Living in Harbordale Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Complete 2025 Neighborhood Guide
Key Takeaways Q&A Box
Q: What’s the median home price in Harbordale Fort Lauderdale?
A: Approximately $525,000, with canal-front properties averaging $75,000–$150,000 premiums over interior lots according to Redfin market data.
Q: How safe is Harbordale compared to Fort Lauderdale average?
A: Crime rates 28% below Florida averages according to AreaVibes data, with active neighborhood watch programs enhancing security.
Q: What are the top-rated schools near Harbordale?
A: Harbordale Elementary School (B+ rating), Lauderdale Middle School (B rating), and Northeast High School (B+ rating) through Broward County Public Schools.
Q: How long is the commute to downtown Fort Lauderdale?
A: ~20 minutes via Federal Highway (US-1) or I-95; airport is 15 minutes away.
Q: What’s the walk score?
A: 42/100 – car-dependent living with limited transit access.
Quick Facts About Harbordale Fort Lauderdale
Population: ~3,250 residents (Census Reporter)
Median Home Price: ~$525K (Redfin)
Average Rent: ~$2,750/month (Apartments.com)
Walk Score: 42/100 (Walk Score)
Crime Rate: 28% below Florida average (AreaVibes)
Top-Rated School: Harbordale Elementary (B+ rating) (GreatSchools)
Commute to Downtown: ~20 minutes (Google Maps)
Median Household Income: ~$75K (Data USA)
Price per Sq Ft: ~$315–$365 (Realtor.com)
Overview & Location
Harbordale sits in southeast Fort Lauderdale between Federal Highway (US-1) and the Intracoastal Waterway with direct canal access to Atlantic boating routes. This 1960s-70s era canal community features mature landscaping, authentic Florida waterfront charm, and quick access to Port Everglades and the airport.
What Are Home Prices Like in Harbordale Fort Lauderdale?
Current median home prices in Harbordale average $525,000 according to Redfin Fort Lauderdale market data, with canal-front properties commanding $75,000-$150,000 premiums over interior residential lots. Over the past 12 months, approximately 20–28 homes sold with median listing prices around $575,000, reflecting steady demand for affordable waterfront properties in established Broward County canal communities.
Price per square foot ranges from $315–$365, with canal-front homes featuring private docks achieving higher valuations based on water depth and Intracoastal Waterway access quality. Days on market typically average 70–90 days for waterfront properties, while rental yields range 4.5–5.5% annually for investment properties in this Southeast Fort Lauderdale neighborhood.
FAQ: Compared to Rio Vista ($2.49M median), Harbordale offers much better value for true canal living at middle-class price points.
Best Schools Near Harbordale Fort Lauderdale
Harbordale Elementary School – B+ rating, strong parent involvement.
Lauderdale Middle School – B rating, solid programs.
Northeast High School – B+ rating, career technical & college prep.
Private options: Calvary Christian Academy (PreK–12) and Holy Family Catholic (K–8).
Transportation & Commute
~20 min to downtown via US-1/I-95. Airport: 15 min. Miami: 45 min, Palm Beach: 30 min. Brightline high-speed rail reachable within ~25 min. Boaters enjoy direct Intracoastal access and Port Everglades proximity.
FAQ: Airport commute ~15 minutes.
Harbordale Fort Lauderdale Crime & Safety Statistics
Crime rates 28% below FL averages (AreaVibes). The Broward Sheriff’s Office patrols canals and streets; neighborhood watch programs boost security. Violent crime is rare, property crime is low and opportunistic.
FAQ: Safe for families? Yes, excellent safety standards and community involvement make Harbordale family-friendly.
Cost of Living in Harbordale Fort Lauderdale
Median income ~$75K (Data USA). Property taxes: $6,300–$8,800. Insurance: $2,200–$3,600 annually for flood-zone homes. Dock & seawall upkeep: $3K–$5.5K yearly. Still affordable compared to luxury waterfronts.
FAQ: Yes, Harbordale offers real value canal living with manageable costs.
Lifestyle & Amenities in Harbordale Fort Lauderdale
Neighborhood Feel
Family-oriented, boating enthusiasts, retirees.
Boating
Canals with 35–40ft dockage; Harbordale Marina and Bahia Mar Yachting Center nearby.
Shopping & Dining
The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale (12 min), Federal Hwy corridor dining,
Shooters Waterfront, 15th Street Fisheries.
Parks
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (12 min), beach (10 min).
Healthcare
Holy Cross Health (12 min),
Broward Health Medical Center (25 min),
Cleveland Clinic Florida (30 min).
Cultural
Broward Center for the Performing Arts &
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale (25 min),
Las Olas Boulevard (15 min).
Neighborhood Comparison
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Schools | Commute | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harbordale | ~$525K (Redfin) | B+/B (GreatSchools) | ~20 min | 28% below FL avg (AreaVibes) |
| Coral Ridge | ~$625K (Redfin) | A-/B+ (GreatSchools) | ~18 min | Very Safe (AreaVibes) |
| Rio Vista | ~$2.49M (Redfin) | A- Overall (GreatSchools) | ~22 min | Extremely Safe (AreaVibes) |
Pros & Cons of Living in Harbordale Fort Lauderdale
Pros: Affordable waterfront canal living • Active family community • Excellent boating • Convenient location • Safety record 28% below state average • Quality schools.
Cons: Flood insurance costs • Dock/seawall expenses • Fewer luxury amenities • Hurricane exposure • Car-dependent • Older 1960s–70s housing stock.
FAQs
• Good for families? Yes – safe, schools B+/B, community vibe.
• Average price 2025? ~$525K, with canal premiums $75K–$150K.
• Walkable? 42/100 Walk Score, but great canal access.
• Commute to Miami? ~45 min via I-95.
• Restaurants? Shooters Waterfront, 15th Street Fisheries, Las Olas dining.
• Flood risk? FEMA zones require insurance (~$2,200–$3,600).
• Canal-front maintenance? $3K–$5.5K annually.
Living in Harbordale: Your Next Home?
Harbordale blends authentic canal lifestyle with affordability, family-friendly environment, boating access, and convenient location. A strong option for buyers seeking real Florida waterfront living at accessible prices.
