Is Parkland Safe, Pros and cons of living in Parkland
Parkland, Florida, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities, making it an appealing place to live for many. The city is known for its “park-like” atmosphere, emphasizing environmental preservation and a family-friendly lifestyle. However, like any city, it has its own set of characteristics that prospective residents should consider.
Is it Safe to Live in Parkland?
Parkland is considered a very safe city, with crime rates significantly below national averages. In fact, Parkland ranks in the 99th percentile for safety, meaning it is safer than 99% of cities in the United States (according to CrimeGrade.org). Violent crime rates are particularly low, with one’s chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime being as low as 1 in 6,617 (according to NeighborhoodScout). Property crime rates are also below the national average (according to NeighborhoodScout).
Crime Statistics Overview
The overall crime rate in Parkland is approximately 7.913 per 1,000 residents annually (according to CrimeGrade.org). This rate is substantially lower than both the national average and the state average for Florida. Violent crimes, such as assault, rape, murder, and armed robbery, occur less frequently in Parkland compared to most of the U.S. (according to NeighborhoodScout). Property crime rates also remain below the national average (according to NeighborhoodScout).
Neighborhood Safety
While Parkland as a whole is very safe, safety can vary slightly by neighborhood. Generally, residents consider the northern parts of the city to be the safest (according to CrimeGrade.org). Conversely, some southwest neighborhoods might have a slightly higher chance of crime victimization, though still very low in absolute terms. The east parts of Parkland see more total crime incidents annually, while the southwest part has the fewest (according to CrimeGrade.org).
Housing and Cost of Living
Parkland presents a high cost of living, largely driven by its housing market. The city is considered one of the more expensive places to live in the United States. This is reflected in both home prices and rental rates, which are significantly above the national averages.
Median Home Prices
The median home value in Parkland is substantial, with recent data indicating it to be around $1,058,618 (according to Zillow). Other sources place the median home value around $814,448 (according to Livability.com) or even higher, with a median listing price of $1.35 million (according to True Oak Realty). This indicates a market dominated by higher-value properties. Home appreciation rates have been strong over the long term, with a cumulative appreciation rate of 96.89% over ten years (according to NeighborhoodScout).
Rental Costs
Rental prices in Parkland are also considerably higher than the national average. The average rent can range from approximately $2,237 per month for a studio to over $3,294 for a three-bedroom apartment (according to Apartments.com). Other reports indicate a median rent of $3,398 (according to Kurby AI) or even $5,500 (according to Zumper). To afford the average rent, a monthly income of around $7,456 to $8,947 is suggested (according to Apartments.com and Zumper).
Overall Cost of Living
Parkland’s cost of living index is higher than both the national average and the average for Florida. This is influenced by higher costs in groceries, transportation, healthcare, and utilities (according to ERI Economic Research Institute). Food costs are on par with other suburban areas in South Florida, but dining out can be pricier. Transportation costs are influenced by reliance on personal vehicles, with budgeting for gas, insurance, and maintenance being necessary. Healthcare and insurance costs are similar to other South Florida areas, with hurricane insurance being a significant expense.
Job Market and Economy
The job market in Parkland is supported by a sizable employed population, with a significant portion working in professional and administrative roles. The city’s economy is diverse, with key sectors contributing to employment opportunities.
Major Employers and Industries
The primary industries in Parkland include Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services, Health Care and Social Assistance, and Manufacturing (according to Data USA). Other significant employment sectors are Management Occupations and Business & Financial Operations (according to Data USA). Major employers include the City of Parkland itself, which employs over 100 individuals in local government services (according to Top Workplaces). Various businesses in real estate, insurance, and banking also contribute to the local economy (according to Parkland Chamber of Commerce).
Unemployment and Salaries
The unemployment rate in Parkland is relatively low, standing at 3.1% (according to Point2Homes). Other sources indicate slightly higher rates, such as 4.2% (according to Kurby AI) or 4.40% (according to Data Commons). The average annual salary in Parkland varies by source, with some reporting around $48,654 (according to ZipRecruiter) and others suggesting a higher average of $67,208 (according to ERI SalaryExpert). The median household income is significantly higher, reported at $200,156 (according to ERI Economic Research Institute) or $230,099 in 2024 (according to U.S. Census Bureau).
Climate and Environment
Parkland experiences a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons. The city’s environment is a significant draw, with a strong emphasis on preserving its natural, park-like character.
Temperature and Rainfall
Parkland has a tropical rainforest climate, bordering on a tropical monsoon climate (according to Wikipedia). Temperatures typically range from 59°F to 90°F throughout the year (according to myPerfectWeather). Summers are long, hot, and humid, with daily high temperatures often exceeding 87°F from May to September (according to myPerfectWeather and Time and Date). Winters are short and mild, with average highs around 75°F in January and lows around 58°F (according to myPerfectWeather). Annual precipitation averages about 61 inches, with June and July being the wettest months (according to myPerfectWeather).
Environmental Features
The city is renowned for its numerous park spaces and commitment to environmental preservation. Parkland’s zoning laws are designed to maintain its “park-like” character, with an emphasis on green spaces and equestrian activities (according to Wikipedia). This focus on nature contributes to a high quality of life, with good air quality reported (according to Kurby AI). However, Parkland also faces a very high climate risk (according to Kurby AI).
Education and Demographics
Parkland boasts a highly educated population and a diverse demographic makeup, with a strong emphasis on family and community. The city’s schools are consistently rated among the best in the state.
School Ratings
Parkland’s public schools are highly regarded, with many earning top ratings from the Florida Department of Education (according to True Oak Realty). Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School is particularly noted, ranking among the top high schools in Florida and boasting a high graduation rate (according to True Oak Realty and Niche). Elementary schools like Riverglades Elementary, Heron Heights Elementary, and Park Trails Elementary also receive excellent ratings (according to True Oak Realty). The student-teacher ratio is generally favorable, contributing to a positive learning environment (according to True Oak Realty).
Population and Diversity
As of recent estimates, Parkland has a population of over 37,000 residents (according to Point2Homes and Census Dots). The population has shown growth since the 2020 census, which recorded 34,670 residents (according to Wikipedia). The demographic makeup is diverse, with significant White, Black or African American, and Hispanic populations (according to Census Dots). The median age in Parkland is around 37.9 years (according to Census Dots). A high percentage of residents are U.S. citizens, and a notable portion are foreign-born (according to Data USA).
Socioeconomic Factors
The median household income in Parkland is very high, with figures reported around $198,669 (according to U.S. Census Bureau) and even higher in some estimates. The poverty rate is low, and a high percentage of residents live above the poverty line (according to Point2Homes). The homeownership rate is also high, indicating a stable resident base (according to Kurby AI).
Pros and Cons of Living in Parkland
Parkland offers numerous advantages, particularly for families seeking a high quality of life, excellent schools, and a safe environment. However, the high cost of living and car-dependent nature of the city are factors to consider.
Pros
Parkland is known for its safety, with very low crime rates (according to CrimeGrade.org and NeighborhoodScout). The city’s commitment to preserving its “park-like” atmosphere provides a serene and aesthetically pleasing environment (according to Wikipedia). The public school system is exceptional, with many schools receiving top ratings (according to True Oak Realty). Residents benefit from a strong sense of community and a family-oriented atmosphere.
Cons
The most significant drawback is the high cost of living, particularly the median home prices and rental rates, which are well above national averages (according to Zillow and Apartments.com). Parkland is also a car-dependent city, with low walkability and transit scores, meaning a personal vehicle is essential for most daily activities (according to Kurby AI). The climate risk is also noted as very high (according to Kurby AI).