Best Place to Live in South Florida

Ready to call South Florida your new home? Awesome! Now, the fun part begins: deciding where you’ll live. South Florida has it all—from peaceful countryside spots to hip urban areas and relaxing beach communities. But what’s the best place to live in South Florida? There’s even a perfect spot for families with kids!

Which area suits you best? Don’t worry; we’ve got your back! We’ve searched high and low to list the best places you can make your home in sunny South Florida.

Here’s the thing: South Florida is big and full of choices. For instance, Miami-Dade has 34 cities, Broward boasts 24, and Palm Beach offers 39. Each of these cities has its own smaller sections, known as neighborhoods. So, finding the best place to live in South Florida can be a lot to pick from!

Got kiddos? Pay attention! Every county is like one giant school zone. But, the school your children go to changes based on your neighborhood. So, it’s super important to know which schools are where especially if you’re looking for the best place to live in South Florida for schools.

South Florida Neighborhoods

In South Florida, there’s a neighborhood to suit every lifestyle. If the beach and vibrant nightlife are your calling, South Beach could be your perfect home. With such a wide array of unique neighborhoods, South Florida truly offers something for everyone.

Coral Gables

• Unique Feature: Known for its Mediterranean-style architecture.
• Why Live Here: Great schools, upscale dining, and boutique shopping.

Coconut Grove

• Unique Feature: Offers a bohemian atmosphere with lush greenery.
• Why Live Here: Ideal for those who love the arts and outdoor activities like sailing.

Brickell

• Unique Feature: Miami’s financial center is filled with modern skyscrapers.
• Why Live Here: Perfect for young professionals who want to be close to work and nightlife.

South Beach

• Unique Feature: Famous for its vibrant nightlife and iconic art deco architecture.
• Why Live Here: Best for those who want a bustling, energetic lifestyle near the beach.

Weston

• Unique Feature: One of the safest neighborhoods, great for families.
• Why Live Here: Top-rated schools, family-friendly activities, and beautiful parks.

Boca Raton

• Unique Feature: Known for its upscale amenities and luxury lifestyle.
• Why Live Here: High-end shopping, gourmet dining, and a range of golf courses.

Delray Beach

• Unique Feature: Offers a small-town vibe with a mix of modern and historical elements.
• Why Live Here: Ideal for retirees and those looking for a relaxed atmosphere.

Each of these neighborhoods offers its unique lifestyle, making South Florida a diverse and attractive place to live. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or a retiree, there’s a neighborhood in South Florida that will feel like home.

Cost of Living in South Florida

Average Cost of Living

The average cost of living in South Florida can be higher than the U.S. national average, especially in more upscale neighborhoods. Essentials like housing, groceries, and transportation all play a role.

By Area

Coral Gables

• Cost: High
• Why: High property values and upscale amenities.

Coconut Grove

• Cost: Moderate to High
• Why: The cost varies depending on proximity to the waterfront and dining areas.

Brickell

• Cost: High
• Why: Located in the financial district, with high rent and dining costs.

South Beach

• Cost: High
• Why: Tourist-centric area, high costs for entertainment and dining.

Weston

• Cost: Moderate
• Why: Family-oriented community, more reasonable housing costs.

Boca Raton

• Cost: High
• Why: Luxury lifestyle with high-end amenities.

Delray Beach

• Cost: Moderate
• Why: More affordable for retirees, less commercialized.

The cost of living in South Florida varies significantly based on the area. Upscale neighborhoods like Coral Gables, Brickell, and Boca Raton tend to be more expensive.

South Florida Real Estate

What Kinds of Homes Can You Find?

1. Houses: You can find all kinds of houses, from small ones to big, fancy ones.
2. Condos: These are like apartments that you can buy. They are common near the beach and in the city.
3. Townhouses: These are homes that share walls with other homes. You’ll find them in places good for families.
4. Places for Older People: Some areas have special homes for people who are retired.
5. Renting: If you need more time to be ready to buy, there are lots of places you can rent.

What’s Going On in the Home Market Now?

1. Prices Going Up: The cost of homes is getting higher, especially in popular places.
2. Lots of People Want to Buy: Homes near the beach or in busy areas sell fast.
3. New Homes Being Built: In some areas, they are building new homes and condos.
4. Good for Investing: Some people buy homes to rent them out for a short time, like for vacations.

Best Places for Families in South Florida

Weston

Why Kids and Parents Love It

Weston is a safe place with many parks. Kids can play a lot here.

Schools

Schools in Weston are really good. They are some of the best in Florida.

Fun Places

Weston has a community center. It has art classes and sports for kids.

Coral Gables

Why Kids and Parents Love It

Coral Gables is pretty and fun. It has movie nights outside for families.

Schools

Schools here are excellent. They win many awards.

Fun Places

The Venetian Pool is amazing. It has waterfalls and looks like a lagoon.

Coconut Grove

Why Kids and Parents Love It

Coconut Grove is near the water and has fun art things to do.

Schools

The schools here have art and sports. Kids can do many things.

Fun Places

There’s a big art festival that families love. You can also go boating.

Parkland

Why Kids and Parents Love It

Parkland is quiet and safe. It has lots of green places to play.

Schools

Schools in Parkland are great and safe.

Fun Places

Parkland is good for hiking and picnics. There are big parks for family fun.

So, if you have a family and want to live in South Florida, these are the best places. You can find good schools and fun things to do in all of them.

South Florida school districts

Weston Schools

How Good Are They? Weston schools are some of the best in Florida. They get really good grades.

Coral Gables Schools

How Good Are They? Coral Gables schools win lots of awards. Kids learn a lot here.

Coconut Grove Schools

How Good Are They? Schools in Coconut Grove have art and sports. Kids can do many fun things.

Parkland Schools

How Good Are They? Parkland schools are safe and get good grades. 

Boca Raton Schools

How Good Are They? Boca Raton has many good schools. They focus on reading and math.

Delray Beach Schools

How Good Are They? Schools in Delray Beach are friendly and safe. They have fun events for kids.

So, no matter where you live in South Florida, you can find good schools. Some places like Weston and Coral Gables have really great schools. Others like Parkland and Boca Raton are also good and safe for kids.

South Florida Job Market

Jobs That Are Growing Fast

1. Tourism: Lots of people come to visit. It means jobs in hotels and restaurants.
2. Health Care: There are many hospitals and clinics. They always need more helpers.
3. Tech: Companies that work with computers are growing here.
4. Building: Many new homes and buildings are going up. So, people who can build are needed.

Jobs in Different Places

1. Miami: Miami has lots of jobs in tourism and tech.
2. Fort Lauderdale: This place is good for healthcare jobs.
3. West Palm Beach: Many building jobs are here because new homes are being built.
4. Boca Raton: This place has many offices. So, there are jobs in business.

If you’re looking for a job, South Florida has many choices. Whether you want to work in a hotel, a hospital, or an office, you can find a job that’s right for you.

Places for Older People in South Florida

Best Spots for Older People

1. Boca Raton: This place is peaceful and has lots of things for older people to do.
2. Delray Beach: It’s close to the water and is a good place to relax.
3. Naples: This town is quiet and has many places to walk and enjoy nature.
4. Sarasota: It has beautiful beaches, and many older people like living here.

Fun Things to Do

1. Golf: Many places have golf courses just for older people.
2. Art Classes: Some towns offer art classes that are easy and fun.
3. Boat Tours: You can see dolphins and other cool things.

Health Care

1. Doctors: All these places have good doctors and hospitals nearby.
2. Clinics: There are special health places just for older people.
3. Exercise: Many towns have exercise classes to keep you healthy.

• If you’re older and thinking about where to live in South Florida, these places are great. You can enjoy the beach, play golf, or take an art class. And don’t worry about health care; there are plenty of good doctors and clinics.

Homes by the Beach in South Florida

Why Living by the Beach is Awesome

1. The View: You can see the ocean every day!
2. Fun: The beach is like your big sandbox. You can play anytime.
3. Relax: The sound of the waves can make you feel calm.

Good Things About Beach Homes

1. Always Something to Do: You can swim, build sandcastles, or walk on the beach.
2. Good for Health: Fresh air and sunshine are good for you.

Not-So-Good Things

1. Pricey: Homes by the beach can cost a lot of money.
2. Crowds: Lots of people like the beach, so that it can get busy.
3. Weather: Sometimes, big storms come and can be scary.

Living by the beach in South Florida is like a dream for many people. You can have lots of fun and relax, but you should know it can be expensive and sometimes crowded. But for many, the good things make it all worth it.

Buses and Trains in South Florida

Ways to Get Around

1. Buses: Buses go all around the city. They stop at many places.
2. Trains: The train is fast and can take you to far places quickly.
3. Trolleys: These are like small buses. They go around certain areas.
4. Boats: Some places have boats that can take you across the water.

Good Things About Public Transport

1. No Need for a Car: You don’t have to buy a car to get around.
2. Easy: Hop on and go where you need to.
3. Cheap: It costs little money to use.

Things to Remember

1. Schedules: Buses and trains have times they come and go. So, you need to check.
2. Busy Times: Sometimes they get really full, like in the morning and evening.

South Florida has many ways to get around without a car. You can take a bus, a train, a trolley, or even a boat. It’s usually easy and cheap, but make sure to check the times so you can take advantage of your ride.

Staying Safe in South Florida

How Safe Are Places?

1. Weston: Very safe. It’s one of the safest cities in Florida.
2. Coral Gables: Mostly safe, especially near the schools and parks.
3. Miami: Be careful. Some parts are safe, but not all.
4. Fort Lauderdale: It’s safe in most areas, but always be aware.

What to Do

1. Be Careful: Always look around and be aware of what’s happening.
2. Stay in Groups: It’s safer to be with other people.

Fun Things to Do in South Florida

Sports to Play

1. Soccer: Many parks have soccer fields.
2. Basketball: You can find courts in many places.
3. Swimming: There are public pools and, of course, the beach!

Hobbies and Other Fun

1. Fishing: You can fish at the beach or on a boat.
2. Arts and Crafts: Some community centers offer classes.
3. Movies: Enjoy a movie at one of the many theaters.

Cool Places to Learn and Have Fun in South Florida

Museums

1. Science Museum: Learn about space, animals, and more.
2. Art Museum: See beautiful paintings and sculptures.
3. History Museum: Find out about old times and how people lived.

Theaters

1. Movie Theaters: Watch the newest movies on a big screen.
2. Play Theaters: See people act out stories on stage.

Places Full of Culture

1. Little Havana: This area has lots of music and food from Cuba.
2. Chinatown: Here you can see cool things from China.
3. Music Festivals: Enjoy music from all over the world.

South Florida has many places where you can learn and have fun. You can visit museums to learn about art, science, and history. You can also go to theaters to watch movies or see plays. And remember places like Little Havana and Chinatown, where you can learn about other cultures.

Nice Things in South Florida

Shopping

1. Malls: Big places with lots of stores to buy clothes, toys, and more.
2. Farmers Markets: Places where you can buy fresh fruits and veggies.

Eating Out

1. Fast Food: Quick and easy places to get a burger or chicken.
2. Nice Restaurants: Places where the food is really good but may cost more.
3. Food Trucks: Trucks that sell tasty food like tacos and ice cream.

Other Helpful Places

1. Libraries: You can borrow books and use computers.
2. Parks: Lots of open space to run and play.
3. Pet Stores: Places to get things for your dog or cat.

South Florida has all you need to have a good life. You can shop at big malls or small markets.

Weather in South Florida

What’s the Weather Like?

1. Sunny: It’s sunny most days, so you’ll see lots of sunshine.
2. Hot: It can get really hot, especially in the summer.
3. Rainy: Sometimes it rains a lot, but it usually doesn’t last long.

How Weather Changes Your Choices

1. Beach Days: If you like the beach, the sunny days are perfect for you.
2. Stay Cool: Because it’s hot, you might want a home with a pool.
3. Rainy Days: If you don’t like rain, think about indoor things to do.

In South Florida, you’ll find a lot of sunny and hot days. But remember, it can rain too. The weather might make you want to live close to the beach or have a pool at home. 

Fun Outside Things in South Florida

Beach Fun

1. Swimming: The ocean is great for a swim.
2. Sandcastles: You can build your castle in the sand.
3. Frisbee: Play catch with a frisbee on the beach.

Hiking and Nature

1. Trails: Walk or bike on paths in the woods.
2. Birdwatching: Look for different kinds of birds in the parks.
3. Camping: Some parks let you stay overnight in a tent.

More Outside Fun

1. Fishing: Catch fish from a pier or a boat.
2. Boating: You can rent a boat for the day.
3. Golf: Some places have mini-golf or big golf courses.

You can have beach days or go hiking. If you like animals, birdwatching is fun too.

Conclusion: Best Place to Live in South Florida

Things to Think About

1. Safety: Pick a place where you and your family feel safe.
2. Fun: Make sure there’s a lot to do, like parks or beaches.
3. Schools: If you have kids, good schools are very important.
4. Jobs: Look for places that have the kind of work you like.
5. Weather: Think about if you like hot, sunny days or want a pool.
6. Cost: Some places cost more to live in than others.

Come and See!

South Florida has many cool places. Each place has something special. The best way to know where you want to live is to come and see for yourself!

More Help

If you want more information, you can look at:

1. Real Estate Websites: To find homes to live in.
2. Government Websites: For safety and school info.
3. Travel Blogs: To learn about fun things to do.

South Florida has a spot for everyone. Whether you like the beach, want good schools, or need a job, you can find it here. So visit and find your perfect place!