“In Florida, we salt margaritas, not sidewalks.” – unknown

One hundred years ago, Florida was easily the least populated state in the southeastern United States. Miami was a small town of just 30,000, and Fort Lauderdale’s entire population of 2,300 could fit in a Broadway theater.

Ah, how things have changed.

During the middle decades of the 20th century, news trickled out about Florida’s low cost of living, wall-to-wall sunshine, gorgeous weather and spectacular beaches. People took a second look, and the migration began. By 2000 it was the fourth most populated state in the country. And in 2014, Florida passed New York to become number three.

There are, of course, lots of beautiful places in the Sunshine State. But here are a few reasons many have chosen to make Fort Lauderdale their home.

Oh, the Weather

Did we mention the weather? Yes, we did. But it’s so much a part of what makes Fort Lauderdale awesome, let’s mention it again. One of the best things about South Florida: there is no winter. Oh, locals say there is winter, but that elicits a chuckle from anyone who has lived in a place where it actually snows and temperatures actually dip below 50. From December to April, high temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average about 80 degrees. It’s always warm, it’s always green. You really can wear shorts and go to the beach all year.

The Dining Scene Is Good…Really Good

Fort Lauderdale isn’t just a tropical paradise. If you’re serious about food, it’s a legitimate destination for quality and variety across the culinary spectrum. From gourmet to casual, you can find the perfect spot to suit your palate, mood and budget. Choose from one of the great al fresco restaurants on Las Olas Boulevard, a casual café on the beach, or a nostalgic old Florida style seafood establishment with a view of the water. And because the city is so diverse, there is more ethnic food than you can aim your fork (or chopstick) at: Indian, Pakistani, Caribbean, Ethiopian, Persian, Peruvian, Moroccan, Hungarian, Filipino, Cuban, Vietnamese, Korean…well, you get the picture. Fort Lauderdale has it all.

It’s Not Miami

Miami has lots to offer and has earned its reputation as a top spot for a beachy getaway. But it also has some of the worst traffic of any city in North America and is one of the ten most expensive places to live in the nation. In fact, Fort Lauderdale has much of what makes Miami great – fantastic weather and beaches, endless shopping opportunities, a pulsing nightlife scene, luxurious homes – but without all the congestion and sky-high cost of living. And it’s literally in Miami’s front yard. If you want a taste of The Magic City, it’s just a short drive away.

There’s a Buzzing Art Scene

Unlike arts districts in other cities that eventually surrender to chain restaurants and overpriced boutiques, Fort Lauderdale’s Flagler Village is bohemian, hipster, eclectic and still very much their own animal. Once home to industrial warehouses, the area is now populated with dozens of galleries, studios, indie shops, boutiques, museums, craft breweries and cafés that feed inspiration and keep creative juices flowing. There’s plenty to offer to everyone, from 20-somethings to well-heeled folks on the hunt for fine art.

The Venice of America

That’s what they call Fort Lauderdale, and for good reason. Nearly 500 miles of waterways and 162 bridges make it a picturesque city from almost any vantage point. The waterways connect via the Intracoastal to the ocean; residents with riverfront homes (and boats) can spend a day at sea and return home again without ever stepping on dry ground. Even if a waterfront home isn’t in your near future, the waterways mean plenty of waterfront bars and restaurants. You can explore the city in a water taxi, and even do a waterway bar crawl by boat.

There’s Always Something to Do

The fantastic year-round weather means that there is nary a month when you can’t find a fun festival, art walk, concert or another outdoor event somewhere in the city. Music, food, wine, art, and various cultures are often the theme, and locals love to gather for a great time in South Florida’s glorious sunshine and mild nights.

If you’re looking for a new place to put down roots, there are lots of reasons to consider Fort Lauderdale. It’s where summer lasts six months – twice a year. Say goodbye to boots, hats, scarves, gloves, heavy coats…and say hello to Fort Lauderdale.