Fort Lauderdale is a popular tourist destination with a reputation for being car-centric.
However, with the rise of public transportation and the growing popularity of biking and walking, many people are wondering if it’s possible to live in Fort Lauderdale without a car.
In this article, we will explore the answer to the question “Can you live in Fort Lauderdale without a car?” and provide insight into effective strategies for getting around the city without a vehicle.
Key Takeaways
- Fort Lauderdale is a car-centric city, but it is still possible to live there without a car.
- Transportation options in Fort Lauderdale include buses, trolleys, water taxis, and rideshare apps.
- With a little planning and knowledge of the transportation options available, you can easily get around Fort Lauderdale without a car.
Fort Lauderdale Transportation Options
If you’re wondering whether you can live in Fort Lauderdale without a car, the answer is yes. There are several transportation options available that can help you get around the city without a vehicle. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Public Transportation
One of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around Fort Lauderdale is by using public transportation.
The Broward County Transit system operates buses throughout the city, and there are several routes that can take you to popular destinations like the beach, downtown, and shopping centers.
You can use the Transit App to plan your routes and track buses in real-time.
Another option is the Sun Trolley, which is a shuttle system that operates throughout Fort Lauderdale. There are several routes available, including the Beach Link, which takes you to popular beach destinations, and the Las Olas Link, which takes you to shopping and dining destinations along Las Olas Boulevard.
2. Biking
Fort Lauderdale is a bike-friendly city, and there are several bike lanes and paths available throughout the city.
You can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental companies in the city, or you can use a bike-sharing program like Lime or B-Cycle. If you own a bike, you can use it to get around the city and explore the many parks and attractions.
3. Ride-Sharing Services
If you need to get somewhere quickly, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Fort Lauderdale.
These services are convenient and affordable, and you can use them to get to destinations that are not easily accessible by public transportation. Just download the app, enter your destination, and a driver will pick you up and take you where you need to go.
4. Taxis
Taxis are another option for getting around Fort Lauderdale, although they can be more expensive than other transportation options. There are several taxi companies in the city, and you can hail a taxi on the street or call for one. Some popular taxi companies in Fort Lauderdale include Yellow Cab and Go Airport Shuttle.
5. Car Rentals
If you need a car for a longer period of time, you can rent one from one of the many car rental companies in Fort Lauderdale. Some popular options include Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. Keep in mind that renting a car can be expensive, and you will also need to pay for parking in many areas of the city.
| Transportation | Cost | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Broward County Transit buses | One-way fare: $2.00 | Monday-Saturday: 5:00 am – 11:00 pm Sunday: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm |
| Water Taxi | One-way fare: $28.00 | Daily: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm |
| Sun Trolley | One-way fare: $1.00 | Monday-Sunday: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm |
Whether you choose to walk, take the bus, ride the Water Taxi, or hop on the Sun Trolley, getting around Fort Lauderdale without a car is easy and convenient.
FIVE Fort Lauderdale Walkable And Bike Friendly Neighborhoods
If you’re thinking about living in Fort Lauderdale without a car, you’ll want to consider which neighborhoods are most accessible without a vehicle.
Here are some of the neighborhoods that are most walkable and bike-friendly:
1. Downtown
Downtown Fort Lauderdale is the city’s central business district and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
If you live in Downtown, you’ll be within walking distance of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, the Museum of Discovery and Science, and the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District. Downtown is also served by the Sun Trolley, which provides free transportation throughout the area.
2. Las Olas
Las Olas is a trendy neighborhood located just east of Downtown. It’s known for its upscale shops, art galleries, and restaurants. If you live in Las Olas, you’ll be within walking distance of the beach, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens. Las Olas is also served by the Sun Trolley.
3. Hollywood Beach
Hollywood Beach is a popular tourist destination located just south of Fort Lauderdale.
If you live in Hollywood Beach, you’ll be within walking distance of the beach, and the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, which is a 2.5-mile pedestrian promenade that’s lined with shops, restaurants, and bars.
Hollywood Beach is also served by the Broward County Transit system, which provides bus service throughout the area.
4. 17th St
17th St is a neighborhood located just south of Downtown. It’s known for its marinas and waterfront properties. If you live in 17th St, you’ll be within walking distance of the Port Everglades cruise ship terminal, the Broward County Convention Center, and the Harbor Shops, which is a shopping center that’s home to a variety of stores and restaurants. 17th St is also served by the Sun Trolley.
5. Riverside
Riverside is a historic neighborhood located just west of Downtown. It’s known for its tree-lined streets and historic homes. If you live in Riverside, you’ll be within walking distance of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, the Museum of Discovery and Science, and the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District. Riverside is also served by the Sun Trolley.
| Neighborhood | Walk Score | Transit Score | Bike Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown | 90 | 55 | 79 |
| Las Olas | 92 | 55 | 80 |
| Hollywood Beach | 87 | 43 | 63 |
| 17th St | 65 | 40 | 59 |
| Riverside | 74 | 52 | 70 |
As you can see from the table above, Downtown and Las Olas are the most walkable and bike-friendly neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale. Hollywood Beach is also a good option, but it’s a bit farther from the city center. If you’re looking for a more suburban feel, 17th St and Riverside are good options, but you’ll need to rely more heavily on public transportation.