Broward County 55+ Retirement Communities

Broward County is located on the southeastern coast of Florida, and is a popular destination for those seeking to buy a home in an active adult retirement community. This vibrant county boasts a warm climate and a variety of recreational opportunities.

Fort Lauderdale, the largest city in Broward County, is known for its beautiful beaches and bustling downtown area, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Hollywood, another prominent city in the county, showcases a charming boardwalk and a vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Sunrise, the third largest city, offers a peaceful suburban atmosphere with plenty of parks and golf courses. 

For more information on visiting or moving to Broward County, consider exploring the following local resources:

• Broward.org - Broward County's official website provides comprehensive information on county services, government resources, and community initiatives. 
• VisitLauderdale.com - This website offers insights into the attractions, events, and recreational activities available in Broward County, with a particular focus on Fort Lauderdale. 
• Sun-Sentinel -  As one of the leading local newspapers, the Sun-Sentinel covers news, events, and features relevant to Broward County. 

Affordability and Cost of Living 

Cost of living in Broward County is about 10.5 percent higher than the national average. Home prices in Broward County are influenced by factors such as location, property size, and amenities but the median home price is 394,300. While housing prices can be higher in cities like Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood, the county still provides more affordable options compared to neighboring counties like Miami-Dade. Homebuyers can find a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums to fit their budget and preferences. Prices for groceries and transportation in Broward County are higher than the U.S. average, utilities and healthcare are a bit lower than the national average. 

Florida is known for its favorable tax climate for retirees. The state does not impose a personal income tax, including on Social Security benefits and other retirement income. Broward County's sales tax rate aligns with the state rate of 6% although localities can add their own additional taxes. Property taxes are assessed at the county level, Broward County property taxes are about 1.08 percent of the home's assessed value. There are also programs available to assist seniors with property tax costs.  Florida does not impose an estate or inheritance tax, making it an attractive option for retirees looking to maximize their financial resources in retirement.

Climate and Geography 

Broward County enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and abundant sunshine throughout the year. Winters in Broward County are mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the low 60s to the high 70s. Summers in Broward County are hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the low 70s to the high 90s with 70 to 80 percent humidity. The county experiences an average annual rainfall of around 60 inches , with the wettest months being June through September. Broward County is susceptible to the impacts of tropical storms and hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1st to November 30th each year.

Broward County's location on Florida's southeastern coast contributes to its beautiful scenery. The county is known for its sunny beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, offering residents and visitors the chance to soak up the sun, enjoy water activities, and admire stunning ocean views. The Everglades lies to the west of Broward County, providing opportunities for exploration and encounters with diverse wildlife. The county is also dotted with numerous lakes, canals, and waterways, offering residents the chance to engage in boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. Broward County's flat terrain allows for easy biking and walking paths, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment 

Broward County, FL, offers a variety of recreational activities, cultural events, shopping, and entertainment options to cater to a wide range of interests. Here are a few examples of the many fun attractions and events Broward County has to offer:

Golf and Racquet Sports

• Jacaranda Golf Club in Plantation
• Heron Bay Golf Club in Parkland
• Tennis Center of Coral Springs in Coral Springs
• Weston Tennis Center in Weston

Hiking, Biking, and Boating

• Everglades Holiday Park in Fort Lauderdale
• Anne Kolb Nature Center in Hollywood
• Tree Tops Park in Davie
• Markham Park and Target Range in Sunrise

Museums and Historical Sites

• Bonnet House Museum & Gardens in Fort Lauderdale
• Stranahan House Museum in Fort Lauderdale
• Old Davie School Historical Museum in Davie
• Historical Society of Pompano Beach in Pompano Beach

Performing Arts

• Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale
• Parker Playhouse in Fort Lauderdale
• Coral Springs Center for the Arts in Coral Springs
• Miramar Cultural Center in Miramar

Shopping

• Sawgrass Mills Mall in Sunrise
• The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale in Fort Lauderdale
• Coral Ridge Mall in Fort Lauderdale
• Pembroke Lakes Mall in Pembroke Pines

Parks and Gardens

• Flamingo Gardens in Davie
• Secret Woods Nature Center in Dania Beach
• T.Y. Park (Topeekeegee Yugnee) in Hollywood
• Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach

Festivals and Fairs

• Las Olas Art Fair in Fort Lauderdale
• Renaissance Festival in Deerfield Beach
• Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade in Fort Lauderdale
• Coconut Grove Arts Festival in Coconut Grove

Health and Wellness 

Broward County is home to several major medical centers and hospitals that provide high-quality healthcare services. Broward Health Medical Center, located in Fort Lauderdale, is a leading healthcare facility in the region, offering comprehensive medical care, specialized treatments, and emergency services. Another prominent medical center in the area is Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood, providing a wide range of medical specialties and advanced care.

In addition to these medical centers, Broward County has numerous options for self-care and wellness. The county is home to various fitness centers, yoga studios, and wellness centers that cater to the needs of individuals seeking to maintain an active lifestyle. Residents can also take advantage of the county's beautiful parks and outdoor spaces for activities such as walking, jogging, and cycling. Broward County offers a vibrant farmers market scene which provide an opportunity for 55+ active adults to access fresh produce, local goods, and artisanal products, supporting a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Considering buying a home in a 55+ active adult retirement community in Broward County? Explore the area with a two-day itinerary which provides a mix of activities, dining recommendations, and an opportunity to meet with a local retirement community expert.

Day One

Morning:

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast or coffee at Mojo Donuts in Hollywood.
• Explore the natural beauty of the region by visiting Anne Kolb Nature Center in Hollywood. Take a leisurely stroll along the nature trails and enjoy the serene views.

Afternoon:

• Head to Fort Lauderdale and have lunch at Coconuts, a waterfront restaurant known for its seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes.
• Visit the Fort Lauderdale Beach area and spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful coastline. Take a relaxing walk along the bustling Fort Lauderdale Beach promenade.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Casa Sensei which specializes in Asian fusion cuisine, offering a variety of steamed buns, dumplings, rice bowls, and noodle dishes.
• Wrap up the day with a leisurely stroll along the charming Las Olas Boulevard, lined with art galleries, boutiques, and sidewalk cafes.

Day Two

Morning:

• Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent. They will provide valuable information about the retirement communities in the area, answer your questions, and assist you in finding the perfect retirement community that suits your preferences and needs.

Afternoon:

• After your meeting, head to Weston and enjoy a delicious lunch at Tarantella Ristorante Pizzeria, offering traditional pizza in a cozy setting.
• Take a relaxing walk around Butterfly World in Coconut Creek, the largest butterfly park in the world, and immerse yourself in the colorful and serene butterfly gardens.

Evening:

• For dinner dine at The Cook and The Cork in Coral Springs, a trendy farm-to-table restaurant with a diverse menu.

Getting to Broward County, FL

Broward County is easily accessible making it convenient for homebuyers considering a move to the area. For those arriving by air, the closest major airport is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). FLL is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways, with connections to primary hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Atlanta, Chicago, and New York. The airport is located just south of downtown Fort Lauderdale and is easily accessible via major highways such as Interstate 95 and Interstate 595.

Visitors can also reach Broward County by driving, with Interstate 95 being the main north-south highway that runs through the county. For those traveling from the west, Interstate 75 is a major east-west highway that connects to the Florida Turnpike, providing access to Broward County. Additionally, the Florida East Coast Railway offers train transportation to the region, with stations located in Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood.

While Broward County does not have a light rail system, it does have an extensive bus network operated by Broward County Transit (BCT), providing local transportation within the county. For individuals arriving by boat or ferry, Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale serves as a major cruise port, accommodating numerous cruise lines and offering connections to various destinations.