Miami is one of the most popular cities in the US to visit - and it's not just about tourism; more and more people are choosing to make Miami their base. Home to over 435,000 people, it's the second-most densely populated city in Florida. Lots of people love Miami - and this beautiful city does have a lot to offer, from stunning beaches and lots of sunshine to diverse culture and a reasonable cost of living. There's a lot to explore in the city for both solo expats and couples, but the first thing you will need to take care of is your living arrangement.
In this article, learn more about accommodation in Miami.
Finding a place to live in Miami can be tricky initially, especially due to the competitive rental market. However, with some effort, you will discover that the city has a vast range of housing options. Miami is a great place for single expats - however, families with children may need to spend more time searching for accommodation options away from the party scene. Another thing to consider is transport. Central neighborhoods are pricier but better connected, while more remote areas offer larger apartments and more affordable rent - but access to public transportation may be limited, and car ownership is pretty much ubiquitous.
Neighborhoods in Miami
Rent prices in Miami differ greatly depending on which neighborhood you choose to settle in. Another thing to keep in mind is that Miami is a tourist destination, and a lot of neighborhoods in the city (especially the areas adjacent to the beach) may get busy and noisy with tourists and party-goers. If you want a quieter lifestyle, consider venturing past the popular tourist spots and settling in the suburbs. You can always visit the hot spots, but you might not want to live in them.
Miami's layout may seem confusing to you at first. However, as you explore the city, things become clear. The small number of buildings in the center make up Miami's downtown area. Concerning the city's downtown, the airport area is located to the northwest, the beaches are located to the east, Coconut Grove is in the South, and Coral Gables is West - while the rest of the city is to the north.
Downtown Miami
Downtown Miami is one of the city's most sought-after areas, famous for its stunning skyline and its busy nightlife. Downtown Miami is also an important commercial and cultural center and home to hip eateries, bars, and clubs.
Several years back, the area tended to empty out after business hours, making it feel somewhat ghostly. However, thanks to the recent boom in development and urban migration, the neighborhood stays hip and lively way into the night.
The rental price is not as bad as some other areas – expect to pay between $2,000 and $3,000 for a smaller apartment. This neighborhood is best suited for young professionals looking for an active lifestyle, as families with children may find the area a bit too noisy and crowded.
South Beach (SoBe)
South Beach used to be a popular area among retirees. In recent years, however, the area has undergone a lot of transformation and is not only a popular spot for tourists but also affluent local residents and expats.
It is also one of the best-connected areas in Miami regarding public transportation, and you can easily get around here without using a car.
South Beach is rich in urban culture and is one of the best places in the world to get acquainted with Art Deco architecture. When it comes to residential real estate, most of it is apartment buildings and high-rise condominiums. Expect rent for an apartment here to fall somewhere between $2,500–$3,500.
Overall, this neighborhood is densely populated, and its streets are often crowded; if you want a quieter atmosphere, consider areas like Coconut Grove or Coral Gables.
Coconut Groove and Coral Gables
These are two of Miami's most historic suburbs. Both areas are very popular with expat families as they offer a quiet and relaxed community feel while staying well connected to downtown Miami.
Coconut Grove is residential and peaceful, with a vibrant art scene. It is also home to the city's most famous theatre - Coconut Grove Playhouse. Coral Gables is a picturesque area with lots of gorgeous greenery and peaceful waterways. It has several good residential complexes and is home to the University of Miami. Rent here averages around $3,200.
Pinecrest
Pinecrest is a cozy but pricey neighborhood just south of Coral Gables. It's a very convenient location, and according to CityData, most residents only spend around 30 minutes on a work-related commute. The area is home to good schools and is suitable for families with children. At the same time, it would also be a good choice for young professionals as the neighborhood is quite modern, and you will even find free Wi-Fi spots in key locations.
Little Havana
If you want to keep your rent on a budget and are open to a different experience - consider Little Havana. This area offers some of the most reasonable prices in the city and is rapidly growing in popularity. Little Havana is home to a large Cuban population and offers great opportunities for Cuban-American culture. Expect rent in Havana to be around $2,000.
Miami Beach
Miami Beach is a small, walkable neighborhood with lots to do. The area has beautiful scenery, museums, art galleries, small businesses, and more. Just like South Beach, this neighborhood tends to get quite busy and crowded and may not be the best fit for families or those looking for some peace and quietness on the weekends. The average rent in Miami Beach is around $2,500.
Miami Shores
Miami Shores is another popular suburban neighborhood. The area offers a dense suburban feel, and people who live here own their homes. The neighborhood has good schools and is quite popular with families. The average monthly rent here is $2,000.
Key Biscayne
This neighborhood is just south of Miami Beach and has some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the city. Here, you will see many stand-alone homes, tree-lined bike paths, and lush green spaces. Key Biscayne is also home to a luxurious resort and offers the peace and quietness that most other neighborhoods in Miami lack. The area also has some of the best schools in the city and is generally a great fit for families and retirees. However, living here comes at a price - and it's not a low one! The average rent for a one-bedroom place in Key Biscayne is around $3,900.
Brickell
Brickell is located south of downtown Miami and is often called "the Manhattan of Miami" for its urban feel and tall high-rises. In this area, you will find a high concentration of international banks and other businesses, making it the perfect place to settle for professionals and new graduates.
Expect rent for an apartment in Brickell to be around $3,000–$3,500.
If you like the idea of Brickell but aren't sure about living somewhere with so much hustle and bustle, you could consider Brickell Key, a quiet gated island with gorgeous homes and an upscale feel.
The above is just a sampling of the options available in the Southern Miami area. There is a nook there to suit everyone, including retirees, fresh-faced college students, and blossoming families. So before you move, travel to the area to scope out the best neighborhood for you.
If you are not a fan of the active atmosphere of the busy Brickell, take a look at Brickell Key.
This is a small neighborhood with under 3,000 residents located on an artificial island right next to Brickell. The area is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of urban Miami and a very picturesque place to live.
Rental conditions in Miami
When leasing in Miami, rent is due monthly, and leases usually last a year. Renewals are possible annually. The property owner covers taxes and maintenance fees, while tenants handle utility bills. Tenants must be approved by the county association before moving in.
Consider these tips when renting in Miami:
- Do a walkthrough: See the place before renting. If not possible, have someone you trust to do it for you;
- Check guest policy: Ask about rules for long-term guests to avoid surprises;
- Guarantor for students: Students often need a guarantor, usually a parent, who's responsible if they can't pay rent;
- Get everything in writing: Have rental rules documented to prevent disputes;
- Seek expert advice: Consult a lawyer or real estate agent if unsure about the lease.
Useful to know:
Most city-center homes have appliances like air conditioning, refrigerators, ovens, and stoves.
Modern Miami apartments usually offer parking spaces or garages. Carefully read the agreement to understand your payments before signing.
Life in Miami
Miami is a vibrant city that has a lot to offer its residents. It's known as the “Magic City" due to its sudden, booming population growth, where the city seemed to blossom like magic. It's also known as the Capital of Latin America because of its rich Hispanic heritage. The city's charm is hard to ignore, and as soon as you visit, you get a sense of why people love the place.
Famous for its beaches, Miami's scenic beauty attracts huge numbers of tourists every year. This also means you can easily plan beach getaways and even stop by the beach after work to unwind. However, it's worth noting that Miami can get crowded and noisy, especially during peak seasons.
Useful to know:
After the COVID-19 pandemic, Miami saw a surge in population. Since Florida reopened early, many from the Northeast, Midwest, and Pacific Northwest moved here for new opportunities. This has led to densely populated central areas. However, the population has dropped off slightly since the post-Covid boom.
Finding places to eat and unwind after work won't ever be a problem in Miami, which has a super trendy restaurant scene offering diverse global cuisines, from beach cafes to high-end dining. The city is also rich in museums and art galleries, with its Art Deco district being world-renowned.
Another advantage of living in Miami is its comparatively lower cost of living compared to major US cities like New York or Los Angeles. However, rent prices are high, and it is now in the top ten most competitive rental markets in the USA.
To ensure your Miami experience matches your expectations, research various aspects of settling in the city.
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