When considering where to start or raise a family in The United States of America, the Sunshine State is a good idea, as the nickname suggests. The weather here will be a huge plus. Averaging 241 sunny days per year, Florida is a great state for outdoor activities which are a great benefit for growing children. Nothing like a sunny day to go and play outside, or visit Disney World. For parents, no income tax. Combining that with the relatively low housing costs, you will have a hard time not finding a good place for your family! Best Movers in Florida will help you find the right movers in case you decide to move to one of the best places for families in Florida!
How to Look for a Top Family-Friendly Place?
When moving to Florida and looking for a place to live, there are a lot of factors that can tip the scale. Especially when you are moving with children.
Some of the things to consider when looking for a place would be:
- Crime rate
- Poverty rate
- Childcare costs
- Home value change
- Average household income
- Percent of the young population
Big city vs small town, how to choose?
Crime and poverty rates will be big contributors to the safety of both you and your family. Looking at the frequency and type of crimes committed will give you a good picture of what to expect in your future neighborhood. Big cities will usually have higher crime rates. But, those will give your children more opportunities and potential friends. To grow up happy and healthy, children need to socialize with their peers, and the percentage of the young population will give you an idea of what to expect. Small cities are safer but can be lacking in potential friends and opportunities for your kids.
How much will it cost?
Another thing to weigh out when figuring out the best places for families in Florida is the cost of living. To do that is fairly simple when you are single. Add up rent, utilities, and food and you are ready to go. Just check the average household income for your future area. But that tends to change when kids come around. Don’t be surprised when daycare costs more than college tuition.
Economic Policy Institute found that infant care takes up 16.6% of a typical family’s annual income. And if you are thinking of buying a house, consider home value change. As you may have figured, buying a house is not a small investment. Waiting a couple of years can have a big effect on the price depending on the area you are settling in. It might be smart to rent for the first couple of months. Don’t rush into buying property.
Check Out What Are Some of the Best Places for Families in Florida
There will be a lot of potential places for a family living in Florida, even when you put in all the filters. Here are a few that we think should be considered.
Coral Springs
Coral Springs ranks as one of the best places for families in Florida. This rapidly expanding city, now home to nearly 150,000 residents, owes much of its growth to its strategic location close to Florida’s biggest cities. It offers many shopping centers, parks, and diverse dining options, creating a lively yet comfortable living environment for families.
One of the standout attributes of Coral Springs is its commitment to education. As part of the Broward County Public School system, the city benefits from being part of the sixth-largest school district in the nation and the second-largest in Florida. With three high schools, four middle schools, and 12 elementary schools within city limits, Coral Springs ensures access to top-quality education, making it a magnet for families prioritizing their children’s schooling. If you’re one of these families, local movers Florida are at your service!
Financially, while Coral Springs might appear on the pricier side with a cost of living 17 percent higher than the national average and housing prices 48 percent higher, it offers value through its higher median household income of $77,360, which is 38 percent more than the state average. This economic advantage positions Coral Springs as an affordable option compared to its neighboring cities, considering the quality of life it offers! Safety is another compelling factor for families considering Coral Springs. The city has a low crime rate, with the northern part being particularly safe. Neighborhoods like Cypress Glen, Oakwood, Turtle Run, and Westchester are known for their safety, but the entire city maintains a secure atmosphere for its residents.
Winter Garden
Winter Garden emerges as a family paradise. Located just 14 miles west of Orlando, this suburban gem offers families a perfect setting for a balanced lifestyle. The city has a population of around 46,169, indicating a community that’s large enough to offer diversity yet small enough to maintain a tight-knit feel. The cost of living here is slightly higher than the national average, a small price for the quality of life it provides. With median home prices at $360,000, Winter Garden presents an appealing housing market, especially when considering the backdrop of excellent educational institutions.
The Orange County Public Schools District serves Winter Garden’s young residents with outstanding academic programs. Schools like Whispering Oak Elementary, Bridgewater Middle, and West Orange High are just a few examples of the educational excellence available here, making it a haven for families prioritizing their children’s education.
Beyond academics, Winter Garden is full of activities suitable for all ages. The city’s historic downtown area, with its family-friendly atmosphere, is perfect for leisurely walks, shopping, and dining. Numerous parks and recreational facilities provide endless outdoor fun, ensuring children and teenagers have ample space to play, explore, and grow. In case you decide to move here, long distance movers Florida are the ones you should hire!
North Port
North Port stands out as an exceptional choice for families, offering safety, affordability, and educational opportunities. It’s a great place in case you’re looking for the right one to move to with the help of residential movers Florida. Ranking in the 78th percentile for safety, this city ensures a peaceful environment where families can thrive without concern. With over 85,000 residents, it combines small-town appeal with the benefits of a larger community.
The cost of living here, while slightly above the national average, remains competitive within Sarasota County, especially for those desiring close access to Florida’s beautiful beaches. The housing market in North Port is diverse, presenting options for various budgets—from luxury homes to affordable bungalows ranging from $300,000 to $3,000,000. This variety ensures that families can find a home that suits their financial situation. The average rent of about $1,700 per month also offers flexibility for families not ready to purchase a home.
Education in North Port is a highlight, with schools such as Toledo Blade Elementary, Atwater Elementary, and Woodland Middle School providing high-quality education to students from kindergarten through 12th grade. These schools underscore the city’s commitment to educational excellence.
For family-friendly neighborhoods, areas like Myakkaahatchee Park, West Villages, and North Toledo Blade Boulevard are renowned for their safety and community spirit. North Port’s dedication to creating a secure and welcoming environment makes it a magnet for families seeking a balanced lifestyle. The city’s commitment to safety, combined with its educational opportunities and housing market, firmly establishes North Port as one of the best places for families in Florida.
Boca Raton
Boca Raton is a place that combines luxury living with a high-quality lifestyle. This coastal city, known for its stunning beaches, prestigious golf courses, and upscale dining and entertainment options, offers a lifestyle many dream about. Every year, around 1,000 new families are drawn to Boca Raton, attracted by its opportunities and beauty. With a population of 99,009, the city is celebrated for its safety, offering a crime rate that falls below the Florida average, making it a sought-after location for families.
The cost of living in Boca Raton is higher than in many other parts of Florida, reflecting its exclusive amenities and lifestyle. The median list price for homes stands at $1,744,229, indicating the city’s upscale real estate market. Education is a top priority in Boca Raton, which is home to some of South Florida’s highest-rated public schools and universities. The Palm Beach County Public School District serves the city, offering a robust selection of top-tier educational institutions such as A.D. Henderson University School and FAU High School.
Boca Raton also excels in higher education, with Florida Atlantic University providing a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs. This enriches the community with academic spirit and opportunities for lifelong learning. For families and students alike, Boca Raton promises a balance of educational excellence, safety, and a rich array of recreational activities, making it one of Florida’s most desirable places to live. Moving here with interstate movers Florida may be a good idea!
Wellington is also one of the best places for families in Florida
Wellington also consistently ranks high on the list of family-friendly destinations, including a notable 8th place on Fortune’s ’50 Best Places to Live for Families.’ Known as the Equestrian Capital of the World, Wellington offers a mix of cozy luxury and intellectual stimulation, making it an ideal place for raising children. The city is dotted with over 20 community parks, each equipped with amenities like picnic tables, gazebos, basketball courts, and swing sets, catering to families looking for outdoor fun and relaxation. A standout feature of Wellington is Scott’s Place, a barrier-free playground designed to accommodate children of all abilities. This inclusive space spans an acre and is packed with accessible playground equipment, sensory items, slides, swings, and wheelchair ramps, ensuring every child has the opportunity to play and explore.
In addition to recreational facilities, Wellington has the Wellington Aquatics Complex, complete with swimming pools, water slides, and a splash pad for aquatic adventures. The Wellington Community Center enriches family life further by offering a wide range of programs and events, from art classes to summer camps, encouraging community engagement and lifelong learning. The emphasis on safety, coupled with a wealth of recreational and educational opportunities, positions Wellington as a top choice for families.
Pembroke Pines
This Broward County city captivates with its lush landscapes, inviting tropical climate, and a community spirit that wraps around its residents like a warm embrace. As a flourishing city, Pembroke Pines presents the best of both worlds: serene residential areas and swift connections to Miami and Fort Lauderdale’s lively scenes. Families in Pembroke Pines enjoy many attractions tailored to enrich both the young and the young at heart. The Young at Art Museum stands out, offering interactive exhibits that spark creativity and imagination across all ages. With a median single-family home price of $601,000, the city combines affordability with quality living.
Education takes a front seat in Pembroke Pines, with a spectrum of esteemed public and private schools. Institutions like Pembroke Lakes Elementary and West Broward High ensure top-tier education, prioritizing the academic and personal growth of their students.
What truly sets Pembroke Pines apart is its amazing community life. The city thrives on events that unite its people, from festive gatherings to philanthropic endeavors, fostering a sense of togetherness. The residents’ welcoming nature ensures newcomers feel at home, creating an environment where lasting friendships flourish. Pembroke Pines not only promises a setting conducive to raising families but also a community where every member feels valued and connected. If you decide to move here and need help, make sure to book packing services Florida, and make your move a breeze!
Doral
Doral is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the country’s fastest-growing cities. It is a prime destination for families seeking urban convenience and suburban peace. Located just a short drive from Miami International Airport and Downtown Miami, Doral offers residents easy access to the dynamic life of a major metropolitan area while providing a tranquil escape from its fast pace. The city has a diverse real estate market, with options ranging from affordable 2-bedroom condos priced at $335,000 to luxurious 5-bedroom single-family homes at $2,850,000.
Education is also a cornerstone of the Doral community, further enhancing its appeal to families. The Downtown Doral Charter Elementary School is a testament to the city’s commitment to academic excellence. In just two years, the school has earned significant acclaim for its academic achievements, an A+ rating from Florida School Grades, and its dedicated faculty. Offering a unique dual-language program in Spanish and Portuguese, the school prioritizes applicants from Downtown Doral but is open to students across Miami, making it an attractive option for families prioritizing education.
Doral’s strategic location, combined with its range of housing options and commitment to quality education, solidifies its status as one of the best places for families in Florida. The city’s growth and development have been carefully balanced to ensure it remains a welcoming and dynamic community where families can thrive. As a family, you might have a lot of stuff. Booking storage services Florida when moving to this city is something you should do in that case!
Florida’s Family Gems: Where to Call Home
Florida stands out for having some of the best places for families in the US. Cities like Coral Springs and Wellington shine with great schools and safe areas. Pembroke Pines and Doral are also perfect for fun family times with lots of parks and events. Boca Raton and Winter Garden offer strong community vibes and focus on education. Each city offers something special, from nice homes to good schools, making Florida more than a holiday spot. It’s a place to grow up and grow old in. If you’re looking for a family-friendly city, Florida has plenty of options. These cities are truly the best places for families in Florida, where life is good and families can thrive!
