Best 7 Miami Metro Neighborhoods

Bienvenidos a Miami! When you think of contemporary beachside living, no city has quite the character and dynamism in all of South Florida. From historic Art Deco beachfront hotels to charming bungalow cottages, Miami’s architecture is a scene in itself.

For those moving to Miami, the many different neighborhoods can make it hard to decide where to call home. Do you opt for a classic Miami lifestyle in Miami Beach, be immersed in the culture of Little Havana, or embrace carless living near Brickell? Whatever you choose, remember, you’ll be living where others dream of vacationing.

To help you get familiar with Miami and its neighborhoods, we’ve identified a few of the best places to live. This list includes neighborhoods from Miami Beach, the barrier island across from downtown Miami, as well as communities immediately touching the city limits. However, it doesn’t include suburban communities in South or North Miami or Hialeah to the west, which also have top-rated places to live.

That said, here’s a look at the unique vibe and character of some of the best neighborhoods to live in Miami.

Coconut Grove

Looking for a slice of classic Florida living in Miami-Dade County? Welcome to Coconut Grove, a historic neighborhood and one of the oldest suburban areas in Miami. The charming architecture and parks have a laid-back atmosphere that dates to its roots as a 1960s bohemian community. Locals simply call it “The Grove” and appreciate the laid-back atmosphere, strong sense of community, and proximity to Downtown Miami.

If you look around, you’ll find this bustling neighborhood is quite remarkable. With its Italian Renaissance-style villas and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, it’s no wonder this place is perfect for weddings or quinceañera celebrations. In fact, it’s so picturesque that you might forget you are in the United States for a moment!

The Grove is known in the South Miami area for its eclectic shops, indie vibe, and trendy restaurants. CocoWalk, an outdoor shopping mall, is the epicenter for retail and dining. While it’s easy to pop into a hip coffee shop, it’s just as easy to soak in the Florida sunshine from one of its beautiful parks with bayfront views. Several marinas cater to the local boating culture.

Coconut Grove has a robust community spirit and a chill bohemian vibe. The local calendar is filled with activities, including the year-round Coconut Grove Art Festival and the weekly Saturday Farmer’s Market.

Coconut Grove real estate varies from newer, luxury high-rise condominiums to older duplexes, capturing a more classic Miami aesthetic. You’ll also find palatial custom estates and some of Miami’s most stunning residential architecture.

Coconut Grove had 262 homes for sale in September 2022. Still, its desirability as a place to live and waterfront location is reflected in the prices. As many other vibrant neighborhoods, the median list price was $1.8 million. Prices for existing real estate ranged from $189,000 for a 466 sq ft condo to $48 million for a custom waterfront home in the exclusive Camp Biscayne.

Downtown Miami/Brickell

Downtown Miami, or “Brickell,” is the city’s financial district. You may not initially think of downtown as the place to live. Still, Brickell’s skyscrapers are redefining urban live-work-play.

Miami’s skyline is constantly evolving. New construction projects are completed every few years, resulting in a modern, cosmopolitan feel.

Brickell has Miami’s highest concentration of international banks. Many businesses have their Miami headquarters, but it’s not all business. In recent years, Brickell has become a hotspot for nightlife with trendy bars and nightclubs. With Brickell City Centre, the area also has excellent shopping with boutiques, high-end fashion, and big brand names. Some of the best restaurants in Miami are at residents’ doorstep.

Brickell is Miami’s most walkable neighborhood, and you’ll find that most places are within walking or biking distance. If you need to go further, the Metromover is free and will take you around downtown Miami. In short, downtown provides amenity-rich living in the heart of Miami.

Brickell, mainly consisting of apartments and condos, had a median list price of $698,000 in September 2022. The 784 listings ranged from $200,000 for a 340 sq ft studio to $38.5 million for an 11,000 sq ft penthouse with six parking spaces.

Wynwood

If urban art inspires you, then Wynwood is where you want to be. Alternatively known as “Midtown,” Miami’s arts district is home to over 70 art galleries, museums, and studios, as well as some of Miami’s best bars and restaurants.

The Wynwood Walls are world-famous, and the street art throughout the neighborhood is truly incredible. Whether walking or driving around, you’ll see colorful murals on just about every building. World-famous Art Basel sets up in Midtown Miami each year, bringing thousands of creators and fans to Miami.

During the day, Wynwood is a great place to explore Magic City’s art scene. In the evening, it comes alive with bars and nightclubs. You’ll find everything from dive bars to upscale cocktail lounges. And when it comes to food, there’s something for everyone, from gourmet burgers to wood-fired pizza.

Wynwood is located just north of downtown Miami. You’ll find a mix of apartments, lofts, and warehouses converted into living spaces. The median list price in Wynwood was $687,500 in September 2022 for the 118 homes listed. Prices ranged from $306,000 for a 564 sq ft new construction one-bedroom condo to $2.5 million for a 1,500 sq ft single-family home on a corner lot. Several multifamily properties were listed for higher.

Coral Gables

Nicknamed “the City Beautiful,” Coral Gables is one of Miami’s most sought-after residential neighborhoods in South Florida. The tree-lined streets, Spanish-inspired architecture, and landscaping inspired the city’s name. But it’s not just the beauty that draws residents; Coral Gables is packed with amenities.

The pedestrian-friendly community has most things residents need or want within walking or biking distance. The Miracle Mile, in Coral Way, is the main shopping street in Coral Gables, with high-end fashion, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

In addition, Coral Gables has unique attractions like:

• The Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens is a spot known for its natural beauty. It has lush greenery, unique plants, rainforest gardens, and spectacular vistas.
• R Hardy Matheson County Preserve offers more views and water access.
• The Venetian Poll is one of the country’s most unique public swimming pools. It has Italian-inspired architecture with freshwater flowing directly from Florida’s aquifers.

Despite its upscale feel, Coral Gables is still very down-to-earth and one of the safest neighborhoods of the 305. The nearby University of Miami, the most important higher education institution in Miami-Dade County, brings a mix of students, families, and young professionals. It’s a great place to live if you want to be close to Miami Beach but don’t want to deal with the hustle and bustle.

Coral Gables is separate from Miami but completely touches its western border. The city divides further into six neighborhoods and encompasses some of the most sought-after zip codes of Magic City: 33134, 33146, and 33143, with historic homes, estates of Mediterranean Revival design, and some unique examples of residential Art Deco Architecture.

In September 2022, the median list price for homes in Coral Gables was $1.3 million for 371 listings. Existing real estate ranged from $175,000 for a 582 sq ft condo to $39.9 million for a custom 13,816 sq ft waterfront home with nine bedrooms.

Surfside

One of Miami’s smallest municipalities, Surfside is a beach town located just north of Miami Beach and South Beach. Locals like the laid-back vibe and family-friendly atmosphere that separates Surfside from the more touristy Miami Beach. One of its mayors was famous for skateboarding into work at City Hall each day.

The main attraction in Surfside is, of course, the beach! These are great places to relax, swim, and enjoy the Miami sunshine. You’ll find several public beaches along Collins Avenue, but they’re less crowded than other Miami beaches.

If you’re looking for some retail therapy, you can stroll down Surfside’s main street, Harding Avenue. You’ll find everything from independent boutiques to chain stores. It lights up at night and transforms into a busy restaurant district. North awaits Bal Harbour and its upscale shopping. Just south is the North Beach Oceanside Park with its playground and trails.

Surfside is located north of Miami Beach. In September 2022, the median list price for homes in Surfside was $1.6 million, with 110 homes on the market. Listings ranged from $379,000 for a 763 sq ft one-bedroom condo to $37 million for a 5,000 sq ft oceanfront condo at The Surf Club at the Four Seasons Hotel.

South of Fifth

If you want to be near the heart of Miami Beach, South of Fifth is your place. Called “SoFi” by locals, this neighborhood is home to Miami’s most iconic beachfront—South Beach. Here, you’ll find luxury high-rises, world-class restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

Some of Miami’s most popular attractions are South of Fifth, like the Miami Beach Boardwalk, Ocean Drive, and South Pointe Park. Store your boat at the Miami Beach Marina, or visit one of the local museums and art galleries.

SoFi is very walkable, but residents can also take advantage of the Miami Beach Trolley, which runs through South of Fifth to beaches beyond. This is the neighborhood for you if you’re looking for a luxurious Miami Beach experience.

South of Fifth is located at the southern tip of Miami Beach. Its real estate is primarily condominiums and apartments. Existing real estate in this popular neighborhood ranges from $219,000 for a 700 sq ft one-bedroom condo to $40 million for a 7,800 sq ft penthouse with six bedrooms and 270-degree views from the Atlantic Ocean to Biscayne Bay.

Bal Harbour

If you want to live in Miami Beach or Miami, desire an upscale lifestyle, but don’t want to be in the tourist area, then Bal Harbour is a great option near South Beach. This neighborhood is the northernmost on Miami Beach island. It is known for its luxury condos, high-end shops, and beautiful beaches. Think “luxury coastal village,” and you’ve got the vibe.

The world-famous Bal Harbour Shops are an open-air luxury mall with high-end stores like Hermes, Gucci, and Prada. Explore the art galleries, the fine dining, and the views of Bal Harbour Beach.

Bal Harbour is perfect for an active lifestyle. Its design is reminiscent of a village, allowing residents to walk, jog, or cycle everywhere. In addition, the beach is one of Miami’s cleanest and most secluded stretches of sand with aquamarine waters.

Bal Harbour’s real estate market is one of the more expensive markets in Magic City and the United States. It has gated communities of single-family homes on the west side and luxury high-rise condos on the east side along Collins Avenue. The September 2022 median list price for 101 homes was $2.4 million. Prices ranged from $335,000 for a 745 sq ft condo to $35 million for a corner waterfront 12,000 sq ft custom home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Miami Neighborhoods

How’s public transit in Miami?

Miami’s public transit system, operated by Miami-Dade Transit (MDT), is extensive and serves as the largest transit system in Florida. MDT offers a variety of transportation options, including Metrobus, Metrorail, and Metromover.

The Metrobus system covers over 70 routes, ensuring wide accessibility throughout Miami-Dade County. Metrorail features two lines with 23 stations, including direct access to Miami International Airport via the Orange Line, facilitating convenient and efficient travel. The Metromover, a free service in downtown Miami, operates three loops with 21 stations, providing easy short-distance travel within the Miami downtown area.

The Strategic Miami Area Rapid Transit (SMART) Program is actively expanding and enhancing the public transit infrastructure. This initiative aims to develop new transit corridors and improve existing public transportation services to meet the needs of the growing population. 

What are some of the top attractions in Miami?

Miami is brimming with diverse attractions that cater to a wide range of interests, so you won’t be bored in Magic City. Bayfront Park, located in downtown Miami, offers beautiful waterfront views, Bayfront Park, a popular amphitheater for concerts, and a tranquil setting for relaxation and world-class events.

Calle Ocho in Little Havana is a famous commercial and residential neighborhood with a vibrant Cuban heritage. It features colorful murals, lively street festivals like the Calle Ocho Festival, and numerous Cuban restaurants where you can savor authentic dishes like “ropa vieja,” Cuban sandwiches, and a “colada,” the local name for Cuban coffee.

For sports enthusiasts, catching a Miami Heat game at the Kaseya Center is a must, providing an electric atmosphere and the chance to see top NBA action. The Design District is a hub for art, fashion, and dining, with high-end boutiques, contemporary art galleries, and chic eateries.

Miami is also home to several contemporary art museums, including the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA), which showcase modern art from around the world.

These attractions, along with Miami’s beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, make it a dynamic and exciting place to explore​. 

Is Miami cheaper than Fort Lauderdale?

When comparing the cost of living between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, data indicates that Fort Lauderdale is generally more affordable than Miami. Overall, the cost of living in Miami is about 24% higher than in Fort Lauderdale. This difference is largely due to higher housing costs in Miami, which are approximately 23% more expensive than in Fort Lauderdale. For example, the monthly rent for a 900-square-foot apartment in an expensive area of Miami is around $4,753, compared to $3,995 in Fort Lauderdale.

Additionally, everyday expenses such as groceries and dining out are also higher in Miami. A basic lunchtime menu in Miami’s business district can cost around $26, while it is about $22 in Fort Lauderdale. Utility costs, while slightly higher in Miami, do not differ significantly between the two cities. Overall, if you are looking for a more affordable living situation with a relaxed vibe and a strong sense of community, Fort Lauderdale might be the better option. 

What is Miami best known for?

Miami is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. South Beach, one of the city’s most iconic destinations, is famous for its stunning Art Deco architecture, trendy nightclubs, and pristine sandy shores. The area draws millions of visitors annually, making it a key highlight of Miami’s tourism industry. 

What are the best islands to live near Miami?

Living on an island near Miami offers a unique blend of luxury, tranquility, and convenience near South Beach. Here are some of the best islands to consider:

Sunset Islands

The Sunset Islands are a prestigious residential community in Biscayne Bay, comprising four islands (Sunset Islands I, II, III, and IV). They are known for their beautiful waterfront homes, lush landscaping, and peaceful environment. The islands offer easy access to Miami Beach and are close to several top-rated public and private schools, making it an ideal location for families.

Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne is an idyllic island located south of Miami Beach, surrounded by Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It offers a relaxed lifestyle with stunning beaches, such as those at Crandon Park and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.

The average rent and housing costs on Key Biscayne are higher than in many other parts of Miami due to its desirable location and upscale amenities. The island features excellent public schools like Key Biscayne K-8 Center and renowned private schools such as St. Agnes Academy and the MAST Academy. Its proximity to South Beach and downtown Miami adds to Key Biscayne’s appeal for residents who want a mix of serenity and accessibility.

Fisher Island

Fisher Island, reachable by ferry or yacht only, is one of Miami’s most exclusive and luxurious neighborhoods. It is one of the most luxurious places to live in Miami-Dade County. Its privacy, beautiful surroundings, and upscale living make it a haven for affluent individuals seeking a secluded yet opulent lifestyle. The island’s world-class amenities, including a private beach, golf course, and marina, further enhance its exclusivity, making residents feel privileged and special.

These islands provide some of the best living experiences near Miami, offering unique features and benefits catering to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you prioritize excellent schools, luxury amenities, or a peaceful environment, an island community near Miami can meet your needs.

Is Gables Estates a good place to live in Miami?

Gables Estates is a premier gated community in Coral Gables, Miami, known for its luxurious waterfront properties and Spanish architecture. The neighborhood offers expansive lots, typically ranging from 40,000 to 187,000 square feet, and provides direct access to Biscayne Bay, ideal for yacht owners.

Residents enjoy top-rated public schools like Sunset Elementary and Coral Gables Senior High, along with prestigious private schools such as Riviera Schools and Gulliver Preparatory. The community is highly secure, with 24/7 armed guards and advanced surveillance, and membership in the exclusive Gables Estates Club is required, ensuring a high standard of living and privacy.

Miami’s Best Neighborhoods

Whether you’re looking for Miami’s best beaches, shopping, nightlife, or just a quiet place to call home, there’s a neighborhood for you. You’re never far from the water or the sunshine wherever you are. So, when ready to embrace the South Florida lifestyle, come find your perfect Miami neighborhood.

As you narrow your search, keep in mind what’s important to you. Do you want to be near the beach? In the heart of the city? Surrounded by nature? You’re sure to find the perfect place to call home with so many options. A local real estate expert can help pinpoint the best neighborhoods for your lifestyle in Magic City.