Is Westwood Lakes Safe, Pros and cons of living in Westwood Lakes
Westwood Lakes, Florida, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience, making it an appealing option for those seeking a place to call home. Nestled within Miami-Dade County, this community provides residents with access to scenic lakefront settings and tree-lined streets, alongside proximity to major highways, shopping centers, and cultural attractions. The area’s appeal is further enhanced by its welcoming environment for families, professionals, and retirees alike, with a variety of amenities and a desirable lifestyle.
The community is known for its well-maintained single-family homes, offering diverse floor plans to suit various needs. With nearby parks, golf courses, and popular dining districts, Westwood Lakes provides a high quality of life. Its strategic location also offers easy access to local landmarks and essential services, contributing to its desirability as a residential area.
Is it Safe to Live in Westwood Lakes?
Westwood Lakes presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with overall crime rates that are comparable to or slightly above the national average. The property crime rate is noted at 14.10 per 1,000 residents in a typical year (CrimeGrade.org). While the overall crime index is 113, which is 13% above the national average, it’s important to note that this figure is higher than the average for Palm Beach Gardens (113 vs. 95). However, the violent crime rate is considered lower than the average US city, earning a B+ grade (CrimeGrade.org).
Safety can vary by neighborhood within Westwood Lakes, with residents often considering the southwest part of the city to be the safest. Your chance of being a victim of property crime ranges from 1 in 35 in the northwest to 1 in 109 in the southwest. For violent crime, the chance varies from 1 in 358 in the northeast to 1 in 599 in the southwest. The most prevalent crime type is burglary, with a crime index of 168, which is 68% above the national average.
Housing Costs and Market Trends
The housing market in Westwood Lakes is characterized by a median home price that is higher than the national average. As of March 2026, the median home price was $670,000, a slight decrease of 0.74% compared to the previous year (Redfin). This median sale price is 51% higher than the national average (Redfin). In February 2026, a different report indicated a median home price of $500,000, which was down 15.1% year-over-year (Redfin). Another source lists the median home value at $452,131 (Livability.com), while yet another indicates a median cost of $379,033 (Point2Homes).
Homes in Westwood Lakes typically sell after a longer period, with an average of 100 days on the market as of March 2026, an increase from 72 days the previous year (Redfin). In February 2026, homes sold in an average of 14 days, a significant decrease from 35 days the prior year (Redfin). The market is described as somewhat competitive, with homes selling for approximately 4% below list price and going pending in about 58 days. However, another assessment indicates the market is very competitive, with homes selling in about 11 days.
Rental prices in Westwood Lakes vary by the number of bedrooms. The average rent for a one-bedroom house is around $1,638, while three-bedroom homes command rents in the $3,600s, and four-plus-bedroom properties trend around $4,800s (Rentometer). Another report states the average rent for all bedrooms and property types is $4,500, which is 125% higher than the national average (Zillow). This data suggests a wide range in rental costs, potentially due to variations in property type and location within Westwood Lakes.
The Job Market and Economy
The cost of living in Westwood Lakes is approximately 20% higher than the national average (Redfin). The median household income is reported as $84,453 (Livability.com), with a median household income of $6,299 per month also noted (Point2Homes). The poverty rate is 8.33% (Point2Homes). Specific salary data for Westwood Lakes is limited, but general professional services in areas like Westwood, CA, show an average salary of $82,093 annually (Payscale).
Information on major employers specifically within Westwood Lakes is not readily available. However, the community’s location within Miami-Dade County provides access to a broader job market. The nature of the local economy suggests a mix of service, retail, and potentially professional roles, given the community’s suburban characteristics and proximity to larger urban centers.
Climate and Weather Patterns
Westwood Lakes experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Average temperatures typically range from a high of 92°F to a low of 69°F (Livability.com). The area receives significant rainfall, with an average annual rainfall of 62 inches (Livability.com). Snowfall is virtually nonexistent, with an average annual snowfall of 0 inches.
Daily weather forecasts show temperatures often in the high 80s and low 90s, with a chance of precipitation varying throughout the week (AccuWeather, mt.freemeteo.com). RealFeel® temperatures can feel hotter due to humidity, with advisories for dehydration and heat stroke during extended outdoor exposure (AccuWeather). The air quality is generally acceptable for most individuals, though sensitive groups may experience minor symptoms from long-term exposure.
Education and School Ratings
Information regarding specific school ratings for Westwood Lakes is not detailed in the provided search results. However, the presence of families and the community’s residential nature suggest that educational institutions are a consideration for residents. General information about school districts in similar areas, such as the Anoka-Hennepin School District, shows high graduation rates, with 88.7% of seniors graduating within four years (Anoka-Hennepin School District).
While specific school performance data for Westwood Lakes is absent, the community’s proximity to larger educational hubs in Miami-Dade County implies access to a range of schooling options. Families typically look for schools with strong academic programs and positive learning environments. Further research into local school district reports and parent reviews would be necessary for a comprehensive understanding of educational quality in the immediate Westwood Lakes area.
Demographics and Community Profile
Westwood Lakes is home to a population of approximately 10,553 residents, with a median age of 47.6 years (Point2Homes, Census Reporter). The population has been declining slightly, with a projected decrease of -0.77% annually and a decrease of -5.1% since the 2020 census (Point2Homes). The gender distribution is nearly balanced, with 49.7% males and 50.3% females (Point2Homes).
The community is notably diverse, with a significant Hispanic population. As of the most recent data, 87.6% of the population identifies as Hispanic (Census Dots). White residents make up about 11.5% of the population (Census Dots). A large portion of residents, 61.3%, were born outside the country (Data USA). Citizenship status shows 38% are US-born citizens, while 44.5% have gained naturalized citizenship, and 17.5% are non-citizens (Point2Homes).