Living in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Complete 2025 Neighborhood Guide
Key Takeaways Q&A Box
A: Median home prices range from $425,000-$650,000, with single-family homes averaging $520,000 according to Redfin data for Melrose Park properties.
A: Melrose Park experiences crime rates approximately 15% below the Fort Lauderdale city average, with particularly low property crime statistics.
A: Melrose Park Elementary School (B+ rating) and Northeast High School (B rating) serve the area through Broward County Public Schools.
A: The commute takes 18-25 minutes via Federal Highway (US-1) or I-95, depending on traffic conditions and specific destination.
A: Melrose Park has a Walk Score of 55-60 (Somewhat Walkable), requiring a car for most errands but offering some walkable amenities.
Quick Facts About Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale
- Population: Approximately 4,800 residents (Census Reporter Melrose Park)
- Median Home Price: $425,000-$650,000 (Redfin Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale)
- Average Rent: $2,200-$3,400/month (Apartments.com Melrose Park)
- Walk Score: 55-60 (Somewhat Walkable) (Walk Score Melrose Park)
- Crime Rate: 15% below Fort Lauderdale average (AreaVibes Fort Lauderdale)
- Top-Rated School: Melrose Park Elementary (B+ rating) (GreatSchools Melrose Park Elementary)
- Commute to Downtown: 18-25 minutes (Google Maps Route)
- Median Household Income: $68,000 (Data USA Fort Lauderdale)
- Price per Sq Ft: $285-$425 (Realtor.com Melrose Park)
Overview & Location
Melrose Park is located in north-central Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, bordered by Federal Highway (US-1) to the east and Northwest 7th Avenue to the west. This established residential neighborhood sits between Sunrise Boulevard and Commercial Boulevard, offering convenient access to both downtown Fort Lauderdale and the beaches. The community features tree-lined streets with a mix of single-family homes built primarily between the 1950s and 1980s, creating a suburban feel within the urban Fort Lauderdale landscape. Melrose Park’s central location provides residents easy access to major transportation corridors including I-95 and I-595, while maintaining a quieter residential atmosphere away from the busier commercial districts along Las Olas Boulevard and the New River waterfront areas.
What Are Home Prices Like in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale?
Current Redfin data for Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale shows median home prices ranging from $425,000 to $650,000, with an average sale price of $520,000 over the past 12 months. Single-family homes typically sell for $285-$425 per square foot, while properties spend an average of 35-45 days on the market according to MLS listings through Realtor.com. The neighborhood has seen approximately 85 home sales in the past year, with list prices generally within 3-5% of final sale prices. Rental properties in Melrose Park command $2,200-$3,400 monthly, offering rental yields of 4.5-6% for investment properties. The Broward County Property Appraiser data indicates steady appreciation of 6-8% annually over the past three years, making Melrose Park an attractive option for both homeowners and investors seeking Fort Lauderdale real estate opportunities.
FAQ: Are homes in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale expensive compared to other areas?
Melrose Park offers more affordable housing than waterfront Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods like Las Olas Isles or Rio Vista, while maintaining higher values than outer suburban areas, positioning it as a middle-market option within the city.
Best Schools Near Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale
Melrose Park Elementary School serves as the primary elementary option with a B+ rating from GreatSchools, enrolling approximately 650 students in grades K-5. Students typically attend Northeast High School, which maintains a B rating and offers comprehensive academic and extracurricular programs including Advanced Placement courses and career academies. The area also provides access to several charter school options, including Renaissance Charter School at Coral Springs for families seeking alternative educational approaches. Private school families often consider Trinity Christian Academy or Pine Crest School, both located within a 20-minute drive. Broward County Public Schools transportation serves the area, with most students receiving bus service to their assigned schools.
FAQ: What are the school ratings in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale?
The assigned public schools earn B+ to B ratings from GreatSchools, placing them above average for Broward County, with Melrose Park Elementary particularly recognized for reading achievement and student growth metrics.
Transportation & Commute from Melrose Park
Commuting from Melrose Park to downtown Fort Lauderdale takes 18-25 minutes via Federal Highway (US-1) or I-95 southbound, depending on traffic conditions. The neighborhood offers convenient access to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in 25-30 minutes via I-595 westbound. Port Everglades is accessible in 20-25 minutes for cruise passengers or maritime employment. While Broward County Transit provides bus service along major corridors, most residents rely on personal vehicles for daily transportation. The area’s bike score remains low due to limited dedicated cycling infrastructure, though neighborhood streets accommodate recreational cycling. Brightline train service is available from Fort Lauderdale station, approximately 15 minutes away by car.
FAQ: How long does it take to get from Melrose Park to Fort Lauderdale airport?
The drive typically takes 25-30 minutes via I-595 westbound, though travelers should allow extra time during peak traffic hours between 7-9 AM and 4-7 PM.
Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale Crime & Safety Statistics
AreaVibes crime data indicates Melrose Park experiences crime rates approximately 15% below the Fort Lauderdale city average, with particularly low property crime statistics. Violent crime rates align closely with Broward County averages, while burglary and theft incidents occur less frequently than in commercial or tourist-heavy areas. The neighborhood benefits from regular Fort Lauderdale Police Department patrols and community policing initiatives. Residents report feeling safe walking during daylight hours, though standard urban precautions apply after dark. The area’s residential nature and established community contribute to natural surveillance and neighborly awareness that enhance overall security.
FAQ: Is Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale safe for families?
Yes, Melrose Park offers above-average safety for Fort Lauderdale, with lower property crime rates and active community involvement creating a family-friendly environment that many parents find suitable for children.
Cost of Living in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale
The median household income in Melrose Park is approximately $68,000 according to Data USA Fort Lauderdale statistics, placing it slightly below the Fort Lauderdale city median. Property taxes average $8,000-$12,000 annually based on Broward County Property Appraiser assessments, while utilities typically cost $180-$250 monthly including electricity, water, and waste management. Housing costs represent 28-35% of median household income, making the area accessible to middle-income families and professionals. Grocery costs align with South Florida averages, while dining and entertainment expenses vary based on proximity to Las Olas Boulevard and downtown venues. The neighborhood’s central location helps reduce transportation costs compared to more distant suburban areas.
FAQ: What’s the average cost of living in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale?
Living costs in Melrose Park typically run 5-10% below Fort Lauderdale’s high-end neighborhoods while remaining 15-20% above Florida state averages, primarily due to housing and transportation expenses.
Lifestyle & Amenities in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale
What’s the Neighborhood Feel Like in Melrose Park?
Melrose Park maintains a suburban residential character with tree-lined streets, established single-family homes, and a diverse demographic mix including young families, working professionals, and retirees. The community features sidewalks throughout most areas, encouraging walking and neighborhood interaction, while maintaining the quiet atmosphere that attracts families seeking alternatives to high-density developments.
Shopping & Dining Near Melrose Park
Residents enjoy convenient access to Festival Flea Market Mall for everyday shopping and unique finds, while Galleria Mall at Fort Lauderdale provides upscale retail options 15 minutes south. Local dining includes family-friendly establishments along Federal Highway and Sunrise Boulevard, with easy access to the renowned restaurant scene on Las Olas Boulevard within 20 minutes.
Parks & Outdoor Activities in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale
Mills Pond Park offers walking trails, playgrounds, and open space within the neighborhood, while Holiday Park provides sports facilities, tennis courts, and community programming. Fort Lauderdale Beach access is available within 20 minutes, offering world-class beaches and water activities for residents seeking coastal recreation.
Healthcare Near Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale
Broward Health Medical Center serves as the primary hospital facility, located 10 minutes south, while Cleveland Clinic Florida offers specialized care approximately 20 minutes away. The neighborhood has several urgent care facilities and medical practices along Federal Highway and Commercial Boulevard.
Arts & Culture Around Melrose Park
Cultural amenities include access to Broward Center for the Performing Arts downtown and Museum of Discovery and Science, both within 25 minutes. The community’s central location provides easy access to Fort Lauderdale’s cultural district and seasonal festivals throughout Broward County.
FAQ: What amenities are available in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale?
Melrose Park offers neighborhood parks, convenient shopping access, diverse dining options, quality healthcare facilities, and proximity to Fort Lauderdale’s cultural attractions, making it well-suited for families and professionals seeking suburban amenities with urban access.
Neighborhood Comparison Table
| Feature | Melrose Park | Coral Ridge | Rio Vista |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Price | $425K-$650K | $800K-$1.2M | $1.5M-$3M |
| School Rating | B+ Elementary | A- Elementary | A Elementary |
| Commute to Downtown | 18-25 minutes | 15-20 minutes | 10-15 minutes |
| Safety Score | Above Average | Excellent | Excellent |
Melrose Park offers the most affordable entry point among these three neighborhoods, providing solid schools and reasonable commute times at significantly lower price points. While lacking the luxury amenities and prime locations of Coral Ridge or Rio Vista, Melrose Park delivers excellent value for middle-income families seeking established Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods with room for appreciation.
Pros & Cons of Living in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale
Pros:
- Affordable housing compared to premium Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods
- Central location with convenient access to I-95, I-595, and Federal Highway
- Established community with tree-lined streets and suburban character
- Above-average safety ratings with active neighborhood watch programs
- Access to quality Broward County Public Schools including B+ rated elementary school
Cons:
- Limited walkability requiring car dependence for most errands
- Older housing stock may require maintenance and updates
- Less prestigious than waterfront or luxury Fort Lauderdale areas
- Minimal nightlife and entertainment within walking distance
- Hurricane risk and flood insurance considerations typical of South Florida
FAQ: What are the downsides of living in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale?
The main drawbacks include car dependence due to limited walkability, aging housing stock that may need updates, and fewer luxury amenities compared to premium Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods, though these are offset by affordability and central location.
FAQ Section
Yes, Melrose Park offers family-friendly features including B+ rated schools, neighborhood parks, suburban streets with sidewalks, below-average crime rates, and affordable housing that allows families to establish roots in Fort Lauderdale while maintaining reasonable budgets.
Current average home prices range from $425,000-$650,000 with a median around $520,000, making Melrose Park one of the more affordable established neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale for single-family home ownership.
Melrose Park has a Walk Score of 55-60, meaning most errands require a car though some amenities are accessible on foot. The neighborhood features sidewalks and tree-lined streets suitable for recreational walking and neighborhood strolls.
The commute to Miami takes 45-60 minutes via I-95 south depending on traffic and destination, making Melrose Park feasible for occasional Miami travel while maintaining Fort Lauderdale residency and lower housing costs.
While Melrose Park itself has limited dining options, residents enjoy easy access to Federal Highway restaurants, Festival Flea Market eateries, and the renowned Las Olas Boulevard dining scene within 15-20 minutes by car.
Melrose Park faces typical South Florida hurricane risks during June-November season, though its inland location reduces storm surge concerns compared to waterfront areas, while flood insurance and hurricane preparations remain important considerations for all residents.
Melrose Park features demographic diversity including families, young professionals, retirees, and various cultural backgrounds, creating a welcoming community atmosphere that reflects Fort Lauderdale’s multicultural character while maintaining neighborhood stability.
Living in Melrose Park Fort Lauderdale: Your Next Home?
Melrose Park represents an excellent opportunity for families and professionals seeking affordable Fort Lauderdale living with suburban character and urban convenience. The neighborhood’s central location along Federal Highway and proximity to major transportation corridors provide easy access to employment centers, beaches, and cultural amenities throughout Broward County. With home prices significantly below premium Fort Lauderdale areas like Las Olas or Rio Vista, Melrose Park offers established community living with room for property appreciation. Consider scheduling tours of available properties through local real estate agents familiar with Melrose Park’s unique characteristics and market conditions.
