Warm weather all year long? Check. Miles of gorgeous beaches? Check. (Occasional hurricanes? Sure, but please refer to points one and two again.) Fort Lauderdale, where beach days are the norm and the sunshine never quits, is a pretty great place to live. And if you’re thinking of making a cross-country move, it should be on your list.
Located on the Atlantic coast of the Sunshine State, Fort Lauderdale offers a unique blend of city energy and beach-life vibes. But if you’re planning to move to this sunny city, you’ll need to figure out the best neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale for your needs.
We’ve compiled a curated list of the 8 best neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale to help you make your decision. Whether you’re after a family-friendly feel, vibrant nightlife and culture, or a peaceful ocean retreat, chances are, there’s a home here for you.
One thing’s for certain though — as you pack up for the move, don’t forget that sunscreen!
8 Best Neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale
Victoria Park — Best Neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale for Young Professionals
Las Olas Isles — Most Luxurious Neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale
Harbor Beach — Best Place to Live for Privacy in Fort Lauderdale
Coral Ridge — Best Neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale for Families
Poinsettia Heights — Best Up-and-Coming Neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale
Colee Hammock — Best Neighborhood for Shopping and Dining in Fort Lauderdale
Sailboat Bend — Most Bohemian Neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale
It's wise to do your research before any long-distance move. So to get you started, you’ll find the essential information about our top neighborhoods in the list below. We’ll cover average rent, home values, transportation options, and the lifestyle that matches each area. That said, there’s no substitute for spending time in each neighborhood yourself to truly get a feel for it.
1) Rio Vista — Safest neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale
Average rent: $3,353
Average home value: $1.9 million
Best for: Families, young professionals, safety
Known for: Tree-lined streets, historic homes, proximity to the New River
Getting around: Easy access via Broward Boulevard, close to downtown
Located just south of downtown, Rio Vista is often considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale. This historic enclave, whose name means "River View" in Spanish, is perfectly positioned along the New River, giving it a scenic charm that’s hard to beat.
Strolling through Rio Vista, you’ll find tree-lined streets and a mix of historic and modern homes. It’s one of the city's oldest neighborhoods, and that sense of history is partly why it’s among the best places to live in Fort Lauderdale. This safe, picturesque neighborhood is perfect for families and young professionals alike.
2) Victoria Park — Best neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale for young professionals
Average rent: $3,241
Average home value: $808,268
Best for: Young professionals, families, active lifestyle
Known for: Walkability, vibrant community, nearby shops and dining
Getting around: Near Sunrise Boulevard, with public transportation options
If you’re interested in the best neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale for an active lifestyle and vibrant atmosphere, Victoria Park is a top choice. This neighborhood is one of the most walkable in Fort Lauderdale, and young professionals and families can access local cafes, boutiques, and the popular Las Olas Boulevard without necessarily needing a car for every trip.
Of course, walkability is relative — if you’re moving from Brooklyn or another dense urban area, Victoria Park may not feel quite like home. But Victoria Park offers a lot, whether it’s a beach day, shopping, or a night out.
The area also has access to a number of public transportation options and major roadways, like Sunrise Boulevard, which make traveling around even Victoria Park easier. For families who love the outdoors, Holiday Park is popular for its sports fields, tennis courts, and jogging paths.
3) Las Olas Isles — Most luxurious neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale
Average rent: $3,372
Average home value: $3.4 million
Best for: Affluent families, retirees, water enthusiasts
Known for: Waterfront properties, luxury homes, boating access
Getting around: Access to Las Olas Boulevard, near Fort Lauderdale Beach
Chances are, you're moving to Fort Lauderdale for the good life — so why not go all out? Las Olas Isles is a good bet for the most luxurious neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale.
Known for its waterfront properties and opulent homes, Las Olas is home to a mix of affluent families and retirees. The private docks along the canals make Las Olas Isles ideal for boaters and those who crave a little privacy and relaxation.
Situated just off Las Olas Boulevard, residents have easy access to upscale dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Living in Las Olas Isles also means Fort Lauderdale Beach is only a short drive away, providing a mix of both quiet canal-front living and vibrant city life.
4) Harbor Beach — Best place to live for privacy in Fort Lauderdale
Average rent: $2,863
Average home value: $1.8 million
Best for: Retirees, affluent families, private living
Known for: Private beach access, gated community, exclusive amenities
Getting around: Via A1A and 17th Street Causeway
Privacy is a priority in Harbor Beach, another one of the best places to live in Fort Lauderdale. This exclusive gated community is known for its private beach access, where residents get the rare chance to enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s beautiful coastlines with minimal distractions. Of course, with a mix of luxurious waterfront estates and elegant homes, many featuring private docks, Harbor Beach caters to affluent families and retirees looking for a truly serene environment.
Living in Harbor Beach also means access to amenities like a private marina and the Harbor Beach Surf Club, adding to the neighborhood’s appeal as one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale.
But while the community offers seclusion, it’s conveniently located near major roads like A1A and the 17th Street Causeway, providing quick access to the excitement of downtown Fort Lauderdale if you ever feel like trading tranquility for a little buzz.
5) Coral Ridge — Best neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale for families
Average rent: $2,891
Average home value: $1.2 million
Best for: Families, young professionals, suburban lifestyle
Known for: Top-rated schools, parks, golf courses
Getting around: Access to Federal Highway (US-1) and public bus routes
For those seeking a family-friendly neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale, Coral Ridge is a top choice. Known for its highly rated schools and well-maintained parks, this neighborhood offers a suburban lifestyle balanced with easy access to all the essentials.
Living in Coral Ridge means you’ll have access to beautiful green spaces, including George English Park, which features playgrounds, sports facilities, and even a boat ramp, perfect for active families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Plus, Coral Ridge offers easy commuting options due to the convenient access to US-1 and a range of public bus routes. The area is also home to Coral Ridge Country Club, known for its golf courses and social events.
6) Poinsettia Heights — Best up-and-coming neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale
Average rent: $3,269
Average home value: $709,990
Best for: Young professionals, creatives, nightlife
Known for: Art galleries, trendy cafes, modern lofts
Getting around: Brightline train and Broward Boulevard access
Poinsettia Heights is quickly becoming a favorite among young professionals and creatives. Known for its mix of arts and trendy spots, living in Poinsettia Heights offers a blend of culture and convenience that’s hard to find elsewhere.
You’ll have quick access to Broward Boulevard and the Brightline train station, so getting around Poinsettia Heights and exploring Fort Lauderdale is easy and convenient. This dynamic neighborhood is steadily growing in popularity, and for good reason.
7) Colee Hammock — Best neighborhood for shopping and dining in Fort Lauderdale
Average rent: $3,372
Average home value: $1.4 million
Best for: Families, professionals, shopping enthusiasts
Known for: Historic charm, modern homes, Las Olas Boulevard amenities
Getting around: Walkable area with local bus and major road access
If you’re looking for the best neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale for shopping and dining, Colee Hammock is the place to be.
Bordered by Las Olas Boulevard and minutes from the East Las Olas Boulevard Shopping District, it’s surrounded by some of the best shopping and dining in the city. (Don’t miss local favorite Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar as one example).
In addition to its prime location, the neighborhood combines historic charm with modern amenities, with a mix of beautifully restored homes and sleek new builds.
Walkable streets and easy access to local bus lines and main roads mean getting around Colee Hammock is simple. All told, it’s one of the best places to live in Fort Lauderdale for both families and professionals.
8) Sailboat Bend — Most bohemian neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale
Average rent: $2,240
Average home value: $535,793
Best for: Artists, professionals, history lovers
Known for: Unique architecture, art scene, riverside views
Getting around: Broward Boulevard, bike-friendly and public transit options
For those seeking a creative and historic vibe, Sailboat Bend might be one of the most unique neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale. Sailboat Bend offers an eclectic mix of historic homes, artist studios, and scenic riverside views. The architecture here stands out, too, full of midcentury bungalows and Mission-style homes that echo the neighborhood’s rich history and artistic flair. Living in Sailboat Bend means embracing a slower pace, surrounded by a thriving local art scene and frequent cultural events.
Getting around Sailboat Bend is convenient, with easy access to Broward Boulevard and plenty of bike-friendly routes, making it ideal for those who prefer a more eco-friendly commute. If you’re an artist and want to live near the ocean, Sailboat Bend just might fill your sails.
FAQs: The Best Neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale
Q: What is the best area to live in Fort Lauderdale?
A: The best area to live in Fort Lauderdale depends on your lifestyle and preferences. For luxury and waterfront access, Las Olas Isles is ideal, offering high-end homes with private docks. Families often favor Coral Ridge for its top-rated schools, parks, and safe suburban feel.
Young professionals and those seeking a vibrant social scene enjoy Victoria Park for its walkability and proximity to downtown. If privacy and exclusive amenities are important, Harbor Beach offers gated community living with private beach access. Each neighborhood has unique benefits, so exploring your priorities can help you find the perfect fit.
Q: What is the safest part of Fort Lauderdale?
Rio Vista is widely regarded as one of the safest neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, tree-lined streets, and strong community involvement, Rio Vista offers residents peace of mind along with beautiful homes and easy access to the New River.
A: Additionally, Coral Ridge is another safe option for families, with a suburban feel and a reputation for low crime rates. Both neighborhoods provide a secure and welcoming environment while being conveniently located near the heart of Fort Lauderdale.
Finding Your Perfect Fort Lauderdale Neighborhood
From the luxurious waterfront of Las Olas Isles to the charming streets of Sailboat Bend, Fort Lauderdale’s neighborhoods have something for everyone. Each area offers a unique lifestyle, whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, quiet family living, or beachside relaxation.
Once you’ve found the perfect neighborhood, let Colonial Van Lines take care of the logistics. With expertise in long-distance moves, Colonial can take some of the stress out of moving to Fort Lauderdale. Focus on getting to know your new community while we handle the heavy lifting. Get a free quote from Colonial and start planning your move to Fort Lauderdale with confidence!