Living in Pompano Beach
Often called the "Heart of the Gold Coast," Pompano Beach benefits from its prime location between Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale.
The miles of pristine beaches, a world-famous underwater coral reef, and a thriving arts scene are some of the beauty to expect from this southern city.
But… Did you know Pompano Beach is home to some of Florida's best fishing? Or that it's considered one of the world's top boating and scuba diving destinations?
There are so many things about living in Pompano Beach that are not immediately obvious to a non-local.
Beyond the coastline, this part of Florida will thrill you to unique festivals, and unending outdoor recreational opportunities the city provides.
So, are you someone with a desire to call Pompano Beach home?
Here's what you need about this city!
The Cost of Living: What's the Price Tag for a Slice of this South Florida City
What's the cost of living in Pompano Beach?
Well, it's not cheap, but it's not jaw-droppingly expensive.
Yes, it costs 8% more than the U.S. average overall, but when you compare your living expenses here to places like Miami or nearby Fort Lauderdale, you realize it's quite the steal.
You should expect to spend more on housing. Even though the average is not higher than most other expenses in Pompano Beach, it's likely to take a chunk of your income.
In the long run, it seems more beneficial to save up for a house in Pompano Beach, as the average rent is significantly higher than in most other U.S. cities.
Average House Rent: $2,195
Median Home Value: $372,500
Groceries and utilities costs hover higher than the national average. Dining out can be a bit pricey—think $15 – $20 for lunch at local spots. However, budget-conscious folks can save a buck by shopping at farmer's markets.
Work-Life in Pompano Beach
The job market in Pompano Beach is as diverse as its population. Tourism is king here, so those in the beach resort business make a premium living.
There are also opportunities in healthcare, retail, and the booming marine industry. If you work in construction, living in Pompano Beach is one of your best decisions yet.
Also, proximity to Fort Lauderdale and Miami expands commuter job options. This is especially the case in tech, finance, and international trade.
For freelancers and remote workers, Pompano Beach is a dream with its abundance of co-working spaces and coffee shops.
Who wouldn't want to take their laptop to a beach café for an "office" upgrade?
Median Household Income: $61,155
Unemployment Rate: 3.4%
Poverty Rate: 15.9%
Where to Live in Pompano Beach
Pompano Beach has many neighborhoods, but locals know these neighborhoods have only two distinct vibes that match lifestyles.
On the east side, you will find a beachy paradise that's more tourist-friendly. Whereas when you head west, you will see more residential homes and amenities for family-friendly living.
But if you are looking for the perfect spot to call home, Harbor Village offers a quiet mix of beach proximity that makes it suitable for families and retirees.
Cypress Point works best for young professionals, and lush greenery and peaceful streets are the prime offerings of Palm Aire.
With so much variety, finding your dream neighborhood in Pompano Beach is more like picking the perfect scoop of ice cream.
There's no wrong choice!
Is It Safe? Crime Rates in Pompano Beach
Safety is always one of the big questions Pompano Beach movers have to answer when prospective residents want to move to the city.
Even though the crime rate here is higher than the national average, it has many safe areas and others that you might want to avoid after dark.
Like any city, Pompano Beach's safety profile is mixed…
Neighborhoods like Harbor Village and Garden Isles are among the safer, more affluent areas. Meanwhile, parts of southwest and northwest Pompano Beach have higher crime rates.
However, the city has an active plan for improving safety. The increased police presence has equally contributed to bringing some sanity to some areas in the city, especially the tourist areas.
Attractions and Fun Activities: What's There to Do?
There are many attractions in Pompano Beach. So, boredom isn't really much of an option.
Here are some top highlights:
Pompano Beach Pier is a local favorite for fishing and strolling. You can just soak up the ocean views as well.
The Festival Marketplace is an eclectic shopping destination with unique finds and international eats.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling activities provide you with opportunities to explore the coral reefs and shipwrecks just offshore. It's a prime diver's paradise.
Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA) is a hotspot for art lovers. It features exhibits, workshops, and events.
Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse is an iconic landmark with history, incredible views, and Instagram-worthy moments.
You don't want to forget the city's food scene. From fresh seafood to authentic Caribbean cuisine, your taste buds will thank you
Education in Pompano Beach
Moving with kids? Well, you'll be glad to know that Pompano Beach has solid schooling options.
The city's education is under the Broward School District, which is in Fort Lauderdale and offers public, charter, and magnet school options.
Even as one of the largest school districts in the country, the quality rating is consistently above average. The student's performance in reading and math is quite similar to the national average.
Some top-rated school options in Pompano Beach include:
Pompano Beach High School
Palmview Elementary School
McNab Elementary School
Somerset Pines Academy
Innovation Charter School
Note:
For higher education seekers, living in Pompano Beach means you are not far from major institutions like Florida Atlantic University and Nova Southeastern University.
Bring Sunscreen for the Weather in Pompano Beach
Pompano Beach is a tropical paradise. You should expect sunny, warm weather year-round — about 242 days of the year are sunny.
However, summers are hot and humid. They have temperatures often hitting the mid-90s, while winters are blissfully mild, staying in the low 70s.
Rain is frequent in summer, but this can also bring thunderstorms, most of which are usually short-lived, though.
An important fact you must know living in Pompano Beach is that hurricane preparedness is important. It runs from June to November, so prepare with your emergency plans.
Know all the evacuation zones and fashion designs to make your home 'hurricane-proof.'
Average Seasonal Temperature in Pompano Beach
Winter — 72°F
Fall — 80°F
Spring — 78°F
Summer — 84°F
Final Thoughts — Life in Pompano Beach
Living in Pompano Beach means embracing the good vibes of coastal life with costs that relatively do not break the bank.
Sure, it comes with its challenges—a high crime rate, hurricane prep, and those Florida humidity days—but the perks far outweigh the downsides.
Whether it's the ocean that draws you, the job opportunities, or the laid-back lifestyle, Pompano Beach makes you feel right at home.
So, when are you planning your move?