Whether it’s the allure of bustling city life, the tranquility of a suburban neighborhood, or the charm of a coastal town, Florida has long been a popular place for families to call home.
Of course, choosing the right home depends on personal preferences, but the Sunshine State is regarded as one of the best places in the country to live (ranked No. 9 on the latest annual list compiled by U.S. News and World Report).
To help narrow your search for the perfect spot to settle into, the Blue Water Mortgage team compiled a range of data — from quality of life to school performance and economic health — to create a desirability index. Statistical information is the latest provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Boca Raton
Population: 99,974
Boca Raton is known for offering a luxurious lifestyle, upscale shopping, fine dining and five miles of beachfront. The city is home to prestigious universities and cultural attractions, including the Boca Raton Museum of Art and the Mizner Park Amphitheater. It boasts a strong economy with a significant presence of high-tech companies and a well-regarded business scene.
Boca Raton has a robust healthcare system, low crime rates and a strong sense of community, which helps to ensure a high quality of life for all residents.
Average Home Price: $597,100
Notable Attractions: Boca Raton Museum of Art, Mizner Park Amphitheater, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
Cape Coral
Population: 224,455
Cape Coral, nestled in southwestern Florida, is celebrated for its expansive canal system, boasting over 400 miles of navigable waterways. At its core, the city celebrates outdoor enthusiasts with a wealth of recreational options — from scenic parks to golf courses and nature preserves.
The city’s educational institutions, including nearby Florida Gulf Coast University, bolster its reputation as a family-friendly haven with an exceptional quality of life. Enhanced by a sunny climate and expanding infrastructure, Cape Coral consistently lures new residents and businesses, offering an ideal environment to live, work and raise a family.
Average Home Price: $302,400
Notable Attractions: Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, Cape Coral Farmers Market, Wicked Dolphin Distillery, Rotary Park Environmental Center
>> Looking for guidance as you navigate the home-buying process in Florida? The team at Blue Water Mortgage is ready to lead the way. Get in touch with a member of our team.
Clearwater
Population: 116,850
Aptly named for its pristine, white-sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater attracts residents and tourists alike with its lively downtown district, iconic attractions like Pier 60 and Sand Key Park and a calendar packed with year-round community events.
This quintessential Florida beach town welcomes people of all ages, with a notable 23% of its population aged 65 and older. Families are drawn to Clearwater for its abundance of amenities, convenient access to major healthcare facilities and diverse job opportunities in tourism, healthcare and technology.
Average Home Price: $287,900
Notable Attractions: Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Pier 60, Honeymoon Island State Park, sunset cruises, Ruth Eckerd Hall