Moving from New Jersey to South Florida's suburbs? Here’s How Weston, Cooper City, Davie, Parkland & Plantation Compare in the $1M–$1.5M Range

If you’re making the move from New Jersey down to South Florida, the $1M–$1.5M price range opens the door to some incredible neighborhoods and lifestyles here in Broward County. We work with a lot of families relocating from the Northeast, and the first thing they notice is just how much more house, land, and lifestyle they can get for their money compared to back home.

Each city—Weston, Cooper City, Davie, and Parkland—has its own flavor, so let me walk you through what life really looks like in this range.

Weston

Weston is polished, manicured, and built with families in mind. In this budget, you’ll find executive-style homes in gated communities like Weston Hills or Isles at Weston. Expect 4–6 bedrooms, lakefront views, private pools, and updated interiors.

The lifestyle here feels like living in a resort. There are endless parks, trails, and sports fields, plus convenient access to Sawgrass Mills Mall and major highways. Schools are some of the best in the area, and the whole city is known for being safe, clean, and beautifully maintained. If you want luxury living with a strong community vibe, Weston checks every box.

Cooper City

Cooper City is often described as “someplace special,” and it really does have that small-town, friendly feel. With this budget, you’ll likely be looking at Monterra, a newer gated neighborhood with lakefront homes, modern floorplans, and a resort-style clubhouse.

Families love Cooper City for its schools, parks, and sports programs. It’s centrally located, so you can be on I-75, I-595, or the Turnpike in minutes. If you’re after a warm, family-focused community with newer construction and an easy commute, Cooper City is a hidden gem.

Davie

Davie gives you something a little different: space. In the million-dollar range, you’ll find custom homes on acreage, equestrian estates, and large single-family residences with room for RVs, boats, or horses.

It’s got a unique western character—think rodeos, equestrian trails, and wide open green space, but at the same time, you’re right on I-595 with quick access to Fort Lauderdale, the airport, and Nova Southeastern University. For buyers who want something less cookie-cutter and more private, Davie delivers.

Parkland

Parkland is luxury with a laid-back, park-like setting. In this price point, you’re looking at newer homes in Heron Bay, Watercrest, or MiraLago, built within the last decade with soaring ceilings, impact glass, big kitchens, and oversized lots. These neighborhoods offer resort-style amenities: pools, gyms, tennis, kids’ programs, and community events.

Families are drawn here for the schools, parks, and the lifestyle. Pine Trails Park is the heart of the city, hosting concerts, sports, and family fun. If you want that “newer luxury home with all the bells and whistles” feel, Parkland is hard to beat.

Plantation

Plantation blends classic South Florida charm with newer luxury enclaves. In this price point, you’ll see elegant homes in neighborhoods like Plantation Acres, Hawks Landing, and Jacaranda Lakes. These often sit on oversized lots with mature landscaping, private pools, and plenty of outdoor entertaining space.

Plantation is known for its central location since you can be in downtown Fort Lauderdale, Sawgrass Mills, or Fort Lauderdale airport in under 20 minutes. The city has tree-lined streets, golf courses, and great shopping, all without feeling overly crowded. For those who want space, convenience, and timeless Florida living, Plantation is a fantastic choice.

Bottom Line

• Weston: Country club luxury and manicured living.

• Cooper City: Tight-knit community with newer homes and great schools.

• Davie: Acreage, horses, and unique estates with space to breathe.

• Parkland: Newer luxury construction with resort-style amenities.

• Plantation: Central location, larger lots, and a blend of classic and modern Florida living.

Coming from New Jersey, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at just how much lifestyle you gain here in South Florida for the same price range. The real question is whether you’re more drawn to Weston’s resort polish, Cooper City’s friendly charm, Davie’s open space, Parkland’s newer luxury, or Plantation’s classic, central convenience.