Need suggestions: where to get an apt around $600 in the FLL area? (Miami: apartments)

[entrprnr]

Hello,

I am an Internet developer, exploring the option to relocate to south Florida in the coming weeks (I am looking at a few other places as well). I work on my laptop all day long, so where I live is not important for my job. I travel a lot, so being close to a well connected airport is a must (FLL is perfect). The weather of the area is obviously appealing and the "no State personal income tax" in Florida is another good rea$on.

I move every other years just because I can and I enjoy experiencing living in new places, and getting to see new landscapes, people, etc.

Anyway, I need some input from you guys familiar with the area as I am thinking of coming to the Fort Lauderdale area in a few weeks to settle for the next couple of years. I am looking to rent a 1 bedroom apartment around $600/month. Which areas of town or other cities around would you suggest I check in priority.

Requirements:
- I will not get a car so it must be in close proximity to a grocery store
- I need decent Internet (DSL/Cable)
- I work from home, so a decent and quiet community is important
- A community swimming pool seems to be a must to enjoy the sunshine
- Being within a 15-20 mins from the airport would be nice

What would you suggest? Specific neighborhood or cities? Specific apartments?

Thanks a lot!

[Nolefan34]

It is going to be tough to find rent that low. You may have to live in a rough area and rent a studio as opposed to a full apartment. The apt's around the airport are expensive because its close to downtown Ft. Lauderdale. You may have to live in a suburb because anything in Ft. Lauderdale proper tends to be pricier than the other areas.

Check out a website called Rent.com. You can search for rental communities and customize it to fit your price range. For privately owned places, you will probably need a realtor to help you.

[entrprnr]

Thanks for your kind answer. It unfortunately confirms what I had seen earlier, but I was hoping I was searching things wrong, or I was missing some areas.

I am looking at Tampa as well now, which seems much more affordable.

[Kalbo]

Try Oakland Park, still in Broward County and right next to Fort Lauderdale.

[StilltheSame]

Without a car in South Florida you will be miserable (you will also be miserable if you have one and have to drive here). Based on your requirements - SFL is not for you.

[wannaseestars]

Search Craigslist, there are quite a few places off of Federal Highway which is an ideal location, just stay north of Las Olas and you'll be good. Its a very convenient area with beaches & shopping in walking (or public trans) distance.

[Your.Decision]

You're going to struggle to find rent that low in South Florida, unless you want to live in a place where you'll fear for your safety! I suggest looking on Craigslist for shared places. Many people rent out rooms and you could at least find somewhere in a nicer part of town, rather than end up in the ghetto.

[hurricaneMan1992]

If you're willing to have a roommate, you can easily find something in a central location with your share being around $600. You can even manage this in downtown Miami or even South Beach. I'd suggest looking at the Broward County Transit site to see which areas have direct buses to the airport (assuming you don't want to take a cab every time) and try to get a roommate in a place that is walkable to the supermarket.