Broward County is located in the southeastern region of the U.S. state of Florida. It’s part of the greater Miami metropolitan area and known for its beaches, cultural diversity, and vibrant coastal cities. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly where Broward County is located, what borders it, and why its position makes it one of Florida’s most significant regions.
Geographic Location & Boundaries
1. Florida’s Southeast Region
Broward County lies in the southeast corner of Florida, between Miami-Dade County to the south and Palm Beach County to the north. To the east, it borders the Atlantic Ocean, offering miles of sandy coastline and popular beach towns. To the west, the county meets the Everglades, an expansive natural wetland that defines much of Florida’s ecosystem.
2. Size & Landscape
Broward County covers about 1,323 square miles, including both land and water. Approximately 1,210 square miles is land, while the rest consists of waterways and coastal areas. The terrain is flat and low-lying, with an average elevation of around six feet above sea level — which contributes to its tropical climate and occasional flood risks.
Major Cities & County Seat
- Fort Lauderdale is the county seat and largest city in Broward County.
- Other major municipalities include Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Coral Springs, Pompano Beach, Miramar, Davie, and Plantation.
- Together, these cities form part of the Miami–Fort Lauderdale–West Palm Beach metropolitan area, one of the largest urban regions in the United States.
Historical Background
Broward County was officially established in 1915, carved from portions of Dade and Palm Beach counties. It was named after Napoleon Bonaparte Broward, a former governor of Florida known for his work in improving waterways and land development during the early 20th century.
Since its founding, Broward County has evolved from a largely rural region into a bustling urban hub with over 1.9 million residents — making it the second-most populous county in Florida after Miami-Dade.
Why Broward County’s Location Matters
Coastal Access & Beaches
Located along the Atlantic Ocean, Broward County is home to some of Florida’s most visited beaches, including Fort Lauderdale Beach, Hollywood Beach, and Pompano Beach. Its coastline supports tourism, boating, and the cruise industry, with Port Everglades serving as one of the busiest cruise ports in the world.
Economic & Transportation Hub
Broward County’s central location between Miami and Palm Beach makes it a vital transportation and business center. The Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL), major highways like I-95 and Florida’s Turnpike, and extensive public transit connect the region to the rest of South Florida.
Environmental Importance
To the west, Broward’s boundary with the Everglades plays a critical role in water management, wildlife preservation, and environmental protection. The county’s location between ocean and wetland ecosystems creates a unique balance between urban life and natural conservation.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| State | Florida |
| Region | Southeast Florida |
| Borders | Miami-Dade (South), Palm Beach (North), Atlantic Ocean (East), Everglades (West) |
| County Seat | Fort Lauderdale |
| Total Area | ~1,323 sq mi |
| Land Area | ~1,210 sq mi |
| Water Area | ~113 sq mi |
| Elevation | ~6 ft above sea level |
| Founded | 1915 |
| Named After | Governor Napoleon B. Broward |
Living in Broward County
Residents of Broward enjoy a tropical climate, excellent schools, and access to both urban and natural environments. The area offers a mix of suburban neighborhoods, thriving downtowns, and coastal communities, making it attractive to families, retirees, and young professionals alike.
Bottom Line
Broward County is a southeast Florida powerhouse — a coastal, cultural, and economic hub located between Miami and Palm Beach. Its strategic position along the Atlantic Ocean, combined with access to the Everglades and strong infrastructure, makes it one of Florida’s most dynamic and desirable places to live, work, and visit.
