Comparing Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale: Which Is Cheaper?

Hollywood, FL vs. Fort Lauderdale, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

When it comes to South Florida living, Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale often face off as top contenders. Both cities boast tropical charm, coastal access, and a relaxed vibe that draws transplants from across the country. But for budget-conscious movers eyeing Broward County in 2025, the bottom line often comes down to cost of living.

So which city takes the affordability crown? While [housing costs](/hollywood-fl/cost-overview/) and [monthly expenses](/hollywood-fl/monthly-budget/) tend to be the biggest factors, everything from groceries to utilities can tip the scales. To help you pick the right fit for your wallet, we’ve broken down the key cost differences between Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale, along with a look at how lifestyle plays into the equation.

Housing Costs: Renting vs. Buying in Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale

Let’s start with the biggie: housing. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, both Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale offer a mix of apartments, condos, and single-family homes to suit different household sizes and styles. But the price tags can vary significantly between the two cities.

For renters, Hollywood tends to be the more affordable pick, with typical rates for a 2-bedroom apartment hovering around $1,800 per month as of 2025. Head north to Fort Lauderdale, and that same 2-bed unit will likely run you closer to $2,200 monthly. Availability can also be tighter in Fort Lauderdale’s rental market, giving Hollywood an edge for apartment hunters on a budget.

Homebuyers will find a similar trend, with Hollywood’s median home price landing near $350,000 compared to Fort Lauderdale’s steeper $450,000 average. Of course, exact costs can swing based on neighborhood, square footage, and amenities. But in general, stretching your mortgage dollar is easier in Hollywood than its pricier cousin.

What does this mean for your housing budget? Young professionals and small families will likely find more bang for their buck renting in Hollywood, while Fort Lauderdale’s higher costs could be a stretch. But if you’re looking to buy and put down roots, Hollywood’s lower home prices can help you build equity without breaking the bank.

Winner: Hollywood. Lower rents and home prices give it the affordability advantage for both short-term and long-term residents.

Keeping the Lights On: Utility Costs in Hollywood vs. Fort Lauderdale

Sunshine is free, but keeping your South Florida home cool and comfortable comes at a cost. Both Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale residents can expect higher-than-average energy bills, thanks to the region’s steamy summers and near-constant need for A/C.

That said, Hollywood residents often report slightly lower utility costs overall, likely due to the city’s smaller footprint and newer housing stock. Expect to shell out around $150-$200 per month for electricity, water, and gas in a typical 2-bedroom Hollywood apartment. Bigger homes and older buildings can push that figure closer to $250.

In Fort Lauderdale, monthly utility bills tend to run about 10% higher across the board. Older homes and apartments are more common here, which can mean less efficient cooling systems and higher energy use. Families in larger houses may see bills topping $300 per month during the peak summer season.

Winner: Hollywood. While no one escapes South Florida’s steamy utility bills, Hollywood residents can expect to pay a bit less month-to-month.

Feeding Your Household: Grocery and Food Costs

Everybody’s gotta eat, but how much you’ll spend on groceries and dining out can vary between Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale. Both cities have a solid mix of supermarkets, specialty stores, and seasonal farmers markets to keep your fridge stocked. But locals give Hollywood the slight edge on everyday grocery prices.

Expect to pay around $3.50 for a gallon of milk or $2 for a loaf of bread at Hollywood mainstays like Publix or Aldi. Feeding a family of four typically runs about $800-$1,000 per month, depending on your shopping list. Dining out is also a bit gentler on the wallet, with casual meals averaging $12-$15 per person.

Over in Fort Lauderdale, grocery staples and household goods tend to cost 5-10% more, adding up to bigger bills for larger households. Restaurants and takeout spots also skew pricier, with average per-person tabs of $15-$20 for a basic meal out. While the difference may seem small, it can add up to hundreds more per year for a hungry family.

Winner: Hollywood. Lower food prices at both grocery stores and restaurants make it easier to feed your crew on a budget.

The Government’s Cut: Taxes and Fees in Hollywood vs. Fort Lauderdale

No matter where you settle down in South Florida, Uncle Sam will want his share. Both Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale residents pay the same 6% state sales tax on everyday purchases. But when it comes to property taxes, Hollywood once again has a slight advantage.

Hollywood’s property tax rate sits at a relatively modest 6.3%, meaning the owner of a $350,000 home can expect an annual bill around $5,500. Fort Lauderdale’s rate is a bit higher at 6.8%, translating to a yearly tax hit of nearly $7,500 on a similarly priced property. Over time, that difference can really add up for homeowners.

Renters aren’t directly responsible for property taxes, but they often feel the trickle-down effect in higher monthly rates. Fort Lauderdale’s steeper tax bill for landlords can mean pricier leases compared to similar units in Hollywood. Other municipal fees like trash and water service are fairly comparable between the two cities.

Winner: Hollywood. A lower property tax rate means lighter annual bills for homeowners and less upward pressure on rents.

Putting It All Together: Monthly Cost of Living

Estimates reflect typical costs for a mid-size household (2BR apartment) in 2025 using published rates and regional averages. Actual expenses vary based on lifestyle, household size, and neighborhood choice.

So what’s the bottom line? Living in Hollywood is generally cheaper than Fort Lauderdale, to the tune of nearly $600 per month for a typical household. While rent is the most obvious savings, lower costs on everything from utilities to daily expenses help keep more cash in your pocket.

Of course, your mileage may vary based on your specific lifestyle and housing needs. A luxury high-rise in Hollywood could easily cost more than a basic 2-bedroom rental in Fort Lauderdale. But for most residents, Hollywood offers the better value when it comes to stretching your [monthly budget](/hollywood-fl/monthly-budget/).

Beyond the Budget: Lifestyle Factors to Consider

While cost is often king for South Florida transplants, it’s not the only factor to weigh when choosing between Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale. Both cities sit along the scenic Atlantic coast and offer plenty of sunshine, but they each have their own lifestyle perks.

Hollywood is known for its small-town charm and slower pace, with a quaint downtown district and a 2.5-mile beachfront boardwalk perfect for evening strolls. It’s popular with families and retirees looking for a quiet slice of the tropics, and the city’s grid layout makes it easy to get around. Fun fact: Hollywood has over 60 parks and green spaces, more per capita than any other city in Broward County.

Fort Lauderdale, on the flip side, has a more urban feel with high-rise condos, trendy restaurants, and a youthful energy fueled by its college crowd. The city’s famous waterways have earned it the nickname “Venice of America,” and there’s no shortage of boating and water sports to enjoy. Bonus for commuters: Fort Lauderdale’s central location means quick access to major highways and the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

While both cities are relatively walkable by Florida standards, Fort Lauderdale has the edge on public transit, with a more extensive bus network and plans for a new streetcar line. That can spell savings on gas and car maintenance for those who prefer to ditch the daily drive. But Hollywood’s cheaper housing and slower pace may be worth the trade-off for some.

Hollywood vs. Fort Lauderdale: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hollywood more affordable than Fort Lauderdale in 2025?
Yes, Hollywood is generally cheaper than Fort Lauderdale when it comes to housing, groceries, and other daily expenses. Expect to save around $600 per month living in Hollywood over a comparable setup in Fort Lauderdale.

Are rental prices lower in Hollywood or Fort Lauderdale?
Hollywood has the edge on rental affordability, with 2-bedroom apartments going for around $1,800 per month compared to Fort Lauderdale’s $2,200 average. Renters can expect to pay 15-20% less in Hollywood across all housing types.

How do utility costs compare between Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale?
Both cities have higher-than-average utility bills thanks to South Florida’s hot climate, but Hollywood residents report slightly lower costs overall. Expect to pay around 10% less for electricity, water, and gas in a typical Hollywood home versus a similar setup in Fort Lauderdale.

Is Hollywood considered a better value for homebuyers compared to Fort Lauderdale?
With a median home price of $350,000 and lower property taxes, Hollywood is the more budget-friendly option for buyers in South Florida. Comparable homes in Fort Lauderdale often cost $100,000 more and come with higher annual tax bills.

How much could renters save by choosing Hollywood over Fort Lauderdale in 2025?
On average, renters can expect to save $300-$500 per month by choosing Hollywood over Fort Lauderdale. The exact amount varies based on housing type and location, but Hollywood consistently offers lower rents across the board.

The Verdict: Hollywood Wins on Affordability, Fort Lauderdale Offers Urban Perks

For South Florida transplants looking to stretch their budget in 2025, Hollywood is the clear winner on cost of living. Lower rents, cheaper home prices, and a more affordable overall lifestyle can help you keep more of your hard-earned cash. It’s an especially smart choice for families, retirees, and those who prefer a slower pace of life.

But if you crave a more urban environment with walkable streets, trendy restaurants, and easy access to the office, Fort Lauderdale may be worth the extra expense. You’ll pay more on housing and daily needs, but you’ll also get a vibrant city center and quick connectivity to the rest of South Florida.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal preferences and [budget priorities](/hollywood-fl/cost-overview/). We recommend visiting both cities to get a feel for the lifestyle and [exploring your moving options](https://indexyard.com/best-moving-companies-guide/) to find the best fit. With a little research and planning, you’ll be enjoying that South Florida sunshine in no time.