If you have been driving around Broward County looking for a single-family home that offers a balance of space, affordability, and location, you might have stumbled upon Plum Bay. Tucked away off McNab Road, just west of Pine Island Road, this subdivision is one of those pockets in Tamarac that often flies under the radar until a buyer is specifically looking for it.
Developed primarily between 1994 and 1997, Plum Bay consists of about 115 single-family homes. The aesthetic here is distinctively Floridian—think Mediterranean-style architecture, pastel stucco, and tile roofs. Many of the properties sit on waterfront lots, offering views of canals or small lakes that wind through the neighborhood.
One of the most important things to clear up right away is the confusion between “Plum Bay” and “Plum Harbor.” While they sit right next to each other and share some amenities, they are very different markets. Plum Bay refers to the detached single-family homes. Plum Harbor refers to the adjacent townhome community. If you are looking for a standalone house with a private yard and a two-car garage, Plum Bay is the specific subdivision you want to focus on.
Real Estate: Plum Bay Homes & Floor Plans
When you look at the housing inventory in Plum Bay, you will find that the community is exclusively made up of detached single-family homes. This is a major draw for buyers who are moving up from condos or townhomes and want true independence from shared walls.
Most of the homes here are one or two stories and feature the design trends that were popular in the mid-90s, which remain highly desirable today. You can expect vaulted ceilings that make the living areas feel larger, open floor plans, and screened-in patios that are perfect for year-round use. In terms of size, these homes typically range from 1,600 to 2,500 square feet, usually offering 3-bedroom or 4-bedroom layouts with 2 to 3 bathrooms.
As for pricing, the market has shifted over the last few years. As of early 2026, homes in Plum Bay generally trade in the low $500Ks to the mid $600Ks. This price point makes it competitive compared to newer construction further west. If this budget feels like a stretch, or if you prefer a “lock-and-leave” lifestyle, the neighboring Plum Harbor townhomes offer a more compact alternative, though the living experience is quite different.
HOA Fees & Community Amenities
One of the biggest financial advantages of living in Plum Bay is the homeowners association (HOA) structure. In an era where monthly fees in Broward County can easily exceed $400 or $500, Plum Bay remains remarkably affordable.
The HOA fee for the single-family homes in Plum Bay is approximately $98 per month. This is significantly lower than many surrounding communities, largely because homeowners here are responsible for their own roof and exterior maintenance.
Despite the low fee, residents still get access to great shared amenities. The cost covers:
- Maintenance of common areas and landscaping.
- Trash removal services.
- Access to the community swimming pool.
- Use of the tennis and pickleball courts.
It is worth noting the contrast with the Plum Harbor townhomes next door. Townhome owners there pay significantly higher monthly fees—often in the $340 to $400 range—because their HOA covers exterior building maintenance and roof repairs. For Plum Bay buyers, the trade-off is lower monthly fixed costs in exchange for handling your own home repairs.
Schools Zoned for Plum Bay
For many buyers, the local school district is a major factor in the decision-making process. Plum Bay is situated in a convenient spot for access to several Broward County public schools.
- Elementary: Challenger Elementary School is located very close by on 94th Avenue, making the morning drop-off relatively stress-free.
- Middle/High: Many students are zoned for Millennium 6-12 Collegiate Academy, which is known for its robust magnet programs and continuity from middle through high school grades.
- High School: The area is generally served by J.P. Taravella High School.
There are also several charter and private options nearby, including the Renaissance Charter School. Please keep in mind that school boundaries can be fluid. If you are buying specifically for a school zone, always verify the current boundary maps with Broward County Public Schools before closing.
Location & Commute
Beyond the house itself, the location of Plum Bay is strategic for commuters. The neighborhood is less than five minutes from the Sawgrass Expressway. This makes it incredibly easy to head north toward Boca Raton or south toward Miami without having to navigate twenty minutes of surface streets first. McNab Road serves as a solid east-west artery, connecting you quickly to the rest of the county.
From a lifestyle perspective, you aren’t far from the essentials. The new Tamarac Village and the Publix at Tamarac Town Square provide plenty of grocery and dining options. For recreation, residents are close to the Woodmont Country Club and Tephford Park, which offers plenty of green space. It’s a location that balances quiet residential streets with very quick access to the things you need daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Plum Bay and Plum Harbor?
The main difference is the property type. Plum Bay consists exclusively of detached single-family homes, while Plum Harbor is a community of attached townhomes. Consequently, the HOA fees and maintenance responsibilities differ significantly between the two.
Is Plum Bay a gated community?
No, Plum Bay is not a gated community. However, because it is a subdivision with a specific layout rather than a through-street grid, it tends to stay quiet with limited traffic passing through.
What are the HOA fees in Plum Bay?
For the single-family homes in Plum Bay, the HOA fee is very reasonable, sitting at approximately $98 per month. This covers common area maintenance and access to amenities like the pool and tennis courts.
