Ft. Lauderdale (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Sunrise: relocation, apartment complex, condo)

[CTGirlNoMore]

I'm not sure where to post about Ft. Lauderdale, here or under Miami since they're kinda close. What are opinions about relocation to Ft. Laurderdale. I'm single, 30, no kids, work in administrative. How difficult (and dangerous - where to stay away from) a move would that be? Thanks. Also, does it matter if you spell it Fort or Ft.?

[bale002]

Use the search tool and key in "Ft. Lauderdale" and "Fort Lauderdale. These very questions have been discussed several times over the past weeks and months, you will find specific information on which neighborhoods are good and which to avoid.

Generally, speaking since you are young and single, and assuming that saving is not a big priority for you, you may prefer to spend extra money on rent and live in one of the better coastal neighborhoods.

Anyway, good luck!

[CTGirlNoMore]

Thanks! Didn't even occur to me. I guess it's too early in the morning =)

[Weis1110]

I relocated to Ft. Lauderdale a few months ago from Minneapolis Minnesota and I love it here. I am 28 and single so we're pretty close in age. A few things to keep in mind though about coming here.

Absolutly live east of I 95 near the Intercoastal or the beach. Check out area codes 33301 or 33308 when looking.

Also remember that job hunting here can be a bit rough, but if you are looking into the professional type jobs and have experience it shouldn't be too tough; salaries might be lower that you are used to in CT however.

You will find that the nightlife kind of revolves around the downtown area too, so keep that in mind although it is pretty easy to get around here. Traffic on 95 or 595 is terrible so that is why East is good.

Any other questions, feel free to ask me.

Nick

[chisoxfan]

As I told another poster recently, those who are younger, single, no kids and make an above-average salary probably will enjoy Fort Lauderdale.

I have lived since 1989 in the 33308 ZIP code mentioned previously, first as a single renter and then as a married homeowner. It's a good place to be if you can afford it.

You might like the Port Royale development located between the Intracoastal and U.S. 1 in northern Fort Lauderdale. It consists of a high-rise condo and three low-rise apartment complexes and is geared toward a younger, upscale crowd.

As for areas to avoid, the rule of thumb for my neck of the woods in northern Lauderdale is to stay east of Dixie Highway, and areas along Andrews Avenue all the way into downtown tend to be iffy. North of Broward Boulevard, avoid neighborhoods that border I-95.

A final word on I-95: Whatever you do, avoid moving someplace that will force you to make a daily commute on this road from hell. All big metropolitan areas have heavy traffic, but I-95 is the worst I've seen for angry drivers, road debris and sheer craziness.

[compelled to reply]

Both posts are very well said! Actual traffic is not so bad from what I have seen compared to other metropolitan areas but the drivers are just MAD! As far as where all of the young professionals live these posts have hit it dead on! The rest of Ft Lauderdale is getting run down, although most areas east of 95 are improving rapidly. An exception is along Sunrise BLVD west of U.S 1 through the rest of Ft. L. It can be a little scary down there! Stay away from the Sistrunk area as well for safety. Otherwise most of the city and its surrounding area is somewhat safe,with the areas the previous poster mentioned being an exception. but for where to live, like i said, the other posts have it dead on!

[Weis1110]

Chisoxfan made mention of the Port Royale development in the post above. I actually live within that development and it is a great place for younger single professionals. I would say take a look into it, the people are friendly and it is close to most places in the city.

[rkumar3]

Fort Lauderdale is nice... I have experienced the western sububurs (Weston) as well as the ocean front condo and they both have different things to offer. I would say, think about where you are going to work and try to get something within easy commute. Also just because you are young, professional with good income doesn't mean you HAVE to rent... sure renting at first is probably a good idea but keep your options open for buying as well. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions and I will try to help!

Welcome to FL, you gonnna love it... i guarantee it

[gatorblueyes]

This is a great and very helpful thread!