Ft Lauderdale Relo: Details on a variety of cost of living variables (Fort Lauderdale: apartment)

[ARPR]

Hi All,

I really need your help. We (my wife and I) are going through the difficult process of a relocation decision. We will relocate to Fort Lauderdale, and in order for us to make a good cost of living analysis we need some information from you guys (Fort Lauderdale residents).
We want to know some real "average" cost of living variables like:

Analysis based on a young business couple per month:

1. Average House/Apt monthly payment
2. Average Property and other state taxes
3. Average Gas Price
4. Average Energy/Electricity bill
5. Average Water bill
6. Average Telephone service bill
7. Average other expenses (garbage/trash, fire department taxes/etc)
8. Average Insurance payments (house/car/etc)
9. Any other fees
**
10. Recommended areas to live (lower crime rates, distance, etc.)

I really will appreciate all the information that you can provide. I think this is the best way to have a real overview from real people and not from outdated websites data.

Thanks again in advance. ARPR

[StilltheSame]

Depends on what you want to spend and with housing the location. But without more - here goes:
Analysis based on a young business couple per month:

1. Average House/Apt monthly payment: $1500
2. Average Property and other state taxes : On a home with a $1500 mtg - $3000 annually / no state income tax
3. Average Gas Price: Depends on commute - very variable.
4. Average Energy/Electricity bill: $125-160
5. Average Water bill: $80
6. Average Telephone service bill: Depends on what you want- $80
7. Average other expenses (garbage/trash, fire department taxes/etc) Included in Water bill
8. Average Insurance payments (house/car/etc) Car - call the insurance company. Home insurance on the $1500 per month - $2K annually for homeowners and flood.,
9. Any other fees
**
10. Recommended areas to live (lower crime rates, distance, etc.)

I hope these help but they are based on my vague estimates. Good luck to you.

[formerfire]

Is the Home Insurance you mention for homeowners or is it the same for renting an apartment?

[Raffeer]

Still's number look pretty spot on though Pembroke Pines water, trash etc. runs a tad less. Cable is missing from the list and that can get expensive. Try to rent, buy in a community where it is included.