If you’re considering making a home in Davie and find yourself drawn to the area around Broward College Central Campus, you’re not alone. This pocket of central Broward County is both lively and laid-back, offering a mix of suburban comfort and collegiate energy. Here’s what you need to know about settling down near Broward College Central Campus—from community feel to local hangouts and everything in between.
Community Vibe: College Energy with Suburban Warmth
The neighborhood surrounding Broward College Central Campus, nestled roughly between Davie Road, Nova Drive, and College Avenue, pulses with a unique energy you’ll only find in a college town. But don’t expect the rowdy atmosphere of a big university city; here, the vibe is more balanced.
- The presence of Broward College, Nova Southeastern University, and Florida Atlantic University’s Davie campus infuses the community with students, faculty, and staff, so you’ll see young people enjoying coffee at Starbucks, studying in local libraries, or jogging along College Avenue.
- Longtime Davie families, professionals, and retirees round out the community, adding a layer of small-town friendliness.
- Residents often say it feels like the perfect blend: Energized by youth, but grounded in community values.
Types of Housing: Options for Every Lifestyle
Housing variety is one of the area’s big draws.
- Cozy Apartments and Condos: The area spills over with apartment complexes like University Parc Residence and Royal Grand Condo, ideal for students, young professionals, and small families who value amenities and low-maintenance living.
- Townhomes and Villas: Communities such as Sundance at Davie offer modern multi-level living just a stroll from campus.
- Single-Family Homes: South and west of the college, along quiet streets like SW 39th Street and SW 70th Avenue, you’ll find established subdivisions with palm-lined yards, ideal for those who want more space and privacy.
Renters and buyers alike praise the neighborhood for its range, allowing them to “move up” but stay local as life changes.
Walkability and Everyday Convenience
Walkability is a standout feature—especially around Broward College and the Nova campuses.
- Sidewalks are plentiful, and streets are well-lit, especially along College Ave and throughout the campus core.
- It’s easy to grab groceries at Publix off Davie Road, pick up takeout from restaurants on University Drive, or run errands at Tower Shops—all within a 5 to 10 minute drive, or even a brisk walk or short bike ride.
- The Town of Davie’s commitment to pedestrian-friendly infrastructure is clear, making morning strolls or quick coffee runs part of daily life.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
If schools are a top priority, this area makes things easy for families.
- Davie Elementary and Nova Blanche Forman Elementary are nearby and highly regarded for their nurturing staff and active parent communities.
- The Nova Middle and Nova High School complex is within a mile, with reputations for academic excellence and robust extracurriculars.
- Daycare and preschool options abound, helpful for working parents drawn by proximity to educational institutions.
Parks with shaded playgrounds are dotted throughout, like Bamford Sports Complex and the charming Betty Booth Roberts Park, making after-school playdates a breeze.
Parks and Green Spaces: Room to Breathe
One of the area’s hidden gems is its abundance of green spaces.
- Tree Tops Park (just south on Nob Hill Road) is a sprawling oasis with lakes, equestrian trails, and raised boardwalks through hammocks—perfect for an outdoor adventure or a picnic under the live oaks.
- Heritage Park offers sports fields, walking trails, and tranquil views, often hosting local weekend events.
- Bike lanes and nature trails wind around the college campuses and connect to nearby neighborhoods, making it easy for residents to swap car rides for fresh air.
Safety: Peace of Mind for Residents
Safety is generally a highlight here.
- Broward College Central and Nova campuses benefit from their own security patrols, while nearby residential streets see regular Davie Police Department presence.
- Residents describe the neighborhood as “calm and friendly,” with neighbors watching out for each other.
Still, like any community, some areas are busier than others—expect more traffic near the college entrance on College Avenue, especially during semester start-ups and special events.
Proximity to Downtown, Major Employers, and Conveniences
This neighborhood shines for those seeking quick connections.
- Downtown Fort Lauderdale is just a 15-20 minute drive east via I-595, making it easy for commuters to access major employers, government offices, and the Las Olas arts and dining scene.
- Healthcare professionals appreciate the easy drives to Memorial Hospital or the Cleveland Clinic campuses.
- Families and students love being minutes from the Broward College and NSU libraries, the Alvin Sherman Library (a community favorite for study and events), and the broad range of extracurricular offerings on the college grounds.
What Residents Love Most
Ask locals what keeps them here, and you’ll hear common themes:
- *“I love the balance. I can be on campus in two minutes, but also enjoy peaceful evenings in my quiet townhome.”*
- *“The parks are everything—Tree Tops is our weekend go-to.”*
- *“There’s just so much happening, between campus events, farmer’s markets, and food trucks, but it never feels overwhelming.”*
- *“We have every convenience close by, but the neighborhood still feels tucked away from all the city hubbub.”*
Festivals, outdoor movie nights, and Davie’s famous rodeo events bring neighbors together all year, creating an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere.
Final Thoughts: Should You Move Here?
The Broward College Central Campus neighborhood excels as a livable, convenient, and welcoming community. Whether you’re seeking great schools, parks, or easy access to South Florida’s main hubs, you’ll find something to love. Residents agree—the mix of college-town perks and suburban warmth is what makes this Davie enclave a true hidden gem.