Cooper City, Florida 2024

Cooper City, Florida, began its history in the early 1950s when the population was a mere 30 families. A man by the name of Morris "Sandy" Cooper, from Illinois, purchased 640 acres of land in the Southwest Ranches area, with the intention of farming and creating a family community. In 1959, after several failed attempts to find a buyer, Cooper finally sold his first tract of land. Later another 2,000 acres were purchased and the land was renamed Cooper City.

By 1961, the Cooper City Elementary School was built, as well as a few stores and a tomato packing plant. In 1963, more than 1,000 residents lived in the Cooper City area. The first mayor, R.E. (Bob) Leahy, was elected in 1966. Dade County gave the okay for the town to incorporate in 1959, and Cooper City officially became a city in 1961.

At the 1970 census, the population had reached almost 5,000; by 1980, it had more than tripled to approximately 17,000. To support the population growth, new schools, Pioneer Park, and a new city hall were built during the 1970s. In the 1980s, a police department and fire station were added, and the community center and library were expanded.

By the 1990s, over 25,000 people lived in Cooper City, thanks to the addition of several new housing developments, including the large community of Wynmoor, an adult community, and Embassy Lakes, a gated community. Two new schools, Embassy Lakes Elementary and Pioneer Middle School, were built to accommodate the increase in children.

The present population of Cooper City has grown to over 35,000-40,000 residents. The city supports a strong and diverse economy, with a median household income over $84,980, and over 55,866 households, and a median age of 41.4. There are about 1,930 businesses and a meager unemployment rate of 3.4%.

Things to do in Cooper City, Florida

There are plenty of fun things to do in Cooper City and the surrounding areas, whether you're looking for outdoor activities like hiking or biking, or prefer cultural experiences like museums and art galleries.

1. Visit the Cooper City Nature Center

The Cooper City Nature Center offers a unique and educational experience that all ages can enjoy. Here, you can appreciate and learn about native plants and animals and explore a variety of interactive exhibits. You'll also discover a range of programs and activities, from nature walks and birding excursions to educational discussions and workshops.

2. Explore the Everglades Wildlife Drive

If you want to see Florida's unique wildlife and natural beauty, take a trip down the 9.5-mile gravel road known as the Everglades Wildlife Drive. You'll have the chance to see many alligators up close, as well as birds and other wildlife.

3. Visit the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale

If art is more your thing, the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit. This modern art museum features an impressive collection of over 7,000 works of art, including a diverse selection of Latin American and Oceanic art.

4. Enjoy outdoor activities at Brian Piccolo Sports Park

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Brian Piccolo Sports Park, which features athletic fields for baseball, soccer, football, lacrosse, and more. The park also features a large playground and picnic areas, making it a great place to spend a day or afternoon outdoors with the family.

5. Attend a performance at the Art Theater

For an afternoon or evening of entertainment, look no further than The Main Event, which offers a range of acts, including live concerts, plays, and musicals, as well as events like karaoke nights and comedy nights.

6. Stroll through the Cooper City Heritage Festival

Don't miss the annual Cooper City Heritage Festival, featuring live music, craft beer, delicious food from local vendors, and plenty of activities for kids.

7. Fun at Flamingo Gardens

One of the top attractions in the area, Flamingo Gardens is a must-visit when visiting Cooper City. This 60-acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary is home to over 3000 species of exotic, tropical, subtropical, and native plants. Walk through the gardens and take in the impressive variety of plant life, visit the arboretum, and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere.

8. Take a trip to Hollywood, Florida

With its beautiful beaches, Hollywood is an excellent day trip from Cooper City. It is only 29 minutes away via I-75 S and US-441 S.

Cooper City Demographics

In 2020, Cooper City, Florida had a population of 38,853 individuals. The city's population has grown 16.77% since the 2000 census and 3.25% since 2010. Over 73.7% of the population are White, 12.8% are Black, 12.2% are Hispanic, 4.5% are Asian, 0.2% are Native Americans or Alaska Natives, and 0.0% are Hawaiians or other Pacific Islanders.

Housing in Cooper City, Florida

The median home value in Cooper City is $506,400, which ranks 16th in Florida and 105th in the United States. It is higher than 91% of Florida's other cities, towns, and neighborhoods.

In Cooper City, there are 55,866 households, with 1,930 businesses and a 3.4% unemployment rate. The median age is 41.4, and 51% of the population are male, while 49% are female.

Cooper City, Florida, may be small in size, but it is big on excitement. Within its borders, visitors will find a host of attractions like the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale, Art Theater, and Flamingo Gardens. Families adore this city because of all the kid-friendly options designed specifically for them. Some examples include the Children's Museum and the Museum of Discovery and Science.