🛥️ Venice of America
Moving to Fort Lauderdale
World-class beaches, yacht culture, no state income tax, and 30% cheaper than Miami. The Broward County sweet spot.
$450K
Median Home
1.9M
Metro Population
$0
Income Tax
23
Beach Miles
Living in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale offers Miami-level lifestyle at a fraction of the cost. The city has 165 miles of navigable waterways (Venice of America), 23 miles of beach, and a revitalized Las Olas Boulevard with world-class dining and nightlife. Broward County home prices run 25-30% below Miami-Dade. The job market is strong in marine, tech, healthcare, and tourism. FLL airport is a major hub (cheaper flights than MIA). The Brightline rail connects to Miami in 30 minutes and West Palm in 40. Arts & Entertainment District downtown is booming with new condos and restaurants.
Top Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Vibe | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Las Olas | Waterfront luxury, walkable dining | $600K-$2M+ | Young professionals, luxury |
| Victoria Park | Residential, tree-lined, central | $450K-$800K | Families, walkability |
| Wilton Manors | Diverse, artsy, vibrant | $400K-$650K | Creative professionals |
| Coral Ridge | Waterfront homes, boating | $500K-$1.5M | Boaters, retirees |
| Plantation | Suburban, affordable, family | $350K-$550K | Budget families |
| Lauderdale-by-the-Sea | Beach town, laid-back | $400K-$700K | Beach lovers |
Pros & Cons of Fort Lauderdale
✅ Pros
- ✓ 30% cheaper than Miami
- ✓ 23 miles of beaches
- ✓ No state income tax
- ✓ Brightline to Miami/WPB
- ✓ Marine industry jobs
- ✓ International airport hub
- ✓ Arts & culture scene
⚠️ Cons
- ✗ Hurricane risk
- ✗ Flood insurance required in many zones
- ✗ Home insurance rising fast
- ✗ Tourist traffic seasonal
- ✗ Humidity year-round
- ✗ Sea level concerns long-term
Financing in Fort Lauderdale
- Flood insurance mandatory in many waterfront areas — budget $2K-$5K/yr
- Condo financing requires HOA financial review (Fannie Mae guidelines)
- Wind mitigation inspection can reduce insurance 20-40%
- FHA loans available — 3.5% down on condos in approved buildings
- Homestead exemption saves ~$1,000/yr on property taxes