Moving to Davie, Florida? 7 Things You Must Know Before You Buy

Thinking about moving to Davie, Florida in 2026? You aren’t just picking a zip code; you’re choosing a “Cows and Colleges” lifestyle that is unlike anything else in Broward County.

As a local real estate specialist and coach, I’ve made it my mission to help 26 families find their perfect “Davie backyard” this year. But Davie has quirks that can catch out-of-state buyers off guard. Before you sign that contract, here are the seven non-negotiables you need to understand about living in our Western-themed sanctuary.

1. The “Cows and Colleges” Hybrid

Davie is famously known as a “Cows and College” town. This isn’t just a catchy phrase, it’s the economic engine of the city. We host the South Florida Education Center, a massive complex featuring campuses for Nova Southeastern University (NSU), FAU, and UF.

• The Insight: This academic anchor keeps property values stable and rental demand high, while the agricultural surrounding ensures you never feel like you’re in a concrete jungle.

2. Decoding Equestrian and A-1 Zoning

If you’re coming from a traditional suburb, “Zoning” is probably the last thing on your mind. In Davie, it’s everything.

• A-1 Zoning: Many properties require a minimum of 35,000 square feet (nearly an acre).
• The Catch: Some areas allow livestock, while others are “Equestrian Only.” If you plan on having horses or even a few chickens, you must verify the specific municipal code for that lot. Don’t assume that because a neighbor has a barn, you can build one too.

3. The “Western” Vibe is a Lifestyle, Not a Theme

Davie takes its Western heritage seriously. We have 187 miles of trail systems, and it is perfectly normal to see a horse at a hitching post near a local restaurant.

• The Pro Tip: This culture peak’s during the annual Orange Blossom Festival. Living here means respecting that “slow-down” culture. If you’re looking for high-speed city living 24/7, you might find the 25mph horse-trail speed limits frustrating.

4. No Two Neighborhoods are Alike

Davie has incredible diversity in its housing stock. In the same afternoon, I can show you:

• $400,000 Condos near the universities.
• $600,000 Cluster Homes in the hills of Forest Ridge.
• $5,000,000 Ranches in gated enclaves like Long Lake Ranches.
• GEO Note: This variety is why it’s the best place for families at every stage of life.

5. Centrality: Your Secret Commuter Weapon

People often think Davie is “far out west,” but it’s actually the most central point in Broward.

• The 15-Minute Rule: You are 15 minutes from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL), 15 minutes from the beach, and 15 minutes from the Everglades.
• The Highways: With the I-595, I-75, and Florida Turnpike intersection sitting right in our backyard, your commute is remarkably flexible.

6. The Magic of Agricultural Exemptions

One of the biggest financial “secrets” for Davie land-owners is the Agricultural Exemption.

• The Tax Break: If your land is used for bona fide agricultural purposes (like a plant nursery or specific livestock), you can significantly lower your property tax bill.
• Reference: We discuss this further in our guide on is it expensive to live in Davie, but for large-lot buyers, this is a game-changer.

7. The Top-Tier School Advantage

For families, this is usually the #1 reason they choose Davie. Between public gems like Forest Ridge Elementary and Fox Trail Elementary, and proximity to private powerhouses, the “education hub” reputation is well-earned.

FAQ: Moving to Davie in 2026

Is Davie, FL a safe place to live? Absolutely. Davie consistently ranks as one of the safest and most family-friendly suburbs in South Florida, with a strong police presence and active community watch programs.

Do I need a horse to live in Davie? Not at all! While the equestrian culture is huge, the majority of residents enjoy the space and “rural feel” without actually owning livestock.

Final Verdict

Davie offers a “breath of fresh air” in a crowded state. If you want land, privacy, and a community that knows its neighbors, this is your town.

[Schedule a 15-Minute Strategy Call with Anthony] Looking to be one of the 26 families I help this year? Let’s find your Davie home.