As one of the country’s largest, most diverse—and exciting—cities—living in Miami definitely has its fair share of benefits. Unfortunately, there are some negatives to go along with those positives. As the Owner of Integrity Marketing and Consulting, and a South Florida resident for nearly a decade, I am going to detail some of the pros and cons of living in Miami. There’s even a graphic with a detailed list of the pros and cons along with some great statistics.
To be honest, I love it here in Miami—but I think it is helpful to give a fair appraisal of the city for newcomers.
Miami has:
- Great weather most of the year—but is blazing hot and humid during summers
- Endless miles of white-sand beaches—but horrible traffic
- Lots of great ethnic diversity—but some difficulties communicating between groups
- No state taxes—but a high cost of living
- The South Beach nightlife (perhaps the world’s best)—but a high crime rate
- Many activities for school kids—but a weak public school system
- Superb beaches and great nightlife for the young & single—but (ugh) that cost of living
- Great family activities, such as swimming with dolphins, snorkeling, the Miami Zoo, Miami Sea Aquarium, Swamp Boat Rides, great family-friendly beaches and Parrot Jungle—but can be overpriced for families on a budget.
- Wonderful community living for seniors, but can be a little rough for those on a fixed income.
My View of Living in Miami
I have been living in South Florida for 9 years now and lived in Miami for 3 of those years. The other 6 years I lived in Hollywood and Dania Beach. I’ll say it again: I love living in South Florida!
Whether you are planning on moving to Miami—or just want to get away for a week’s vacation—I feel you’ll find this article to be very helpful. The resources here should answer lots of questions, and point you on your way.
My first three years down here, I lived in Miami. As a bachelor, I lived with roommates and this was just an awesome time. We lived it up Miami-style! The nightlife offers endless possibilities: I went out dancing a lot, and played pool at many of the great pool halls here.
South Beach was one of my favorite spots to go, especially when I worked at Royal Caribbean Cruises, which was right over the bridge. Not only is the nightclub scene stellar in “Sobe” the food is awesome—as long as you hit the right spots.
The shopping in South beach is great too, especially on Sundays when they shut down Lincoln Road (a main thoroughfare). Here, they host a weekly Farmers Market every Sunday and an outdoor antiques and collectibles market during selected weekends from October through May. The combination of style and bargains is mind-numbing. Additionally, the beaches are amazing…just bring lots of sunscreen!
If you’re into basketball going to see the Miami Heat play in downtown Miami is a must. Just make sure to have a $20 bill on hand for parking. The AA Arena is amazing and the Heat are so much fun to watch. Just imagine being right there with Dwayne Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh as they hit the court. Tickets might be harder to get next season, as the big three just won their first NBA Title.
Also, be sure to go early enough so that you can get down to Bayside Marketplace and do some shopping. There are plenty of restaurants—so you can grab a bite before or after the game.
Because Miami is such a cosmopolitan city, you can enjoy food from around the world. There are some really great restaurants in Miami: Cuban, Italian, Thai, Sushi, Brazilian, Mexican and Jewish cuisines are just a few of the many options. Seriously: your taste buds will love all the options!
If you are into baseball you will definitely want to visit the new Miami Marlins Ballpark, which seats 37,000, has a retractable roof to shield folks from the blazing Miami sun and rain. The Marlins are a hot team now with recent signings Jose Reyes, and the always-outspoken manager Ozzie Guillen.
For those that like to lounge around and enjoy a fresh cigar, Miami is the place to be. Some of the country’s finest cigar shops can be found here—and Cuba is only 90 miles away….
And if you are a coffee drinker just wait till you try Cuban Coffee in Little Havana—or at any of the many Cuban cafes around town. Be warned, however: this may just be the strongest (and tastiest) coffee you’ll ever drink!