If sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife sound enticing, moving to Miami might be the place for you. Located in Southern Florida, this popular destination is known for its year-round sun, impressive architecture, and diverse cultural scene. Nicknamed “the Magic City,” Miami promises ample career opportunities (plus, residents won’t need to pay income tax–stretching your year salary even further).
Sound like the right fit for you?
Before moving to Miami, you’ll need to prepare accordingly. Brushing up on the local real estate market, as well as the best neighborhoods in the area, is a good start. Next, you’ll want to explore the differences between South Miami Beach, North Miami Beach, and Middle Beach,
But you don’t have to go it alone. We’ll walk you through all there is to know about the Miami area–the pros and the cons.
Pro: Most Days Are Sunny
One of the biggest draws of Miami is its climate. Known as the Sunshine State, Florida offers warm and sunny weather year-round, making it a paradise for sun worshipers.
Miami’s average daily temperature high rarely dips below 78°F in the cooler season, while the temperature high in the hotter season often exceeds 87°F. This makes Miami a great place to enjoy outdoor recreation, like surfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding, throughout the year.
Con: It’s Humid and Lies Within the Hurricane Belt
Despite its lovely sunny days, Miami still has its share of rain and humidity, like any tropical paradise. The city’s rainfall reaches its peak in August, while humidity levels fluctuate throughout the year, averaging at 73% annually.
While the high humidity can be a bit uncomfortable from time to time, it’s something that residents quickly adapt to.
Because Miami lies within the Atlantic hurricane belt, hurricane season spans from June to November. While hurricanes only pose challenges for Miami residents six months out of the year, hurricane season requires year-round preparation. Stocking up on emergency supplies (like an emergency food/water supply and a fire extinguisher) is just one of many to-dos on pre-hurricane-season checklists. As you’ll come to find, preparing for the hurricane season is a part of life in Miami, with residents taking necessary precautions to protect their homes and families.
Pro: There Are Lots of Fun Things to Do
You’ll never be bored in Miami. This diverse and international city is home to countless museums, attractions, and exciting neighborhoods just waiting to be explored. For an afternoon of shopping, explore Worth Avenue in Palm Beach or the designer boutiques in the upscale enclave of Bal Harbour Shops.
The iconic Art Deco Historic District in South Beach is a great place to uncover Miami’s architectural history, and Little Havana is an amazing Cuban-American neighborhood known for its coffee and cigars.
Art enthusiasts can visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami, and the Museum of Graffiti, beach-lovers can relax at South Beach, Bal Harbour Beach, and Crandon Park Beach, and fans of the opera can catch a show at Florida Grand Opera.
Image courtesy of Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (Pictured above: Art Deco Historic District
Con: It’s Touristy
Tourists have also discovered Miami’s many attractions, and as a result, some parts of the city can get crowded, especially during peak season from late November to mid-April. South Beach and Miami Beach often draw large crowds of sunseekers and sightseers, and popular attractions, like the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and the Wynwood Walls, are particularly overrun with tourists.
Pro: There’s a Promising Job Scene
Whether you’re a registered nurse, a sales associate, or a general manager, there’s a high chance you’ll find an exciting opportunity in Miami. The city boasts a promising job scene with opportunities across various industries, including tourism, finance, healthcare, and technology.
The hospitality and tourism industry thrives here, and the vibrant arts and culture scene generates employment in galleries and event management. Real estate development presents opportunities for professionals in construction, architecture, and property management, while Miami’s strategic location makes it a hub for international trade and commerce.
Con: It’s Expensive
Unfortunately, Miami is not cheap. In fact, the cost of living in this city is 21% higher than the national average. The city’s cost of living is primarily driven by housing costs, which are significantly higher due to the area’s popularity and the increasing number of new residents.
The average home value in Miami is $554,261, while the median rent price is $3,200. Nationwide, the average home value is $342,685, and the median rent price clocks in at $2,000 a month.
Prospective residents should be prepared for the trade-off between location and affordability.
Pro: There’s Amazing Nightlife
The city’s entertainment scene is known for its dynamism and diversity, offering something for everyone. The city’s top bars and clubs, such as Nikki Beach, Rácket, and Mango’s Tropical Café, offer a range of experiences from laid-back lounges to high-energy dance floors.
Beyond the bars and clubs, Miami also hosts a variety of entertainment events and festivals. From the GroundUP Music Festival to the Ultra Music Festival, these events bring together artists, musicians, and enthusiasts from around the world.
Image courtesy of The Miami Guide
Con: Some Neighborhoods Experience High Crime
While the overall crime rates in Miami have improved, certain neighborhoods still experience higher crime rates. Areas such as Overtown and Liberty City have historically faced challenges related to crime.
If you plan to move to Miami and are concerned about crime, be sure to research the neighborhoods you plan to visit ahead of time. You can also explore the following Miami crime map to see which areas have experienced crime recently.
Pro: Florida Doesn’t Collect State Income Taxes
One notable financial advantage of moving to Miami is Florida’s lack of state income tax. Article VII, Section 1(d) of the Florida Constitution explicitly states that there shall be no state income tax imposed on individuals. This tax-friendly environment allows residents to keep more of their earnings, providing an additional incentive for professionals considering a move to the city.
Moving to Miami?
If the pros outweigh the cons and you’re considering moving to Miami, you’ll need to decide where you want to live. There are many different types of neighborhoods in Miami, so explore the following guide to help facilitate your move.
Neighborhood Guide
Here’s a brief guide to help you navigate the best neighborhoods in Miami:
- South Beach: Iconic for its art deco and vibrant nightlife, South Beach is a hotspot for beach lovers. The vibrant Ocean Drive, with its colorful buildings and trendy cafes, is a major attraction here.
- Brickell: Miami’s financial district offers a modern urban lifestyle with luxury condos and a thriving business scene. The neighborhood’s skyline is adorned with sleek skyscrapers
- Coral Gables: Known for its picturesque streets, tree-lined avenues, and Mediterranean-style architecture, Coral Gables exudes an upscale charm. The neighborhood boasts beautiful parks, historic landmarks, and the iconic Miracle Mile.
- Little Havana: Immerse yourself in Latin American culture with street festivals and affordable housing options in this vibrant neighborhood. The neighborhood is famous for its street festivals, art galleries, and affordable housing options.
- Coconut Grove: Offering a bohemian atmosphere with lush greenery and bayfront views, Coconut Grove is known for its artistic community and historic sites. The neighborhood provides a laid-back lifestyle, complete with waterfront parks and trendy boutiques.
- Wynwood: Known for its vibrant street art scene, Wynwood has transformed into a trendy and artistic neighborhood. The area is filled with galleries, hip cafes, and creative energy.
- Downtown Miami: The bustling heart of the city offers urban living, cultural experiences, and a mix of business and entertainment. Condos and apartments cater to those seeking a cosmopolitan lifestyle in the center of it all.
- Midtown: A rapidly growing area with a blend of residential and commercial spaces, Midtown boasts shopping, dining, and cultural venues, attracting a diverse mix of residents.
Tip: Considering other cities in Florida? Check out our Orlando Neighborhoods Guide and our Tampa Neighborhoods Guide.
Image courtesy of Expedia (Neighborhood pictured: South Beach Miami)
Tips for Finding Cheap Housing in Miami
Finding affordable housing in Miami is challenging, but it’s not impossible. Start by exploring the options in more affordable neighborhoods. This includes areas such as Allapattah, Little Haiti, and Homestead.
Working with a qualified realtor can also significantly ease your housing search. Real estate agencies like The Carroll Group and Dina Goldentayer specialize in finding affordable housing in Miami. They can guide you through the buying process, help you understand the market trends, and negotiate the best deal for you.
Lastly, you can expand your housing search by looking for condos or apartments rather than just sticking to houses. These tend to be cheaper, and may even boast better locations. Just remember that you may have to downsize if you’re moving into an apartment or condo. If that’s the case, you can store any extra belongings in a traditional storage unit or at a self-storage marketplace like Neighbor.
Summary
For many Americans, living in Miami sounds like a dream. If you’re making this dream a reality, just remember that moving and uprooting a life doesn’t come without its challenges. Join Moving-to-Miami Facebook groups and read blogs written by other transplants so you’re fully prepared for your new life.
