The best places to live in Miami
Finding the best places to live in Miami means getting to know the Magic City’s geography. The city can be roughly divided into the North, West, and South sections, as well as the eastern Downtown district that hugs the Atlantic Coast. New arrivals can choose from a wide range of areas and suburbs in Miami, from spirited Latino communities to the glitzy atmosphere of South Beach.
Property in some of the most popular areas of Miami is, however, in such high demand that it can sometimes be challenging to find a home that meets all of a house hunter’s needs at a reasonable price. As a result, when looking for housing in Miami, it may be necessary to be somewhat flexible in terms of size and budget. Enlisting the help of a real estate agent will also ease much of the stress of finding accommodation.
Luxury living in Miami
Luxury living in Miami is easy to find. That said, demand for real estate in certain popular areas or complexes can be so high that prospective tenants may find themselves on a waiting list for their dream home, regardless of their budget.
Brickell
A cosmopolitan neighbourhood close to Miami’s financial and commercial district, Brickell tends to attract affluent business executives who enjoy the convenience of being close to the office. The area is enhanced by the natural beauty of Biscayne Bay and also boasts some of Miami’s best fine dining spots and eclectic boutique shops.
The area offers expats the best in city living and is well serviced by Miami’s public transport system. The free Metromover connects Brickell directly to Downtown. Accommodation options tend to be mostly high-rise condominiums or penthouses, and as can be expected, rent in Brickell doesn’t come cheap. Apartments in some of the more sought-after complexes in Brickell are often hard to come by, so prospective tenants might need to put their names on a waiting list.
South Beach
South Beach used to be associated with retirees and starving artists, but in recent years, this part of Miami has undergone a massive transformation. It’s now more than just a popular spot for holidaymakers; it’s also home to some of the city’s most affluent residents. The neighbourhood is packed with glamorous nightlife and shopping, making it difficult to get bored here.
South Beach is one of the few areas of the city where most residents opt not to have a car. The neighbourhood is well served by the Miami public transport network, and while there is no Metrorail service, a free trolley runs seven days a week alongside frequent bus routes. Taxis and rideshares are readily available.
Bal Harbour
Technically a standalone village on the northern tip of Miami Beach, Bal Harbour is the epitome of luxury living and provides a wide selection of ultramodern apartment complexes. Expats moving to Bal Harbour will find it easy to settle in, as it’s home to a large international community that creates a friendly atmosphere. It’s also one of the safest areas in Miami.
Those living in Bal Harbour will find themselves close to some of the city’s top designer boutiques, gourmet restaurants and trendy bars. The area is also close to the beach, and for those who don’t want to walk, there are plenty of bus services in this part of Miami. As one would expect, accommodation in Bal Harbour is expensive and often hard to come by.
Public Transport in Miami
Entertainment in Miami
Family-friendly neighbourhoods in Miami
Family-friendly neighbourhoods in Miami tend to cluster further from the city centre, where newcomers with children will find spacious homes close to good schools.
Coral Gables
Coral Gables is one of the most historic suburbs in Miami. This area is popular among families because it is close to several good schools. The area is also well served by Metrorail and bus services.
Officially a city in its own right, Coral Gables has many gated complexes located in picturesque settings, surrounded by trees, open green spaces and canals. Known as the City Beautiful, the area has many laid-back bars and good eateries, and it is also home to the University of Miami.
Coconut Grove
Coconut Grove has a strong community feel and is more residential and peaceful than areas such as South Beach. There is a bustling cultural scene in Coconut Grove, which is home to a wealth of artists and writers. The historic Coconut Grove Playhouse, one of Miami’s most storied theatres, closed in 2006 and is currently undergoing a major reconstruction. It is expected to reopen in 2027. Like Coral Gables, Coconut Grove is home to a fair number of excellent schools, making it perfect for families.
Young and hip areas in Miami
Although much of the property market in Miami is geared toward those with larger budgets, the young and hip areas in Miami prove it’s still possible to find apartments that won’t break the bank.
Little Havana
Rental prices in Little Havana are far more reasonable than one might find elsewhere in the city. One of the best suburbs in Miami for those on a tight budget, or who just want something a little different, it has steadily gentrified over the past decade, and rents are rising as a result.
Traditionally home to immigrants from Cuba, the area has become somewhat more diverse in recent years and now accommodates residents from Puerto Rico, Colombia, and Guatemala, which accounts for its truly Latin American atmosphere.
Over the past few years, there has also been an influx of students and artists into the area, bringing with them a growing number of Bohemian bars, cafés and restaurants. Comprehensive bus services connect Little Havana to Miami’s city centre and neighbouring suburbs.
Kendall
One of the safest and most affordable Miami neighbourhoods, Kendall offers a quieter pace of life while still providing access to key city amenities. Many young professionals who would like to save a few bucks enjoy living in Kendall, despite a 30-minute to 1-hour commute to Downtown Miami. The neighbourhood boasts a lively restaurant scene, golf courses and parks.