Hollywood

Tucked between Miami and Fort Lauderdale along Florida’s southeastern coast, Hollywood has quietly earned a reputation as one of Broward County’s most livable cities. It’s not trying to be its flashier neighbors — and that’s exactly the point. With a genuine beach town character, a walkable downtown, and a community of around 152,935 residents who range from young professionals to longtime retirees, Hollywood offers something increasingly rare in South Florida: a sense of place that doesn’t feel manufactured.

A City That Fits Multiple Lifestyles

Hollywood’s geography is part of its appeal. The city stretches from the Intracoastal Waterway to the Atlantic Ocean, giving residents easy access to water on multiple fronts. The famous Hollywood Beach Broadwalk — a 2.5-mile promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and rental bikes — is the social heart of the city and draws both locals and visitors year-round. Inland, neighborhoods like West Hollywood and Emerald Hills offer quieter, suburban-style living with tree-lined streets and strong community ties. Young professionals tend to cluster closer to downtown Hollywood and the ArtsPark at Young Circle, where food trucks, outdoor concerts, and local galleries create a genuinely vibrant scene. With a median age of 41, the city strikes a balance — it’s not a college town, but it’s far from a retirement community.

Cost of Living and Housing

Housing in Hollywood is competitive, though somewhat more approachable than Miami. The median home price sits at around $374,200, which buys you a reasonable amount of space — often a three-bedroom home in a well-established neighborhood. Condos near the beach can push higher, while areas west of I-95 tend to offer more value for buyers stretching their budgets. The rental market is active, with a solid inventory of apartments and townhomes catering to people who aren’t ready to buy. The median household income of $65,359 is workable in this market, though as with much of South Florida, housing costs do demand thoughtful budgeting. Property insurance remains a real consideration — don’t overlook it when running the numbers.

Employment and Economy

Hollywood benefits enormously from its position between two major metros. Commuting north to Fort Lauderdale or south to Miami is manageable for many residents, opening up a wide employment corridor. Locally, Memorial Healthcare System — one of the largest public healthcare systems in the country — is a major employer and a genuine economic anchor for the region. The hospitality and tourism sectors are predictably strong, supported by the beach, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino just west of the city, and proximity to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Small business, retail, and construction also contribute meaningfully to the local economy.

Lifestyle and Recreation

Life in Hollywood moves at a pace that feels intentionally unhurried. Beyond the Broadwalk, outdoor enthusiasts have access to Anne Kolb Nature Center, a mangrove preserve ideal for kayaking and birding. Golf courses, tennis facilities, and a robust parks system keep active residents busy. The dining scene has matured considerably, with Downtown Hollywood’s Harrison Street corridor offering everything from craft cocktail bars to authentic Latin cuisine. For cultural outings, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in nearby Fort Lauderdale is just a short drive away.

The Bottom Line

Hollywood, Florida rewards people who do their homework before arriving. It’s a city with real character, genuine community, and enough infrastructure to support a comfortable life without the overwhelming intensity of Miami. If you want beach access, a functioning downtown, and a neighborhood where people actually know each other, Hollywood deserves serious consideration on your relocation list.