Savanna is one of the most popular all-around neighborhoods in Weston, and buyers often compare it with two other gated communities: The Ridges and Emerald Estates. All three are well-kept, gated and close to Weston's parks, but they feel very different day to day. Here's how they compare, from someone who has shown homes in all three since 2005.

Savanna: Amenities and Built-In Community Life

Community pool with a water slide in Savanna, Weston FL

If amenities are high on your list, start with Savanna. The community has resort-style pools (one with a water slide), playgrounds, sports courts, mini-golf and walking trails, and there's usually something going on. Neighbors tend to get to know each other at the pool and the courts.

Savanna is zoned for Manatee Bay Elementary and Gator Run Elementary, depending on the address. Most homes are single-family houses built around 2000. See Savanna homes for sale.

The Ridges: Established, with a Full Sports Lineup

Community pool at The Ridges in Weston FL

The Ridges is an established gated community of larger two-story and lakefront homes, most dating from the late 1990s. Its amenities rival any in Weston:

  • Central clubhouse and large swimming pool
  • Splash pad and playgrounds
  • Basketball half-courts and tennis/pickleball courts
  • Soccer/baseball fields and walking/biking trails

Current MLS listings show Everglades Elementary for The Ridges; confirm the zoned schools for any home you're considering. See The Ridges homes for sale.

Emerald Estates: Residential and Private

Guard-gated entrance to Emerald Estates in Weston FL

Emerald Estates is a 24-hour guard-gated community of 607 homes with a more residential, private setting. Inside the gates, residents have a resort-style pool with an expansive deck area and picnic shelter, a fitness center and a children's playground.

Right next door, Emerald Estates Park adds an exercise path, 2 tennis courts, a basketball court, a covered playground, 2 picnic shelters with tables and grills, and restrooms.

Emerald Estates is zoned for Everglades Elementary. See Emerald Estates homes for sale.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choose Savanna if you want resort-style pools and built-in community life. Look at The Ridges if you'd like larger homes, lake views and the widest mix of sports amenities, from tennis/pickleball to soccer/baseball fields. Consider Emerald Estates if a 24-hour guard gate, a quieter residential setting and a full city park next door matter most.

See all three side by side in the Savanna vs. The Ridges vs. Emerald Estates comparison, or compare more communities in Weston neighborhoods with playgrounds, parks and top-rated schools.

Before you decide on any home, check:

  • The zoned schools for that exact address, confirmed with Broward County Public Schools
  • HOA fees, what they cover, and the rules on rentals, pets and exterior changes
  • How far the home is from the pools, playgrounds and parks you'll use most
  • Roof age, windows and flood zone, which all affect your insurance cost

Want to see all three?

Call or text Susan J Penn, PA at 954-557-5993 or send a message to tour Savanna, The Ridges and Emerald Estates.

School zones, HOA fees and amenities can change. Confirm details for any home before you buy.