Introduction
Fort Lauderdale, Florida is a popular tourist destination for its warm weather, beaches, and nightlife. However, many people don’t realize that there are some drawbacks to living in Fort Lauderdale. Here are 19 reasons why you might want to think twice before moving to Fort Lauderdale.
High Cost of Living
Fort Lauderdale has a high cost of living. Rent and housing costs are significantly higher than the national average, and the cost of groceries, gas, and other basic necessities are also higher than most other places in the United States.
High Crime Rate
Fort Lauderdale has a higher than average crime rate. Violent crime is particularly high, and the city has been named one of the most dangerous cities in the United States.
Lack of Jobs
Fort Lauderdale has a lack of job opportunities. Many of the jobs in the area are low-paying and there is not much opportunity for career advancement.
High Taxes
Fort Lauderdale has high taxes, including property taxes, sales taxes, and income taxes. The taxes are higher than most other places in the United States.
Poor Public Transportation
Fort Lauderdale has a poor public transportation system. The buses and trains are often overcrowded and unreliable.
Heavy Traffic
Fort Lauderdale has some of the worst traffic in the United States. The roads are often congested and the traffic can be very slow during rush hour.
Lack of Parks and Open Spaces
Fort Lauderdale has a lack of parks and open spaces. There are not many public parks in the city and the ones that do exist are often overcrowded.
Lack of Cultural Attractions
Fort Lauderdale has a lack of cultural attractions. There are not many museums, theaters, or other cultural venues in the city.
Lack of Quality Education
Fort Lauderdale has a lack of quality education. The public schools in the city are often underfunded and the student-teacher ratio is high.
Poor Air Quality
Fort Lauderdale has poor air quality. The city is often covered in smog and pollution, making it difficult to breathe.
High Insurance Rates
Fort Lauderdale has high insurance rates. Car insurance, home insurance, and health insurance are all more expensive than in most other cities in the United States.
Poor Water Quality
Fort Lauderdale has poor water quality. The water is often contaminated with pollutants and chemicals, making it unsafe to drink.
Expensive Healthcare
Fort Lauderdale has expensive healthcare. The cost of medical care is higher than most other places in the United States.
Poor Cell Phone Service
Fort Lauderdale has poor cell phone service. The cell phone reception is often weak or nonexistent in many areas of the city.
Lack of Quality Shopping
Fort Lauderdale has a lack of quality shopping. The malls and stores in the city are often crowded and the selection is limited.
High Utility Costs
Fort Lauderdale has high utility costs. The cost of electricity, water, and other utilities is higher than in most other cities in the United States.
Risk of Natural Disasters
Fort Lauderdale is at risk for natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes. The city is also prone to severe thunderstorms.
Hot and Humid Weather
Fort Lauderdale has hot and humid weather. The summers are often very hot and the humidity can be oppressive.
Conclusion
Fort Lauderdale is a popular tourist destination, but it is important to consider the drawbacks before moving to the city. There are many reasons why you might want to think twice before moving to Fort Lauderdale, including a high cost of living, high crime rate, lack of jobs, high taxes, poor public transportation, heavy traffic, lack of parks and open spaces, lack of cultural attractions, lack of quality education, poor air quality, high insurance rates, poor water quality, expensive healthcare, poor cell phone service, lack of quality shopping, high utility costs, risk of natural disasters, and hot and humid weather.