If you’ve never been to Miami, you probably have some preconceived notions about it. While Miami does, in fact, have gorgeous beaches and a thriving nightlife, that’s not all the 305 has to offer. Boasting a colorful art scene, several historic neighborhoods, and an assortment of cultures, there’s more to Miami than meets the eye. If you’re looking to relocate, don’t sleep on Miami. This vibrant city has so much to do that you’re bound to find something that draws you in, guaranteed. If you don’t believe us, here’s what you’ll love about living in Magic City.
What you should know about living in Miami:
1. The weather: Winters are mild, but summers are hot
If you consider hot, humid summers and short, mild winters great weather, then you’ll love living in Miami. Classified as having a tropical monsoon climate, the average highs and lows in January are 76 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. The hottest months average a high of 91 and a low of 77 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s no wonder that south Florida is such a popular spot to visit and live. While Florida is also known for its rainy season, it’s not called the sunshine state for nothing.
2. The food scene is amazing
Moving to Miami means having access to some of the best cuisine. Wander away from the touristy parts of Miami and you’ll find an amazing food scene, with authentic restaurants, cafes, and food trucks. Cuban food is especially popular in Miami, but you can also find other countries well-represented, too. And because the city has a tropical climate, tropical fruit, including mangoes and avocados, are decently priced here. Hello, avocado toast!
Check out places like Boia De, an intimate Italian restaurant nestled in the Little Haiti neighborhood, or eat on the dreamy outdoor patio at Mandolin Aegean Bistro, a Greek spot in the Buena Vista area. Whatever you do, you’ll be hard-pressed to eat somewhere that you don’t like; Miami is a culinary gem with tons of options.
3. Florida has no state income tax
Are you more than slightly annoyed at having to hand over a portion of your paycheck to Uncle Sam? While you’ll still have to pay federal income tax, a move to Miami means you won’t have to pay state taxes, since Florida doesn’t have a state income tax. Furthermore, the sales tax in Miami is just 7.75%, which is lower than in other parts of the country. The average annual income for Miami residents is $60,000, which is just slightly lower than the national average of $66,000. Income and taxes will play a large role in determining your cost of living. Not having to pay and income tax will allow you to have more flexibility in your budget for other major expenses like housing.
4. Public transportation is reliable
A recent study found that Miami traffic is the fifth-worst in the United States. With stats like that, it helps that the city’s public transportation system is pretty legit. The Metrobus has over 95 routes and 1,000 buses that transport passengers from Fort Lauderdale all the way to the Florida keys.
The Metrorail has 25 miles of elevated rails and connects northwest Miami-Dade to Broward and Palm Beach counties. If you frequently move about the Downtown area, the Metromover is a free service that makes small loops around Downtown Miami and Brickell and provides a connection between the Metrobus and the Metrorail.
5. Miami has so much culture
Miami’s culture is strongly influenced by the Caribbean and Latin-American communities. Visitors and locals have the opportunity to enjoy an abundance of festivals, museums, and theatres that celebrate these diverse cultures, including Carnival Miami, The Calle Ocho Festival, and the Miami International Film Festival. The city also boasts a number of independent movie theatres, orchestras, symphonies, and performing arts conservatories. Head to the popular Wynwood neighborhood and check out their murals, art walks, and more.
6. Miami is very diverse
Miami has a huge Hispanic population, and the city is very much a bilingual one. While you don’t need to know Spanish to get by, it will certainly make things a lot more fun and perhaps easier. Since there are so many shops, bars, and restaurants owned and operated by the Hispanic community in Miami, many residents don’t speak English. It’s easier to get around and communicate with the locals if you at least have a decent grasp of the Spanish language.
7. It’s a city on the beach, not just a beach city
You’ve probably been to a beach city — a place where the beach is the main attraction and there’s nothing to do but catch sand and sun all day. But Miami is not a beach city; it’s a city on the beach. Sure, it’s situated on the shore, but there’s so much more to do than tan and swim. There are museums, European villas, historic castles, national parks, and practically everything else you’d expect to find in a large metropolitan city — and then some. If you are a beach bum, you’ll have your pick of some of the best destinations for surf and sand. Miami Beach is a vacation destination for a reason after all.
Frequently asked questions about living in Miami
How much does housing cost in Miami?
Rent in Miami has continued to rise in the last year. The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in Miami is $2,630 per month, which is a monthly gain of 5.2%.
What are the most affordable neighborhoods in Miami?
The neighborhoods with the most affordable rent in Miami are Cresthaven, Melrose Heights, Villages of Oriole, and Lakes of Delray. Here you’ll find rent as low as $1,000 per month.
What are the most expensive neighborhoods in Miami?
The neighborhoods with the highest rent prices in Miami are Park West, Brickell, and Edgewater. In these neighborhoods rent prices are as high as $4,000 per month.
What jobs are popular in Miami?
Employment in the service industry, medical and health services, executive administration, finance, and HVAC maintenance are among the most popular fields in Miami. The largest companies with headquarters in Miami include American Airlines, Costa Farms, Royal Caribbean, and Office Depot.
Miami is truly a destination for all. So whatever you’re looking for, you definitely won’t be disappointed by this fabulous city by the sea. When you’re ready to make the move, search thousands of apartments for rent on Zumper and find the perfect one.
Related content
