Horse Properties in Davie FL: A Buyer's Guide to Equestrian Real Estate

If you've ever driven through Davie, Florida and noticed the white ranch fences, the horses grazing on wide-open pastures, and the western-themed downtown, you already understand something important: Davie is one of the last true equestrian communities in South Florida. While the rest of Broward County has developed into dense suburbs and urban corridors, Davie has preserved something that's increasingly rare — the ability to own horses, ride trails, and live on acreage, all within a major metropolitan region.

For buyers searching for horse properties in Davie FL, understanding how this market works — from zoning and lot sizes to lifestyle and pricing — is essential before making a move.

Why Davie Is South Florida's Equestrian Capital

Davie earned its reputation as the equestrian capital of South Florida not through marketing, but through decades of preservation. The town sits on land that was historically used for cattle ranching and agriculture, and as Broward County urbanized around it, Davie made deliberate choices to protect its rural character.

Today, Davie maintains dedicated equestrian zoning districts that allow residents to keep horses on their property. The town's trail system includes over 187 miles of interconnected paths — many of which are designated for horseback riding — making it possible to ride from your property to parks, preserves, and community spaces. The Bergeron Rodeo Grounds host regional and national horse events throughout the year, and the equestrian culture shapes everything from local businesses to the town's annual holiday parade.

What makes Davie especially compelling for horse owners is the combination of lifestyle and location. You can live on a multi-acre property with horses, ride trails on a Tuesday morning, and still be 20 minutes from Fort Lauderdale's restaurants, beaches, and Brightline station. That combination is nearly impossible to find anywhere else in South Florida.

Types of Equestrian Properties in Davie

Horse properties in Davie come in several forms, and understanding the differences is important for matching a property to your needs and budget.

Acreage Estates (2 to 5+ Acres)

These are the most desirable equestrian properties in Davie. They typically sit on two or more acres of land, with room for a barn, paddock, pasture, and riding area. Many include upgraded main homes with modern finishes, guest quarters, and detached garages. Properties in this category often line the western and southern edges of Davie, where the land is widest and the trail access is most direct. Pricing typically starts around $800,000 and can exceed $2 million depending on acreage, improvements, and location.

Equestrian Ranch Homes (1 to 2 Acres)

For buyers who want the equestrian lifestyle without the full estate footprint, Davie offers ranch-style homes on one to two-acre lots. These properties provide enough space for a small barn and paddock while remaining more manageable in terms of maintenance and cost. They're a popular entry point for horse owners who are relocating to Davie or transitioning from renting equestrian space elsewhere. Prices in this range generally fall between $550,000 and $900,000.

Non-Equestrian Acreage Homes

Not every large-lot property in Davie is zoned for horses, and not every buyer with acreage wants to keep animals. Many of Davie's larger properties are simply homes with generous land — ideal for families who want space, privacy, and a rural feel without the commitment of horse ownership. These properties still benefit from Davie's trail system and equestrian culture, and they tend to hold their value well because of the land itself.

What to Know About Equestrian Zoning in Davie

Davie's zoning codes are among the most horse-friendly in Florida, but they come with rules. Properties must be in an equestrian zoning district to legally keep horses. Minimum lot sizes vary by district but typically require at least one acre per horse. There are also setback requirements for barns and stables, manure management standards, and regulations around grazing areas.

Working with a Realtor who understands these zoning distinctions is important. A property that looks perfect on paper may not have the right zoning for your intended use — or may have restrictions that affect how many horses you can keep. This is one of those areas where local knowledge makes a meaningful difference.

Horse Trails and Facilities in Davie

Davie's trail network is the backbone of its equestrian lifestyle. The town maintains dedicated equestrian trails that run through residential areas, nature preserves, and open spaces. Several key facilities support the horse community:

• Oak Hill Equestrian Park — A 10-acre facility with a round pen, arena, wash racks, and direct access to the trail network.
• Bergeron Rodeo Grounds — Hosts rodeos, horse shows, and equestrian events year-round.
• Davie's 187-mile trail system — Interconnected paths for horseback riding, cycling, and walking throughout the town.
• Markham Park — Offers equestrian trail access along with mountain biking and other outdoor recreation.

For buyers who don't yet own horses but are interested in learning, Davie has several boarding facilities and riding schools that offer lessons, boarding, and training services.

How Equestrian Properties Affect Value and Resale

Horse properties in Davie behave differently in the market than standard residential listings. The buyer pool is smaller and more specialized, which means these properties can take longer to sell — but they also tend to command a premium when the right buyer is found. Well-maintained equestrian estates with quality barns, good trail access, and desirable locations consistently hold their value.

One factor that strengthens long-term value is scarcity. There is a fixed supply of land in Davie, and no new equestrian-zoned parcels are being created. As South Florida continues to grow and develop, the value of preserved equestrian land tends to appreciate. Buyers who invest in Davie horse properties are not just purchasing a home — they're buying into a finite resource in a high-demand market.

Common Questions Buyers Ask About Davie Horse Properties

Can I keep horses on any property in Davie?

No. The property must be in a designated equestrian zoning district. Standard residential zones do not permit horse keeping, even if the lot is large enough.

How many horses can I keep?

This depends on the lot size and zoning district. The general guideline is one horse per acre, though specific districts may have their own requirements.

Do I need to build a barn?

Many equestrian properties already include barns, stables, or paddock areas. If you're purchasing raw land or a property without existing equestrian infrastructure, you'll need to factor the cost of construction and permitting into your budget.

What does it cost to maintain a horse property in Davie?

Beyond the typical homeownership costs, horse owners should budget for feed, veterinary care, farrier services, barn maintenance, and insurance. A rough estimate for ongoing horse-related expenses is $500 to $1,200 per month per horse, depending on the level of care and services used.