Cost of Living in Broward County, Florida
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Broward County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Broward County ranks #2,399 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Broward County, Florida
Broward County's housing crisis hits hard
Broward residents spend 29.0% of income on rent—far above the national comfort threshold of 28% and among America's most burdened markets. At $1,804 monthly against a $74,534 median income, South Florida's affordability crisis is unmistakable.
Florida's most expensive housing market
Broward's 29.0% rent-to-income ratio and $1,804 median rent are the state's worst, exceeding Florida's 22.5% average by 6.5 percentage points. No other Florida county approaches this combination of high rents and housing strain.
Dramatically pricier than all peer counties
Broward's $1,804 rent shatters every comparable: Charlotte ($1,289), Brevard ($1,456), and even premium coastal peers fall well short. The gap reflects South Florida's unique demand and limited supply dynamics.
Owners face steeper burden than most renters
Broward homeowners spend 25.7% of income on mortgage costs—higher than renters in most other Florida counties—against a $380,400 median home value. Both rental and ownership paths demand 25%+ of household income, a severe affordability squeeze.
Reconsider unless income is exceptional
Broward County's 29% housing burden ranks among America's worst; only high-earning professionals should seriously consider relocating here. Prospective residents prioritizing affordability should explore Brevard, Alachua, or rural North Florida alternatives—the savings are dramatic.
Cost of Living Advisory: Broward County
Affordability Verdict
Broward County is moderately affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,804/month representing approximately 29.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 37.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Broward County is $1,804/month, while owner costs run $1,597/month. Owning saves approximately $207/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $72,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $68,443/year. With a median household income of $74,534, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 37.0% of renter households in Broward County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Collier County where rent averages $1,752/month, Broward County is approximately 3% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Broward County
Rent Burden
29.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,739
per month
Owner Cost Burden
25.7%
of gross income
The median home in Broward County may be a stretch
Median home value is $380,400. Estimated monthly cost: $3,037 vs. your max of $1,739.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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