10 Best Places to Live in South Florida in 2022
Published February 4, 2022
With its tropical climate, breathtaking views, and diverse culture, South Florida is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in the USA.
So if you’re considering the southern tip of the Sunshine State as your next stomping ground, you’re making one of the best decisions in your life. Just imagine waking up to glorious morning sunshine, azure blue waters, and gently swaying palm trees. Sounds like the tropical dream, right?
But South Florida covers a total area of more than 50,000 square kilometers. That’s about twice the size of Massachusetts. With that, choosing the best place to live in South Florida can be a challenge.
No worries. That’s what this post is about. Here are some of the best places to live in South Florida:
1. Birch Park (Finger Streets)
Population: 1, 173
Voted as the best neighborhood to raise a family in Fort Lauderdale, Birch Park (Finger Streets) definitely deserves a spot on this list.
The west side of the neighborhood borders on state parks and affords a great view of Long Lake. While the east side looks out onto the gorgeous Fort Lauderdale Beach. It’s also close to shopping areas, bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and offers decent nightlife.
With those perks, it’s not really a surprise that housing costs in the area are three times that of the national average. Though goods and services, as well as health care and transportation, costs nearly the same as in most of the country.
2. Brickell
Population: 17,991
If you’re looking for a posh urban vibe, Brickell is the place to be. This community is considered to be the “Wall Street of Miami” and one of the largest financial districts in the US. And with the construction of lavish mansions along Brickell Avenue, it’s quickly growing to be Miami’s very own “millionaire’s row”.
With most of your neighbors being millionaires, living in Brickell isn’t cheap. In fact, it’s one of the most expensive places to live in urban Miami. A one bedroom apartment can set you back about $3,000 a month. While the median prices for homes start at $600,000.
3. Bal Harbour
Population: 2,897
If luxurious living is your thing but don’t really care much for the hustle and bustle of the metro, then you’ll fit right in at Bal Harbour.
This high-end resort community is home to some of the most luxurious oceanfront hotels, resorts, and shopping centers. With its manicured roadways and elegant homes dotting the pristine landscape, it’s a tropical haven unlike any other.
4. Weston
Population: 68,305
One of the largest cities in Broward County, Florida, Weston is one of the best places to live in South Florida if you’re raising a family.
Because of its strategic location, the city has direct access to Miami, Naples, and Fort Lauderdale. The ever-famous Everglades also borders almost the entire western part of the city.
With almost half of the residents being immigrants, you can expect a culturally-diverse neighborhood. Weston is also home to several A-rated public and private schools. And if you’re concerned about safety, fear not. The city also boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Broward County.
5. Pinecrest
Population: 18,388
If you’re into green living, Pinecrest is perfect for you. Incorporated in 1996, Pinecrest is a picturesque suburban village in Miami-Dade County. The village boasts of various recognitions such as:
- Playful City USA
- Tree City USA
- Community of Respect
It was also recognized in 2011 as one of the best places to live in Florida for “quality of life”. And if you own an electric car, the village also has several electric vehicle charging stations.
6. Edgewater
Population: 23,324
Located alongside the Indian River, Edgewater is definitely a haven for nature lovers who love to explore the outdoors. Its strategic location gives Edgewater residents a frontrow seat at one of the most biologically-diverse body of water in the USA.
As you can imagine, fishing is one of the most popular recreational activities in the community. On a fine day, you may even chance upon a redfish or large speckled trouts.
7. Riviera Isles
Population: 3,392
If you’re dreaming of living in a waterfront home with boatdocks and an unhampered access to the Atlantic Ocean, you may just find your dream home in Riviera Isles.
This small neighborhood of short isles south of Sunset Lake might have some of the most expensive homes in South Florida. But it also has one of the most stunning views. I mean, you can literally see the Atlantic Ocean from your lawn. What could be better than that? It’s small wonder why it’s one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in this side of the country.
8. Dolphin Isles
Population: 3,056
Dolphin Isles is an upscale neighborhood nestled on a barrier island in the eastern side of Fort Lauderdale. Most of the residents live in luxurious mansions and waterfront homes that feature deep water dockage and stunning ocean views.
Despite being on a barrier island, you can still enjoy the comforts of urban life any time you want. The community is just a stone’s throw away from restaurants, coffee shops, shopping malls, and museums. Even the Fort Lauderdale International Airport is just a few minutes away.
9. Laudergate Isles
Population: 495
With a population of less than 500 people, Laudergate Isles is one of the least populated neighborhoods in this list. Plus, less than 20% of families have children. So if you’re looking for a peaceful and quite place to spend your days without, this is it.
The neighborhood is also close to several public parks, shopping centers, coffee shops, and several local businesses. This makes it perfect for people who aren’t too keen on driving for miles just to get their groceries.
10. Palm Beach Gardens
Population: 56,219
Not to be confused with the nearby island of Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens is a city in the mainland that centers on the PGA Boulevard. Unlike its more affluent namesake, Palm Beach Gardens is a tad less luxurious. Though, it’s a hub for shopping and dining with large malls and several shopping centers. It also has a golf course, tennis centers, and recreation centers. A “Greenmarket” is also held every Sunday where you can find fresh produce, homemade pastries, flowers, dairy, handmade crafts, and more.
Thinking Of Moving To South Florida?
Contact our South Florida realtors today to explore real estate and discuss your funding options. Licensed realtors are ready to help you find homes that fit your budget in Miami, Boca Raton, and beyond. Curious about what’s availble? Search real estate on our website and contact us if you want to book a viewing.
About The Author
Judy Ponio is a professional writer and SEO specialist. She works hard to ensure her work uses accurate facts by cross checking reputable sources. She is the lead author for several prominent websites covering a variety of topics including law, health, nutrition, and more.
