtown, Flagler Village is known for its arts scene, nightlife, and variety of housing options.
The area has undergone extensive redevelopment recently, transforming the warehouses into an eclectic mix of new construction and old Florida charm. Inside the village is a wide selection of galleries with impressive collection of art, dining options, and retailers.
With its prime location, Flagler Village residents have easy access to all Fort Lauderdale offers. The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is just a few minutes away, as is Las Olas Boulevard and Fort Lauderdale Beach.
The neighborhood is also home to the Fat Village Arts District, which hosts monthly art walks and has galleries, warehouses converted into studios, and restaurants.
Most of the area’s real estate options are condominiums and lofts.
Colee Hammock
Colee Hammock is known for its tree-lined streets and quaint cottages that give it a small-town feel. The neighborhood is located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, minutes from the beach, Las Olas Boulevard, and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. The canals in Colee Hammock are popular with kayakers and paddle boarders who enjoy the peaceful waterways.
Las Olas Boulevard runs through the center of Colee Hammock, so residents live close to boutique shopping, great coffee shops, and popular entertainment venues. The neighborhood’s 12-acre Colee Hammock Park has a playground, picnic pavilions, and a riverfront boardwalk. The park’s options for outdoor recreation include a heated swimming pool, tennis courts, and a fitness center.
Colee Hammock features exclusive and luxury condos, townhomes, and single-family homes on large lots. The area is quaint, reminiscent of old Florida, with many estate homes exhibiting classic Mediterranean architecture and lush landscaping. Some homes have frontage on the New River. In November 2022, the median list price for homes was $1.4 million, with nine homes on the market.
Tarpon River

This one-square-mile neighborhood has several parks. Located just south of the historic Downtown and the New River, residents can access various amenities like a community Publix, cultural center, and library.
There are coffee shops, restaurants, and fitness centers on Davie Blvd, Andrews Blvd, and the Avenue of the Arts. The community even has its own brewery and boat club.
Nearby Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport offers a convenient location for business travelers. At the same time, the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is just a short drive away.
The Tarpon River neighborhood is mainly made up of single-family homes from the 1950s with sprawling lots and lush landscaping. These houses range from two bedrooms to three bedrooms, and most are single-story. However, there are plenty of two-level homes and a few duplexes, bungalows, and apartments. In November 2022, the median list price for homes in Tarpon River was $624,900, with 53 homes on the market.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale
Where is the best place to raise a family in Fort Lauderdale?
Bay Colony is one of the best places to raise a family in Fort Lauderdale. This exclusive gated community is highly regarded for its family-friendly environment, offering 24-hour security and a close-knit community atmosphere. Bay Colony is located along the Intracoastal Waterway, providing scenic waterfront views and ample opportunities for boating and other water-focused activities.
Families will appreciate living close to top-rated public and private schools such as Pine Crest School and the access to shopping, dining, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal choice for family living.
The well-maintained tree-lined streets and luxurious homes add to the appeal, ensuring a safe and pleasant environment for raising children. Bay Colony’s combination of security, excellent schools, and family-oriented amenities make it one of the best gated communities for families in Fort Lauderdale.
How much do you need to live comfortably in Fort Lauderdale, Florida?
According to figures from the MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, to live comfortably in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a single adult would need to earn at least $49,900 annually before taxes. For a family with two working adults and two children, the required annual income rises to approximately $110,313.
What are some good suburbs to live near Fort Lauderdale?
- Dania Beach is a charming community just five miles south of Fort Lauderdale. It features a beach, fishing pier, and a plethora of gorgeous parks and green spaces. The city is part of the Broward County Public Schools system and provides a range of recreational programs for youth and families. Median home value in Dania Beach is $343,344, which is relatively affordable.
- Davie offers a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience. It boasts numerous parks, trails, and green spaces. The town houses several prestigious educational institutions and has a diverse housing market with options for all budgets. The average home price is around $535,464.
- Plantation is known for its palm trees, lush greenery and well-maintained parks. It offers a suburban feel with proximity to Fort Lauderdale, making it convenient for commuting. The median home price in Plantation is about $524,019, and the area is popular among families for its excellent schools and outdoor amenities.
Should I move to Miami or Fort Lauderdale?
Deciding whether to move to Miami or Fort Lauderdale requires extensive research and will ultimately depend on what you’re looking for in your new hometown. Let’s explore the topic more deeply to help you make up your mind.
Miami
Miami is a bustling city known for its world-class nightlife, cultural diversity, and beautiful beaches. It’s also a major hub for international business and finance, offering plenty of job opportunities for people in all sorts of career paths. The art scene in Magic City is also flourishing, with events like Art Basel and numerous galleries and museums. However, Miami’s cost of living is higher, with median home prices around $581,538, and the city can get pretty busy and hectic in certain areas.
Fort Lauderdale
On the other hand, Fort Lauderdale offers a more laid-back vibe with its picturesque canals and well-deserved reputation as the “Venice of America.” It’s known for its slower pace of life, paired with great dining and entertainment options, particularly along Las Olas Boulevard. Fort Lauderdale is also generally more affordable than Miami, with median home prices around $529,097, and offers easier access to beautiful, less crowded beaches. Plus, it’s a bit less congested compared to Miami, making it a breeze to get around.
Why is Fort Lauderdale so popular?
Fort Lauderdale is famous for its extensive network of over 300 miles of navigable waterways, earning it the nickname “Venice of America,” which attracts boating enthusiasts and those who enjoy waterfront living.
The city’s 23 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and lively Las Olas Boulevard with shops, restaurants, and nightclubs contribute to its appeal.
Furthermore, Fort Lauderdale hosts major annual community events like the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, offering a lively yet relaxed lifestyle with a lower cost of living and less traffic congestion than other cities in South Florida.
How far is Fort Lauderdale from Pompano Beach?
Fort Lauderdale is approximately 11 miles (18 kilometers) south of Pompano Beach, making it a quick and convenient drive of about 14 minutes via I-95 S. This short distance allows locals and tourists to easily commute between the two cities.
Living in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale is a great place to live if you want access to beaches, boating, and restaurants. The city has a tropical climate and a higher-than-average cost of living. Don’t let that deter you from your dream of a Florida waterfront lifestyle. No matter your budget or lifestyle, one of Fort Lauderdale’s exclusive neighborhoods is for you.