Considering moving to Fort Lauderdale? The Venice of America is a fun place to live for singles and young professionals, thanks to its incredible outdoor recreation, beach access, and affordable housing options. Here are the five best neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale for young adults!
Downtown
Photo via @salcedo4thekeys
- Home Price: $326,100 median purchase price; $1,909 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 70% of Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods
Nestled between Rio Vista and Tarpon River, Downtown Fort Lauderdale offers singles and young professionals a trendy neighborhood with lots of things to do! You’ll find a variety of great restaurants, bars, and unique entertainment opportunities. And, despite this neighborhood being in the city center, Downtown Fort Lauderdale offers plenty of access to outdoor recreation! Active singles or young families can take advantage of fun in Smoker Park, Bubier Park, and Stranahan Park—not to mention, nearby Las Olas Beach is just minutes away! To top it off, those looking to buy or rent in Fort Lauderdale can choose from Downtown’s modern condos in expansive skyscrapers or charming bungalows.
Things to Do in Downtown Fort Lauderdale
Grab some popcorn and enjoy classic films, indie gems, and more at Savor Cinema. Experience Latin American Surrealism and other Contemporary artwork at NSU Art Museum. Sail down the New River with friends on a boat tour or take an evening cruise at Staying Afloat Party Boats. Explore the oldest home in the area once owned by Fort Lauderdale’s founder, the Stranahan House. Try the Egg Scramble Bowl, Classic Benedict, or Banana Bread French Toast for brunch at Java & Jam. Order Miso Ramen or sushi rolls like the Spicy Tuna or PB Salmon at Phat Boy Sushi. Jam out to live music while dining on Shrimp Tacos, Teriayki Tips Stir Fry, or Bacon Jam Burger at The Historic Downtowner. Take in amazing views of Downtown Fort Lauderdale while sampling Tempura “Elote” Corn or Stuffed PB&J Cookies with hand-crafted cocktails at Rooftop @ 1WLO. Or make a reservation at Lobster Bar Sea Grille, where you can order Ahi Tuna Tartare, Key West Stone Crab Claws, or South African Cold Water Lobster Tail.
Middle River Terrace
Photo via @heatherandashleay
- Housing Price: $201,500 median purchase price; $982 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 22% of Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods
Just north of Downtown Fort Lauderdale is the up-and-coming Fort Lauderdale neighborhood of Middle River Terrace. Young professionals can find affordable ranches, bungalows, and Mid-Century Modern homes in this area. Middle River Terrace is a hot spot for young adults and Fort Lauderdale’s LGBTQ community, with plenty of unique local shops, trendy restaurants, and fun nightlife. Plus, with great public transportation options, this neighborhood provides quick access to the beach via E Sunrise Blvd or anywhere in the city via I-95!
Things to Do in Middle River Terrace
Take your early morning jog along the trails at Middle River Terrace Park. Shop for one-of-a-kind, vintage furniture pieces at Decades Design Group Inc. Relax at a Community Sunday Yoga + Sound session or get your heart pumping with a hard-hitting FUNKBODY dance class at Funk&Flow Studio. Enjoy a unique collection of art from around the world while sipping on a hot latte at the gallery-coffee-shop combination, Art Outfitters USA. Try out Haitian breakfast items like Haitian Eggs with Plantain, Creole Spaghetti with Boiled Eggs, or Cod Fish at Piman Cafe Restaurant. Sample American fare with a global twist with dishes like Crispy Chicken Egg Rolls, Garlic Bloomed Mussels & Clams, or Linguine Alla Puttanesca at Milk Money Bar & Kitchen. Fill up on Fried Pickle Spears, a Blue Cheese Bacon Burger, or Thai Chili Wings at Wilton Wings. Have a Mango Sour on the side of an artisan Margherita Pizza or Chicken Parm Boat at Gulf Stream Brewing Company. Or unwind with a cold beverage on the pet-friendly patio at Mona’s Cocktail Lounge—a neighborhood gay bar in Fort Lauderdale.
Rio Vista
Photo via @alexgonzalez_realestate
- Home Price: $467,533 median purchase price; $1,061 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 88% of Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods
If you’re searching for one of the best Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods for young adults, check out Rio Vista! While this neighborhood may be more expensive than surrounding areas, Rio Vista is a prime location in Fort Lauderdale—especially for boaters who want easy access to waterways, or golfers who enjoy an aquatic view. Rio Vista is close to both Downtown Fort Lauderdale and the water, offering plenty of opportunities for work and play alike! Real estate in Rio Vista ranges from luxury waterfront Mediterranean-style homes to Contemporary inland apartments with stunning views of New River and Stranahan River.
Things to Do in Rio Vista
Take your boat out on New River as a member of the Fort Lauderdale Boat Club. Soak in the Florida sunshine while playing a game of volleyball or grill out with friends at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. Picnic with friends while watching yachts pass by at Francis L. Abreau Place. Freshen up your living space with outdoor decor and potted plants from Blue Bambu Home & Garden. Enjoy dishes with a Southwest flair like Short Rib Rigatoni or Panko Crusted Chicken Milanese paired with a Cactus Water cocktail at Canyon. Sample fresh-pressed juice and order a Busy Bee Bowl or Tuna Salad Panini when you stop by Goji Juicery & Kitchen. Fill up on deep-fried Calamari, Jalapeno Gator Bites, or Fish and Chips from Jay’s Sandbar Foodboat. Or get classic barbecue dishes like Full Rack Pork Spare Ribs or a Chopped Beef Sandwich with a side of Cole Slaw at Tom Jenkins’ Bar-B-Q.
River Oaks
Photo via @omarito
- Home Price: $154,233 median purchase price; $1,251 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 83% of Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods
Located about ten minutes from Downtown Fort Lauderdale, River Oaks is perfect for those wanting more peace and quiet without being too far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Those living in this Fort Lauderdale neighborhood have access to several parks, plenty of locally-owned restaurants, public transportation, and close proximity to the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Additionally, River Oaks is perfect for those moving to Fort Lauderdale for the water! With the New River to the north, sprawling tropical trees, a large boating community, and bright Spanish-style homes along the waterfront, this Fort Lauderdale neighborhood suits young professionals craving a beachy vibe!
Things to Do in River Oaks
Relax by the pool, let your furry friend play at the dog park, or take your boat out when you become a member at Marina Bay Yachting Center. Gain a new perspective while living in Fort Lauderdale with a private boat tour at A Day on the Water. Trek through the scenic trails, park your canoe, or enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck at Bill Keith Preserve. Find your perfect bike—from folding bikes to beach cruisers—at Bicycle Evolution. Try Mediterranean food in Fort Lauderdale with dishes like Babaganoush, Egyptian Musaka, or a Beef Kefta Kebab at Mini Pita Mediterranean Cafe. Enjoy authentic Thai cuisines like Beef Pepper Steak, Chicken Cashew Nut, or Tom-Yam-Kai at 84 Thai Food. Take in views of the marina while eating a Crispy Shrimp Sandwich, YOT Wings, or Steak & Frites at YOT Bar & Kitchen. Or test out Florida favorites with a Wisconsin twist like Buffalo Shrimp, Blue Moon Burger, Mahi Quesadilla, and more at Slackers Bar & Grill!
Victoria Park
Photo via @sterlingteetor
- Home Price: $521,022 median purchase price; $1,209 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 39% of Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods
Singles and young professionals will enjoy living in the centralized neighborhood of Victoria Park! Whether you’re looking to rent a trendy waterfront condo or buy an inland Spanish-style home, this highly sought-after Fort Lauderdale neighborhood has tons of great housing options. Built in 1930, Victoria Park blends together Old Florida charm with trendy hangout spots. Living in this Fort Lauderdale neighborhood offers residents a wide selection of bars and restaurants to frequent on the weekends. Plus, residents can find all kinds of shopping destinations, dining spots, and community events with a quick walk to the iconic Las Olas Boulevard!
Things to Do in Victoria Park
Admire views of the canals while kayaking or walking one of the many trails at Annie Beck Park. Grab drinks and play old-school arcade games at Glitch Bar or explore FATVillage ARTS District in the trendy Flagler Village. Attend performances from artists like The Guess Who, Michael Bolton, or The South Florida Symphony Orchestra at The Parker. Or strengthen your tennis skills with adult lessons at the Jimmy Evert Tennis Center in Holiday Park—one of the largest parks in Fort Lauderdale. Order Maple Bacon Wings, Short Rib Grilled Cheese, or a Pot Roast Dinner at the neighborhood favorite brunch spot Foxy Brown. Enjoy a taste of New Orleans favorites like Cajun Smoked Sausage, Country Gumbo, or Whole Yellowtail Snapper at Shuck-N-Dive Cajun Cafe. Sample eclectic foods like Charred Spanish Octopus and Cashew Risotto with craft cocktails at Gastrotheque. Looking for vegetarian or vegan food in Fort Lauderdale? Test out dishes like a Tabbouleh Salad, Meatless Shawarma, or Falafel Burger at The Hummus House.
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Neighborhood statistics from AreaVibes
