If you are looking at living in Broward County, you’ve likely noticed that the suburbs west of Fort Lauderdale all start to blend together on a map. But once you drive the streets, the differences become obvious quickly. That is especially true when comparing Tamarac and Plantation.
These two neighbors share a border, but they offer distinct lifestyles and price points. Tamarac has long been known for affordability and a relaxed, slower pace that historically catered to retirees. On the other hand, Plantation offers a more upscale, corporate-center vibe with lush landscaping and a bustling town center feel.
Both cities give you easy access to Fort Lauderdale beaches, Margate, and Miami, but the choice usually comes down to a core trade-off: are you looking to maximize your budget in Tamarac, or are you willing to pay a premium for the centrality and amenities of Plantation? Let’s break down the numbers and the vibes to see which one makes sense for you.
Lifestyle and Vibe: Relaxed vs. Bustling
When you drive through these towns, the atmosphere feels different immediately.
Tamarac has traditionally been a quiet retirement hub—places like Kings Point are locally famous—but that demographic is shifting. Today, you will see a lot more first-time buyers and younger residents moving in because the value is hard to beat. You don’t have a massive downtown district, but you do have a peaceful suburban rhythm that many people love after a long workday.
Plantation literally adopts the motto “The Grass is Greener,” and they take it seriously. The streets are lined with heavy canopy trees, and the landscaping is meticulous. It feels more established and active. Because it is home to major corporate headquarters like Magic Leap and large healthcare systems, there is a busy, professional energy here. It has a stronger “town center” feel, especially with developments like Plantation Walk, where you can live, work, and grab a drink without leaving the neighborhood.
Real Estate Comparison: Housing Costs and Options
The biggest differentiator between these two markets is the price tag. If you are browsing homes for sale in Plantation and then switch your search to Tamarac, you might feel like you just got a discount.
Tamarac is significantly more affordable than Plantation or Coral Springs. The inventory here is heavy on condos, townhomes, and smaller single-bedroom or modest single-family homes. It is one of the few places in the area where you can still find substantial inventory in the mid-$200s to low-$300s range. The market here often favors buyers a bit more, simply because there is more approachable inventory available.
- Approximate Median Price: ~$245,000 – $260,000
- Typical Rent: ~$1,800 – $2,100
Plantation sits at a higher price point. You will find a lot more estate-style homes here, particularly in unique areas like Plantation Acres, where lots can be an acre or more—a rarity in Broward. You also have luxury gated communities like Hawks Landing and high-end apartment complexes. The market here is competitive, often seeing multiple offers on turnkey homes.
- Approximate Median Price: ~$490,000+
- Typical Rent: ~$2,500+
Cost of Living: Utilities, Taxes, and HOA Fees
Beyond the mortgage, you need to factor in the monthly carrying costs. While everyday expenses like groceries and utilities (both are FPL territory) are roughly the same, other line items vary.
Property Taxes are generally higher in Plantation. Since taxes are based on assessed value and homes in Plantation are worth more, your annual bill will naturally be larger.
HOA Fees are common in both cities, but you need to watch out for the specifics. In Tamarac, fees can be high in the numerous 55+ condo communities because they cover extensive amenities and building maintenance. In Plantation, the high fees usually come from luxury gated enclaves that cover 24-hour guard gates and lush common grounds.
When it comes to discretionary spending, dining and entertainment in Plantation can skew more expensive simply because the venues are more upscale.
Schools and Education Opportunities
For households prioritizing education, the local school zones are often a deciding factor.
Plantation generally hosts higher-rated public schools, such as Central Park Elementary, which draws many residents to the area. It is also a hub for private education, hosting prestigious institutions like American Heritage. The proximity to higher education is excellent as well, with Nova Southeastern University campuses nearby.
Tamarac is served by Broward County Public Schools, and the ratings for zoned schools can vary more than they do just south in Plantation. However, many residents here utilize the county’s robust charter school system or magnet programs to find the right fit for their students. It is less of a destination specifically for school zones, but there are plenty of viable options if you do your homework.
Safety and Crime Statistics
Safety is always top of mind, and the perception between these two areas often differs from the reality on the ground.
Plantation is generally perceived as safer, particularly in the residential western zones. The crime rates are typically lower here, though because it is a retail hub with malls and big-box stores, you do see some property crime stats around those commercial corridors.
Tamarac statistically shows higher crime rates than Plantation, particularly regarding property crime. However, looking at city-wide stats can be misleading. Specific neighborhoods, especially those west of University Drive, are very secure and quiet. Both cities are well-protected, with Tamarac served by the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) and Plantation maintaining its own dedicated Police Department.
Commute and Location: Access to Fort Lauderdale
If you work in downtown Fort Lauderdale or travel often, your commute will look very different depending on which city you choose.
Plantation is centrally located and offers a major advantage: immediate access to I-595. This highway cuts straight across the county, meaning you can get to the FLL Airport in 15 – 20 minutes or shoot over to downtown Fort Lauderdale quickly. However, be warned that traffic on University Drive and Broward Boulevard can be very heavy during rush hour.
Tamarac is further north and west. Residents here rely more on the Sawgrass Expressway and Commercial Boulevard. While the Sawgrass is great for north-south travel, commuting east to downtown Fort Lauderdale will take longer—usually 25 – 35 minutes or more in traffic. Congestion on Commercial Boulevard is a daily reality for commuters here.
Amenities: Parks, Shopping, and Dining
How do you like to spend your weekends?
Parks are strong in both, but different. Plantation Central Park is a regional destination with massive sports facilities and an aquatics center. Tamarac holds its own with excellent community parks like Caporella Park and the Tamarac Sports Complex, which are great for local recreation but feel less like regional attractions.
Shopping is dominated by Plantation. With the Westfield Broward Mall, The Fountains, and the new Plantation Walk, you have major retail at your fingertips. Tamarac residents often drive to these spots or head west to the massive Sawgrass Mills outlet mall in Sunrise, as Tamarac itself relies more on neighborhood strip malls.
Dining follows a similar pattern. Plantation has a diverse culinary scene ranging from upscale steakhouses to trendy gastropubs. Tamarac has fewer high-end options, but it is famous among locals for hidden gems—great little mom-and-pop spots that are affordable and delicious.
Pros and Cons Summary
Here is a quick look at how these two stack up:
- Tamarac Pros: incredible affordability, quieter traffic patterns, and great amenities for seniors or those wanting a low-key lifestyle.
- Tamarac Cons: further commute from downtown/airport, fewer nightlife options, and generally older housing stock.
- Plantation Pros: unbeatable central location near I-595, strong school zones, robust dining/shopping scene, and upscale housing options.
- Plantation Cons: significantly higher cost of entry and heavy traffic congestion on main commercial arteries.
Final Verdict: Tamarac or Plantation?
Choosing between these two usually comes down to budget versus lifestyle requirements.
You should choose Tamarac if you are budget-conscious, a first-time buyer, or a retiree looking for a quiet community where your dollar goes further. It is the practical choice for those who want to own a home in South Florida without being house-poor.
You should choose Plantation if you prioritize school ratings, need a quick central commute to downtown or the airport, and want a more upscale, amenity-rich lifestyle. If you can afford the premium, the “greener grass” and central convenience are often worth it.
If you are ready to explore homes for sale in Tamarac or see what’s available in Plantation, reach out to a local expert who can guide you through the neighborhoods that fit your needs best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Tamarac is generally much more affordable. You can find condos and single-family homes in Tamarac for significantly less than comparable properties in Plantation, often saving buyers $100,000 or more on the purchase price.
Plantation is slightly closer to the beach. Because it is situated further south and has direct access to Broward Boulevard and Sunrise Boulevard, getting to Fort Lauderdale Beach is usually a faster, more direct drive than coming from Tamarac.
Generally, yes. Plantation is known for having highly rated public schools and excellent proximity to top-tier private schools, making it a primary target for households prioritizing education ratings.
Tamarac is a bit further out, typically taking about 25 to 35 minutes to reach Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Plantation residents can usually make that same drive in about 15 to 20 minutes via I-595.
