Best places to live near fort lauderdale

Considering living in Fort Lauderdale but not sure where to live? Check out our analysis of some of the best neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale:

1. Coral Ridge

Coral Ridge is an upscale eastern Fort Lauderdale neighborhood offering enviable amenities to residents. The southern region of  Coral Ridge boasts some of the best public and private schools in the county. The northern region embodies a country club lifestyle with nearby access to the renowned golf course and tennis facilities. Coral Ridge offers residents the convenience of suburban life, all set against the beauty of Fort Lauderdale’s beaches and waterways. 

Lifestyle & Culture

Much of the Coral Ridge community revolves around the social activities of golfing, tennis, and boating. The neighborhood radiates an atmosphere of the utmost class and approachable elegance.      

The Coral Ridge Country Club has been a mainstay in the Coral Ridge neighborhood for almost seventy years. Featuring an expertly designed 18-hole golf course, eleven clay tennis courts, a pool, and summer youth programs, there is something for everyone. The country club holds numerous social events throughout the year for the entire family, from a holiday skating rink with snow to a delectable Mother’s Day brunch. 

For boat and yacht enthusiasts, the Coral Ridge Yacht Club is a popular spot for people of all ages to share their love of the surrounding Florida waters. Established in 1947, the club has fostered a sense of friendship and fun amongst its members. In addition to providing a private marina and a pool for members, the club hosts family-centered holiday events and sailing and watersports programs for all ages. 

Real Estate

Coral Ridge is made up of a mixture of home types, including stunning contemporary waterfront estates, attractive single-family residences, senior communities, ocean view condominiums, and townhomes. A variety of home styles are represented throughout the community, including traditional, Meditteranean, modern contemporary, and beach bungalow style. 

The Enclave is a new, gated community connected to the prestigious Coral Ridge Country Club. Home lots are available for custom builds, and the sites promise spectacular golf course adjacent views and the chance to be a part of the distinguished Coral Ridge Country Club community. 

2. Colee Hammock

Established in 1916, Colee Hammock is a neighborhood steeped in rich history, exuding a spirit of Southern charm and community. Located in east Fort Lauderdale, Colee Hammock is one of the area’s oldest neighborhoods, filled with historic homes and sweeping oak trees. The Colee in Colee Hammock’s name is a tribute to the engineer, James Loius Colee, who platted the land for future residences. The Hammock refers to the hammock-style canopy that the beautiful trees create throughout the area. 

Lifestyle & Culture

Colee Hammock is a laid-back, yet refined neighborhood tucked away from the city center of Fort Lauderdale. Residents can be seen walking along the tree-lined sidewalks headed to a night out or weekend brunch on Las Olas Boulevard. The community shares a deep respect for the area’s history and architecture, working to preserve historic buildings while supporting new locally owned boutiques and eateries. 

At the heart of the community is Las Olas Boulevard, the focal point for community events, including art and music festivals, fairs, and holiday happenings. Diverse restaurants for every palate line the boulevard, interspersed with eclectic retail shops, galleries, and exercise studios. 

Colee Hammock Park is a local favorite, offering ample green space and picnic tables for a serene afternoon. The park is the perfect spot to watch the boats drift down the river, birdwatch, fish, or just enjoy the shade of the rambling oak trees. A trip to the nearby white-sand beaches is within walking distance or even a quick ride on the local trolley. 

Real Estate

The Colee Hammock area is renowned for its concentration of meticulously restored and maintained historic homes. Wrap-around porches and balconies, pillared entries, spacious yards, and unique architectural styles including Spanish, Modern Contemporary, and Southern-styles are all represented. Mature oak trees shade the sidewalks and streets, reminiscent of a simpler time but with modern conveniences and businesses just minutes away. 

The area offers a diverse mix of home types, including waterfront mansions along the New River to luxury condominiums on Las Olas Boulevard. Whether seeking a sleek, coastal modern property, posh condominium, or quaint historic residence, Colee Hammock has it all. 

3. Victoria Park

Victoria Park is a hidden gem of a neighborhood located in east Fort Lauderdale and centrally located to major interstates, the beach, and all the best dining and entertainment venues in Fort Lauderdale. Established in the early 1900s, many of the homes in the Victoria Park area are historic and reflect the charm and quaintness of old Florida. The neighborhood’s small-town yet hip feel has attracted a diverse mix of residents.

Lifestyle & Culture

With over 95 acres dedicated to parks, Victoria Park is teeming with outdoor activities and art and cultural events. The area is highly walkable, with Fort Lauderdale beach only a mile away and a myriad of stores, restaurants, and coffee shops all within walking distance. 

A favorite spot for the community is the expansive recreational center, Holiday Park. The massive park includes basketball courts, tennis courts, squash courts, pickleball courts, volleyball courts, baseball and soccer fields, a roller hockey rink, and beautiful walking and biking trails to explore. Summer concerts are a regular occurrence, along with a variety of enrichment classes, including tai chi and martial arts. 

Victoria Park boasts a vibrant art and cultural scene and is home to the Parker Playhouse, a venue that has hosted numerous Broadway names over the last 50 years. Concerts, comedians, and plays can all be enjoyed here in the heart of Victoria Park. 

Real Estate

Victoria Park is the home to several historic residences that have been lovingly restored. While many homes were built as early as the 1930s, recent development includes new townhomes and condominium communities as well. Home styles vary from the characteristic Spanish style to Mediterranean and mid-century to traditional and contemporary. 

Waterfront homes are not hard to find, and many have private docks for homeowner’s boats and easy access to the surrounding canals. Lush landscaping abounds in the yards and streets, including mature canopy oak and mahogany trees that provide shade and beauty throughout the peaceful neighborhood. 

4. Rio Vista

The Rio Vista neighborhood is an affluent community with deep roots in Fort Lauderdale’s history. The land was purchased from Mary Brickell and developed by C.J. Hector in the early 1900s. C.J. Hector dubbed the area “Rio Vista,” meaning “river view” in Spanish. By the 1920s, the neighborhood was bustling with new sidewalks and homes popping up. Some of these original homes are still standing in the community alongside elegant, modern estates along the waterfront. 

Lifestyle & Amenities

Located south of downtown Fort Lauderdale, the neighborhood exudes an ambiance of refinement mixed with a strong sense of community centered around the popular pastimes of yachting and boating while working to preserve the area’s serenity and history. Rio Vista has a resort-like vibe as residents can be seen walking to restaurants, taking the golf cart out on errands, and hopping on a water taxi for a shopping trip on Las Olas Boulevard. 

As a waterfront community with unobstructed access to the ocean, boating and yachting are common hobbies amongst residents. Established in 1938, The Lauderdale Yacht Club is the hub for neighborhood social events and recreation. Members can enjoy private marina access, sailing lessons for all ages, tennis courts and tournaments, a fitness center, a full restaurant, and an extensive calendar of social events throughout the year. 

Smoker Family Park is a popular spot for residents to walk to for a peaceful afternoon. The park has gorgeous shade trees and views of the river, downtown Fort Lauderdale, and the historic Stranahan House across the water. 

Real Estate

The Rio Vista neighborhood is full of single-family homes that range in style, including stately Meditteranean and Spanish, Key West, and modern contemporary. Some of the area’s original historic homes still stand and have been lovingly revitalized to their original character. Mature trees act as a canopy throughout the area, providing shade and adding to the neighborhood’s old Florida charm. 

Waterfront homes are plentiful in Rio Vista and include private docks with deep enough waters for large yachts and boats. Oversize lots are standard in the neighborhood, and many homes feature expansive pools and lush landscaping. 

5. Las Olas Isles

Las Olas Isles is recognized as one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale. Palatial waterfront mansions and opulent yachts are regular sights in this prestigious area. Offering residents unobstructed access to the Atlantic Ocean in an ultra-private locale, Las Olas Isles attracts some of Fort Lauderdale’s elite and wealthy. 

Lifestyle & Culture

Las Olas Isles is a yacht and boat lovers paradise, and the path to the ocean is just ten minutes away by boat from the heart of the community. Some restaurants along the New River have docks for boat parking, allowing residents to drive their boat to dinner rather than their car. 

Las Olas Beach is a serene, less crowded section of Fort Lauderdale Beach that offers clear blue waters and swaying palm trees. Nearby are numerous coffee shops, bars, and restaurants to choose from. The soft sands and picturesque ocean views are all within walking distance from the Las Olas Isles neighborhood. 

Las Olas Boulevard is a hot spot for the community and is just a short walk away from the Las Olas Isles neighborhood. Fine and casual dining options are limitless, from sushi to Thai and everything in between. Luxury boutiques, eclectic art galleries, and health and wellness businesses line the boulevard. A variety of events, including food and wine festivals, art shows, and musical and dance performances, keep the area buzzing year-round. 

Real Estate

Real estate in Las Olas Isles is some of the most coveted in the Fort Lauderdale region. The isle consists of luxury waterfront estates and a handful of upscale condominiums. Almost all residents enjoy convenient access to the waterways, and most homes have private docks with deep enough waters for luxury yachts. 

The work of renowned architects features Meditteranean, Spanish, and modern contemporary styles throughout Las Olas Isles. Lush tropical landscaping, impressive gated entries, expansive pools, and the finest of imported building materials are just a few of the features gracing these properties. 

6. Imperial Point

The cozy neighborhood of Imperial Point is nestled in northeastern Fort Lauderdale. Homes first began to pop up in the 1960s, and the area originally attracted retirees seeking warm weather and a close-knit, safe community. The neighborhood has continued to expand and diversify, enticing people of all ages. Imperial Point is known for its active residents, beautiful parks, low crime rates, highly rated schools, and affordable housing options. 

Lifestyle & Culture

The Imperial Point neighborhood puts on a variety of events to involve its residents, including annual car shows, Harvest Festivals, Spring Flings, 5k’s, and community-wide yard sales. In addition to annual events, community members strive to promote safe, walkable streets and to maintain clean and inviting outdoor spaces. 

Dottie Mancini Park is one of the area’s inviting parks and is located adjacent to the esteemed Broward Health Imperial Point Hospital. The park is named after the former nurse and CEO of the hospital as a tribute to her many years of service. The park is full of activities for every member of the family including a basketball court, walking trails, shaded playground, picnic tables, and ample green space for a relaxing afternoon. 

Imperial Point’s central location provides convenient access to local beaches and waterways for boating, yachting, and watersports. A variety of locally-owned restaurants, from bakeries to sushi to Thai food and juice bars, line area all nearby.  

The Broward Health Imperial Point Hospital is a renowned teaching hospital in the community, offering convenient access to residents and quality care. Serving the community for over 40 years, the hospital continues to innovate and provide state-of-the-art treatments to patients.

Real Estate

Homes in Imperial Point primarily consist of affordable, single-family residences, stunning waterfront properties, condominium communities, townhomes, and senior communities. Many of the single-family residences are single-story, built during the 1960s, and have since been renovated into lovely coastal properties. Palms and mature trees line the streets and front yards throughout the quaint neighborhoods. 

Waterfront homes line the canals with easy access out into the Atlantic Ocean. Home elevations feature a variety of styles from contemporary modern, mid-century, traditional, and Meditteranean.

7. Tarpon River

Tarpon River is a neighborhood adjacent to the central business district of Fort Lauderdale. It is aptly named after the Tarpon River that runs along the area’s border, feeding into the New River. The neighborhood is perfectly located just minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale but provides a pleasant suburban atmosphere.

Lifestyle & Culture

The Tarpon River community is made up of active residents, taking full advantage of the outdoor amenities the neighborhood has to offer. While being a haven from the urban city center, Tarpon River still has all the conveniences, shops, and services of a bustling suburban area. 

Outdoor recreation is a big focus for Tarpon River residents, making the Florence C. Hardy Park and Southside Cultural Arts Center popular spots. The center recently went through a $15 million renovation and spans almost eight acres. Tennis courts, lawn bowling, shaded play structures, a soccer field, and a performing arts area are all available for the community to enjoy. 

Another hot spot for locals is Lewis Landing Park. With meandering walking paths and picnic tables, residents can take in stunning views of the New Fork River. For fishing enthusiasts, nearby Tarpon Cove Park is the perfect spot to hook a fish on the Tarpon River. 

Tarpon River Brewery is a mainstay in the neighborhood where family and friends get together. Local craft brews are always on tap, and the gastropub features a unique menu filled with foods that pair perfectly with a pint. 

Real Estate

Tarpon River has a vast variety of real estate options, including waterfront residences, close-knit condominium communities, townhomes, and interior lot single-family residences. Most single-family homes in the area were built in the 1950s and 1960s with a mix of architectural styles, including mid-century and Meditteranean exterior elevations. 

Condominiums and townhomes are also plentiful in the neighborhood, with some waterfront communities even featuring properties that include docks. Riverfront single-family homes also often include docks, perfect for launching off into the New River for a day of fishing and enjoying the Florida sunshine. Lush landscaping, including palm trees and mature oak trees, are present in front yards and lining the residential streets throughout the Tarpon River neighborhood. 

8. Harbor Beach

Harbor Beach is a prestigious community located within the southernmost part of a barrier island in Fort Lauderdale. Lake Sylvia is at the center of the neighborhood, and the area is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Intercoastal Waterways on the west. Entry to the neighborhood is via a gate that is guarded 24/7, providing residents with the utmost security and privacy. Those seeking a resort-style, luxury community will find what they are looking for in Harbor Beach. 

Lifestyle & Culture

Much of life on Harbor Beach revolves around enjoying the beach, including watersports, boating, and socializing with family and friends in an affluent resort community. The neighborhood is a truly luxurious tropical enclave but still in close proximity to all the conveniences of downtown Fort Lauderdale. 

The Club at Harbor Beach is a part of the luxurious Harbor Beach Marriott Resort and Spa. The club provides an upscale, members-only gathering place for residents providing access to a private beach and amenities including tennis courts, high-end fitness center, kid’s activities, a European-style spa, water sports, and year-round social events. 

The Harbor Beach Surf Club is another exclusive beach club offering members private beach and marina access along with numerous social events. The club was established in 1942 and has since been a tropical haven for members seeking the tranquility of the beach and ocean away from crowds. 

Real Estate

Real estate in Harbor Beach is reflective of the exclusivity of the neighborhood. Waterfront Meditteranean and contemporary style mansions line the shores. Many of these estates include private docks with deep enough waters to accommodate speed boats and posh yachts. Harbor Beach also offers stunning dry lot properties within walking distance from the beach and Lake Sylvia. 

There are a number of luxury condominiums in Harbor Beach, some boasting private beaches and pools for residents. Beautiful sunset views and glimpses of downtown Fort Lauderdale can be caught from these exceptional properties in Harbor Beach. 

9. Sailboat Bend

Sailboat Bend is a community that offers something for everyone. The area lays claim to the only designated historic district in all of Fort Lauderdale, with many homes being built between the 1920s to 1930s. In the neighborhood’s early days, it consisted of working-class families in the trades of carpentry and masonry. Today it is a revitalized semi-urban neighborhood for all walks of life with a beautiful mix of waterfront homes, townhomes, condominiums, and cozy bungalows. 

Lifestyle & Amenities

Sailboat Bend brings the best of both suburbia and urban living to residents. Located close to all of the happenings of downtown Fort Lauderdale, the neighborhood also offers pockets of peaceful, suburban living and waterfront views. 

Beginning in the community of Sailboat Bend is Fort Lauderdale’s acclaimed Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District. Hailed as “Florida’s Most Beautiful Mile”, the Riverwalk stretches for one mile along the New River and is a conglomeration of bars, restaurants, boutiques,  a movie theatre, public art installations, parks, and gazebos. It is a trendy spot for residents to gather for a night out on the town or to enjoy a morning jog along the river. 

Sailboat Bend Preserve is a slice of nature that transports visitors into a hidden garden filled with native plants, trees, and butterflies. Considered a pocket park, the area is small but a true respite for residents away from the hustle and bustle of life. The city has future plans for additional ecological preservation within the area. 

Real Estate

The Sailboat Bend neighborhood has a wide array of real estate options meeting residents’ needs. Offering luxury waterfront homes, affordable single-family residences, senior communities, townhomes, luxury mid-rise condos, and quaint bungalow-style cottages, Sailboat Bend caters to all walks of life. 

Within Sailboat Bend’s designated historic district, Craftsman and traditional style cottages can still be found, restored to their original charm. Waterfront homes provide stunning views of the New River and water deep enough to accommodate private docks for yachts and boats.  

10. Lauderdale Isles

The Lauderdale Isles neighborhood is an enclave of thirteen small finger isles in South Fort Lauderdale on canals feeding into the New River. It is a close-knit community filled with people of all ages who appreciate a casual waterfront lifestyle close to all Fort Lauderdale’s major thoroughfares and hotspots, the airport, and the bustling cruise ship hub of Port Everglades.

Lifestyle & Culture

Lauderdale Isles residents put an emphasis on growing a strong neighborly community while coming together for local events. The Lauderdale Isles Yacht Club has had a strong presence within the community since 1953. The club serves to support the pastime of yachting and boating while promoting a sense of camaraderie amongst its members. Since 2018 the club has been mobile, rotating its meetings and events at different locations throughout the area. 

Less than ten minutes away is the Fort Lauderdale Country Club, established in 1926 and an integral part of the city’s history. The club features two challenging, meticulously manicured golf courses, exceptional indoor and outdoor dining venues, and numerous holiday events.

Just a few minutes away is the Secret Woods Nature Center, a peaceful preserve with meandering nature trails and a butterfly garden. Adults and children alike can take part in the numerous educational classes and events that the center facilitates year-round to learn about Florida’s unique flora and fauna. 

Real Estate

The Lauderdale Isles area offers more affordable real estate options than some of the other waterfront communities in Fort Lauderdale, making the area highly attainable and attractive to homeowners. Inviting single-family homes are typically single-story with a mix of styles, including mid-century and contemporary. 

Waterfront homes are plentiful and are equipped with private docks for boats. Launching areas are also strategically situated throughout the community for boaters’ convenience. Many of the original homes feature remodeled interiors with modern decor, open floor plans, and updated kitchens, and beautiful tropical landscaping. A boat lover’s paradise. 

11. Downtown 

Downtown Fort Lauderdale is a cosmopolitan, urban area with high-rise buildings and a bustling business center, but is just minutes from white sand beaches and salt sea air. Those craving a vibrant arts scene, one-of-a-kind restaurants, and lively bars, clubs, and breweries will find what they are looking for in the downtown area. Just minutes from the airport, beaches, and premier shopping destinations, the downtown neighborhood offers the best of laid-back urban living. 

Lifestyle & Culture

The downtown Fort Lauderdale neighborhood is a unique fusion of urban city life with the tropical, resort-style vibe that is characteristic of the area. The downtown area offers so much more beyond the beach from museums and art galleries to a colorful nightlife scene. 

Downtown has a variety of interesting museums to visit including the Naval Air Station Museum which displays everything from weaponry dating back to WWII to early military aircraft. The Museum of Discovery and Science is a perfect venue for all ages and provides opportunities to fly in a flight simulator and learn all about Florida’s ecosystems. 

A vibrant arts scene is present in downtown including numerous galleries and the FATvillage which serves as a four-block community for eclectic retail shops, artist performance spaces, and lofts. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is one of the most attended theatres in the world and features Broadway performances, concerts, and family-friendly theatre productions. 

The Galleria Mall is one of Fort Lauderdale’s most popular hubs for shopping. The tri-level mall features exceptional restaurants and over 100 retail shops including big-name department stores and locally owned boutiques. Downtown Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife does not disappoint with numerous bars, clubs, hip speakeasies, and craft breweries to choose from. 

Real Estate

The downtown area is made up of primarily high and mid-rise luxury condominiums and townhome communities. Due to the area’s proximity to the ocean and waterways, exceptional views of the ocean and canals can still be enjoyed by downtown residents. Many condominium communities offer high-end amenities such as onsite fitness centers and pools. 

The area also features some pockets of single-family residences that vary in style from mid-century to modern contemporary and Meditteranean. A luxury downtown condo or home is perfect for those craving a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere all within minutes from some of Florida’s finest beaches.

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