If you’re looking for a neighborhood in South Florida that blends an energetic downtown vibe with residential comfort, Hollywood’s Central Business District (CBD) deserves a close look. Situated just west of US-1 and stretching roughly from Van Buren Street to Polk Street, this district puts you at the pulse of Hollywood’s vibrant city life while offering the practicality and friendliness locals cherish. Here’s an insider’s guide to what it’s really like to live in the Central Business District—from the housing scene and walkability, to schools, parks, and the unique sense of community that makes people call it home.
The Community Vibe: Lively, Welcoming, and Urban
The Central Business District’s personality is distinctly urban, yet it keeps a neighborly warmth. This area buzzes with a constant flow of small business owners, young professionals, and longtime residents, all mingling among the historic storefronts and streets lined with palm trees. On weekends, you’ll see families strolling to Young Circle for live music or attending local art walks. Throughout the year, festivals and farmer’s markets pop up along Hollywood Boulevard, giving you plenty of reasons to step outside and connect.
Residents love how the district feels “alive” without being overwhelming. There’s a steady hum—from the cafes brewing early morning coffee on Harrison Street, to the evening gatherings at outdoor bistros—but you can always duck down a quieter side street if you want a sense of calm.
Types of Housing: Historic Charm Meets Modern Living
Housing in the Central Business District is a melange of architectural styles and accommodations. You’ll find:
- Restored 1920s and ‘30s Mediterranean Revival homes and cottages on Johnson and Monroe Streets
- Low-rise condo buildings and apartments with amenities like pools, fitness rooms, and secured entry (especially along Polk and Tyler Streets)
- Modern townhouses that have popped up in the last decade, offering stylish interiors and low-maintenance living
Most properties have the character you’d expect in a historic downtown, with mature landscaping and cozy front porches. While there are luxury condos with city views (such as near ArtsPark at Young Circle), the overall spirit stays laid-back and accessible.
Walkability and Everyday Convenience
Walkability is a big reason people gravitate to the Central Business District. With well-lit sidewalks and a grid layout, you can accomplish daily errands without needing your car:
- Supermarkets, pharmacies, and hardware stores are clustered near Hollywood Boulevard and Federal Highway
- There are multiple banks, medical offices, and fitness studios in the area
- Dozens of locally owned restaurants—including vegan, Latin, and Italian cuisine—line Harrison Street and Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood’s free electric shuttle and Broward County Transit routes make getting around even easier, and bike lanes on key streets encourage cycling to nearby destinations.
On top of that, the proximity to major employers in downtown Hollywood, as well as easy access to I-95 for commuters, is a major perk.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families moving to the Central Business District appreciate the options for quality K-12 education, both public and private:
- Hollywood Central Elementary sits just south of the district, known for its strong parent involvement and nurturing staff
- Beachside Montessori Village (a K–8 public magnet) is a short drive and popular with local families
- Numerous daycare centers, afterschool programs, and community centers dot the area
Parents often walk their kids to school, and weekend activities at local parks or libraries are neighborhood traditions. The mix of families, couples, and retirees gives the CBD a well-rounded, friendly feel—the kind where neighbors look out for each other.
Parks and Green Spaces
Central Business District residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor spaces:
- ArtsPark at Young Circle is the district’s green heart—a sprawling 10-acre park with playgrounds, a splash pad, art installations, and a one-mile walking path. It’s a hub for concerts, yoga, and movie nights.
- Jefferson Park (off Jefferson Street) offers tennis courts, basketball hoops, and open green fields for picnics and play.
- Pocket parks and shaded courtyards scatter through the neighborhood, perfect for an afternoon break or walking your dog.
Biking to Hollywood Beach or the Broadwalk (just two miles east) is a breeze, giving residents easy access to the Atlantic and iconic sandy shores.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety in the CBD is a top priority for both city officials and residents. The neighborhood benefits from Hollywood’s downtown police substation and regular patrols, especially during big events at Young Circle. Neighbors participate in community watch programs, and many apartment buildings have secured entry systems. Street lighting improvements and active neighborhood associations keep safety concerns addressed quickly, fostering a secure and comfortable place to live.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
One of the biggest draws of the Central Business District is being at the epicenter of Hollywood’s downtown revitalization. Local government offices, tech and medical companies, and countless small businesses operate nearby. For those who commute, I-95, the Tri-Rail station, and the airport are all less than 15 minutes away.
- Fort Lauderdale and Miami are easy day trips for work or play
- Hollywood Memorial Regional Hospital (a major employer) is just west off Hollywood Boulevard
You can genuinely live, work, and play without ever leaving the neighborhood.
What Residents Love Most
Ultimately, what makes the Central Business District special is its balance of urban energy and residential ease. Here’s what locals mention most:
- Walking everywhere—dining, shopping, entertainment—without depending on a car
- The sense of community: neighbors chat with each other in parks, at cultural events, and on shared patios
- Having a little of everything: city life, historic character, good schools, green spaces, and the beach just minutes away
- The pride in local businesses and the district’s ongoing renewal
If you value connection, diversity, convenience, and a bit of Hollywood’s artful flair, the Central Business District offers a unique slice of South Florida life. It’s a place where you can plant roots, make friends, and enjoy both excitement and relaxation—sometimes all in the same day.