Deep Dive Relocation Report: Sunrise, FL (2026)

Sunrise: The Data Profile (2026)

Sunrise, Florida, presents a specific demographic profile for the 2026 post-remote workforce. With a population of 96,808, it functions as a smaller city environment, offering a departure from hyper-dense urban centers. The economic baseline is solid; the median income sits at $76,722, which is +2.9% above the US median of $74,580. This income premium is supported by an education rate of 36.0% holding bachelor's degrees or higher, surpassing the national average of 33.1%. The statistical target demographic is the "hybrid professional"—individuals requiring proximity to major employment hubs (like Fort Lauderdale/Miami) but prioritizing housing value and suburban stability over downtown density.

Cost of Living Analysis

The cost of living index in Sunrise is 98.0, effectively -2.0% below the national average. This is driven primarily by sub-average costs in essentials: Groceries are -5.6% cheaper (Index 94.4), and Transportation is -4.4% cheaper (Index 95.6). A critical variable for 2026 home operating costs is electricity, priced at 14.14 cents/kWh, significantly lower than the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis:
With a median income of $76,722 ($6,393 monthly), a single earner in Sunrise retains approximately $2,745 monthly after covering the estimated $3,648 cost of living. This represents a 43% savings rate, providing significant financial flexibility compared to high-cost coastal cities.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in Sunrise is currently balanced, with an index of 98.0. While renting a 2-bedroom unit is priced at $2,333/mo, the buying market offers distinct value. The median home price is $385,000, which is -8.3% lower than the US average of $420,000. Furthermore, the price per square foot is $245, undercutting the national average of $265 by 7.5%.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
Given the median home price of $385,000 and the prevailing 2026 mortgage rate environment, buying remains the financially superior long-term option for those planning a stay of 5+ years. The price-to-rent ratio favors ownership, allowing buyers to build equity while paying marginally less monthly than the $2,333 rent for a comparable property.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

In the 2026 landscape, the "Return to Office" (RTO) mandate has reshaped commute priorities. Sunrise serves as a strategic satellite location. It is situated approximately 10-15 miles from downtown Fort Lauderdale and 30 miles from Miami, making a commute to major corporate hubs manageable but heavy. The local economy is supported by a stable unemployment rate of 4.2%, which is statistically on par with the national average of 4.0%. The +2.9% income premium suggests the local job market supports slightly higher wages than the national median, likely bolstered by the healthcare and logistics sectors prevalent in Broward County.

Quality of Life Audit

Sunrise scores an 80.4/100 on the Health Score, indicating "Good" overall wellness. However, specific health markers require attention. The Diabetes Rate is 14.2%, notably higher than the US average of 10.9%. Conversely, the Smoking Rate is low at 12.2% (vs. 14.0%). Air quality is excellent, with an AQI of 47 and PM2.5 levels well within safe limits. Safety metrics are average; Violent Crime is 345/100k (vs. 380/100k US avg) and Property Crime is 2123/100k (vs. 2000/100k US avg).

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics (Health, Air Quality, Unemployment)

Schools and Weather:
Public school ratings in Sunrise generally hover around the 6/10 GreatSchools average, typical for the region. The weather remains a primary draw; currently, the temperature is 70.0°F with a high of 81°F and a low of 70°F under Mostly Clear skies, offering a tropical climate with minimal seasonal volatility.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Value: Housing costs are -8.3% below the national average while income is +2.9% above.
• Stability: Unemployment is steady at 4.2% with a strong education baseline of 36.0%.
• Health: Excellent air quality (AQI 47) and a solid Health Score (80.4).

Cons:

• Health Risks: The Diabetes Rate of 14.2% is a significant statistical outlier compared to the US.
• Commute: Proximity to Miami/Fort Lauderdale implies traffic congestion for mandatory RTO schedules.
• Crime: Property crime is slightly elevated (2123/100k) compared to the national average.

Final Recommendation:
Sunrise is a Strong Buy for the 2026 hybrid worker. It offers the financial breathing room of a lower Cost of Living Index (98.0) without sacrificing access to the South Florida economic engine. The primary caution is the elevated local diabetes rate and the need for disciplined budgeting regarding the $2,333 rental floor or $385,000 entry-level home purchase.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Sunrise?
To live comfortably (following the 50/30/20 rule) in Sunrise, a single professional should target a salary of at least $85,000. This covers the $3,648 monthly expenses while allowing for savings and discretionary spending.

2. How does Sunrise value compare to nearby Fort Lauderdale?
Sunrise offers a significant discount. While Fort Lauderdale's median home price exceeds $550,000, Sunrise sits at $385,000. You trade immediate beach proximity for -30% housing costs and lower utility rates (14.14¢/kWh).

3. Are the safety stats reliable given the "Average" rating?
Yes. With Violent Crime at 345/100k and Property Crime at 2123/100k, Sunrise is statistically safer than the US average in violent categories and comparable in property categories. It is safer than downtown Miami or Fort Lauderdale.

4. Is the housing market expected to crash?
No. With a Housing Index of 98.0 (near parity) and a median home price of $385,000, the market is viewed as stable. The -8.3% discount to the national average suggests there is still room for appreciation, rather than a bubble risk.