Pros and Cons of Living in Hallandale Beach, Florida: A Comprehensive Guide

Hallandale Beach, located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, offers an attractive lifestyle with its beachfront living, convenience, and proximity to major cities. However, like any place, there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider before deciding to make it home.

Luxury beachfront oasis with a rooftop pool and ocean views

This guide explores the pros and cons of living in Hallandale Beach, including amenities, safety, cost of living, and more.

What are the Pros of Living in Hallandale Beach?

Living in Hallandale Beach offers several benefits that make it an appealing destination for people looking to live in Florida.

What Community Amenities are Available?

Hallandale Beach is known for its accessible amenities that cater to a variety of lifestyles.

Gulfstream Park
A major entertainment venue, the park features a racetrack, a casino, and a variety of dining options, making it a central hub for both locals and visitors.

The Village at Gulfstream Park
Located nearby, this vibrant complex offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, with everything from boutique shops to fine restaurants, creating a dynamic experience.

Parker Dorado Park
A great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Parker Dorado Park provides plenty of green spaces, ideal for picnics, sports, or simply enjoying the Florida weather.

North Beach Park
This park offers direct beachfront access along with scenic walking paths and picnic areas, making it the perfect spot to relax by the water.

Diplomat Country Club
An excellent location for golf lovers, Diplomat Country Club offers an expansive course and various recreational amenities, catering to both beginners and experienced golfers.

How Safe is Hallandale Beach?

While Hallandale Beach has a crime rate higher than the national average, it is important to note that it remains relatively safe compared to many other areas of similar size. With 25 crimes per 1,000 residents, the likelihood of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime is 1 in 40.

While not among the safest in Florida, Hallandale Beach does not stand out as one of the highest-crime areas. Here, property crime rates are more common, with a 1 in 47 chance of being affected. Despite these statistics, Hallandale Beach remains a relatively safe and desirable place to live, with measures in place to maintain security.

What Recreational Activities are Offered?

For those who enjoy an active lifestyle, Hallandale Beach offers a variety of recreational activities.

Hallandale Beach Park
This park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including sports fields, tennis courts, and playgrounds, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Intracoastal Waterway
Residents can enjoy fishing and boating along this scenic waterway, offering a peaceful setting for water activities and beautiful views of the area.

Hollywood Beach
Just a short distance away, it features a long, scenic boardwalk perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the ocean breeze, ideal for a more relaxed outdoor experience.

Fitness Centers
For those looking to stay active, Hallandale Beach offers several fitness centers equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, providing a convenient option for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

What are the Cons of Living in Hallandale Beach?

While Hallandale Beach is an attractive place to live, there are some drawbacks that residents may face.

Is the Cost of Living High?

Living in Hallandale Beach, Florida, comes with a cost that is approximately 5% above the national average. This price difference is influenced by factors such as local salaries, housing prices, and lifestyle preferences. For instance, the median home price in Hallandale Beach is around $470,588, while the average rent is about $1,431 per month. Utilities such as electricity cost approximately $208.07 per month, and gas prices are slightly above average, at $3.44 per gallon.

Elite waterfront complex with a pool and tennis courts

Food expenses also reflect the higher cost of living, with items like a gallon of milk costing $4.97 and a loaf of bread priced at $4.22. However, Hallandale Beach benefits from relatively lower healthcare costs. For example, a visit to the doctor costs about $131.61, and a dentist visit is $108.22. Overall, Hallandale Beach is a bit more expensive than many other areas in the U.S., but it offers an attractive lifestyle with easy access to beaches, entertainment, and excellent amenities.

What are the Traffic Conditions Like?

Traffic can be a challenge, especially during peak hours or tourist season. While the city is centrally located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, the roads can become congested due to the heavy flow of commuters and tourists. The road network here is efficient, but residents must plan accordingly during rush hour or events to avoid delays.

Are There Issues with Public Services?

Hallandale Beach offers a range of public transportation services, though they may not be as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas. The city is served by the Broward County Transit bus system, which includes several routes connecting Hallandale Beach to neighboring cities such as Fort Lauderdale and Miami. The Tri-Rail commuter train also provides easy access to downtown Miami and other parts of South Florida, with a nearby station in the city.

For those looking for faster transportation, the Metrorail system in Miami is just a short drive away, offering convenient access to downtown and other key destinations. While these services provide good connectivity, some residents have expressed the need for expanded routes or more frequent service to better serve the growing population. Overall, Hallandale Beach benefits from its proximity to major transit systems.

What is the Average Cost of Housing in Hallandale Beach?

The housing market in Hallandale Beach offers a wide range of options, from luxury condominiums to more affordable housing.

What is the Rental Market Like?

As of March 2025, the average monthly rent in Hallandale Beach, FL, is $1,902, which is 22% above the national average of $1,559. This places Hallandale Beach among the more expensive rental areas in the United States. Rent for a studio apartment typically costs around $1,030 per month, while a one-bedroom apartment averages $1,902. For a two-bedroom rental, the price is approximately $2,974 per month. Larger three-bedroom units can go for $5,716 or more, depending on the location and amenities.

Are There Affordable Housing Options?

While this district is known for its upscale properties, there are still some affordable housing options available. The city offers several mid-range condos and homes that are suitable for those with moderate budgets. However, prospective buyers or renters should be prepared for prices that may exceed what is available in surrounding cities.

What is the Real Estate Market Overview?

Hallandale Beach, located in Florida, comprises 11 distinct neighborhoods. As of February 2025, there are 1,942 homes available for sale, with prices up to $12 million. The median listing price for a home here is $341,000, showing a decrease of 2.5% compared to the previous year. The average price per square foot is $317, while the median home sale price stands at $347,000. On average, homes in Hallandale Beach sold for 6.32% less than their asking price in February 2025.

Skyscraper by the shore with breathtaking sunsets and high-end living

This area is currently considered a buyer's region, meaning the supply of homes exceeds the demand. Popular neighborhoods such as Oceanside, Three Islands, and Atlantic Shores are among the best choices for those looking to buy or rent in Hallandale Beach.

How is the School System in Hallandale Beach?

The district is served by a mix of public and private education options for families looking to settle in the area.

What are the Best Schools Available?

The area offers a variety of educational options for families, including both state-run and independent institutions. There are 5 government-run educational facilities in the area serving a total of 2,823 students and 5 independent schools with 580 students enrolled. In fact, 83% of K-12 students in Hallandale Beach attend state-run schools, which is slightly above the state average of 86%.

The top-rated state-run schools in Hallandale Beach include Lanier-James Education Center, Gulfstream Academy of Hallandale Beach, and South Broward Montessori Charter School.

Some of the popular private schools include Aventura Montessori School, Hochberg Preparatory School (Jewish), and Learning Academy. These institutions provide an alternative educational experience with different curriculums and environments.

What is the School Demographics Like?

Overall, the district's public schools rank in the bottom 50% of Florida's educational institutions, with minority enrollment making up 91% of the student body. This is significantly higher than the Florida state average of 65%, with most students being of Black and Hispanic backgrounds.

Are There Public vs. Private School Options?

Public schools in the area have an average math proficiency score of 30%, significantly lower than the Florida state average of 52%. The reading proficiency score is 38%, again below the state's 52% average.

For those interested in a detailed look at the independent options, Aventura Montessori School offers a program for children from PK to K with 76 students. Hochberg Preparatory School, a Jewish institution, caters to grades K-5 with 196 students, while Learning Academy offers a personalized education for students from K-6, serving 79 children.

Top Public Institutions

Lanier-James Education Center
This institution focuses on providing a comprehensive learning environment with specific attention to developing students' academic and social skills.

Gulfstream Academy of Hallandale Beach
Known for its commitment to excellence, the Academy ranks highly among regional institutions, offering specialized programs designed to cater to students’ unique needs and talents.

Top Private Institutions

Aventura Montessori School
A respected Montessori-based institution for younger students, providing a nurturing and hands-on learning environment.

Hochberg Preparatory Academy
This Jewish-affiliated academy offers a well-rounded education with an emphasis on both academic rigor and community values, catering to families seeking a religious curriculum.

What is the Proximity to Miami and Other Areas?

One of the standout features of Hallandale Beach is its prime location, offering convenient entry to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and surrounding areas.

A condo with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing stunning city and ocean views

How Convenient is the Commute to Miami?

The region is strategically located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, making it easy for residents to commute to both cities. The drive to Miami takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic, and public transportation options such as buses and the Metrorail are readily available.

What Nearby Attractions Are Worth Visiting?

The area is close to several popular attractions.

Art and Culture Center of Hollywood
Located near Hallandale Beach, this vibrant place hosts a variety of art exhibitions, performances, and educational programs. It’s a hub for regional artists and art enthusiasts, offering a range of cultural events throughout the year. The center also provides workshops and art classes for all ages.

Hollywood Beach
A beautiful stretch of coastline just a short drive from Hallandale Beach, known for its soft sands and vibrant atmosphere. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing by the ocean.

Hollywood Broadwalk
A scenic, 2.5-mile boardwalk that runs along Hollywood Beach, offering visitors shops, cafes, and restaurants with ocean views. It’s a popular spot for walking, biking, or enjoying the sunset.

Aventura Mall
One of the largest and most popular shopping destinations in the region, featuring high-end retailers, department stores, and a wide variety of dining options. It’s a go-to place for shopping, entertainment, and leisure.

The Taste of Hallandale Beach Festival
An annual event celebrating regional food, music, and culture. The festival showcases a wide range of cuisines, live performances, and activities, making it a must-attend for food lovers and those seeking a fun experience.

How Does Hallandale Compare to Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale?

When compared to the above-mentioned areas, Hallandale Beach offers a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle. While Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale are known for their bustling nightlife and major attractions, Hallandale Beach provides a more serene and family-friendly environment, making it ideal for those seeking a balance between relaxation and proximity to larger cities.

What are the Local Demographics and Community Feel?

Hallandale Beach has a rich and diverse demographic, making it a unique place to live.

What is the Cultural Diversity Like?

The area is home to a variety of cultural groups, with a significant presence of Latin American, Caribbean, and European residents. This cultural diversity is reflected in the regional events, festivals, and food scene, giving Hallandale Beach a cosmopolitan feel.

Are There Family-Friendly Activities?

Anne Kolb Nature Reserve
A beautiful wildlife area with trails, birdwatching, and educational exhibits. It’s a great place for families to explore nature, enjoy the lush surroundings, and learn about native species.

Hallandale Beach Green Space
This family-friendly area features sports fields, tennis courts, play zones, and picnic spots. It's the perfect place for a fun, energetic day out with children, offering plenty of room for physical exercises and games.

Modern residences surrounded by palm trees and designer boutiques

The Children's Museum of Broward
Located nearby, this hands-on museum focuses on providing kids with interactive learning experiences. It’s an exciting destination where children can engage with science, culture, and history in an enjoyable way.

North Beach Recreation Area
A tranquil beachfront space with picnic zones, walking paths, and play areas. It’s an excellent spot for families to unwind, enjoy a meal, or spend a day by the sea. The area also hosts various community gatherings throughout the year.

Young Circle Plaza
A lively public square in nearby Hollywood with a skate zone, amphitheater, and playgrounds. It’s a popular venue for families to enjoy live performances, festivals, and recreational fun.

What is the Local Job Market and Employment Opportunities?

The job opportunities in Hallandale Beach are abundant, with demand in sectors like hospitality, healthcare, and retail. The city's closeness to both Miami and Fort Lauderdale further expands employment prospects across a variety of industries. For those interested in tech or finance, Miami's booming growth in these areas provides numerous career options. Highly sought-after professions in the region include software developers, financial analysts, registered nurses, and customer service managers.

Conclusion

Hallandale Beach is a historic and waterfront destination for those who want to enjoy the charm of beachside living while still being within a short drive from Miami and Lauderdale. With a strong sense of community, diverse residents, and ample pet-friendly spaces, it's an excellent place to call home. However, like any location, there are aspects such as the cost of living, traffic, and environmental factors that potential condo owners should consider before making the move.