If you’re looking to purchase property in Florida with a family in mind, you might have slightly different concerns beyond mere location, real estate price, and cost of living. For instance, safety and family-friendly neighborhoods, educational opportunities, and activities for leisure time. If that sounds like your story, in the spirit of family, this article is for you — let’s dive into our list covering 6 of the top family-friendly cities in the Sunshine State, plus we’ll cap off the article with some general tips for continuing or deepening your search.

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Naples

Nestled in the southern part of the state, Naples features year-round warm weather for the cold-adverse, and it also has the awesome distinction of being consistently ranked one of the safest cities in the state. There is a strong sense of community in the area, as well as several highly-ranked schools.

Beyond this, living in Naples would allow you to make some lovely family memories on its famed pristine, white beaches.

The city also boasts an array of outdoor activities like golfing, fishing, and boating, making it a haven for families who love outdoor adventures. The Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens and the Conservancy of Southwest Florida offer experiences that are both educational and entertaining experiences for families interested in wildlife and nature conservation. 

Naples is also renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, art shows, and cultural events that cater to all ages.

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Orlando

Walt Disney World has often been referred to as ‘the happiest place on earth’, its popularity with both the young and the young at heart is legendary. As it comprises several parks, including multiple water parks, the Disney Resort is an ideal family destination for Orlando residents. The attractive and affordable year passes for Florida residents are also worth keeping in mind if you’re in the business of making family memories. Universal Studios, Lake Eola Park, and the Orlando Science Center are just a few more of the attractions that are sure to keep your crew busy.

Orlando is also a hub of innovation and education, and the city hosts STEM programs and interactive learning experiences at the Orlando Science Center, making it a great place for children to learn and explore.

But there is so much more to keep in mind about Orlando: there are excellent schools — both public and private — and the community is also sports-oriented, with various youth leagues and sports complexes offering activities ranging from soccer to swimming. 

The crime rate is lower on average for the state, and there are many family-friendly neighborhoods in the city. 

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Winter Park

If Orlando proper sounds a bit too intimidating (it is a major tourist destination for millions every year, after all), then why not consider the nearby Winter Park as a possible option for your new family home?

The city is located just north of Orlando, so you’ll still be able to take advantage of all of the above. But Winter Park also stands on its own, with picturesque surroundings, including numerous lakes, parks, and tree-lined streets. This, combined with the city’s historic architecture and well-preserved neighborhoods, contributes to its unique charm.

Besides being the home of several highly-ranked schools, this is also the location of Rollins College, a private liberal arts college. With festivals, farmers markets, as well as an emphasis on arts, culture, and community activities, Winter Park is a great place for families to grow.
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St. Augustine

Founded by Spanish explorers in 1965, St. Augustine is generally considered the oldest city in the United States. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination known for its historical landmarks, and beyond the chance to see history come alive, a home in this city will put your family in close proximity to a lot of family-friendly culture: for instance, the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum often hosts special events throughout the year, including pirate-themed festivals, reenactments, and educational programs. The Nights of Lights is one of the city's most famous annual events; from late November to early January, St. Augustine is adorned with millions of tiny white lights, transforming the historic district into a sparkling wonderland. But that’s just a small sampling! Families can enjoy ghost tours, scenic cruises, and the beautiful Anastasia State Park, which offers camping, kayaking, and bird watching.

The city also boasts a low crime rate, nearby beaches for fun, and good educational opportunities. Bottom line: St. Augustine’s emphasis on preserving its rich history creates a unique environment for families who value education and culture.
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Weston

Located about 30 miles from both Miami and Ft. Lauderdale, Weston comes with a more suburban feel and is regularly ranked as one of the best cities in Florida to live in. It’s bordered by the Everglades to the west, providing families access to natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Children and adults living in the city can enjoy several parks, playgrounds, sports fields, and community centers, and activities like picnicking, hiking, biking, and sports. Weston is also known for its well-maintained biking and walking trails and its opportunities for families to stay active and enjoy nature together.

Overall, the city’s commitment to safety, combined with the recreational opportunities and its robust community services, makes Weston an ideal choice for families seeking a suburban lifestyle with all the benefits of city living.

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Tampa

With a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, this vibrant city makes an appealing choice for families looking to relocate. The city's educational resources are vast, with numerous highly rated public and private schools, as well as innovative STEM programs. There are also fun, educational opportunities outside of the classroom: for instance, the Glazer Children's Museum, offers interactive exhibits designed to inspire curiosity.

The city has over 150 parks and beaches, including the Hillsborough River State Park, with camping, canoeing, and nature trails. The Tampa Riverwalk has scenic views of the city, playgrounds, and easy access to attractions, like the Florida Aquarium.

There are several festivals, parades, and markets throughout the year: the Gasparilla Pirate Festival is a highlight, with its boat parade, live music, and activities for kids. 

Safety and affordability are also key factors that make Tampa appealing to families, and the city's diverse neighborhoods offer a range of housing options to fit various budgets.

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Tips to find the best city

But these are just a selection of locations worth your time — and there are so many more. So, here’s some advice to continue your search: 

First, when searching for family-friendly options for your new home, start by assessing the safety of the potential candidate cities; this can often be assessed using online crime maps and local community feedback on social media. 

Quality of education is also important, so research local schools, look into their ratings, the programs offered, and reviews from parents themselves to ensure they meet your family’s educational standards and values.

Additionally, consider the availability of recreational activities and green spaces. Parks, museums, and cultural centers not only enrich family life – they also help foster a sense of community. 

Don’t overlook the importance of accessibility to basic amenities such as grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and public transportation, which contribute to the convenience and quality of daily life, which can be more and more important depending on the size of your family. 

And, if time allows, nothing beats real-life experience. As mentioned above, social media can valuable resource for gauging residents' feelings and the overall vibe of the community. However, if you have the opportunity to visit or stay in a candidate city for a while to get a better feel of it – take it! This investment will certainly pay dividends later on.