Living in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Complete 2025 Neighborhood Guide
Key Takeaways Q&A Box
Q: What’s the median home price in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale?
A: Median home prices in Melrose Manors range from $485,000-$675,000, with single-family homes averaging $550,000 according to Redfin and Realtor.com data for 2025.
Q: How safe is Melrose Manors compared to Fort Lauderdale average?
A: Melrose Manors experiences crime rates approximately 22% below the Fort Lauderdale city average, with particularly low property crime statistics according to AreaVibes data.
Q: What are the top-rated schools near Melrose Manors? A: Riverland Elementary School (B+ rating) and Northeast High School (B rating) serve the area, with several A-rated charter schools within 3 miles.
Q: How long is the commute from Melrose Manors to downtown Fort Lauderdale? A: The commute averages 18-25 minutes via Federal Highway (US-1) or I-95, with direct access to major transportation corridors throughout Broward County.
Q: What’s the walk score for Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale? A: Melrose Manors has a Walk Score of 45-55 (Car-Dependent), typical for suburban Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods with good highway access but limited walkability.
Quick Facts About Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale
- Population: Approximately 2,800 residents (Census Reporter Melrose Manors)
- Median Home Price: $550,000-$675,000 (Redfin Melrose Manors)
- Average Rent: $2,200-$3,100/month (Apartments.com Fort Lauderdale)
- Walk Score: 48 (Car-Dependent) (Walk Score Melrose Manors)
- Crime Rate: 22% below Fort Lauderdale average (AreaVibes Fort Lauderdale)
- Top-Rated School: Riverland Elementary (B+ rating) (GreatSchools Riverland Elementary)
- Commute to Downtown: 18-25 minutes (Google Maps Route)
- Median Household Income: $78,500 (Data USA Fort Lauderdale)
- Price per Sq Ft: $285-$385 (Realtor.com Melrose Manors)
- Year Built: Most homes 1960s-1980s with recent renovations
Overview & Location
Melrose Manors is located in central Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, positioned between Federal Highway (US-1) to the east and I-95 to the west, approximately 4 miles northwest of downtown Fort Lauderdale. This established residential neighborhood sits north of Sunrise Boulevard and south of Commercial Boulevard, offering convenient access to Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, and the New River waterfront. The community features tree-lined streets with a mix of single-family ranch-style homes and updated properties, creating a suburban feel within the broader Fort Lauderdale metropolitan area. Melrose Manors provides residents with easy connectivity to Las Olas Boulevard’s dining and entertainment district while maintaining a quieter residential atmosphere away from the coastal tourist areas.
What Are Home Prices Like in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale?
Current median home prices in Melrose Manors range from $485,000 to $675,000, with most single-family properties selling between $550,000-$625,000 according to recent Redfin market data and Realtor.com listings. Over the past 12 months, approximately 45 homes have sold in the neighborhood, with a median sale price of $567,000 and average days on market of 32 days. The price per square foot averages $285-$385, reflecting the area’s mature housing stock and desirable location within Broward County. Most properties are single-family ranch-style homes built between 1960-1980, many featuring recent renovations and updates. Rental yields average 4.8-5.2% for investment properties, with typical rental rates ranging $2,200-$3,100 monthly according to MLS data from the Broward County Property Appraiser.
FAQ: Are homes in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale expensive compared to other areas? Melrose Manors offers moderate pricing compared to waterfront Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods, with homes typically 15-25% less expensive than Las Olas or Victoria Park while providing better value than similar Coral Springs or Plantation communities.
Best Schools Near Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale
The highest-rated school serving Melrose Manors is Riverland Elementary School with a B+ rating from GreatSchools, located just 1.2 miles from the neighborhood center. Students also attend Northeast High School, which maintains a B rating and offers various advanced placement courses and career programs. Broward County Public Schools serves the area, with additional options including North Andrews Gardens Elementary (B rating) and several well-regarded charter schools within a 3-mile radius. Private education options include Calvary Christian Academy (A- rating) and Pine Crest School, both offering college preparatory programs. The neighborhood’s proximity to Nova Southeastern University and Florida Atlantic University also provides educational opportunities for families with college-age students.
FAQ: What are the school ratings in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale? Elementary schools in the area maintain B+ to B ratings, with Northeast High School offering solid B-level education and numerous charter school alternatives providing additional A-rated options within reasonable commuting distance.
Transportation & Commute from Melrose Manors
The commute from Melrose Manors to downtown Fort Lauderdale averages 18-25 minutes via Federal Highway (US-1) or Interstate 95, with residents enjoying direct access to major transportation corridors throughout Broward County. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is accessible within 15-20 minutes via I-595 or US-1, while Port Everglades requires approximately 22-28 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The neighborhood offers good connectivity to the Brightline high-speed rail station downtown, enabling rapid transit to Miami and West Palm Beach. Broward County Transit provides bus service along Federal Highway and Commercial Boulevard, though most residents rely on personal vehicles. Bikeability remains limited due to busy arterial roads, though the area connects to Fort Lauderdale’s expanding bike lane network.
FAQ: How long does it take to get from Melrose Manors to Fort Lauderdale airport? The drive to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport typically takes 15-20 minutes via I-595 or Federal Highway, making it convenient for frequent travelers and airport employees.
Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale Crime & Safety Statistics
Melrose Manors maintains crime rates approximately 22% below the Fort Lauderdale city average, with particularly strong performance in property crime prevention according to AreaVibes safety data. The neighborhood experiences lower incidents of burglary and theft compared to coastal Fort Lauderdale areas, benefiting from active neighborhood watch programs and regular Broward County Sheriff’s Office patrols. Violent crime remains well below state and national averages, with most incidents classified as minor property disputes or traffic-related issues. The area’s residential character and established community presence contribute to overall safety, though residents should maintain standard urban precautions near major roadways like Federal Highway and I-95. Broward County Sheriff’s Office provides primary law enforcement services, with response times averaging 8-12 minutes for emergency calls.
FAQ: Is Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale safe for families? Yes, Melrose Manors offers above-average safety for Fort Lauderdale, with crime rates 22% below city averages and strong community involvement in neighborhood security initiatives.
Cost of Living in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale
The median household income in Melrose Manors is approximately $78,500, making housing costs represent about 35-42% of typical household budgets according to Data USA demographic information. Property taxes average $8,500-$12,000 annually based on assessed values from the Broward County Property Appraiser, while utilities typically cost $180-$240 monthly including electricity, water, and waste management. The overall cost of living index sits about 8-12% above the Florida state average but remains more affordable than coastal Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods or Miami-Dade communities. Groceries, transportation, and healthcare costs align closely with Broward County averages, while dining and entertainment expenses benefit from the area’s proximity to diverse options along Federal Highway and Commercial Boulevard without premium tourist pricing.
FAQ: What’s the average cost of living in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale? Living costs in Melrose Manors run about 8-12% above Florida averages, with housing representing the largest expense while utilities, food, and transportation remain reasonably priced for South Florida.
Lifestyle & Amenities in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale
What’s the Neighborhood Feel Like in Melrose Manors?
Melrose Manors offers a suburban, family-oriented atmosphere with tree-lined streets, established single-family homes, and a diverse demographic mix including young families, working professionals, and retirees according to recent Census Reporter data. The neighborhood maintains a quiet residential character while providing convenient access to urban amenities and employment centers throughout Broward County.
Waterfront & Boating Access
While Melrose Manors doesn’t offer direct waterfront access, residents can reach the New River and Intracoastal Waterway within 10-15 minutes, with public boat ramps available at Colee Hammock Park and several nearby marinas offering boat slips and services for recreational boating enthusiasts.
Shopping & Dining Near Melrose Manors
The neighborhood provides easy access to Festival Flea Market Mall and numerous shopping plazas along Federal Highway, while dining options include local favorites like Zona Fresca and Tap 42, with Las Olas Boulevard’s upscale restaurant district just 15 minutes away.
Parks & Outdoor Activities in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale
Holiday Park offers tennis courts, playgrounds, and walking trails within 2 miles, while Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and Fort Lauderdale Beach provide outdoor recreation opportunities within 20 minutes of the neighborhood.
Healthcare Near Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale
Medical services are readily available through Broward Health Medical Center and Cleveland Clinic Florida, both located within 15 minutes, along with numerous urgent care facilities and medical specialists along the Federal Highway corridor.
Arts & Culture Around Melrose Manors
Cultural attractions include the Broward Center for the Performing Arts downtown and the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, both easily accessible for residents seeking entertainment and cultural enrichment opportunities.
FAQ: What amenities are available in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale? Residents enjoy access to shopping centers, diverse dining options, multiple parks, quality healthcare facilities, and cultural venues, all within a 20-minute radius of the neighborhood.
Neighborhood Comparison Table
| Feature | Melrose Manors | Coral Ridge | Rio Vista |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Price | $550,000-$675,000 | $850,000-$1.2M | $750,000-$950,000 |
| School Rating | B+ Elementary, B High | A- Elementary, A High | B+ Elementary, B+ High |
| Commute to Downtown | 18-25 minutes | 12-18 minutes | 8-15 minutes |
| Safety Score | 22% below city average | 35% below city average | 18% below city average |
Melrose Manors provides excellent value compared to premium neighborhoods like Coral Ridge while offering similar safety and school quality to Rio Vista at more affordable price points. The slightly longer commute is offset by significantly lower housing costs and strong community amenities.
Pros & Cons of Living in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale
Pros: • Affordable housing compared to waterfront Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods • Strong safety record with crime rates 22% below city average • Excellent highway access to I-95, Federal Highway, and major employment centers • Family-friendly atmosphere with good schools and parks nearby • Diverse dining and shopping options along Federal Highway corridor
Cons: • Limited walkability with Walk Score of 48 (car-dependent lifestyle) • No direct waterfront access or marina facilities • Older housing stock requires potential renovation investments • Traffic congestion on Federal Highway during peak hours • Hurricane evacuation zone requiring seasonal preparedness planning
FAQ: What are the downsides of living in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale? Primary drawbacks include car-dependency for most activities, older homes needing updates, and traffic congestion on major nearby roads, though most residents find the affordable pricing and safety benefits outweigh these concerns.
FAQ Section
Is Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale a good place to raise a family? Yes, Melrose Manors offers excellent family amenities including safe neighborhoods, quality schools like Riverland Elementary, nearby parks, and affordable housing compared to other Fort Lauderdale areas, making it popular with young families and established households.
What’s the average home price in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale in 2025? Current average home prices range from $550,000-$675,000 for single-family properties, with most sales occurring between $485,000-$625,000 depending on size, condition, and specific location within the neighborhood boundaries.
How walkable is Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale? Melrose Manors has a Walk Score of 48, making it car-dependent for most daily activities, though residents can walk to some nearby shopping and dining along Federal Highway with careful attention to traffic conditions.
What’s the commute like from Melrose Manors to Miami? The drive to Miami typically takes 45-60 minutes via I-95, while Brightline high-speed rail offers 30-35 minute service to downtown Miami from Fort Lauderdale’s station, accessible within 20 minutes from the neighborhood.
Are there good restaurants in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale? The area offers diverse dining along Federal Highway including Zona Fresca, Tap 42, and numerous ethnic restaurants, with Las Olas Boulevard’s upscale dining district just 15 minutes away for special occasions.
What’s the hurricane risk in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale? Melrose Manors sits in evacuation zone B, requiring residents to prepare for potential hurricane evacuations, though the inland location provides better protection than beachfront communities while still requiring standard storm preparations.
How’s the school system in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale? Broward County Public Schools serves the area with Riverland Elementary (B+ rating) and Northeast High School (B rating), supplemented by quality charter school options and private schools within reasonable commuting distance.
Living in Melrose Manors Fort Lauderdale: Your Next Home?
Melrose Manors represents one of Fort Lauderdale’s best values for families and professionals seeking affordable suburban living with urban convenience through excellent access to I-95, Federal Highway, and Broward County employment centers. The neighborhood’s combination of below-average crime rates, quality schools, and reasonable housing costs creates an attractive package for residents prioritizing value and safety over waterfront amenities. While the area requires car-dependent living and features older housing stock, the strong community character, diverse nearby amenities, and strategic location make Melrose Manors an excellent choice for those wanting to experience Fort Lauderdale living without premium coastal pricing. Whether you’re considering your first home purchase or relocating within South Florida, Melrose Manors offers the perfect balance of affordability, safety, and convenience in the heart of Broward County.
