Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Florida, FL
Thinking about moving to South Florida? With a population of over 6 million, South Florida offers a sunny, diverse lifestyle, with 70% sunny days and mild winters. Median home prices are around $470,000 and average rents for a 2-bedroom sit at $2,200, reflecting a bustling housing market. Commute times average 30 minutes, and while property crime rates are higher than national averages, the region boasts major hospitals, numerous education options, and a rich multicultural scene. A great choice for those seeking warm weather, vibrant communities, and access to beaches and urban amenities.
Demographics - South Florida, FL
Demographics - South Florida, FL
South Florida is a diverse region with a population of approximately 6.2 million people and a median age of 41.2. The area features a multicultural community, with over a third of residents speaking a language other than English at home and a balanced gender ratio. Its population density and varied ethnic backgrounds contribute to a vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Population:
6,200,000
Density:
1,500 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
35.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
42.0%
Black:
19.5%
Asian:
3.5%
Others:
35.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Florida, FL?
The cost of living in South Florida is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 119.5. Median home values are around $470,000, and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are $2,200. While state income taxes are nonexistent, expect higher expenses in housing and transportation.
Median House Value:
$470,000
Gross Rent:
$2,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$150
Auto Insurance:
$2,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$700
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
119.5
Grocery:
110.2
Housing:
124.8
Utilities:
109.4
Transportation:
116.7
Health Care:
104.8
Miscellaneous:
107.2
Crime
Is South Florida, FL a safe place to live?
South Florida experiences a crime rate above the national average, with a property crime rate of 2,400 incidents per 100,000 people and a violent crime rate of 370 per 100,000. Residents have a 1 in 270 chance of experiencing a violent crime and a 1 in 42 chance of property crime. Safety varies by neighborhood, so researching specific areas is recommended.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
370
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,400
Crime Index:
2,770
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 270
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 42
Weather
What is the weather like in South Florida, FL year-round?
The region is known for its warm, tropical climate, with winter temperatures ranging from 60°F to 76°F and summer highs reaching 91°F. South Florida enjoys about 70% sunny days each year and receives an average of 62 inches of rainfall, making it ideal for those who love sunshine and outdoor activities. Mild winters and hot, humid summers are typical.
Winter
Min:
60°F
Max:
76°F
Spring
Min:
68°F
Max:
83°F
Summer
Min:
76°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
69°F
Max:
84°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
62.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
70%
Neighbors
South Florida neighborhoods are home to a wide range of incomes, with median household income at $67,800 and a poverty rate of 13.2%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, while about a third hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Residents enjoy a multicultural environment and an average commute time of nearly 30 minutes.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$67,800
Family Income:
$80,500
Per Capita Income:
$32,800
Income Male:
$41,500
Income Female:
$35,900
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
35.5%
Rent:
$2,200
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
4.3%
Commute Time:
29.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.6%
Bachelors or More:
31.4%
Education
How are the schools in South Florida, FL?
South Florida offers a wide range of educational opportunities, including large public high schools and renowned private institutions. Higher education is anchored by universities like Florida International University and Nova Southeastern University, serving tens of thousands of students. The region supports strong K-12 and postsecondary options for families and students.
Public Schools
Name:
Miami Palmetto Senior High School
Street:
7460 SW 118th St, Pinecrest, FL 33156
Phone:
305-235-1360
Students:
2,750
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.8
Name:
Fort Lauderdale High School
Street:
1600 NE 4th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305
Phone:
754-322-1100
Students:
2,150
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.5
Private Schools
Name:
Saint Thomas Aquinas High School
Street:
2801 SW 12th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Phone:
954-327-2180
Students:
2,100
Colleges
Name:
Florida International University
City:
Miami
State:
FL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
55,000
Name:
Nova Southeastern University
City:
Fort Lauderdale
State:
FL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
20,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in South Florida is robust, with major hospitals like Baptist Hospital of Miami and Broward Health Medical Center providing comprehensive services and emergency care. The region has 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and a health insurance coverage rate of 85.1%. Access to quality medical facilities and specialists is widely available.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Baptist Hospital of Miami
Address:
8900 N Kendall Dr, Miami, FL 33176
Phone:
(786) 596-1960
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Broward Health Medical Center
Address:
1600 S Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Phone:
(954) 355-4400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.1%
Health Care Index:
70.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Florida, FL?
South Florida's housing market is active, with a median home price of $470,000 and a homeownership rate of 62.1%. Rental vacancy is relatively low at 4.8%, and home values have appreciated by 4.1% over the past year. Both buyers and renters can expect competitive conditions and continued demand.
Median Home Price:
$470,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
2.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Driver services in South Florida are managed by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Residents can access licensing, vehicle registration, and other services through the state DMV, with comprehensive resources available at the Tallahassee headquarters and online. The agency provides support for all motor vehicle needs in Florida.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
2900 Apalachee Pkwy, Tallahassee, FL 32399
Phone:
850-617-2000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.