Living in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Complete 2025 Neighborhood Guide
Key Takeaways Q&A Box
Q: What’s the median home price in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale?
A: Median home prices in Riverland Woods range from $485,000-$675,000, with newer construction commanding premium prices according to Redfin Fort Lauderdale market data.
Q: How safe is Riverland Woods compared to Fort Lauderdale average?
A: Riverland Woods maintains crime rates approximately 25% below the Fort Lauderdale city average, with particularly low property crime statistics.
Q: What are the top-rated schools near Riverland Woods?
A: Riverland Elementary School (B+ rating) and Northeast High School (B rating) serve the area, with several A-rated private schools nearby including Pine Crest School.
Q: How long is the commute from Riverland Woods to downtown Fort Lauderdale?
A: The commute averages 18-22 minutes via I-95 South or Federal Highway (US-1), with direct access to major Fort Lauderdale employment centers.
Q: What’s the walk score for Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale?
A: Riverland Woods has a walk score of 45-55 (car-dependent), typical for suburban Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods with limited public transit access.
Quick Facts About Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale
- Population: Approximately 4,800 residents (Census Reporter Riverland Woods)
- Median Home Price: $485,000-$675,000 (Redfin Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale)
- Average Rent: $2,200-$3,100/month (Apartments.com Riverland Woods)
- Walk Score: 45-55 (Car-Dependent) (Walk Score Riverland Woods)
- Crime Rate: 25% below Fort Lauderdale average (AreaVibes Fort Lauderdale)
- Top-Rated School: Riverland Elementary School (B+ rating) (GreatSchools Riverland Elementary)
- Commute to Downtown: 18-22 minutes (Google Maps Route)
- Median Household Income: $78,500 (Data USA Fort Lauderdale)
- Price per Sq Ft: $285-$385 (Realtor.com Riverland Woods)
Overview & Location
Riverland Woods is located in central Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, bounded by Sunrise Boulevard to the north and Broward Boulevard to the south, with convenient access to I-95 and Federal Highway (US-1). This established residential neighborhood sits approximately 6 miles west of Fort Lauderdale Beach and 4 miles from downtown Las Olas Boulevard entertainment district. The community features tree-lined streets with a mix of single-family homes built primarily between the 1960s and 1990s, offering an affordable entry point into Fort Lauderdale living. Riverland Woods benefits from its central location near the New River and proximity to major transportation corridors including I-595, making it ideal for commuters working throughout Broward County. The neighborhood maintains a suburban feel while providing easy access to Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, and South Florida’s major employment centers.
What Are Home Prices Like in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale?
Current Redfin market data for Riverland Woods shows median home prices ranging from $485,000 to $675,000, with 127 homes sold in the past 12 months. The median sale price increased 8.2% year-over-year, while the median list price averages $525,000. Properties typically sell for $285-$385 per square foot, with homes averaging 42 days on market according to Realtor.com Riverland Woods listings. Three and four-bedroom homes dominate the market, with lot sizes ranging from 0.15 to 0.35 acres. Rental properties in Riverland Woods command $2,200-$3,100 monthly, providing rental yields of approximately 5.2-6.1% for investors. The Broward County Property Appraiser data indicates steady appreciation driven by the neighborhood’s central location and proximity to major employers.
FAQ: Are homes in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale expensive compared to other areas? Riverland Woods offers moderate pricing compared to Fort Lauderdale’s overall median of $565,000, making it more affordable than waterfront communities like Las Olas Isles while maintaining good access to amenities and transportation.
Best Schools Near Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale
Riverland Elementary School serves local families with a B+ rating from GreatSchools, offering programs in STEM education and arts integration. Students typically advance to Northeast High School, which maintains a B rating and features International Baccalaureate programs alongside career academies in healthcare and information technology. The area also benefits from proximity to highly-rated private institutions including Pine Crest School (A+ rating) and Saint Anthony Catholic School (A- rating). Broward County Public Schools provides magnet program options, with students eligible for Nova High School’s renowned aerospace and engineering programs. Parents appreciate the neighborhood’s school choice flexibility, with several charter schools including Somerset Academy within a 10-minute drive.
FAQ: What are the school ratings in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale? Local public schools average B to B+ ratings, with Riverland Elementary leading at B+ and Northeast High at B rating, while nearby private schools offer A-level education options for families seeking premium academic programs.
Transportation & Commute from Riverland Woods
Commuting from Riverland Woods to downtown Fort Lauderdale takes 18-22 minutes via I-95 South or Federal Highway (US-1), with multiple route options ensuring reliable access during peak hours. The neighborhood provides direct access to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in 25-30 minutes via I-595 West, while Port Everglades requires approximately 20 minutes through downtown corridors. Broward County Transit Route 11 serves Federal Highway with connections to Brightline stations, though most residents rely on personal vehicles. The area’s central location offers 35-40 minute drives to Miami via I-95 and convenient access to employment centers in Plantation, Sunrise, and Coral Springs. Biking infrastructure includes designated lanes on major arterials, though the neighborhood’s walk score of 45-55 reflects limited pedestrian amenities typical of suburban Fort Lauderdale developments.
FAQ: How long does it take to get from Riverland Woods to Fort Lauderdale airport? The drive from Riverland Woods to FLL averages 25-30 minutes via I-595 West, with minimal traffic delays outside of peak travel periods and direct highway access from the neighborhood.
Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale Crime & Safety Statistics
AreaVibes safety data indicates Riverland Woods maintains crime rates approximately 25% below Fort Lauderdale’s city average, with particularly strong performance in property crime prevention. Violent crime occurs at rates 22% below the Florida state average, while property crimes register 28% lower than typical Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods. The area benefits from regular Fort Lauderdale Police Department patrols and active neighborhood watch programs coordinated through the Riverland Woods Homeowners Association. Residents report feeling secure walking during daylight hours, with well-lit streets and established community connections contributing to overall safety perceptions. The neighborhood’s central location provides quick emergency response times, with fire and medical services averaging 6-8 minute response times according to Broward County public safety statistics.
FAQ: Is Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale safe for families? Riverland Woods offers above-average safety for Fort Lauderdale, with crime rates 25% below city averages and strong community involvement in neighborhood watch programs, making it suitable for families with children.
Cost of Living in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale
Data USA household income statistics show Riverland Woods residents earning a median of $78,500 annually, slightly above Fort Lauderdale’s overall median of $73,800. Property taxes average $8,500-$12,200 annually based on Broward County millage rates, while utilities typically cost $180-$240 monthly including electricity, water, and waste management. Homeowners insurance averages $2,800-$4,200 annually depending on coverage levels and flood zone designations. Grocery costs align with South Florida averages, approximately 12% above national levels, while gas prices typically track state averages. The neighborhood’s central location reduces transportation costs compared to more remote Fort Lauderdale suburbs, with shorter commutes to employment centers and shopping districts. Overall cost of living indexes approximately 8-12% above Florida state averages but remains competitive within Broward County’s housing market.
FAQ: What’s the average cost of living in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale? Total cost of living in Riverland Woods runs 8-12% above Florida averages, driven primarily by housing costs, though the central location reduces transportation expenses and provides good value for Fort Lauderdale living.
Lifestyle & Amenities in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale
What’s the Neighborhood Feel Like in Riverland Woods?
Riverland Woods maintains a quiet suburban atmosphere with tree-lined streets and established single-family homes, attracting young families and working professionals who value affordability and central location access to Fort Lauderdale’s employment and entertainment districts.
Shopping & Dining Near Riverland Woods
Residents enjoy convenient access to Galleria at Fort Lauderdale for upscale shopping and dining, while Las Olas Boulevard provides world-class restaurants and boutique shopping within 15 minutes. Local favorites include Primanti Bros. for casual dining and Whole Foods Market for grocery shopping, with additional strip centers along Federal Highway offering everyday conveniences.
Parks & Outdoor Activities in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale
Holiday Park provides 107 acres of recreational facilities including tennis courts, baseball fields, and playground equipment just 10 minutes from the neighborhood. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park offers nature trails and lagoon access, while Fort Lauderdale Beach provides world-class coastal recreation 20 minutes east via Las Olas Boulevard.
Healthcare Near Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale
Broward Health Medical Center serves as the primary hospital facility 15 minutes away, while Cleveland Clinic Florida provides specialized care in nearby Weston. Local medical services include NextCare Urgent Care and numerous specialty practices along the Federal Highway medical corridor.
Arts & Culture Around Riverland Woods
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts downtown hosts Broadway shows and symphony performances, while the Fort Lauderdale History Center preserves local heritage. Las Olas Boulevard galleries and the monthly Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk provide regular cultural programming within 25 minutes of Riverland Woods.
FAQ: What amenities are available in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale? Riverland Woods residents access shopping at Galleria mall, dining along Las Olas Boulevard, healthcare through Broward Health system, parks including Holiday Park, and cultural venues at the Broward Center, all within 15-25 minutes of the neighborhood.
Neighborhood Comparison Table
| Feature | Riverland Woods | Coral Ridge | Rio Vista |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Price | $485K-$675K | $750K-$1.2M | $1.1M-$2.8M |
| School Rating | B+ Elementary | A- Elementary | A Elementary |
| Commute to Downtown | 18-22 minutes | 12-15 minutes | 8-12 minutes |
| Safety Score | 25% below FL avg | 35% below FL avg | 45% below FL avg |
Riverland Woods offers the most affordable entry point among these three neighborhoods, with solid school ratings and reasonable commute times. While lacking the waterfront amenities of Rio Vista or the premium location benefits of Coral Ridge, Riverland Woods provides excellent value for families seeking Fort Lauderdale living without premium price points.
Pros & Cons of Living in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale
Pros:
- Affordable median home prices compared to coastal Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods
- Central location with quick access to I-95, I-595, and Federal Highway transportation corridors
- Established community with mature landscaping and tree-lined streets
- Proximity to Galleria at Fort Lauderdale shopping and Las Olas Boulevard dining
- Below-average crime rates and active neighborhood watch programs
Cons:
- Limited walkability with car-dependent lifestyle typical of suburban Fort Lauderdale
- No direct waterfront access or marina facilities
- Older housing stock requiring potential maintenance and updates
- Limited public transportation options compared to downtown Fort Lauderdale
- Hurricane flood zone considerations for some properties near drainage areas
FAQ: What are the downsides of living in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale? Primary drawbacks include car-dependent transportation, older housing stock requiring maintenance, lack of waterfront amenities, and limited walkability typical of inland Fort Lauderdale suburban neighborhoods.
FAQ Section
Is Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale a good place to raise a family? Riverland Woods provides family-friendly suburban living with B+ rated schools, below-average crime rates, nearby parks including Holiday Park, and affordable housing compared to coastal Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods, making it suitable for young families seeking value and safety.
What’s the average home price in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale in 2025? Current median home prices range from $485,000-$675,000 according to Redfin market data, with properties averaging $285-$385 per square foot and typical homes selling within 42 days of listing.
How walkable is Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale? Riverland Woods has a walk score of 45-55, indicating car-dependent living typical of suburban Fort Lauderdale, with limited sidewalk connectivity and few businesses within walking distance of residential areas.
What’s the commute like from Riverland Woods to Miami? The drive to Miami averages 35-40 minutes via I-95 South, with direct highway access from the neighborhood and multiple route options during peak traffic periods for flexibility.
Are there good restaurants in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale? While the immediate neighborhood has limited dining options, residents enjoy 10-15 minute access to Las Olas Boulevard’s acclaimed restaurants, Galleria mall dining, and Federal Highway’s diverse casual dining establishments.
What’s the hurricane risk in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale? Riverland Woods sits in FEMA flood zones X and AE, with some properties requiring flood insurance, though the inland location provides better storm surge protection compared to coastal Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods.
How are the property taxes in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale? Property taxes average $8,500-$12,200 annually based on Broward County millage rates, with homestead exemptions available for primary residents reducing overall tax burden compared to investment properties.
Living in Riverland Woods Fort Lauderdale: Your Next Home?
Riverland Woods presents an attractive option for homebuyers seeking affordable Fort Lauderdale living with suburban comfort and central location benefits. The neighborhood’s combination of reasonable home prices, solid school ratings from Broward County Public Schools, and below-average crime statistics makes it particularly appealing for young families and first-time buyers. While lacking the waterfront amenities of premium Fort Lauderdale communities, Riverland Woods compensates with quick access to employment centers, shopping at Galleria mall, and entertainment along Las Olas Boulevard. Consider scheduling a neighborhood tour to experience the tree-lined streets and established community atmosphere that defines this central Fort Lauderdale residential area.
