What is the Real Cost of Living in Harbor Beach?

Nestled along the serene coastline of Florida, Harbor Beach is a hidden gem that captivates the hearts of those seeking a blend of coastal tranquility and vibrant community living. As a seasoned real estate agent specializing in waterfront properties and new construction, I aim to shed light on the actual cost of living in Harbor Beach, Fla., providing you with valuable insights beyond mere numbers. Read on to explore the cost and benefits of living in Harbor Beach.

Residents of Harbor Beach, Fla., live in a community synonymous with affluence, where conventional budgeting takes a back seat to abundant living. With house prices ranging from $3 million to an astonishing $75 million, homeowners in Harbor Beach boast luxurious residences that reflect their elevated lifestyle. The cost of living extends to other facets, including electricity bills that fluctuate between $500 and $2,800, depending on the season.

This wealthy enclave is marked by mega yachts, a common sight in the marinas, underscoring the financial prowess of the residents. The lifestyle of those residing in Harbor Beach transcends the ordinary, with regular visits to upscale restaurants along Las Olas Blvd. and 17th St. Dining in these high-end establishments further illustrates the financial abundance enjoyed by the community, where residents savor the finest culinary experiences without the constraints of conventional budgetary concerns. In Harbor Beach, wealth is not just a status symbol; it's a way of life that permeates every aspect, allowing residents to indulge in the epitome of luxury.

Harbor Beach is a singular destination with some of the best properties anywhere in South Florida. Here’s what you can expect as a prospective buyer as we approach 2024.

There’s a good reason why Harbor Beach is considered the most luxurious waterfront community in Fort Lauderdale. As of December 2023, trusted local agent Maria Montalbano shows 12 properties publicly available in Harbor Beach. List prices range from $6.5 million to $36 million; true to Harbor Beach’s reputation, most of these properties are waterfront.

Should you prefer to build a custom home, there is still a scarce amount of undeveloped land on the premises (currently, there is a 0.3-acre lot on the southwest side of Isla Bahia Dr.). Though limited and prized, family-size estates are more common in Harbor Beach. For the 11 listed residential properties, you can expect a minimum of 3,200 square feet — the most expensive home exceeds 10,000 square feet.

For context, we can compare tiny Harbor Beach to its designated zone of Broward County, which includes the coastal cities of Pompano Beach, Ford Lauderdale, and Hollywood but extends far west into mainland South Florida.

The difference between Harbor Beach and Broward County is a difference between quality and quantity. In sheer size, Broward County comprises over 1,300 square miles. By volume, nearly 1,000 Broward County homes closed in October 2023. This market includes about 3,500 active listings, good for 3.4 months of inventory.

Those totals contrast sharply with the local market in Harbor Beach. Any way you look at it, Harbor Beach simply operates on a different scale — fewer houses sell for much more there. It’s a niche market, and working with a local specialist like Maria Montalbano is imperative.

The sense of community, access to recreational amenities, and the breathtaking natural beauty create an unparalleled living experience. For many in Harbor Beach, boating and golf are constant sources of enjoyment.

Harbor Beach in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offers unparalleled boating amenities, epitomizing the luxury waterfront lifestyle. With an exclusive marina, residents enjoy convenient access to their vessels, ranging from sleek yachts to luxurious boats. The Intracoastal Waterway, just minutes away, serves as a gateway to the open seas, providing boating enthusiasts with endless opportunities for maritime adventures.

Moreover, the area is surrounded by prestigious clubs like the Coral Ridge Yacht Club and Lauderdale Yacht Club, offering exclusive amenities, social events, and top-notch marina facilities. Boating enthusiasts in Harbor Beach can indulge in a world of luxury and camaraderie with access to these distinguished clubs that complement the allure of the community's waterfront living.

Harbor Beach, Fort Lauderdale, is surrounded by premier golf courses, providing residents unparalleled opportunities for upscale golfing experiences. The area boasts access to prestigious courses such as the Fort Lauderdale Country Club and Coral Ridge Country Club. Golf enthusiasts in Harbor Beach can enjoy well-manicured fairways, challenging layouts, and a luxurious atmosphere, contributing to this affluent community's overall upscale lifestyle.

Once you’ve secured housing in Harbor Beach (working with trusted agent Maria Montalbano), you’ve taken care of the most significant expense. The following expense categories are unlikely to be dealbreakers for incoming homeowners. Still, it pays to be aware of monthly and everyday expenses.

Living in Harbor Beach grants residents access to a pleasant climate, but it's essential to consider the costs of maintaining a comfortable home. The average monthly price for utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, will vary depending on your home size. As mentioned above, you can expect electricity bills to range from $500 to $2,800, depending on the size of your home and the time of year.

Exploring the local markets and grocery stores in Harbor Beach reveals a favorable cost of living regarding daily necessities. The cost of groceries aligns closely with the national average, ensuring that residents can maintain a well-balanced and affordable lifestyle without breaking the bank.

The average cost of healthcare in the area is in line with the national average, ensuring that residents can access top-notch medical care without facing exorbitant expenses. The price locals pay for healthcare largely depends on their health insurance plan.

Harbor Beach is unique in that the two ways of getting around are by car or boat. Residents generally enjoy the freedom of mobility without feeling burdened by excessive transportation costs.

Harbor Beach offers an enticing array of dining options, from cozy seaside cafes to upscale seafood restaurants. Moreover, the vibrant local entertainment scene ensures that residents have plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy leisure activities without straining their budget. Many Harbor Beach locals love to get out for brunch or dinner and then enjoy themselves on a night out in town.

The real cost of living in Harbor Beach, Fla., goes beyond mere financial considerations. It encompasses the holistic experience of residing in a community that seamlessly blends coastal charm with everyday convenience. Whether you're captivated by the tranquil beaches, the diverse housing options, or the vibrant community spirit, Harbor Beach stands as a testament to affordable elegance on Florida's picturesque coastline.

As you explore the possibility of making Harbor Beach your home, consider partnering with a real estate professional who understands the nuances of this unique community. Maria Montalbano, a seasoned expert in the Harbor Beach real estate market focusing on waterfront properties, new construction, and pre-construction, is dedicated to helping you find your dream home. For personalized guidance and a seamless real estate experience, reach out to Maria to embrace the charm, affordability, and elegance that define Harbor Beach.