20 TV Shows That Made You Want to Live in the 80s

The ’80s was a dazzling decade of larger-than-life adventures in TV shows, heartfelt family moments, and over-the-top style. From neon-lit crime dramas and gadget-packed escapades to heartwarming sitcoms and quirky alien antics, these shows captured the spirit of a time when everything felt bold and possible. They didn’t just entertain; they made you yearn for a world with pastel suits, synth-wave soundtracks, and all-around charm.

1. Miami Vice (1984–1989)

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This groundbreaking series was defined by slick pastel suits, roaring sports cars, and the endless allure of Miami’s nightlife. Detective duo Crockett and Tubbs made fighting crime look like an art form set against a neon-lit, synth-heavy backdrop. It wasn’t just a show—a style revolution that made you want to don Ray-Bans and patrol the city in a Ferrari.

2. The A-Team (1983–1987)

Stephen J. Cannell Productions / Universal from Wikimedia Commons

A group of misdirected heroes who, on the run, are making crazy gadgets from scrap to save the day? Oh yeah! Seeing the glint of gold chains across Mr. T’s chest as he declared, “I pity the fool!” made you want adventure, camaraderie, and over-the-top, action-packed schemes.

3. Knight Rider (1982-1986)

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Who wouldn’t want a talking, AI-powered car that could jump over obstacles and outsmart bad guys? Michael Knight’s partnership with KITT was peak ’80s futurism, making every viewer dream of cruising down the highway to justice. Throw in David Hasselhoff’s iconic charm, and you have the ultimate techno-fantasy.

4. Saved by the Bell (1989–1993)

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While it started late in the decade, this show’s vibe screamed ’80s high school cool with its zany antics and over-the-top fashion. Zack Morris’s massive cell phone and larger-than-life schemes made the school look more fun than it ever had the right to be. Bayside High made everyone wish they had their own Screech or Kelly Kapowski in their friend group.

5. MacGyver (1985–1992)

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Armed with only a Swiss Army knife and unlimited ingenuity, MacGyver could turn mundane objects into lifesaving contraptions. It wasn’t just a program but a lesson on how to DIY anything into reality. The resourceful spirit of the ’80s shines through in every explosion and thrilling escape.

6. Family Ties (1982–1989)

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This sitcom captured the clash of ’60s hippie parents with a Reagan-era conservative son, Alex P. Keaton, hilariously. The lovable dynamic showed how charming life was for this suburban ’80s family, where every argument ended in hugs and lessons were learned. You almost wish you had a family this quirky and warm-hearted.

7. Magnum, P.I. (1980–1988)

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Tom Selleck’s Hawaiian shirts and that famous mustache epitomized laid-back ’80s fabulous. Living in paradise while solving mysteries and driving a red Ferrari was my dream life. Magnum’s easygoing yet principled nature made every viewer want to trade their 9-to-5 for an island PI career.

8. Cheers (1982–1993)

Cheers - Paramount Pictures from Wikimedia Commons

Sometimes, you do want to go where everybody knows your name. Cheers made hanging out in a Boston bar feel like the coziest, most charming social experience imaginable. The quirky regulars and heartfelt humor made you want to pull up a stool and join in the banter.

9. Full House (1987–1995)

American Broadcasting Company from Wikimedia Commons

Although extended into the ’90s, this heartwarming sitcom embodied late-’80s family life with love, laughter, and endless life lessons. Uncle Jesse’s Elvis obsession, Danny’s obsessive cleaning, and Joey’s goofy humor made the Tanner house feel like a place you’d want to call home. Add in San Francisco’s stunning scenery; the ’80s never felt so wholesome.

10. ALF (1986–1990)

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A snarky alien crash-landing in a suburban family’s garage and trying to eat their cat? Only in the ’80s. ALF’s sarcastic wit and hilarious antics made alien invasions seem like the most fun thing that could happen to your family.

11. Growing Pains (1985–1992)

Warner Bros. Television Studios from Wikimedia Commons

Life with the Seavers made suburban ’80s America look like a warm, relatable dream. From Mike’s teenage mischief to Carol’s academic wit, the family had a little something for everyone. It reminded us that, in the ’80s, family drama always ended with a heartfelt hug and a catchy theme song.

12. The Golden Girls (1985–1992)

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Sure, it followed the lives of four older women, but their wit, friendship, and Miami antics were timeless. Blanche, Rose, Dorothy, and Sophia taught us that life stays fun and fabulous, regardless of age. Their stylish ’80s wardrobes and cozy home were the ultimate backdrop for hilarious adventures.

13. 21 Jump Street (1987–1991)

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Are young undercover cops infiltrating high schools to catch criminals? This show had edge, drama, and a young Johnny Depp stealing hearts. Its moody aesthetic and serious social themes gave the ’80s some emotional grit amid the neon glow.

14. Who’s the Boss? (1984–1992)

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Tony Danza’s role as a live-in housekeeper in a feminist household brought unexpected charm and laughs. This sitcom flipped gender roles while celebrating family and relationships in a unique ’80s way. It made you wish you had an upbeat ex-baseball player keeping your household in check.

15. Mork & Mindy (1978–1982)

ABC from Wikimedia Commons

Okay, it began in the late ’70s, but this alien comedy led by Robin Williams took its zany spirit into the early ’80s. Mork’s “Nanu Nanu” and wild antics brought an infectious energy that perfectly embodied the quirky side of the decade. Watching it felt like living in a world where anything, even an alien-human friendship, was possible.

16. The Wonder Years (1988–1993)

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Though the show was set in the ’60s, the’ 80s-told lens added a charming sense of nostalgia. Kevin Arnold’s coming-of-age storyline picked on universal themes of love, friendship, and growing up. The heartfelt tone made you want simpler times even if you weren’t from the ’60s.

17. The Cosby Show (1984–1992)

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The Huxtables redefined the sitcom family with warmth, humor, and an aspirational lifestyle. Their Brooklyn brownstone was the ultimate ’80s home, full of laughs, jazz, and life lessons. It made you want to sit down with the family for a slice of Claire’s wisdom and Cliff’s Jell-O pudding.

18. Charles in Charge (1984–1990)

Wikiphotos from Wikipedia

He wasn’t just a college student but the ultimate babysitter and friend. Problem-solving made juggling his life into suburban ’80s life fun and carefree, while his friendship with Buddy Lembeck also brought a goofy dose of charm to the show.

19. Diff’rent Strokes (1978–1986)

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The story of two brothers from Harlem adopted by a wealthy family tackled serious issues with humor and heart. Arnold’s catchphrase, “Whatchu talkin’ ’bout, Willis?” became a cultural phenomenon. It made you wish you could experience the blend of lavish living and heartfelt moments they shared.

20. Silver Spoons (1982–1987)

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A mansion with arcade games and even mini trains is where Ricky Stratton spent his life. What can be more fun than an ’80s lifetime during which one could have fun whenever or spend lavishly?

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