For decades, the global narrative of South Florida has been dominated by the high-octane energy of Miami. We’ve all seen the images: the Art Deco skylines of South Beach, the high-fashion streets of the Design District, and the legendary nightlife that never seems to sleep.
When I first decided to move to the Sunshine State, Miami was the only city on my radar. But after spending a few weeks exploring the coast, I did something I didn’t expect: I drove 30 miles north and never looked back.
Choosing Fort Lauderdale over Miami wasn’t about hating the “Magic City”—it was about finding a different kind of magic. Here is why the “Venice of America” eventually won my heart.
1. A Breathable Pace of Life
Miami is exhilarating, but it is also exhausting. It functions at a frantic, metropolitan pace that rivals New York or London. Fort Lauderdale, by contrast, offers what I like to call “sophisticated chill.”
In Fort Lauderdale, you get the same palm trees and world-class beaches, but without the persistent “hustle” mentality. People take the time to talk to their neighbors. The atmosphere at the Sunday jazz brunches on the Riverwalk is a world away from the chaotic energy of a Miami beach club. It’s a city that understands that luxury and relaxation should go hand-in-hand.
2. The “Venice of America” Lifestyle
While Miami has the Atlantic, Fort Lauderdale has a soul built on water. With over 165 miles of navigable inland canals, the boating culture here isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy—it’s a way of life for everyone.
I traded sitting in gridlock on the I-95 for taking the Water Taxi to dinner. There is something profoundly peaceful about a city where you can commute via boat, passing through lush residential fingers and docking directly at a restaurant on Las Olas Boulevard.
3. More Bang for Your Buck (and More Space)
Let’s talk logistics. The real estate market in South Florida is competitive across the board, but Fort Lauderdale consistently offers more value.
In Miami, you’re often paying a massive premium for the “zip code” and the proximity to the latest “it” spot. In Fort Lauderdale, I found that my budget allowed for significantly more square footage and, more importantly, a sense of community. Instead of a cramped high-rise condo in Brickell, I found a home with a yard and a sense of permanence. Once I weighed the lifestyle benefits against the costs and realized the “Venice of America” was where I belonged, I hired a moving company in Miami right away to make the transition official.
4. Navigability and Accessibility
Anyone who has lived in Miami knows that traffic isn’t just a nuance—it’s a lifestyle. Getting from Wynwood to Coral Gables can sometimes feel like a cross-country trek.
Fort Lauderdale is remarkably navigable. The city is laid out in a way that makes sense, and the traffic, while present, is significantly more manageable. Plus, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is one of the easiest, most efficient airports to fly in and out of, making travel—whether for business or pleasure—far less stressful than the trek to MIA.
5. Las Olas vs. South Beach
Don’t get me wrong, I love a night out in Miami once in a while. But for day-to-day living, Las Olas Boulevard offers everything I need. It’s lined with Mediterranean-style architecture, art galleries, and upscale dining, but it feels approachable. You can wear flip-flops to a high-end bistro and no one bats an eye. It’s upscale without the pretension.
The Verdict
Miami is a fantastic place to visit, and it will always be the cultural heartbeat of Latin America in the States. But for those looking for a blend of tropical beauty, a thriving job market, and a community that actually feels like home, Fort Lauderdale is the hidden gem hiding in plain sight.
Making the move was the best decision I’ve made. If you’re torn between the two, I highly recommend spending a weekend in the “Venice of America.” You might just find yourself calling for a mover sooner than you think.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.