Pembroke Pines
Community-focused living in Broward County
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 Pembroke Pines, FL?
Pembroke Pines is one of Broward County's largest and most popular cities, known for local schools, neighborhoods, and strong community amenities. With median home values of \$350K to \$475K, it offers residential comfort with convenient highway access.
Pembroke Pines is Broward County's second-largest city, and it earns that distinction through intentional, community-first planning. Developed primarily in the 1980s and 1990s, the city was designed with community amenities in mind wide boulevards, abundant parks, master-planned neighborhoods with amenities, and a municipally operated charter school system.
The crown jewel of that innovation is the Pembroke Pines Charter School System the largest municipally operated, non-profit charter school system in Florida. Created by the city in the 1990s to address severe overcrowding in traditional Broward County public schools, it now operates multiple campuses from elementary through high school. The Pembroke Pines Charter School System operates multiple campuses from elementary through high school.
The city's geography spans from the older eastern neighborhoods near the coast to the newer, often gated communities of the western "West Pines" area. This western expansion brought communities like Pembroke Falls, with resort-style amenities, lakeside trails, and a lifestyle that feels more like a private club than a typical subdivision.
For buyers coming from New Jersey, Pembroke Pines offers a compelling package: schools available, well-maintained neighborhoods, abundant green space, and a strong sense of community all within the broader South Florida lifestyle. The median home price is competitive for the quality of life, and the city's position between Fort Lauderdale and Miami provides easy access to both urban centers.
What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Pembroke Pines, FL?
Pembroke Falls
A premier master-planned community in the western section with resort-style amenities including a clubhouse, fitness center, pools, and lakeside trails. One of the most sought-after addresses in the city.
Hawthorne
A residential neighborhood with large canopy landscaping, larger lots, and a mix of single-family homes. Central location with easy access to shopping and I-75.
Pines City Center
The mixed-use urban core with newer condos, townhomes, and apartments near the city center. Walkable to shops, restaurants, and cultural amenities.
Sunshine Ranches
An upscale community featuring estate-sized homes, private lots, and equestrian-friendly properties. A more rural, spacious feel while still within city limits.
Schools Serving Pembroke Pines, FL?
Home to the Pembroke Pines Charter School System, the largest municipally operated charter system in Florida. Also served by Broward County Public Schools with available options at every level.
What Do Homes Cost in Pembroke Pines, FL in 2026?
Median home values $475K-$550K. Master-planned communities in the west offer resort-style amenities. More affordable condos and townhomes near Pines City Center.
How Do You Get Around in Pembroke Pines, FL?
Car-dependent with strong highway access. I-75 and the Florida Turnpike provide major arteries. Fort Lauderdale airport 25 minutes east, Miami 30 minutes south.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Pembroke Pines, FL?
Capriccio Ristorante
Upscale Italian dining with an extensive wine list and classic preparations. A Pembroke Pines institution for special occasions and date nights.
Hollywood Brazilian Steakhouse
Rodizio-style churrascaria with continuous tableside service of grilled meats, a lavish salad bar, and Brazilian sides. Popular for celebrations.
Bulla Gastrobar
Lively Spanish tapas and gastrobar concept with creative cocktails, patatas bravas, and a vibrant atmosphere. Part of the Pines City Center dining scene.
Lola's Bistro
A neighborhood gem offering a creative American-Asian fusion menu in an intimate setting. Known for its weekend brunch and craft cocktails.
Pembroke Pines' dining scene is concentrated along Pines Boulevard and the Pines City Center area, with a growing mix of upscale casual and international options.
What Parks and Recreation Does Pembroke Pines Offer?
C.B. Smith Park
A 299-acre Broward County park and the crown jewel of Pembroke Pines recreation. Features Paradise Cove water park, campground, AllGolf center, tennis complexes, and an amphitheater hosting major events.
Pembroke Pines City Center
The civic and cultural heart of the city with a library, art gallery, recreation center, and green spaces. Hosts community events and serves as a gathering place for residents.
Cheryl A. Eskin Wildlife Preserve
A 110-acre nature preserve with trails through pine flatwoods and wetlands. One of the best birdwatching spots in western Broward County.
Northwest Regional Park
A large multi-use park with sports fields, playgrounds, a dog park, and walking trails. Popular with residents in the newer western communities.
What Community Events and Festivals Happen in Pembroke Pines, FL?
Jazz in the Pines
A beloved annual concert series featuring live jazz performances in outdoor settings throughout the city. One of Pembroke Pines' signature cultural events.
KISS Country Chili Cookoff
A massive annual food and music festival at C.B. Smith Park featuring chili competitions, live country music, and family activities. One of the largest events in Broward County.
Holiday Boat Parade
A festive waterfront parade along the city's canals and lakes during the winter season, with decorated boats, live entertainment, and community celebrations.
Pembroke Pines — Schools & Education
Schools serving the Pembroke Pines 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
- Pembroke Pines Elementary School — PK5
- Wellesley Elementary School — PK5
- Palm Cove Elementary School — PK5
- West Pembroke Pines Elementary School — PK5
Middle Schools
- Pembroke Pines Middle School — 68
- Silver Trail Middle School — 68
High Schools
- Charles W. Flanagan High School — 912
- West Broward High School — 912
For enrollment information and district details, visit Broward County Public Schools.
Day Care & Early Childhood
- Pembroke Pines Early Learning — InfantPre-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 Pembroke Pines?
Pembroke Pines is where community-focused planning meets South Florida living. Let's talk about what this community could look like for you.