Margate
Affordable living in central Broward
By Scott Selleck — Licensed NJ/FL Real Estate Agent | 32+ Years in Bergen & Hudson Counties | The Selleck Group / KW City Views Realty
Last updated: June 2026
What Is It Like to Live in Margate, FL?
Margate is an affordable, centrally located city in Broward County with easy access to I-95, the Florida Turnpike, and major employment centers. With median home values of $350K–$400K, it offers accessible entry into the Broward County housing market in an improving community with solid highway connections.
Margate sits in the heart of Broward County, bordered by Coconut Creek, Coral Springs, and North Lauderdale. The city's central location is one of its strongest assets — residents have quick access to I-95, the Florida Turnpike, and the Sawgrass Expressway, making commutes to Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, or even Miami manageable.
The city is predominantly residential, with a mix of ranch-style homes, CBS construction, and townhome communities. Many properties have been updated in recent years as the area has become increasingly popular with first-time buyers and families looking for affordability in Broward County. The nearby Seminole Coconut Creek Casino and the Sawgrass Mills shopping complex provide entertainment and retail options just minutes away.
Margate is served by Broward County Public Schools, and the city's sports complex is one of the more active recreational facilities in central Broward, hosting community leagues, youth sports, and seasonal events. While Margate doesn't have the name recognition of Weston or Plantation, its combination of affordability, location, and improving infrastructure makes it worth serious consideration for buyers who prioritize value and convenience.
What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Margate, FL?
Central Margate
The core of the city with established ranch-style and CBS homes, many updated, near State Road 7 commercial corridors. Affordable and convenient.
Coconut Creek Border
The eastern portion of Margate near the Coconut Creek border, with newer developments and access to the Seminole Casino and additional retail.
North Margate
A more residential area with single-family homes on larger lots, closer to Coral Springs and the Sawgrass Expressway.
Margate Estates
An area with updated single-family homes, mature landscaping, and proximity to the Margate Sports Complex.
Schools Serving Margate, FL?
Broward County Public Schools. Margate Middle School and Coconut Creek High School serve the community. Charter and private options available through the school choice system.
What Do Homes Cost in Margate, FL in 2026?
Median home values $350K–$400K. Ranch-style homes and CBS construction dominate. Condos available from the low $200Ks. One of the most affordable options in central Broward.
How Do You Get Around in Margate, FL?
Car-dependent with strong highway access. I-95 and the Florida Turnpike are both nearby. Fort Lauderdale airport 20 minutes east. Broward County bus service on major corridors.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Margate, FL?
Tijuana Flats
Lively Tex-Mex chain with a hot sauce bar, outdoor patio, and a fun, casual atmosphere. A Margate staple for affordable Mexican food.
Big Lou's Pizzeria
A local pizzeria serving New York-style pies, Italian classics, and generous portions. A neighborhood favorite for pizza night.
Thai food on State Road 7
Several Thai and Asian restaurants along the State Road 7 corridor offer authentic flavors at accessible prices.
Coconut Creek Casino Dining
Nearby Seminole Coconut Creek Casino features multiple restaurant options including steakhouses and casual eateries.
Margate's dining is concentrated along State Road 7 and Coconut Creek Parkway, with a mix of casual eateries and chain restaurants. The nearby Coconut Creek and Coral Springs areas add additional options.
What Parks and Recreation Does Margate Offer?
Margate Sports Complex
A major recreational facility with baseball diamonds, soccer fields, basketball courts, a playground, and open green space. Hosts community leagues and seasonal events.
Papaya Park
A family-friendly neighborhood park with a playground, picnic areas, and sports courts. A popular spot for weekend gatherings.
Royal Palm Park
A community park with a walking path, lake, and shaded seating areas. A quiet retreat for residents.
Watterson Park
A neighborhood park with a playground and open recreation space serving the western portion of the city.
What Community Events and Festivals Happen in Margate, FL?
Margate Founders Day
An annual community celebration with live music, food vendors, family activities, and local organization showcases.
Holiday Boat Parade
A seasonal tradition where decorated boats cruise the canals, drawing spectators from across the area.
Summer Concert Series
Free outdoor concerts at local parks during the summer months, featuring a variety of musical genres.
Practical Tips for Living in Margate
Flood zones: Margate has mixed flood zone designations — some areas are low-risk while others near canals carry moderate risk. FEMA maps should be reviewed for any specific property.
Insurance: As an inland city, Margate avoids the highest wind insurance premiums, but Florida's overall market remains expensive. Budget for higher insurance costs than New Jersey.
Hurricane prep: Many older homes have been retrofitted with hurricane shutters. Newer construction typically includes impact windows. The city maintains emergency shelters and communication systems.
Margate — Schools & Education
Schools serving the Margate area span public, private, parochial, and early childhood options across multiple grade levels.
Public Schools
The Broward County Public Schools serves this community. Schools in the district include:
Elementary Schools
- Margate Elementary School — PK–5
- Coconut Creek Elementary School — PK–5
Middle Schools
- Margate Middle School — 6–8
High Schools
- Coconut Creek High School — 9–12
- Atlantic Technical College — 9–12
For enrollment information and district details, visit Broward County Public Schools.
Day Care & Early Childhood
- Margate Early Learning — Infant–Pre-K | Early childhood programs through Broward County Public Schools and local providers.
School ratings are sourced from GreatSchools.org as of 2026 and may change. Verify current data directly with the school district or GreatSchools.org. For Florida school grades, also reference the Florida Department of Education: https://www.fldoe.org/school-grades/.
Thinking About Margate?
Margate offers affordability and a central Broward location with improving community infrastructure. Let's talk about what this city could look like for you.