Best Places to Live in South Florida
South Florida has long been a sought-after retiree and young professional’s retreat, boasting sun-kissed beaches and vibrant culture—there is much to explore in this region.
South Florida tempts a unique mix of urban sophistication and coastal relaxation: bustling Miami nightlife meets the tranquil shores of the Keys. But with so much city choice and neighborhood variety, where would make an ideal place to settle down?
In this article, uncovering some of its 22 best places to live in South Florida. Beginning from the 22nd spot and ascending to the absolute highlight, each pick has been made with factors like good living, facilities, safety, and the general community atmosphere in mind.
22. Pembroke Pines
First on the list of the best places to live in South Florida is Pembroke Pines. This is a committed family town in Broward County. The town has enough space for parks, recreation centers, and wholesome family events to entice its residents of all ages.
There are delightful shopping and dining experiences at the Shops at Pembroke Gardens. Entirely for families, this city caters to good schools and community ventures that work in their favor to make it one of the best cities for families.
21. Sunny Isles Beach
Sunny Isles Beach, or “Florida’s Riviera,” is a city with an affluent coastal lifestyle. Across from the Atlantic Ocean, high-rise condos provide residents with panoramic sea views and direct beach access that allows easy walking to the coast.
A popular spot for anglers and those wanting to capture a sunrise like no other is the Newport Fishing Pier. Sunny Isles Beach offers a mix of luxury and the beauty of nature, making it a paradise for those who desire an upscale life by the coast.
20. Miramar
Miramar, with the motto “Beauty and Progress,” is a city that mingles aesthetic values with development. It hosts an artists’ venue where an art and culture activity gathers momentum and hosts performances, art exhibitions, as well as community events at its Miramar Cultural Center/ArtsPark.
With many parks in the city besides green areas like Miramar Pineland Park, residents have ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Situated between Miami and Fort Lauderdale to complement each city’s location, Miramar provides an environment of balance in lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities.
19. Hollywood
Hollywood is a Miami-Fort Lauderdale city that extols its multi-dimensional culture and history. The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk stretches 2.5 miles along the length with eateries, shops, and the Hollywood Beach Theatre. ArtsPark at Young Circle offers a cultural experience through events, festivals, and live performances.
Because it lies on the edge of a dynamic yet relaxed lifestyle with its vibrant downtown and beachfront, as well as its community-centric approach to living and working, Hollywood has become quite popular for both residents and visitors alike.
18. Doral
Doral, which used to be mainly famous for its golf courses and resorts, has quickly transformed into a lively city with a thriving community. The entire city of Doral offers an urban experience of residential, commercial and public spaces with a modern urban look and feel.
Doral Central Park is one of the favorite green spaces in the city among families as it boasts vast green spaces and recreational facilities. Doral’s diverse population and excellent schools contribute to its ongoing growth as a city.
17. Parkland
Parkland, with its motto “Environmentally Proud,” is a place that loves and nurtures natural beauty. As one of the cities that have maintained some of the park-like character by strict zoning laws, Parkland has been able to conserve some of its serene landscapes.
The Doris Davis Forman Wilderness Preserve and Pine Trails Park demonstrate the city’s dedication to safeguarding its natural areas. Parkland also provides a calm and upscale suburban lifestyle with its highly-rated schools, gated communities, and peaceful landscapes.
16. Homestead
Homestead is located at the southernmost tip of Miami-Dade County. Not only does Homestead offer much history and natural beauty in which to enjoy, but the city harbors glimpses into its rich past in the Coral Castle, which is a mysterious stone structure and the Historic Downtown Homestead.
Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park are far outdone for nature lovers nearby. With its buffet spread of historical landmarks, agricultural lands along with modern amenities, Homestead offers something different than your average residential experience.
15. Plantation
A city with tree-canopied streets and well-planned neighborhoods, Plantation celebrates community and quality of life. The Plantation Historical Museum tells the city’s history, while the Plantation Central Park offers recreational facilities in a range.
Art in the Park is a local event that honors local artists and craftsmen. With its close-knit community, top-notch schools, and dedication to eco-friendly efforts, Plantation embodies its motto, “The Grass is Greener,” in every sense. Plantation is definitely one of the best places to live in South Florida.
14. Delray Beach
Delray Beach is a small seaside city in Florida, which is called “Village by the Sea.” It gives off its natural small-town charm with big-city conveniences. The residents enjoy attending Delray’s bustling arts scene at the Pineapple Grove Arts District, which features galleries, boutiques, and cultural events.
On Atlantic Avenue, there are eclectic shops that make Delray desirable for locals and tourists alike. Moreover, Delray’s large annual arts and crafts festival called Delray Affair attracts thousands of art lovers every year. And with its beautiful beaches and an active community, people can enjoy a lively yet laid-back lifestyle.
13. Boca Raton
Next on the list of the best places to live in South Florida is Boca Raton. Just locally referred to as “Boca,” is synonymous with luxury and sophistication. Mizner Park and the Town Center at Boca Raton are the main retail destinations in Boca Raton that cater to high-end shoppers wanting something different. Beyond its commercial value, Boca Raton has top-rated public schools making it a good place for families to live.
A visit to Florida’s marine life takes place through The Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, while recreational fun opportunities abound in Sugar Sand Park. Endowed by elaborate Mediterranean Revival architecture complete with impeccably maintained public facades, Boca Raton is overflowing with an air of elegance that’s hard to match.
12. Coral Gables
Found on tree-lined boulevards, historic landmarks set in its landscape, and Mediterranean-style architecture, Coral Gables is a city that charms any visitor. The University of Miami adds youthful energy to the area, while the Venetian Pool – a public historic swimming pool – offers an interesting recreational experience.
Dotted with boutiques, eateries and theatres along the Miracle Mile, Coral Gables isn’t about just aesthetics as it focuses on sustainability initiatives with numerous green initiatives in place. For those who want to experience harmony between history, culture and modernity, Coral Gables can be one of the best picks.
11. Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, sometimes referred to as the “Venice of America” for its gigantic canal system, celebrates its maritime culture. The Fort Lauderdale Beach—its golden sands and turquoise waters—pull people drawn to the sun. While the Riverwalk—a linear park beside the New River—is flooded with shops, restaurants, and cultural venues in the centre of town.
The city holds an annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show displaying all things water-bound in this Sunshine State beach town. With a vibrant art scene; therefore, it translates into a cosmopolitan lifestyle exhibiting nautical touches.
Fort Lauderdale is also one of the best places to live in Florida for empty nesters.
10. Key Biscayne
Key Biscayne is a barrier island off the Miami coast. Its tropical splendor proves to be Crandon Park, home of mangroves, seagrass beds, and coastal dunes. The Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park boasts the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse that allows you panoramic views of the Atlantic.
One-of-a-kind features a tight-knit community with top-notch schools and a low crime rate. While it houses seclusion, the island is just a short drive from Miami’s urban core, where you can still get to everything.
9. Jupiter
Jupiter is one of the proud towns that make up Palm Beach County’s northernmost point. The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse watches over the Loxahatchee River, where guided tours are available.
This landmark marks the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, whose purpose is to foster the conservation of sea turtles. Also, the numerous parks and golf courses in Jupiter provide people with love for the outdoors.
With its soft landscapes and tranquil settings, Jupiter gives those who need an escape from the hustles and bustles of life.
8. Naples
Naples sits on the Gulf of Mexico amid opulence. High-end boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants scrawl along Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South in Naples.
A pier extending into the Gulf provides a popular fishing spot as well as sunset views. Other than its affluence, arts and culture are at the core of Naples, including venues like the Naples Philharmonic and the Baker Museum.
The city’s gorgeous beaches, coupled with refined yet laid-back offerings, make Naples a sophisticated yet laid-back destination.
7. Weston
Weston is a shining example of how urban planning can be done right with master-planned communities. The Town Center in Weston acts as the centre of community activities.
Weston has an A-rated school system, numerous parks, and extensive biking trails, making it a family-friendly city. The various cultures and races represented by the population give rise to a rich tapestry reflected in the eateries and festivals as well as community events.
For those preferring to experience such a harmonious blending of urban amenities along with that suburban serenity, Weston is an excellent choice.
6. Pinecrest
Pinecrest is a Miami-Dade County suburban village with large greenery and upscale homes. The Pinecrest Gardens, the site of the Parrot Jungle, was redeveloped into a cultural and recreational hub hosting events, workshops, and performances.
The village’s education orientation includes Pinecrest Elementary being one of the top-rated schools in Florida state. With its tree-canopied streets fostering a community-centric approach while remaining close to Miami’s urban core, it reduces an unspoiled yet connected lifestyle.
5. Aventura
Aventura, fittingly named after the Spanish word for “adventure,” is a place that truly lives up to its name. The Aventura Mall – one of the country’s biggest shopping centers – is a shoppers’ delight. While the Don Soffer Exercise Trail is a 3-mile loop that encourages an active life.
Conveniently located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Aventura makes a good base for professionals. With its modern high-rises, scenic waterways, and vibrant community living, Aventura melds urban dynamism with coastal relaxation.
4. Coconut Grove
4th on the list of the best places to live in South Florida is Coconut Grove. This is Miami’s oldest neighborhood. With its bohemian appeal, The Grove attracts artists, writers, and free spirits.
A buzz can be felt throughout the neighborhood’s CocoWalk shopping and dining complex. Art history is also honored in the area surrounding Coconut Grove Arts Festival.
One of the areas with the oldest home in Coconut Grove is The Barnacle Historic State Park. With a street that is lined with coconut trees, waterfront parks, and an eclectic community, Coconut Grove is a neighborhood with soul.
3. Palm Beach
Palm Beach is an island town. Its main thoroughfare, Worth Avenue, eloquently attests to the affluence of Palm Beach. The Gilded Age’s opulence is on display at the Flagler Museum within the former residence of Henry Flagler.
With pristine beaches and manicured landscapes, and historical landmarks that capture hospitality in every direction, Palm Beach visually seduces travelers as they pass through it. Also, Palm Beach presents a lifestyle of royalty with its upscale clubs, cultural spots, and elegant social gatherings.
2. Coral Springs
Coral Springs, with its motto: “Everything Under the Sun,” lives up to its promise. With the Coral Springs Museum of Art, this place is considered rich in cultural treasures. Also, the high-rated schools and community events, the city’s Sportsplex — an expansive athletic complex — caters to sports lovers. Its beautiful well-mastered design, ample green spaces, plus waterways make Coral Springs a picture-perfect locale.
1. Miami Beach
Lastly, and at the head of our list, is Miami Beach. With its Art Deco architecture, white sandy beaches, and throbbing nightlife, this coastal city is the very soul of South Florida’s lure. Lincoln Road, an open-air pedestrian mall, spans a shopping mecca and dining hotspot. South Beach, with its lusty energy, crackles with visitors from around the globe.
Furthermore, Miami Beach isn’t all glitz and glamour; rather it is a city steeped in history, a diverse community, and a commitment to sustainability. From historic districts to modern high-rises, Miami Beach offers an energetic and relaxed lifestyle that makes it the best place to live in South Florida.
Conclusion
In conclusion, South Florida cities and neighborhoods offer quite a number of lifestyle options. If you’re in the market for urban sophistication, rest, and relaxation along the beautiful coastline or suburban tranquility, there is just the right place in South Florida to find what you want. As you consider your next move, this guide is a valuable resource in finding your perfect South Florida home.
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