Moving to Hollywood, Florida
When people talk about moving to South Florida, Miami and Fort Lauderdale usually steal the spotlight. But right between the two is a city that combines the best of both worlds – Hollywood. Known for its famous beachside Broadwalk, a mix of historic neighborhoods, and a growing downtown, Hollywood has become one of the most attractive relocation destinations in Broward County. If you’re considering a move to South Florida, Hollywood offers the lifestyle, location, and community that might just make it the perfect fit.
Hollywood was founded in the 1920s by developer Joseph Young, who envisioned a “dream city” along the coast. Today, with more than 150,000 residents, it’s one of the largest cities in Broward County. What makes Hollywood stand out is its balance. It has a beachside community with a laid-back vibe, a suburban core with schools and parks, and a revitalized downtown with dining and nightlife. That variety means there’s truly something for everyone.
Let’s start with geography. Hollywood sits just south of Fort Lauderdale and north of Miami, making it incredibly convenient. You’re about 20 minutes from both downtowns, and Miami International and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International airports are both close by. I-95, the Florida Turnpike, and US-1 all run through the city, making commuting and travel simple. For relocators who want access to everything South Florida has to offer, Hollywood’s location is hard to beat.
The lifestyle in Hollywood is shaped by its beaches. Hollywood Beach is famous for its Broadwalk – a 2.5-mile pedestrian promenade lined with restaurants, cafés, shops, and entertainment. It’s a more relaxed alternative to Miami Beach, with families biking, couples walking hand-in-hand, and kids playing in the sand. Living near the beach here feels like stepping into a year-round vacation. At the same time, the inland neighborhoods give you quiet, residential options that still keep you close to the action.
Neighborhoods in Hollywood are diverse. East Hollywood, near the beach and Intracoastal, has condos, waterfront homes, and luxury developments. Downtown Hollywood offers historic homes, apartments, and a walkable lifestyle with dining and nightlife. West Hollywood is more suburban, with single-family homes, gated communities, and parks. Emerald Hills is one of the most prestigious neighborhoods, with golf course living and large homes. For those who want affordability, there are plenty of modest homes in family-friendly neighborhoods across the city.
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Housing options range widely. You can find beachfront condos, mid-century ranch homes, modern townhouses, and luxury waterfront estates. Prices vary depending on proximity to the beach and amenities, but overall, Hollywood is more affordable than Miami Beach or Fort Lauderdale, making it an attractive option for relocators who want value without sacrificing lifestyle.
Day-to-day life in Hollywood is easygoing but full of opportunity. Downtown Hollywood has seen significant investment, with restaurants, breweries, art galleries, and shops creating a lively atmosphere. The ArtsPark at Young Circle hosts concerts, festivals, and events, making it a hub of activity. For shopping, you’ve got options like Oakwood Plaza, Sheridan Plaza, and the nearby Aventura Mall. Dining reflects South Florida’s diversity, with everything from Cuban and Caribbean to Italian, Peruvian, and farm-to-table cuisine.
For outdoor lovers, Hollywood doesn’t disappoint. In addition to its beaches and Boardwalk, the city has numerous parks and green spaces. West Lake Park offers kayaking, birdwatching, and nature trails. Golfers can enjoy courses like the Hollywood Beach Golf Club. Boating and fishing are part of everyday life for many residents, thanks to the Intracoastal Waterway and nearby marinas.
Families often choose Hollywood for its schools and community amenities. Public schools are part of Broward County Public Schools, with a mix of traditional, magnet, and charter options. Private schools are also available nearby. Parks, youth sports programs, and community events make Hollywood family-friendly.
Healthcare access is excellent, with Memorial Regional Hospital – one of the largest hospitals in Florida – located right in Hollywood. That, combined with other medical centers nearby, gives residents confidence that healthcare needs are covered.
Of course, Hollywood comes with trade-offs. Traffic can be heavy, especially along I-95 and around the beach during peak season. While Hollywood is generally more affordable than Miami Beach, waterfront property and luxury developments still come with high price tags. Another factor is that while Hollywood has been revitalizing, some areas still lag and feel less polished compared to neighboring cities.
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But for many relocators, the pros outweigh the cons. Hollywood offers beaches without the chaos of South Beach, a central location between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, diverse housing options, strong healthcare, and a growing cultural scene. It’s a city where you can spend the day at the beach, the evening at a downtown restaurant, and still retreat to a quiet suburban neighborhood at night.
So, who is Hollywood right for? Families who want suburban comfort with beach access. Professionals who commute to either Miami or Fort Lauderdale but prefer a central location. Retirees who want healthcare, beaches, and community. And anyone who wants value compared to Miami Beach, while still living in a vibrant coastal city.
At the end of the day, Hollywood is one of South Florida’s best-kept secrets. It offers the balance, affordability, and lifestyle that many relocators are searching for. If Miami Beach feels too hectic and Fort Lauderdale feels too upscale, Hollywood just might be the perfect middle ground.
If you’re considering a move to Hollywood, this is where Find Your Florida Now comes in. We connect you with vetted, expert local real estate agents who actually live and work here. They’ll help you explore neighborhoods, weigh the trade-offs, and decide if Hollywood truly matches your lifestyle.
Here’s what to do next: fill out our Florida Lifestyle Match form below, and we’ll connect you with the right agent for your goals. Or, if you’d rather talk directly, call or text me, Adam Miller, at 941-233-9722, and we’ll figure out your best move together.
Wondering which Florida city or community truly fits your lifestyle? Fill out our Florida Lifestyle Match form, and I’ll personally connect you with a trusted local real estate expert in the area that’s right for you. It’s quick, easy, and the first step toward finding your perfect Florida home base
Adam Miller | The 941 Lifestyle Group | Real Broker, LLC
Florida Real Estate Agent helping buyers and sellers across the state since 2013. Based in Lakewood Ranch with a trusted statewide network.