If you are looking at Broward County real estate right now, you’ve probably noticed that prices in Fort Lauderdale and Weston have remained stubbornly high. This is usually the moment when buyers start looking at the map, tracing their finger slightly west, and landing on Tamarac.
Think of Tamarac as the sensible, centrally located alternative to the high-priced coastal cities. Nestled right between the Everglades to the west and North Lauderdale to the east, it is a city that prioritizes function and affordability. In early 2026, the local market is finally normalizing after the post-pandemic rush, offering a slightly quieter, suburban pace of life.
However, moving here isn’t just about finding a cheaper zip code. It’s about understanding a specific lifestyle that sits somewhere between active retirement hubs and standard residential subdivisions. My goal here is to walk you through the real costs, the neighborhood quirks, and the honest pros and cons so you can decide if moving to Tamarac FL is the right play for your budget.
Pros and Cons of Living in Tamarac
Before we get into the dollars and cents, let’s look at the lifestyle trade-offs. Tamarac has always been a bit of a “hidden gem” for buyers who want to stay in South Florida without paying coastal premiums, but it isn’t perfect for everyone.
The biggest advantage here is strictly financial. You can generally get more square footage for your money compared to eastern Broward cities. Location is another major plus; you have direct access to the Sawgrass Expressway and the Florida Turnpike, which makes getting around the county significantly easier than if you were stuck in local traffic out east. Plus, the city has invested heavily in green spaces like the Gary B. Jones Park for people and pups, giving the area a relaxed, established community feel.
On the flip side, you have to be realistic about the downsides. Because much of Tamarac was developed in the 1970s and 80s, the housing stock is older and often requires renovation. While listing prices are low, the monthly carrying costs in condo communities can be shocking due to HOA fees. Also, if you are moving here for the ocean, keep in mind that you are inland; the beach is a solid 25 to 30-minute drive, provided traffic cooperates.
- Walkability: The Walk Score here hovers around 30. It is a car-dependent area, so don’t expect to stroll to the grocery store from most subdivisions.
- Safety: The crime rate is generally rated ‘B’ (safer than about 62% of U.S. cities), making it statistically safer than neighboring Lauderhill to the south.
Tamarac Cost of Living & Real Estate Market (2026 Update)
Let’s get down to the numbers. If you are comparing Tamarac FL cost of living against the rest of South Florida, you are going to find it is one of the more attainable markets, but there are some specific “gotchas” you need to watch out for.
Home Prices and Rent
As of early 2026, the market has stabilized. You aren’t seeing the frantic bidding wars of a few years ago, which is great news for buyers. The median price for a single-family home sits around $325,000. That is significantly more approachable than Parkland or Pembroke Pines. If you are looking at condos, the median is closer to $160,000, though this varies wildly depending on the building’s age and amenities.
For those not ready to buy, the average rent is hovering around $2,255 per month. While that is up about 6% year-over-year, it is still often cheaper than renting a comparable unit closer to downtown Fort Lauderdale.
The HOA Factor (Read This Carefully!)
This is the most important advice I can give you: Do not judge a property solely by its list price. Tamarac is famous for its affordable condos, but many of these are in communities with steep monthly association fees.
It is common to see a condo listed for $140,000 that carries a monthly HOA fee of $400 to over $900. In older buildings, you also need to ask about “special assessments.” These are extra fees levied on owners to pay for mandatory structural repairs or roof replacements, which have become much stricter in Florida recently. Always look at the total monthly payment, not just the mortgage.
Insurance and Taxes
Florida property taxes are roughly 1.44% of the assessed value here, which is standard for the region. However, property insurance is a major budget line item. For a single-family home with an older roof (common in Tamarac), you could easily be looking at premiums between $3,000 and $4,000+ per year. It is vital to get an insurance quote during your inspection period so the final monthly cost doesn’t blindside you.
Best Neighborhoods in Tamarac to Call Home
Tamarac is a patchwork of different communities, each with a distinct personality. It’s not just one big suburb; the difference between one side of the street and the other can mean a difference of $500 a month in fees or a totally different demographic.
Kings Point If you are looking at 55+ communities in Tamarac, this is the giant. Kings Point is massive, with over 9,000 residents. It operates almost like a small city with its own buses, a huge theater, and endless clubs. The entry price is very low, but the monthly maintenance fees are high because they cover so many amenities. It is ideal if you want a resort lifestyle and don’t want to worry about exterior maintenance.
Woodmont For those who want a country club atmosphere without necessarily being in a retirement village, Woodmont Tamarac homes for sale are worth a look. The area features the Woodmont Country Club, which offers golf and tennis. You’ll find a mix of single-family homes and townhomes here. Recently, the club has offered waived initiation fees to attract younger members and families, shifting the vibe to be a bit more modern.
Mainlands of Tamarac A lot of buyers get confused here. Unlike Kings Point, the Mainlands of Tamarac (specifically Sections 1 through 13) consists largely of 55+ single-family homes. This is a huge distinction if you want a garden or a driveway but still want the quiet of an active adult community. You own the land, which often appeals to buyers who dislike the condo structure.
Westwood If you want low fees and no age restrictions, look at Westwood Tamarac community, specifically Community 5. This is an “all ages” residential area known for a tight-knit vibe. The HOA fees here can be as low as $50 per month because it’s deed-restricted but doesn’t have the expensive clubhouses of the 55+ areas. It’s a great spot for budget-conscious buyers who just want a nice house in a quiet neighborhood.
Heathgate Heathgate is another solid option for starter homes. It’s a traditional subdivision with reasonable prices and is a good example of the “residential” side of Tamarac that isn’t focused on golf or retirement.
Lifestyle: Amenities, Parks, and Climate
Life in Tamarac is what I call “Suburban Quiet.” It isn’t a nightlife hub—you’ll likely head to living in Fort Lauderdale or Sunrise for big nights out—but the day-to-day quality of life is high.
For outdoor recreation, the city punches above its weight class. The Tamarac Sports Complex is a hub for local leagues, and Caporella Park is a fantastic spot for picnics and jogging. If you are into shopping, you are practically neighbors with the Sawgrass Mills mall in Sunrise, which is one of the largest outlets in the country. It’s a major perk for dining and retail therapy.
Climate-wise, expect the typical South Florida experience: hot, humid summers and absolutely beautiful, mild winters. Because you are inland, you don’t get as much of the sea breeze as the coast, so July and August can feel heavy. Hurricane preparedness is also a necessity here, not an option—shutters or impact windows are a must-have investment.
Commuting & Transportation Options
When people consider commuting from Tamarac to Fort Lauderdale, the news is generally good. You are looking at a drive of about 25 minutes without traffic. However, during rush hour, that can easily stretch to 45 or 60 minutes.
Because the Walk Score is low (approx 30), cars are dominant here. Most residents own vehicles. If you need to get to Miami, give yourself at least 40 minutes on a clear day, but plan for 90 minutes or more during peak times. The Florida Turnpike runs right past the city, which is a paid road but often moves faster than I-95.
For public transit, Broward County Transit runs routes like the 02 and 30, but they are slow going if you need to get downtown. However, communities like Kings Point operate their own internal bus systems, which is a lifeline for seniors who prefer not to drive on the main roads.
FAQ: Moving to Tamarac
Tamarac is generally considered safe, with a crime grade of ‘B’, placing it above neighboring areas like Lauderhill. Like any city, it has safer pockets (typically the western subdivisions) and busier areas, so it is smart to check local maps for the specific street you are eyeing.
Tamarac is an inland community, so you are not right on the water. It typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes to drive to the beaches in Fort Lauderdale or Pompano Beach, depending on traffic lights and congestion.
The city is served by the Broward County Public Schools district and has several charter and private options nearby. While it doesn’t have the same high-profile reputation for schools as Weston, the educational infrastructure is solid and accessible for residents.
This varies hugely by neighborhood. In a standard subdivision like Westwood, you might pay $50 per month, but in a condo-heavy community like Kings Point, fees often range from $400 to over $900 per month covering insurance, cable, and amenities.
Historically, yes, but that is changing. While it still has famous active adult communities like Kings Point and Mainlands, many neighborhoods like Heathgate and Westwood Community 5 are attracting younger buyers and working professionals looking for best places to live in Broward County without the high price tag.
