Battle of the Burbs: Parkland vs Weston

If you’re planning a move to South Florida, two communities that often top the list are Parkland and Weston. These highly sought-after towns have a lot in common, but their differences could sway you one way or the other. To help you decide, let’s take a closer look at their location, lifestyle, housing, and schools to find out which one might be the perfect fit for you.

Location: Where Are Parkland and Weston?

Parkland is nestled in Northwestern Broward County, about 25 miles from Fort Lauderdale. Its location strikes a balance between serene, nature-filled living and convenient access to nearby cities. In about 35 to 45 minutes, you can drive to Fort Lauderdale or Boca Raton, giving you the best of both worlds—a peaceful retreat with city amenities close by.

Weston, on the other hand, sits just 22 miles west of Fort Lauderdale. Thanks to its proximity to major highways like I-595 and I-75, it’s incredibly easy to reach Miami, the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, and the Everglades. Weston’s accessibility makes it an excellent option for frequent travelers or commuters. It’s also larger than Parkland, spanning 26 square miles compared to Parkland’s 12, and it has nearly double the population. While Parkland offers a more tucked-away vibe, Weston feels more connected to the rest of South Florida.

Lifestyle

When it comes to lifestyle, Parkland and Weston stand out in unique ways. Parkland has a quieter, more rural-suburban feel. With tree-lined streets and strict zoning laws designed to maintain its park-like atmosphere, it feels like an escape from the hustle and bustle. There’s a sense of serenity here, where biking, walking, and even horseback riding are part of daily life. However, Parkland lacks a true downtown area, meaning you’ll need to travel to nearby Coral Springs or Coconut Creek for shopping, dining, or entertainment.

Weston offers a more polished suburban vibe with a touch of urban convenience. Its Town Center serves as a bustling hub for shopping, dining, and community events. Unlike Parkland, Weston’s development includes a mix of residential and commercial spaces, so you can find most of what you need without leaving town. While both communities embrace outdoor living, Weston’s larger size and more developed infrastructure make it feel a bit more vibrant and active.

Housing

Housing in both Parkland and Weston caters to families looking for spacious homes, but there are notable differences. Parkland is almost entirely made up of single-family homes. Communities like Heron Bay and Cascata feature large, modern homes with resort-style amenities such as pools, tennis courts, and clubhouses. If you’re looking for condos or apartments, however, Parkland won’t have much to offer.

Weston provides a broader range of housing options, from luxurious single-family homes to condos and apartments. Its housing developments, like Isles at Weston and Botaniko, offer a mix of styles and price points. Botaniko, in particular, is known for its ultra-modern designs, which are a rarity in the area. While Parkland appeals to those seeking a newer suburban home, Weston’s variety makes it a great choice for buyers with diverse needs.

Schools

Both towns excel when it comes to schools, which is a major reason they’re so popular with families. Parkland’s schools, including Park Trails Elementary, Westglades Middle, and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High, consistently earn high marks for academics and community involvement. According to niche.com, these schools receive an A- rating.

Weston’s schools are equally impressive, with Manatee Bay Elementary, Falcon Cove Middle, and Cypress Bay High School leading the way. Cypress Bay, in particular, is frequently ranked among the top high schools in Florida. Weston’s schools also earn an A rating on niche.com, making the two towns nearly identical in terms of educational quality.

Cost of Living and Safety

When it comes to affordability, Weston is about 6% less expensive than Parkland, although the difference isn’t dramatic. Now, as a Realtor, I'm not allowed to give my opinion on safety nor do I think it's right since "safe" is subjective. Per niche.com, both communities are considered safe and family-friendly, with residents praising their quality of life. In rankings by niche.com, Weston is listed as the 3rd best place to live in South Florida, while Parkland comes in at 5th.

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between Parkland and Weston ultimately comes down to your lifestyle and priorities. If you’re looking for a quieter, more nature-focused community with spacious, newer homes, Parkland might be the perfect fit. On the other hand, if you value convenience, variety, and having everything you need within reach, Weston is an excellent option.

Both towns are exceptional places to call home, so you can’t go wrong with either. If you’re still unsure or have questions about relocating to South Florida, my team and I would be happy to help. Feel free to reach out anytime to start your journey toward finding your dream home.