Living in Parkland, Florida is about finding the sweet spot where tranquility meets convenience, where nature frames everyday life and families grow in safe, walkable neighborhoods. If you are researching suburbs of South Florida and prioritize parks, top-rated schools, and a strong sense of community, then living in Parkland, Florida deserves serious consideration. This guide walks through everything you need to know — from neighborhoods and real estate to parks, dining, and schools — so you can picture what daily life looks like here.

Table of Contents

• Overview of Parkland, Florida
• Real Estate in Parkland, Florida
• Things to Do in Parkland, Florida
• Job Market and Commute Options in Parkland, Florida
• Shopping and Dining in Parkland, Florida
• Education in Parkland, Florida
• Community and Lifestyle in Parkland, Florida
• Practical Considerations for Moving to Parkland
• FAQs About Living in Parkland, Florida
• Wrap Up: Is Living in Parkland, Florida Right for You?

Overview of Parkland, Florida

Living in Parkland, Florida means choosing a city intentionally designed to preserve green space and a suburban feel. Established in 1963, Parkland has grown to a population of over 33,000 while keeping its “Green City” reputation intact. The city covers roughly 12.8 square miles and prides itself on parks, trails, and a deliberate zoning approach that keeps neighborhoods feeling parklike and spacious.

Living in Parkland, Florida places you about 42 miles northwest of downtown Miami, roughly 24 miles from Fort Lauderdale, and approximately 14 miles from central Boca Raton. That positioning makes it a great option for people who want a quieter, family-oriented home base while remaining within reasonable commuting distance of major urban centers and beaches.

Living in Parkland, Florida has earned local recognition for family friendliness. According to third-party local rankings, the city has been recognized as one of the best places to raise a family in the county thanks to low crime rates, top-rated schools, and a strong community culture. Those characteristics are reflected in municipal programs, extensive parks, and a calendar full of free and low-cost activities designed to bring neighbors together.

Real Estate in Parkland, Florida

Living in Parkland, Florida means access to a diverse housing market. Whether you are shopping for a starter single-family home, a modern townhouse, or an upscale estate, Parkland offers options that sit within planned communities and individual parklike streets. The city’s zoning rules are oriented to preserve the green character of the area, which helps neighborhoods retain curb appeal and a consistent aesthetic.

Living in Parkland, Florida has been an attractive prospect for homebuyers and investors for years. The city did not experience heavy development until larger communities such as Heron Bay and Parkland Isles arrived in the mid-1990s and early 2000s. Since then, development accelerated. Over the last 15 years a surge of master-planned communities has brought more than 3,000 homes on over 500 acres in resort-style neighborhoods like Parkland Bay, Watercrest, Cascada, Parkland Golf and Country Club, and Four Seasons Parkland.

Living in Parkland, Florida typically commands a premium relative to some neighboring suburbs because buyers are paying for quality schools, safety, and preserved green space. Property values have shown consistent growth, and buyer demand remains strong. If you are considering living in Parkland, Florida, be prepared for competitive listings and an emphasis on homes that offer outdoor living spaces, pools, and family-oriented floor plans.

• Housing types: Single-family homes, luxury estates, modern townhomes
• Common features: Private yards, pools, gated communities, resort-style amenities
• Market trends: Steady appreciation, strong demand from families and professionals

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Things to Do in Parkland, Florida

Living in Parkland, Florida offers a lifestyle built around outdoor recreation and community programming. The city supports a variety of sports leagues, classes, and special events for residents of all ages. If you are active or have children, you will find programs for soccer, baseball, basketball, lacrosse, tennis, co-ed adult softball, and more.

Living in Parkland, Florida also gives you access to nine public parks that serve different needs — everything from dog parks to wilderness preserves to pocket parks with playgrounds. Parkland’s parks include the Barkland Dog Park, Covered Bridge Park, Doris Davis Wilderness Preserve, Pine Trails Park, The Equestrian Center, Liberty Park, Quigley Tennis Center, Six Acre Wood Park, and Terramar Park. Each has a distinct personality, and together they form the backbone of outdoor life for residents.

Living in Parkland, Florida means community events are frequent and accessible. The city publishes a monthly calendar packed with free activities designed to bring residents together. There are also classes and field trips specifically for active adults aged 62 and over, ranging from tech classes to chair aerobics, Zumba, and organized outings to local cultural sites like museums and zoos.

Popular local attractions and activities near Parkland

• Parkland Farmers Market — Broward County’s largest outdoor market, open seasonally from November to April with organic produce, baked goods, gourmet items, and crafts.
• Butterfly World — Wander through lush gardens filled with colorful butterflies and learn about conservation and habitat.
• La La Land indoor playground — A popular spot for young kids with slides, ball pits, and interactive play areas.
• Monster Mini Golf — Glow-in-the-dark mini golf for family nights and birthday parties.
• Regal Magnolia Place — State-of-the-art movie theater with comfortable seating and concessions.
• Urban Air trampoline park — High-energy fun for kids and teens.
• Osprey Point Golf Course — Well-maintained public golf course with scenic fairways.
• Seminole Casino Coconut Creek — Gaming, live entertainment, and multiple dining options just minutes away.

Job Market and Commuting

Living in Parkland, Florida gives you the benefit of a local economy that is complemented by the larger job markets of nearby cities. Many residents work in retail, healthcare, education, and professional services. The proximity to Fort Lauderdale and Miami expands the pool of employment opportunities, and commuting is a realistic daily option for professionals who prefer suburban home life.

Living in Parkland, Florida can also fit the remote work lifestyle. With strong community amenities and quiet neighborhoods, many residents choose to work from home part-time or full-time. At the same time, Parkland’s five commercial centers provide options for local businesses and services, and the city actively supports local entrepreneurship through partnerships and initiatives.

Shopping and Dining in Parkland, Florida

Living in Parkland, Florida includes a surprisingly vibrant dining scene that reflects a broad culinary palette. You will find Mediterranean, Japanese, Mexican, Latin American, Argentine, Italian, and classic American options, among others. Below are some standout local restaurants and what makes them worth a visit.

• Deja Blue — Mediterranean-inspired dining featuring flavors from Italy, France, Spain, Greece, North Africa, and the Middle East. Known for gourmet small plates and an award-winning outdoor patio. A great spot for a lakeside dinner.
• Bluefin Sushi — Modern Japanese sushi spot with inventive rolls and some Thai-influenced dishes. Sleek atmosphere and attention to presentation.
• Queen's Tea House — Elegant afternoon tea and lunch spot with over 20 tea flavors and an a la carte lunch menu.
• Pizza Time Cafe — New York and Sicilian-style pizzas along with hearty pasta and classic Italian dishes.
• Los Bocados — Authentic, bold Mexican flavors that earned a feature on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Great for tacos, fajitas, and margaritas.
• Blue Agave — Contemporary Latin American dishes, creative ceviches, and a flavorful menu that blends regional influences.
• Malbec Grill — Argentine steakhouse specializing in grilled cuts of beef and premium Argentine wines. Ideal for steak lovers and celebratory dinners.

Living in Parkland, Florida also means convenient access to larger shopping centers and specialty grocery stores in neighboring cities. For everyday needs and weekend outings, Parkland’s commercial centers serve most daily requirements, and the nearby retail corridors of Coral Springs and Boca Raton add even more variety.

Education in Parkland, Florida

Living in Parkland, Florida is especially appealing for families focused on education. Broward County Public Schools operate five public schools within Parkland, serving the elementary, middle and high school levels. These schools are well regarded for academic performance, and many rank highly on independent school rating sites.

Living in Parkland, Florida often means sending children to top-rated public schools. Some of the public schools in Parkland and their general rankings and reputations include:

• Heron Heights Elementary — Highly rated elementary program with strong parent involvement.
• Park Trails Elementary — Known for academic excellence and supportive staff.
• Riverglades Elementary — Commended for foundational learning programs.
• Westglades Middle — Solid middle school with a range of extracurriculars and athletics.
• Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School — A comprehensive high school with a variety of AP courses, athletics, and clubs.

Living in Parkland, Florida also gives families private school alternatives. Preschools and K-8 options such as Kol Tikvah, Mary Help of Christians Catholic School, and Somerset Academy Parkland provide additional educational pathways and special programming.

Living in Parkland, Florida means educational support extends beyond academics. Schools in the area offer robust extracurricular programs in arts, athletics, and clubs to develop well-rounded students who are prepared for higher education and career opportunities.

Community and Lifestyle in Parkland, Florida

Living in Parkland, Florida is about more than houses, parks, and schools — it is about finding a community where neighbors know each other and local government emphasizes quality of life. The city creates regular community engagement opportunities, with free monthly events and programs that connect families, seniors, and professionals alike.

Living in Parkland, Florida you will notice an emphasis on outdoor living. Trails, equestrian facilities, and playgrounds encourage time outside. Local athletics programs are active and organized, and many residents take advantage of shared community facilities — tennis centers, golf courses, dog parks, and lakeside walking paths are all part of the daily rhythm.

Living in Parkland, Florida can be a long-term lifestyle choice for people who want suburban calm without feeling cut off. With easy access to major highways and nearby cities, residents can enjoy both quiet weekends at home and easy trips to cultural attractions, beaches, and airports.

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Practical Considerations for Moving to Parkland

Living in Parkland, Florida will involve the usual practicalities of relocating to any desirable suburb. Expect a competitive real estate market, especially for homes within top school boundaries. Utility connection, homeowners association rules, and local property taxes should be researched before making an offer.

• Market competition: Expect demand around highly rated school zones and newer resort-style communities.
• HOAs and zoning: Many neighborhoods have HOAs with community rules; zoning is designed to protect green space.
• Commute options: Driving to Fort Lauderdale or Miami is common; remote work and local job options make living locally feasible.
• Seasonal considerations: South Florida weather is warm year-round; summers are hot and humid with occasional storms.

FAQs About Living in Parkland, Florida

Is Parkland a safe place to raise a family?

Yes. Parkland is widely regarded as a safe, family-friendly community with low crime rates, strong neighborhood engagement, and municipal programs that emphasize safety and quality of life.

What is the average commute from Parkland to downtown Miami?

The drive to downtown Miami is generally about 40 to 50 minutes depending on traffic, making it a feasible commute for those who travel into the city occasionally. Many residents also commute to Fort Lauderdale or work remotely.

How many public schools are in Parkland?

Parkland has five public schools operated by Broward County Public Schools, serving elementary, middle, and high school students, plus several private school options.

Are there parks and outdoor activities in Parkland?

Absolutely. Parkland is home to nine parks offering everything from dog parks and equestrian facilities to wilderness preserves and tennis centers, along with trails and community programming for all ages.

What types of housing are available in Parkland?

You will find single-family homes, luxury estates, and modern townhouses within both gated and open neighborhoods. Many homes feature outdoor amenities such as pools and large yards, and several master-planned communities offer resort-style living.

How active is the dining scene in Parkland?

Parkland and its nearby areas support a varied dining scene, including Mediterranean, Japanese, Mexican, Latin, Italian, and Argentine restaurants, plus family-friendly cafes and specialty bakeries. Standouts include Deja Blue, Bluefin Sushi, Queen's Tea House, Pizza Time Cafe, Los Bocados, Blue Agave, and Malbec Grill.

Is Parkland good for retirees?

Yes. Parkland offers programs and classes tailored for residents age 62 and over, including fitness, tech classes, social outings, and field trips, making it an appealing option for active retirees who want community involvement and a quieter lifestyle.

Is Living in Parkland, Florida Right for You?

Living in Parkland, Florida is best for people and families who prioritize space, safety, and a parklike environment. The city’s commitment to maintaining green spaces and offering family-oriented municipal services creates a suburban lifestyle that is hard to match in more urbanized parts of South Florida.

Living in Parkland, Florida brings the benefits of top-rated schools, a thriving real estate market, and a calendar full of community events. It appeals to buyers who want to plant roots and enjoy a stable neighborhood with high-quality amenities. Whether you are considering a move for schools, outdoor living, or a quieter suburb close to major cities, Parkland deserves a place on your short list.

If you want a place where nature thrives, families flourish, and community matters, living in Parkland, Florida might be the move you have been waiting for. Explore neighborhoods, visit parks, check school zones, and sample the local restaurants to see if the lifestyle matches your goals. Parkland truly lives up to its tagline: Right Where You Belong.