If you’re thinking about moving to Hollywood, Florida, you’re not alone. Nestled between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood offers a unique mix of coastal living, diverse neighborhoods, a growing job market, and year-round sunshine. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or a fresh start, understanding what life is really like before making the move can help you settle in with confidence.
From housing costs and employment opportunities to transportation and local amenities, Hollywood has something for a wide range of lifestyles. While the city offers many advantages, it’s also important to understand the cost of living and what to expect from day-to-day life.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before moving to Hollywood, Florida, so you can make an informed decision and plan a smooth relocation.
Hollywood is one of Broward County’s most desirable places to live. Located along Florida’s Atlantic coast, it combines beautiful beaches with the convenience of living near two major metropolitan areas. Residents enjoy easy access to both Miami and Fort Lauderdale without dealing with the constant pace of living in a larger city.
The city’s welcoming atmosphere attracts families, young professionals, retirees, and remote workers alike. With parks, entertainment, waterfront dining, shopping centers, and cultural attractions, Hollywood offers an excellent balance between work and leisure.
Another reason many people relocate here is the city’s strategic location. Major highways, airports, cruise ports, and business districts are all within a short drive, making commuting and travel convenient.
Finding the right home is one of the most important parts of any move. Hollywood offers a diverse real estate market with everything from beachfront condominiums and modern apartments to suburban single-family homes and luxury waterfront estates.
The city has experienced steady growth in recent years, increasing demand for housing. While prices are generally more affordable than many areas in Miami-Dade County, buyers and renters should still expect competitive pricing, especially in neighborhoods close to the beach.
Popular residential areas include:
Known for its tree-lined streets and historic charm, Hollywood Lakes offers beautiful homes near Downtown Hollywood and the famous Broadwalk. This neighborhood appeals to professionals and families looking for convenience and character.
Emerald Hills is popular among families thanks to its spacious homes, quiet streets, and proximity to parks, schools, and golf courses.
Those who prefer an urban lifestyle often choose Downtown Hollywood. Residents enjoy walkable streets, restaurants, breweries, entertainment venues, and regular community events.
Living near Hollywood Beach means enjoying ocean views, waterfront dining, and quick access to the iconic Broadwalk. Although properties here typically cost more, many buyers appreciate the lifestyle that comes with living steps from the water.
No matter where you decide to live, working with experienced movers can simplify your relocation and protect your belongings throughout the journey.
Before relocating, it’s important to understand your expected monthly expenses. While Hollywood is generally considered more affordable than Miami, its cost of living remains slightly above the national average.
Housing will likely be your largest expense. Rental prices vary depending on the neighborhood, property size, and proximity to the beach. Waterfront communities and luxury developments naturally command higher prices, while inland neighborhoods often provide more budget-friendly options.
Beyond housing, residents should also budget for:
Florida’s lack of a state income tax is a significant financial advantage for many new residents. This can help offset some living expenses and make the state more attractive for professionals, entrepreneurs, and retirees.
If you’re preparing for your move, reducing the number of items you bring can also lower moving costs. Selling furniture, unused electronics, clothing, and household items before packing can significantly reduce both transportation expenses and packing time.
A simple way to accomplish this is by organizing a garage sale before moving. If you’re planning to declutter before relocating, these practical tips on using a garage sale to reduce your moving load can help you save money while making your move more efficient.
Every neighborhood offers a different lifestyle, so choosing the right area depends on your priorities.
Families often choose neighborhoods with larger homes, nearby parks, and access to reputable schools. Areas like Emerald Hills and West Lake Village continue to attract residents seeking quieter suburban living.
If waking up near the ocean is your dream, Hollywood Beach offers an unbeatable coastal lifestyle. Residents can walk to restaurants, bike along the Broadwalk, or spend weekends enjoying the beach.
Downtown Hollywood is ideal for professionals and those who enjoy being close to nightlife, local businesses, and cultural events. The neighborhood continues to experience revitalization, making it an attractive place to live.
Hollywood also features exclusive waterfront communities with private docks and upscale homes. These neighborhoods appeal to buyers looking for premium amenities and direct water access.
Hollywood’s economy continues to grow, providing opportunities across multiple industries. Its location between Miami and Fort Lauderdale also gives residents access to a much larger regional job market.
Major employment sectors include:
Many residents also commute to nearby cities for work while enjoying Hollywood’s more relaxed residential atmosphere.
The rise of remote work has further increased Hollywood’s popularity. Reliable internet infrastructure, numerous coworking spaces, and a desirable climate make it an attractive destination for remote professionals and digital entrepreneurs.
Those relocating for employment often find that the city’s central location opens doors to opportunities throughout South Florida.
If you’re moving from another city or state, hiring the best moving company in Miami for long-distance relocations can make the transition much less stressful while ensuring your belongings arrive safely.
One of Hollywood’s biggest advantages is its accessibility. Whether you’re commuting locally or traveling across South Florida, several transportation options make getting around relatively easy.
Interstate 95, Florida’s Turnpike, and U.S. Highway 1 all provide convenient access to surrounding cities. Many residents drive to work, especially those commuting to Miami or Fort Lauderdale.
Hollywood is served by Broward County Transit buses, which connect residents to neighboring communities and major destinations throughout the county.
The city also benefits from Tri-Rail and Brightline access through nearby stations, giving commuters convenient alternatives to driving between South Florida’s major cities.
Frequent travelers appreciate being close to both Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Miami International Airport, making domestic and international travel simple.
Downtown Hollywood and the beach area are especially pedestrian-friendly. Wide sidewalks, bike lanes, and the famous Hollywood Beach Broadwalk encourage residents to explore without needing a vehicle.
Easy transportation options, combined with the city’s central location, make Hollywood an excellent choice for commuters, business travelers, and anyone who enjoys convenient access to the rest of South Florida.
For families moving to Hollywood, access to quality education is often a top priority. The city is part of Broward County Public Schools, one of the largest fully accredited school districts in the United States. Students have access to a wide range of public, charter, magnet, and private schools that serve different educational needs.
Several high schools consistently receive positive reviews for their academic programs, extracurricular activities, and college preparation opportunities. Some of the most recognized schools include:
Families seeking alternative learning options can also choose from charter schools, private institutions, and virtual education programs. Higher education opportunities are equally accessible, with colleges and universities located throughout Broward and neighboring Miami-Dade County.
One of the biggest advantages of living in Hollywood is the variety of activities available throughout the year. Whether you enjoy outdoor recreation, shopping, dining, or live entertainment, there’s always something to explore.
Hollywood Beach is one of South Florida’s most popular attractions. The beach features soft sand, clear water, and the famous Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, a scenic oceanfront promenade stretching nearly 2.5 miles.
Residents enjoy walking, biking, rollerblading, or simply relaxing while taking in the coastal views. Restaurants, cafés, and local shops line the Broadwalk, making it an ideal destination for weekends or evening strolls.
Hollywood offers plenty of green spaces for outdoor enthusiasts. Parks throughout the city provide walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
Nature lovers can also explore nearby preserves where kayaking, paddleboarding, birdwatching, and wildlife photography are popular activities.
Hollywood’s diverse population is reflected in its food scene. From fresh seafood and waterfront restaurants to Latin American cuisine, Italian favorites, and casual cafés, there’s no shortage of excellent dining options.
Downtown Hollywood has become a hotspot for food lovers, featuring locally owned restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and dessert spots that continue to attract both residents and visitors.
The city hosts festivals, farmers markets, art walks, and live music performances throughout the year. Downtown Hollywood’s ArtsPark regularly features concerts, family events, and cultural celebrations that bring the community together.
If warm weather is one of the reasons you’re considering South Florida, Hollywood won’t disappoint. The city enjoys a tropical climate with sunshine throughout most of the year.
Summers are typically hot, humid, and accompanied by afternoon rain showers. Winters are warm and mild, making outdoor activities enjoyable even during the cooler months.
Hurricane season officially runs from June through November, so new residents should familiarize themselves with local emergency preparedness plans and consider appropriate homeowners or renters insurance coverage.
Like any city, Hollywood has both advantages and challenges. Understanding both sides can help you decide whether it’s the right place for your lifestyle.
For many residents, the benefits of coastal living, employment opportunities, and convenient access to major cities far outweigh these challenges.
Relocating to Hollywood is much easier with proper planning. Creating a checklist several weeks before moving day can help reduce stress and prevent last-minute surprises.
Here are a few practical tips:
Choosing experienced movers can save time while protecting your belongings throughout the relocation process.
Once you’ve decided Hollywood is the right place for your next home, the final step is planning a smooth relocation. Professional movers can help simplify every stage of the process, from packing and loading to transportation and unloading.
Whether you’re moving from another Florida city or relocating from across the country, working with experienced professionals allows you to focus on settling into your new community instead of worrying about logistics.
If you’re ready to start planning your move, you can request a moving quote for your Hollywood, Florida relocation to receive professional assistance tailored to your needs.
Yes. Hollywood offers beautiful beaches, diverse neighborhoods, convenient access to Miami and Fort Lauderdale, and a wide variety of recreational opportunities. It’s a popular choice for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
The cost of living is slightly above the national average, primarily due to housing. However, residents benefit from Florida’s lack of a state income tax, which can help offset overall expenses.
Healthcare, tourism, hospitality, education, retail, logistics, construction, and professional services are among the city’s strongest employment sectors.
Absolutely. The city features quality schools, numerous parks, recreational facilities, family events, and neighborhoods that appeal to households of all sizes.
Hollywood is approximately 20 miles north of Downtown Miami, with travel times typically ranging from 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.
Moving to Hollywood, Florida, offers the opportunity to enjoy coastal living, a growing economy, diverse neighborhoods, and easy access to some of South Florida’s most popular destinations. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or a lifestyle change, taking the time to research housing, schools, transportation, and living costs will help you make a confident decision.
With thoughtful planning and the support of experienced movers, your transition to Hollywood can be smooth, organized, and far less stressful, allowing you to start enjoying everything this vibrant coastal city has to offer.