Visitors stroll along the New River at Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale in downtown Fort Lauderdale, FL, one of the best places to live in the U.S.
©Journal/Jeff Adkins

Fort Lauderdale, FLBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023

Fort Lauderdale is the ultimate coastal paradise, with golden beaches, year-round sunshine and easy access to water sports, offering an idyllic outdoor lifestyle. From a vibrant arts and entertainment district to its diverse economy, the city blends leisure and luxury.

Fort Lauderdale, FL, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America

With a motto of “live where you vacation,” Fort Lauderdale, FL, has a knack for turning tourists into residents. As one of the best places to live in the U.S., Fort Lauderdale is a diverse and cosmopolitan city with a 24-mile stretch of golden sand along the Atlantic Ocean, world-class restaurants and bars, plus 31 distinct neighborhoods

Business is booming in Fort Lauderdale, too, with a robust economy fueled by aviation, aerospace, financial services, global logistics, technology and marine industries, and careers in these leading sectors come with annual salaries that range from $89,000 to $150,000. In addition, Broward College Entrepreneurial Experience helps foster entrepreneurship in the region. 

Dollars stretch further in this sunny city, too. The cost of living in Fort Lauderdale is ideal because there are low taxes (including no income tax), relatively affordable housing, and all kinds of free and low-cost fun to be had, from beach days to trips to Everglades National Park

Improved transportation is also a perk to living in Fort Lauderdale, and getting around town is easy, with the high-speed Brightline train connecting Southern Florida. Of course, water taxis, paddleboards, gondolas and bikes are also some fun ways to get around Fort Lauderdale and the inland waterways that weave through the city. 

Greater Fort Lauderdale also embraces the arts, and residents can visit museums dedicated to LGBTQ+ culture, antique cars, fine art, African-American and Native-American heritage and more.

Fort Lauderdale, FL Quality of Life LivScore

0 1000 1000 751

Fort Lauderdale, FL Top Categories

  • Amenities

  • Economy

  • Transportation

Fort Lauderdale ranks highest for amenities, economy and transportation.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Fort Lauderdale, FL

What is the weather like in Fort Lauderdale?

This beach city gets 3,000 hours of annual sunshine, and year-round temps average 77 degrees. The average highs and lows are 89°F and 76°F (summer) and 77°F and 62°F (winter). 

Does Fort Lauderdale get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Fort Lauderdale is 0 inches. While the city may experience occasional frost or freezing temperatures during the winter months, snowfall is extremely rare. 

Does Fort Lauderdale get a lot of rain? 

The average annual rainfall in Fort Lauderdale is around 65 inches, with the highest averages occurring from June to September. 

How many sunny days does Fort Lauderdale get?

Fort Lauderdale averages 246 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Fort Lauderdale?

Spend a day at the Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, a cute coastal town with punchy colors and a good spot for snorkeling or diving in the reefs and among the wrecks.

Things To Do in Fort Lauderdale, FL

What are some free things to do in Fort Lauderdale?

Take free Saturday morning surf lessons with Island Water Sports at nearby Deerfield Beach. It’s been a tradition for more than 30 years.

Where do locals shop in Fort Lauderdale?

Los Olas Boulevard is known as the “style mile.” 

Where should you take a date in Fort Lauderdale? 

Book a tour with Riverfront Gondola Tours and enjoy the canals. With 165 miles of canals, Fort Lauderdale is considered a mini Venice.

Where is the best place for happy hour in Fort Lauderdale? 

Pair spritzes or glasses of wine with sushi rolls, oysters and “angry chicken” at Takato, a Japanese-Korean fusion restaurant with water views inside Conrad Fort Lauderdale

Greater Fort Lauderdale, FL, embraces the arts, and its top-notch museums are just one amenity that make it one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Jeff Adkins
Greater Fort Lauderdale, FL, embraces the arts, and its top-notch museums are just one reason it’s one of the best places to live in the U.S.

The Local and State Economy in Fort Lauderdale, FL

What are the three largest industries in Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale is a major economic center in South Florida, and its diverse economy is made up of several industries, including tourism and hospitality, financial services, and marine and yachting. In addition, Broward County Public Schools, Publix Super Markets and Florida Power & Light are among the largest employers in the city. 

What is the sales tax rate in Fort Lauderdale?

In 2023, the sales tax rate in Fort Lauderdale is 7%. 

Does Florida have a state income tax?

No, Florida does not have a state income tax. 

Who are the major health care providers in Fort Lauderdale?

Residents can find stellar health care options in Fort Lauderdale. Broward Health is a major provider in the Miamia-Fort Lauderdale area and operates several hospitals and medical facilities throughout Broward County, including the flagship Broward Health Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale. Memorial Healthcare System also has a significant presence in the area. In addition, Holy Cross Hospital is also consistently ranked one of the best in the region by U.S. News & World Report. 

What colleges and universities are in Fort Lauderdale?

There are several colleges and universities in Fort Lauderdale, including Broward College, Nova Southeastern University and Florida Atlantic University. 

Quick Facts About Fort Lauderdale, FL

Median Household Income
$70,943
©Journal/Jeff Adkins
Median Home Value
$406,354
©Journal/Jeff Adkins
Average State Property Tax
$2,143
©Journal/Jeff Adkins
Total Population
182,611
©Journal/Jeff Adkins
Median Rent/Mo.
$1,388
©Journal/Jeff Adkins
Average Commute
22.69 minutes
©Journal/Jeff Adkins

Fort Lauderdale is one of the best places to live in the U.S., thanks to a diverse and robust economy and a great arts scene. Learn about why you should consider a move to Fort Lauderdale and discover how much it costs to live there. Another good resource as you consider a move: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2023

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