Safe Neighborhoods in Boca Raton? (Highland Beach, Jay: apartments, rentals, condos)

[PsychJay]

Hi everyone! I spotted these forums via some Google searches, and have been impressed with the high-quality advice shared (kudos to all!).

Later this year, I will need to move to the Boca Raton area to further my education. Unfortunately, all of the managed condo complexes I've liked via online listings seem to get extremely harsh reviews. I've seen many reviews that comment about crime, break-ins, and rat infestations.

I'm coming from quiet, suburban Brevard County (not Broward), and am very nervous about moving to Boca Raton.

Question: can I find a place in a safe neighborhood for about $1,100/mo? If you think so, what neighborhoods should I look at? Are there any places in Boca I should avoid? Thanks to any and all who offer assistance!

- Jay

[twistedsista1]

There are no really bad sections in Boca but there are bad tenants everywhere. Come visit and cruise around. Luckily, there are lots of rentals available and companies (including realtors) who can help you find what you want. For what it's worth, my favorite zip codes are 33496 and 33432. I'd start there...

[PsychJay]

Thank you much, Twistedsista1. I'll hone-in on those zip-codes and see what I can find.

Bad tenants are tolerable as long as management is supportive of the good tenants!

- Jay

[the highland beacher]

I would strongly tell you to look at Highland Beach. There is virtually no crime. Rentals will be a little higher but well worth it. It is a beach front community with no commercial business. You cross the intracoastal bridge and you are in Boca or Delray. Virtually a 2 minute drive. It is a very narrow strip of land with the ocean and intracoastal very close. If you can buy a condo there are great deals right now.

[soco611]

what about 33417 zip?

[Momma_bear]

There are lots of students in the apartments that are right near FAU. The complexes over there are a little older, but the neighborhood is safe and if you are going to attend FAU it's convenient.

Wherever you wind up keep in mind that the East-West traffic on Glades is really bad in the morning/evening rush hour.

[BOY-N-TOWN]

BOCA IS NICE JUST TRY TO AVOID "PEARL CITY":

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pearl_City_(Boca_Raton)

[Bette]

BTW, zip code 33417 is not in Boca Raton.

There are a lot of apartments, townhomes, condos in zip code 33486 which is within walking distance of FAU. I actually know of a couple of townhomes where you could offer $1100 per month and it would be taken.

Sometimes, other students are looking for roommates; that might be an option for you. There are also some condos around if you want to live alone.

I think you will be fine in Boca Raton. I have a son, age 19, who works 2 jobs, goes to school at PBCC and hangs out with a nice group of friends.
He never has had a problem with anything or anyone.