The 9 Best Places to Live in Florida for Families with Young Kids

When looking for the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids, factors such as good schools, safe neighborhoods, family-friendly amenities, and recreational opportunities are crucial.  The following 9 cities are great places for families with young kids to move to. They have the right mix of a young population, good educational infrastructure and family-style amenities. It also remains affordable, for the most part, to buy or rent homes in these areas.

We have listed these cities from lowest to highest cost of living. As described at the outset, the rankings and HOMEiA index scores are based on a larger set of characteristics that we have reviewed.

Here’re the 9 best places to live in Florida for families with young kids

1. Jacksonville

• Population: 911,507 | Rank Last Year: #1

Key economic and demographic data on Jacksonville was presented in Section II (Great Options for Young Professionals) above, along with information on certain amenities. In this section, we present additional information that will be of interest to families with young kids – such as schools, healthcare and other activities/attractions suitable for young children.

Jacksonville is home to Duval County Public Schools, the 20th-largest school district in the nation. In the 2019-2020 school year the graduation rate in all of Duval County was just over 90%, higher than the national average. There are 190 public schools and over 600 private schools in the Jacksonville area.

Families can enjoy themselves at many kid-friendly venues, including the Jacksonville Zoo and Garden, the Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park and the Museum of Science and Industry. For something a little different, visit the Jacksonville Artwork on the first Wednesday of each month. Then there is the ultimate adventure spot for kids at the Adventure Landing Jacksonville Beach.

There are plenty of hospitals and primary care medical facilities in the Jacksonville area, including Memorial Hospital and Curahealth Jacksonville.

2. Port Orange

• Population: 64,842 | Rank Last Year: #8

Port Orange is located on the east coast of Florida, just south of Daytona Beach. The population in Port Orange grew by 14.5% from April 2010 through July 2019 (U.S. Census), above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3% and the Florida rate of 14.2%. The population in Port Orange is relatively young, with 18.6% of the population under 18 years of age.

The median household income in Port Orange is $51,883, and the median home price is $179,400 (2019 estimates). The unemployment rate is 5.0% (May 2021), which is below the U.S. national rate of 5.8% and slightly above the Florida rate of 4.9%.

There are 15 public schools and 23 private schools in the Port Orange area. There are also many options for higher education, including Nova Southeastern University.

Golf courses and beautiful beaches surround the Port Orange area. The Daytona International Speedway is a short drive north.

There are a number of primary care facilities and hospitals in the Port Orange area, including Halifax Health Medical Center of Port Orange.

3. Rockledge

• Population: 28,227 | Rank Last Year: #2

Rockledge is located on the mid-east coast of Florida. The population in Rockledge grew by 13.3% from April 2010 through July 2019 (U.S. Census), above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3% but below the Florida rate of 14.2%. The population in Rockledge is relatively young, with 19.2% of the population under 18 years of age.

The median household income in Rockledge is $68,265, and the median home price is $204,800 (2019 estimates). The unemployment rate is 4.3% (May 2021), which is below the U.S. national rate of 5.8% and the Florida rate of 4.9%.

There are nine public schools and 28 private schools in the Rockledge area. There are also many options for higher education nearby, including Eastern Florida State College.

Rockledge is minutes away from beautiful beaches, as well as a short drive from the world-famous Cocoa Beach. For space lovers, the Kennedy Space Center is close enough that many residents can see launches from their backyards.

There are many medical care facilities in the Rockledge area, including hospitals like the Rockledge Regional Medical Center.

4. Tampa

• Population: 399,700 | Rank Last Year: #5

Key economic and demographic data about Tampa was presented in Section II (Great Options for Young Professionals) above, along with information on certain amenities. In this section, we present additional information that will be of interest to families with young kids – such as schools, healthcare and other activities/attractions suitable for young children.

Tampa is home to Hillsborough County Public Schools, which serves over 200,000 students. There are 176 public schools and over 400 private schools in the Tampa area. In the 2019-2020 school year, the graduation rate in Hillsborough County was 90%, just over the national average.

Tampa is a great city for those looking for family-friendly adventures. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and the Tampa Museum of Art are just a few examples of the things families with young kids can enjoy in and around the city.

There are an average number of hospitals and primary care medical facilities in the Tampa area, including Tampa General Hospital and Memorial Hospital of Tampa.

5. Orlando

• Population: 287,442 | Rank Last Year: #4

Orlando is located in central Florida. The population in Orlando grew by 20.4% from April 2010 through July 2019 (U.S. Census), substantially above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3% and exceeding the Florida rate of 14.2%. The population in Orlando is young, with 21.1% of the population under 18 years of age.

The median household income in Orlando is $51,757, and the median home price is $240,000 (2019 estimates). The unemployment rate in Orlando is 5.4% (May 2021), which is below the U.S. national rate of 5.8% but above the Florida rate of 4.9%.

There are about 200 public schools and over 400 private schools in the Orlando area. There are also many options for higher education nearby, including the University of Central Florida.

Orlando is home to more than a dozen theme parks. With a large downtown area featuring plenty of bars and clubs, this city is a great mix of family fun and nightlife.

There are more than ten hospitals and primary care medical facilities in the Orlando area, including Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital.

6. Clermont

• Population: 38,654 | Rank Last Year: #7

Clermont is located in central Florida, about 30 minutes west of Orlando. The population in Clermont grew by 34.1% from April 2010 through July 2019 (U.S. Census), substantially above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3% and the Florida rate of 14.2%. The population in Clermont is relatively young, with 19.8% of the population under 18 years of age.

The median household income in Clermont is $64,736, and the median home price is $233,000 (2019 estimates). The unemployment rate is 5.4%, which is below the U.S. national rate of 5.8% but above the Florida rate of 4.9%.

There are 19 public schools and 30 private schools in the Clermont area. There are also many options for higher education nearby, including Lake-Sumter State College.

Clermont has a lovely historical downtown area and plenty of biking and walking trails. Lake Minneola, Lake Minnehaha and Lake Louisa State Park are all nearby, so residents can enjoy the nature and trails.

There are lots of primary care medical facilities in the Clermont area, including Orlando Health South Lake Hospital.

7. Winter Springs

• Population: 37,312 | Rank Last Year: #3

Winter Springs is located in central Florida, just north of Orlando. The population in Winter Springs grew by 12.0% from April 2010 through July 2019 (U.S. Census), above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3% but below the Florida rate of 14.2%. The population in Winter Springs is relatively young, with 19.2% of the population under 18 years of age.

The median household income in Winter Springs is $71,898, and the median home price is $246,500 (2019 estimates). The unemployment rate is 5.4% (May 2021), which is below the U.S. national rate of 5.8% but above the Florida rate of 4.9%.

There are nine public schools and over 15 private schools in the Winter Springs area. There are also many options for higher education nearby, including the University of Central Florida.

Winter Springs is a short drive away from Orlando and most major theme parks. Lake Jesup, Black Hammock Wilderness Area and Lake Jesup Conservation Area are all nearby for relaxing on the water or exploring nature.

There are a lot of medical facilities in the Winter Springs area, including Advent Health Hospital.

8. Fish Hawk

• Population: 14,087 (2010) | Rank Last Year: #6

Fish Hawk is located in central Florida, southeast of Tampa. The population in Fish Hawk is substantially young, with 37.4% of the population under 18 years of age.

The median household income in Fish Hawk is $119,208, and the median home price is $350,000 (2019 estimates). The unemployment rate is 4.6% (May 2021), which is below the U.S. national rate of 5.8% and the Florida rate of 4.9%.

There are 7 public schools in the Fish Hawk area. There are also many options for higher education nearby, including the University of South Florida.

Fish Hawk is a short drive from the Tampa Bay area, giving residents easy access to plenty of activities and city life. A short drive south is the Alafia River State Park, for those interested in nature trails and great views.

There are a few primary care medical facilities and hospitals in the Fish Hawk area, including St. Joseph’s Hospital South.

9. Pembroke Pines

• Population: 173,591 | Rank Last Year: #9

Pembroke Pines is located in south Florida between Fort Lauderdale and Miami. The population in Pembroke Pines grew by 12.1% from April 2010 through July 2019 (U.S. Census), above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3% but below the Florida rate of 14.2%. The population in Pembroke Pines is relatively young, with 20.3% of the population under 18 years of age.

The median household income in Pembroke Pines is $68,745 and the median home price is $288,700 (2019 estimates). The unemployment rate is 5.2%, which is below the U.S. national rate of 5.8% but above the Florida rate of 4.9%.

There are 32 public schools and over 40 private schools in the Pembroke Pines area. There are also many options for higher education nearby, including Strayer University.

Pembroke Pines is near many attractions and a short drive from the beach. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is a short drive away, as are many nature trails to the west.

There are lots of primary care facilities in the Pembroke Pines area, including Memorial Hospital West.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids?

Some of the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids include Weston, Parkland, and Wellington. These areas offer excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of family-friendly amenities. Each community has a strong sense of community and numerous parks and recreational activities.

How is the education system in the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids?

The education system in the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids is typically top-notch. Cities like Weston and Parkland are known for their highly rated public and private schools, which focus on academic excellence and extracurricular activities. These areas also offer various early childhood education programs and daycare options.

What recreational activities are available in the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids?

In the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids, you’ll find numerous recreational activities. Communities like Wellington and Winter Park offer beautiful parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly events. Many of these areas also have community centers, sports leagues, and nearby beaches for endless outdoor fun.

Are the neighborhoods safe in the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids?

Yes, neighborhoods in the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids are generally very safe. Areas like Parkland, Oviedo, and Weston have low crime rates and are known for their strong community policing. Families feel secure thanks to well-maintained public spaces and active neighborhood watch programs.

How is the healthcare in the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids?

Healthcare in the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids is excellent, with access to top-tier hospitals and pediatric care. Cities like Weston and Orlando have numerous medical facilities specializing in family and children’s health. There are also plenty of pediatricians, dentists, and specialists available to meet young families’ needs.

What is the housing market like in the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids?

The housing market in the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids offers a variety of options, from single-family homes to townhouses. Areas like Windermere and Wellington provide spacious homes with family-friendly layouts and yards. While some areas may be pricier, the investment is often worth it due to the quality of life and amenities.

Are there community events and activities in the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids?

Yes, community events and activities are abundant in the best places to live in Florida for families with young kids. Cities like Winter Park and Coral Springs host regular family-oriented events, festivals, and holiday celebrations. These activities foster a strong sense of community and provide fun, engaging experiences for children and parents alike.