Neighborhood Guide
Margate is one of the most affordable cities in Broward County — centrally located, easy commute to both Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton, and home to real value for first-time buyers, young families, and anyone who wants a practical home in a quiet, established community.
$200K–$350K
Condo & townhome range
$300K–$475K
Single-family range
~20 min
To Fort Lauderdale
Lower risk
Flood zone (inland)
Margate is one of those South Florida cities that most people drive through on their way to somewhere else — and that's exactly why it's still affordable. Tucked in central Broward County, about 20 minutes from both Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton, Margate is an established, quiet, residential community with blue-collar roots and a growing number of young families who've discovered the value here.
The city was founded in the 1950s on former farmland and Everglades territory, and that working-class heritage still shapes the character today. You won't find a glossy downtown or a flashy beachfront here. What you will find are solid mid-century ranch homes on good-sized lots, affordable condo communities with pools and clubhouses, and a down-to-earth vibe that's becoming increasingly rare in Broward County.
Here's the honest truth: Margate isn't the trendiest city in South Florida. It doesn't have a walkable downtown with craft breweries and farm-to-table restaurants. What it does have is honest value — some of the lowest home prices in Broward County for buyers who want a real home in a safe, established community. For a budget-conscious buyer, it might be the smartest move in South Florida right now.
The city operates its own fire, police, parks, and recreation departments — which means local services are generally responsive and well-maintained. The parks system is solid, the recreation center is active, and there's a real sense of community pride that you don't always find in bigger, more transient cities. Margate is the kind of place where people stay for years, not months.
Margate offers some of the best value per square foot in all of Broward County. Here's the realistic breakdown of what you can expect at each price point:
This is where Margate really shines for first-time buyers. You can find one- to three-bedroom condos and townhomes in well-maintained communities across the city. Many have community pools, tennis courts, and clubhouse access. The Caribe Lakes area is a standout — gated townhome communities with lakes, landscaping, and amenities at very reasonable prices. HOA fees typically range from $200–$450/month depending on the community and what's included. Some older condo buildings offer even lower entry prices — think $180K–$250K for a two-bedroom — if you're willing to do minor updates.
This is the sweet spot for Margate. You can find three- to four-bedroom single-family homes on decent-sized lots — many with pools, screened patios, and mature landscaping. Most homes in this range were built in the 1960s through 1990s, so they're solidly constructed but may benefit from cosmetic updates. Areas near Coral Ridge Drive and the central Margate neighborhoods offer the best selection. Compared to nearby Coral Springs or Coconut Creek, you're saving $50K–$100K for a comparable home — that's real money.
At the upper end, you'll find fully renovated single-family homes and newer construction. Think four-bedroom homes with updated kitchens, impact windows, new roofs, and modern floor plans. Some larger homes in the western parts of Margate, near the Coconut Creek border, offer more square footage and newer builds. Even at this range, you're paying significantly less than you would for a similar home in Coral Springs, Parkland, or Boca Raton.
Margate has several distinct pockets, each with its own character. Here's a quick guide to the main ones:
The original part of Margate, centered around Margate Boulevard and State Road 7. This is where you'll find the most established neighborhoods with mid-century ranch homes on large lots — many with fruit trees, mature shade trees, and screened pools. It's a convenient location with easy access to shopping, the Margate Recreation Center, and Calypso Cove water park. Homes here tend to be older (1960s–1980s) but on bigger lots than newer communities. Expect to find a mix of original-condition homes that need some TLC and fully renovated properties that have been updated inside and out. This area has the most potential for value-add if you're willing to do some work.
Coral Ridge Drive runs north-south through the eastern side of Margate and is lined with some of the city's most desirable neighborhoods. Homes here tend to be well-maintained, with a mix of 1970s–1990s construction. The area benefits from easy access to Coral Springs' shopping and dining while still being in Margate's more affordable price range. This corridor is popular with families because it's close to several parks and schools. If you want the best balance of location and value in Margate, this is a great place to focus your search.
One of the most popular areas for first-time buyers and young families. Caribe Lakes is a series of gated townhome communities with lakes, tropical landscaping, and resort-style amenities — pools, tennis courts, and clubhouses. These are well-maintained communities with HOA fees that cover exterior maintenance, landscaping, and amenities. Townhomes here typically range from $250K–$350K, making them one of the best deals in Broward County for a gated community experience. They're located near the intersection of Margate Boulevard and Rock Island Road, putting you close to everything — shopping, dining, the Turnpike, and I-95.
The western side of Margate, along the Coconut Creek border, offers some of the newer and larger homes in the city. This area benefits from being close to the Promenade at Coconut Creek (the main shopping and dining destination in the area), Tradewinds Park, and Butterfly World. Homes here tend to be from the 1980s–2000s and offer more modern floor plans than central Margate. The neighborhood feels more suburban, with wider streets and newer construction. If you want to be near Coconut Creek's amenities without paying Coconut Creek prices, this is where you look.
This is Margate's number one audience. With condo and townhome prices starting around $200K, it's one of the most accessible markets in Broward County. First-time buyer programs, FHA loans, and down payment assistance all work well here. If you've been renting in South Florida wondering if you can ever afford to buy — Margate is where you start looking.
Single-family homes in the $300K–$475K range give growing families real space — three to four bedrooms, yards, pools, and room to spread out. The schools are solid, the parks are well-maintained, and the community is safe and quiet. You get the suburban family lifestyle without stretching your budget to the breaking point.
Margate's central location is hard to beat. You're roughly equidistant from Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton — about 20 minutes to either. The Sawgrass Expressway gives you quick access to western Broward, and I-95 connects you to the entire South Florida region. If you work in either Fort Lauderdale or Boca and want to live somewhere affordable in between, Margate is the logical choice.
Margate has strong rental demand from tenants who want to live in Broward County but can't afford Coral Springs or Coconut Creek. The lower purchase prices mean better cash flow potential, and the steady appreciation (3–6% annually in most years) makes it a solid long-term hold. Condos and townhomes near the Coconut Creek border are particularly popular with renters.
Margate is served by Broward County Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in the country. The city has several solid neighborhood schools:
Margate Elementary School
A well-regarded neighborhood elementary school with a strong sense of community. Active PTA and involved parents. Serves the central and eastern parts of the city.
Atlantic West Elementary
Serves the western side of Margate. Known for its dedicated teaching staff and family-oriented community programs.
Margate Middle School
The primary middle school serving Margate. Offers standard curriculum with some advanced programs. Located centrally within the city.
Coconut Creek High School & Atlantic Technical College High
Most Margate students attend Coconut Creek High School. Atlantic Technical College High in nearby Coconut Creek is a top-rated all-magnet high school that serves the Margate area — it's a competitive technical and college prep school that's worth applying to.
Private & Charter Options
Several private and charter schools serve the Margate area, including options in nearby Coral Springs and Coconut Creek. Broward County's school choice program also allows you to apply for magnet schools and specialized programs outside your zoned school.
As always, I recommend checking the specific school zone for any property you're considering. School boundaries can change, and a street can make the difference between one school and another. I can help you pull that info before you make an offer.
Margate's lifestyle is defined by what's around it as much as what's in it. The city itself is quiet and residential — think Sunday afternoon barbecues, kids riding bikes on tree-lined streets, and neighbors who've known each other for years. For everyday errands, you've got all the basics covered: Publix, Walmart, Target, and plenty of local shops and restaurants along Margate Boulevard and State Road 7.
Calypso Cove is the city's aquatic facility — a popular waterpark with slides, a splash pad, and a pool that's a hit with families during the long South Florida summers. The Margate Recreation Center hosts community events, fitness classes, sports leagues, and senior programs. Firefighters Park has playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. And you're just minutes from Tradewinds Park and Butterfly World in Coconut Creek — one of the best outdoor attractions in Broward County.
For dining and entertainment, you're a quick drive from the Promenade at Coconut Creek (shopping, restaurants, movie theater) and Coral Springs City Centre. Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise — one of the largest outlet malls in the country — is about 15 minutes south. And when you want beach time, you're about 20 minutes from Deerfield Beach or Pompano Beach. Margate's central location means nothing is ever too far away.
Being inland is actually a financial advantage in South Florida — especially when it comes to flood insurance. Margate sits far enough from the coast that storm surge isn't a concern, and the city is at a slightly higher elevation than coastal communities. Here's the honest breakdown:
Most of Margate — Zone X (lower risk)
The majority of the city is in FEMA Zone X, outside the 100-year flood zone. Flood insurance is not federally required for most properties here. When premiums are needed, they typically run $500–$900/year — a fraction of what coastal homeowners pay.
Low-lying areas near canals
Some properties near drainage canals or retention ponds may fall into moderate-risk zones. This is less common than in coastal cities, but always check the FEMA flood map for the specific property you're interested in.
Newer developments
Newer construction in western Margate is built with modern drainage systems at the higher elevations within the area. Flood risk here is minimal.
Bottom line: Margate's inland location means significantly lower flood risk and cheaper flood insurance than beach-adjacent cities. You'll save thousands a year compared to a similar home in coastal Fort Lauderdale or Pompano Beach. It's one of the hidden financial benefits of buying here.
Margate's central Broward location makes it one of the most conveniently positioned cities for commuters. You've got quick access to the Sawgrass Expressway (toll road), the Florida Turnpike, and I-95 — all within 5–10 minutes depending on where you are in the city.
Commute times are approximate and vary during rush hours. Margate has excellent access to the Sawgrass Expressway, Florida Turnpike, and I-95 via Atlantic Boulevard, Sample Road, and Copans Road. The Tri-Rail station in nearby Pompano Beach offers a rail option for commuters heading to Fort Lauderdale or Miami.
Here's the simple truth: Margate is one of the last truly affordable cities in Broward County. As surrounding areas like Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, and Plantation continue to rise in price, Margate is becoming the go-to for buyers priced out of those markets. That dynamic creates a strong investment case:
Appreciation upside as surrounding areas rise
As buyers get priced out of Coral Springs ($500K+ for single-family) and Coconut Creek ($400K+), Margate becomes the natural alternative. This spillover demand is already driving steady appreciation — expect 4–7% annually in the coming years as more buyers discover the value here.
Strong rental demand from price-sensitive tenants
Margate has consistent rental demand from tenants who work in the area but can't afford to buy. The lower purchase prices make it easier to achieve positive cash flow. Gross rental yields typically run 5–7%, which is strong for South Florida.
Lower carrying costs = better cash flow
Lower purchase prices, lower flood insurance, and reasonable HOA fees mean your monthly carrying costs are significantly less than in coastal communities. This makes it easier to cash-flow a rental or comfortably afford your own home.
Central location & infrastructure access
Margate's central location means it benefits from development across all of Broward County. The Sawgrass Expressway, I-95, and the Turnpike all provide easy access. As South Florida continues to grow, centrally located affordable cities like Margate become increasingly valuable.
"Margate doesn't get the attention it deserves. It's affordable, it's centrally located, and you're 20 minutes from the beach. For buyers on a budget, it's one of the smartest plays in South Florida."
— Ryan Parker, Realtor
Calypso Cove Aquatic Facility
Margate's own waterpark — with slides, a splash pad, a lap pool, and plenty of lounging areas. A summer favorite for local families. Day passes and season passes available.
Firefighters Park & Margate Recreation Center
Firefighters Park has playgrounds, picnic pavilions, and sports fields. The Margate Recreation Center next door hosts fitness classes, senior programs, youth sports leagues, and community events throughout the year.
Oriole Golf Club & Eagle Lakes Golf Course
Two golf courses in and near Margate. Oriole Golf Club is a public course right in the city, and Eagle Lakes Golf Course in nearby Coconut Creek offers another option for golfers on a budget.
Butterfly World & Tradewinds Park
Just minutes away in Coconut Creek — the largest butterfly park in the world with over 20,000 exotic butterflies, plus 600 acres of parkland with playgrounds, trails, and paddle boating.
Promenade at Coconut Creek & Coral Springs City Centre
The two main shopping and dining destinations near Margate. The Promenade has an open-air shopping center with restaurants, a movie theater, and a movie tavern. Coral Springs City Centre has a performing arts theater, events plaza, and dining options.
Sawgrass Mills
One of the largest outlet and retail destinations in the country — about 15 minutes south in Sunrise. Over 350 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options including a movie theater and an indoor amusement park.
Healthcare
Northwest Medical Center is located right in Margate on State Road 7 — a full-service hospital with emergency care. Several urgent care centers and medical offices are located throughout the city.
Compare Margate with surrounding communities to find the right fit for your budget and lifestyle.
I know Margate inside and out — the best communities, the hidden value, the areas with the most upside, and the neighborhoods that fit your budget. Let's talk about what you're looking for.
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For the luxury/market authority version, visit RyanParkerRealty.com/neighborhoods/ for neighborhood deep-dives and market insights.