Conjuring up images of palm trees, sandy beaches, neon lights and Latin rhythms, Miami, Florida, is an exciting destination with much to offer. Newcomers moving to Miami will certainly appreciate the city’s cultural diversity, which has been spurred by its unprecedented population growth during the past century.

Nicknamed ‘the Magic City’, Miami’s migrant population has undeniably played an essential role in shaping its history and unique character. That it’s also known as ‘the Capital of Latin America’ suggests something about the central role Hispanic people have come to play in Miami. The city also has a key role as a cultural and economic gateway between Latin America and the USA.

Living in Miami as an expat

Large communities of Cuban, Haitian and Puerto Rican residents, among others, have left an enduring mark on the city. This can be seen in the nightclubs, restaurants and the general lifestyle in Miami, especially in areas like Little Havana.

The city is also home to the headquarters of major corporations and functions as the Latin American outpost for other multinational businesses. Miami’s economy is unsurprisingly driven by tourism, and it also has significant finance and commerce sectors, as well as being one of the busiest commercial ports of entry into the United States. 

Most foreigners don’t necessarily move to Miami for professional reasons, however, and are instead attracted by the Florida climate and the city’s atmosphere. A large variety of activities and attractions keep newcomers entertained, from malls to museums and national monuments. 

New arrivals will also have access to a large selection of medical options, given that feeling and looking good is so important to many of Miami’s residents. This quality of care comes at a high cost, though, so new arrivals need to have quality and comprehensive health insurance.

Cost of living in Miami

While Miami is cheaper than some of the USA’s other major cities, it is still a relatively expensive place to live. Accommodation and entertainment in Miami don’t come cheap, but transport is fairly affordable and public schooling is free for locals and foreigners alike. 

Expat parents who choose to enrol their children in international schools will pay handsomely for these schools, so they must ensure their relocation package is enough to cover this cost. Other expenses for those moving to Miami to consider include utilities and groceries, which also set new arrivals back, depending on which provider they pick and where they shop. 

Families and children in Miami

The standard of education in Miami varies from school to school. That said, the city is home to some excellent schools, and language classes are made available to non-English-speaking learners in public schools. This helps manage the transition for many foreign families in the city.

The city also has a range of family-friendly attractions to entertain the kids outside school hours. From educational museums and the Seaquarium to parks and amusement centres, families should certainly not struggle to keep their children busy on the weekends. 

Climate in Miami

The weather in Miami is one of the most attractive aspects of moving to the city. With a subtropical climate, Miami rarely experiences freezing temperatures and is known for its beautifully warm weather. Rainfall is a common occurrence during summer, and the city is a recognised hurricane zone, so new arrivals living in beachfront properties should be prepared for hurricane events. 

A multicultural city made up of a wide variety of residents, newcomers moving to Miami with realistic expectations and an open mind are sure to enjoy life in the Magic City.

The weather in Miami is distinguished by a subtropical climate, marked by plenty of hours of sunshine throughout the year. A cool wind moderates the humid summer temperatures, and rainfall occurs mainly during summer.

Winters are short and warm, and are also the drier season. Miami doesn't have distinct autumn and spring seasons, but temperatures during these months are mild and can be hot at times. Summer (June to September) temperatures average around 90°F (32°C) whereas winter (December to February) temperatures range between 60°F (16°C) and 75°F (24°C).

Miami has never officially recorded any snowfall, but there is an occasional cold front during the winter months, when temperatures can drop below 50°F (10°C). While fairly rare, Miami experiences hurricanes of varying degrees of seriousness every five to eight years. New arrivals are encouraged to get regular news updates and follow official safety precautions during hurricane events.

Miami’s vibrant art scene, racy atmosphere and Latin culture make it one of the most evocative destinations in America. Wildly different from New York and Los Angeles, Miami’s signature flair runs through everything, from its gorgeous turquoise shoreline and tropical gardens to its whimsical Art Deco architecture and eclectic food choices.

Those moving there should certainly look forward to its youthful character but should recognise the city’s drawbacks as well. Below, we list some of the pros and cons of moving to Miami to give new arrivals perspective.

Accommodation in Miami

+ PRO: Diverse housing types

Miami offers a variety of housing options, with some fully furnished apartments. Some housing options come complete with fitness centres, swimming pools and stainless-steel appliances. Condos, townhouses and apartments are the most common types of housing in Miami. 

- CON: Fewer family-friendly options

While Miami has a diversity of accommodation options, it is largely regarded as a city that is great for families without children. There are a few housing options in residential areas for families. That said, neighbourhoods such as Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay and Parkland are known for their excellent schools, safety and proximity to gorgeous natural landscapes. 

Cost of living in Miami

+ PRO: Low taxes

One of the perks of moving to Florida state is that there is no state income tax. This means that Miami residents can save thousands of dollars if they have a fixed income. Property taxes vary by municipality, though residents will generally receive a discount if they pay early. There are several sales tax exemptions as well. 

- CON: Accommodation costs are high

Finding an affordable place to stay in Miami can be difficult. The cost of living is almost 12 percent higher than the national average. This difference is directly influenced by the city’s status as a popular tourist destination. 

- CON: Healthcare is expensive

Healthcare is extremely expensive in Miami, as it is in other US cities. Even with health insurance, only a small portion of the population can afford top-class services. 

Working in Miami

+ PRO: Work environment is rated highly

Miami consistently ranks as one of America’s happiest cities to work in. The city’s employees have based their opinion on how welcoming the destination is of people from different cultures and relationships with employers and co-workers. Compensation, growth opportunities and company culture are rated highly in Miami workplaces. Rankings also factor in whether their leadership sets realistic goals, the extent to which they are involved in the decision-making process, and how trusted they are to work independently.

- CON: Tight job market 

A drawback to living in Miami is that the job market is less competitive than in other major US cities. Wages are lower, and jobs generally require that applicants have college degrees and that they speak both English and Spanish. 

Lifestyle in Miami

+ PRO: Outdoor activities are endless

Miami’s lush parks are great places to enjoy jogging, dog-walking, free yoga, volleyball, basketball, outdoor gyms and, of course, barbecues. Visitors can fish along the pier at Oleta River State Park and canoe through the lengthy, untamed and beautiful Oleta River. 

Other notable parks include Bayfront Park, Margaret Pace Park and Brickell Key Park. The city also has terrific golf courses and a gorgeous coastline for yachting, sailing, surfing and diving.

+ PRO: Great nightlife 

Miami’s nightlife scene rivals that of any city in the United States. Miami has an impressive selection of oceanfront clubs, live music settings and dance venues. 

+ PRO: Rich in food culture

Newcomers will find many authentic ethnic restaurants in Miami, which is home to many cultures. Cuban, Haitian, Brazilian, Puerto Rican and Colombian are a few of the ethnicities that make up the food scene, though the Cuban sandwich is perhaps the city’s most representative dish. Newcomers can grab one almost anywhere in Miami.  

+ PRO: Cultural melting pot

Miami is a true melting pot of cultures, with residents from Cuba, Haiti, Central and South America and other parts of the Caribbean living throughout the city. Their art, food, dance, music and observances are infused with the city’s character. Little Havana, Little Haiti and the Bahamian Coconut Grove Village West retain some wonderfully distinctive cultural traits. 

Getting around in Miami

+ PRO: Comprehensive public transport

Although the public transport in Miami is not as comprehensive as that in Boston or NYC, Miami’s bus service covers the whole city, and the Miami-Dade Transit (MDT) offers an integrated ticketing system, making commuting around the city fairly easy. There is also a Metrorail and a free automated shuttle known as the Metromover.

- CON: Traffic is a problem

Miami has some of the worst traffic congestion in America, and its drivers have a poor reputation. Commute times in Miami-Dade County average around 36 minutes each way and have been influenced by the city’s layout and massive population growth.

Weather in Miami

- CON: High humidity

Miami’s heat and humidity can be overwhelming, especially in the summer. Staying in the shade won’t help, and the only real solution is to constantly move from one air-conditioned place to the next. These conditions mean that people should be on the lookout for large-scale bugs, spiders, snakes and other creatures too.

- CON: Tropical storms

Hurricanes and tropical storms are a factor from June through November. This is also Miami’s rainy season, when torrential afternoon showers are an almost daily occurrence.

Newcomers working in Miami will find themselves in one of the most important economic centres in the southeastern portion of the United States. Its proximity to Latin America and large migrant population have fostered the city’s regional importance to extend beyond the borders of the USA.

Job market in Miami

The economy in Miami is largely driven by finance, commerce, construction and tourism. Several large corporations have headquarters in the city, while many others have their Latin American operations based here. It’s also the epicentre of Spanish-language entertainment in the USA, with numerous Spanish-language broadcasters based in the city, as well as the Latin divisions of various major music record labels.

Cementing the city’s regional importance, PortMiami and the Miami International Airport are among the busiest ports of entry into the United States, receiving cargo from South America and the Caribbean.

Most of the largest employers in Miami are government and educational organisations, such as the Miami-Dade Public Schools District and the University of Miami, although the airline and the cruise-liner industries attract many employees too.

Most foreigners in the city tend to work as managers, as well as in office and service industry jobs. The health, education and social services sectors also continue to employ a fairly large number of migrants.

Finding a job in Miami

Unfortunately, it’s still not as easy for newcomers to find jobs in Miami as it used to be. While the job market is not as competitive as some other large American cities, such as New York, it is a popular relocation destination and good jobs are therefore highly sought after. Salaries tend to be lower than in many other US cities as well.

Some of the most popular ways of looking for jobs in Miami include the employment sections of newspapers, local online classifieds, and employment agencies. Intercompany transfers through one of the several international companies based in the city will certainly be the easiest way to move to Miami with a good job in hand.

One of the best ways to gain an advantage when seeking employment in Miami is being able to speak Spanish, given its Latino population and the frequency with which companies interact with Central and South American associates.

Useful links

• The City of Miami offers employment and job resources to assist those looking for work in the city.
• Miami Herald Jobs is operated by the Miami Herald publication and hosts job listings across various industries.

Work culture in Miami

The working environment in Miami is as varied as the city itself. The Western corporate culture that dominates in large companies will be familiar to many newcomers, while other businesses may be more casual.

Generally speaking, business culture in the US is incredibly individualistic. The working world rewards’ go-getters’ while those who lack independence, initiative and self-reliance lag behind. Status and age are largely obsolete, and merit, experience and past achievement are the vehicles for advancement. Expats coming from societies where seniority is a consequence of social class, length of service or maturity may find acclimating to this idea especially challenging.

The best places to live in Miami

The Magic City, as it’s known to many, can be roughly divided into the North, West and South sections, as well as the eastern Downtown district that functions as the heart of the city, hugging the Atlantic Coast.

New arrivals can choose from a diverse range of areas and suburbs in Miami. Whether they want to live in vibrant Latino communities or the glitzy atmosphere of South Beach, there is bound to be something to suit their preferences.

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

New arrivals will have no shortage of luxury options in Miami. 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 how big their budget is.

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. 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 retired citizens and starving artists, but in recent years, this part of Miami has undergone a massive transformation. It’s now not only a popular spot for holidaymakers but also home to some of the city’s most affluent residents. Full of glamorous bars, clubs and shops, it would be difficult to get bored in this lively neighbourhood.

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, there are frequent bus services, and taxis 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, which provides 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 a good number of bus services operating in this part of Miami. As one would expect, accommodation in Bal Harbour is expensive and often hard to come by.

Family-friendly neighbourhoods in Miami

For newcomers with children, finding a home close to the best schools in Miami will be a priority, and those looking for a spacious family home will find better options further away from the city centre.

Coral Gables

Coral Gables is one of the most historic suburbs in Miami. This area is popular among families because it is located in proximity to several good schools. They are 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, there are lots of laid-back bars and good eateries in the area, 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, as well as one of Miami’s most famous theatres, the Coconut Grove Playhouse. Similar to Coral Gables, Coconut Grove is also home to a fair few excellent schools, making it perfect for families.

Young and hip areas in Miami

Though much of the property market in Miami is geared toward those with larger budgets looking for luxury accommodation, it’s still possible to find apartments, with rentals that won’t break the bank in some of the city’s up-and-coming districts.

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’s identified by many as the city’s foremost up-and-coming area.

Traditionally home to immigrants from Cuba, the area has become somewhat more diverse in recent years and accommodates residents from Puerto Rico, Colombia and Guatemala, giving the area a 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 more 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 driving commute of 30 minutes to an hour to Downtown Miami. The neighbourhood boasts a lively restaurant scene, golf courses and parks.

As Miami is a city that takes wellness seriously, expats should have few problems when it comes to healthcare in Miami. There are dozens of hospitals, clinics and general practitioners to serve the needs of a population that places high importance on looking and feeling good. 

The quality of hospitals in the city is generally very high, and residents have access to nationally recognised medical care. There is also an abundance of pharmacies in Miami. This includes chain stores as well as independent pharmacists and in-store supermarket pharmacies.

It's important that expats invest in health insurance in Miami, however, since long-term care can be denied to patients without proper coverage. Although hospitals in Miami are required to accept patients needing emergency care, they will still be liable to pay for treatment. Expats with medical insurance from overseas should ensure that they are still covered while living in Florida. 

Read Healthcare in the USA for more on the national healthcare system. 

---

Hospitals in Miami

Baptist Health South Miami Hospital

Website: www.baptisthealth.net
Address: 6200 SW 73 Street

Jackson Memorial Hospital

Website: www.jacksonhealth.org
Address: 1611 NW 12th Avenue

Nicklaus Children's Hospital

Website: www.nicklauschildrens.org
Address: 3100 SW 62nd Avenue

University of Miami Hospital

Website:.www.umaiamihospital.com
Address: 1475 NW 12th Avenue

Education and schools in Miami are overseen by Miami-Dade County Public Schools, one of the USA’s largest school districts. The district has invested heavily in bringing public education into the digital age, with many students and teachers at schools in Miami using computer-driven learning platforms.

But it’s also had a history of challenges, including funding shortages and student overpopulation at certain schools. As a result, there’s a gulf in quality between schools, which is often determined by where they’re situated. Parents will have a broad spectrum of choices between schools, however, as Miami is also home to some of the best schools in the USA.

While most new arrivals to Miami find a public school that satisfies their requirements, others prefer private education, with expats who are not planning long-term stays in Miami favouring international schools.

Public schools in Miami

Expat children will be eligible to attend a public school in their local area free of charge. The registration process is usually quite straightforward. As public schools are largely funded by taxes, expats will find that schools in the wealthier neighbourhoods in Miami will have better facilities. Newcomers should take this into consideration when looking for accommodation.

While newcomers will not have to pay tuition, some schools do charge for textbooks, equipment and uniforms. Parents should find out if there will be any fees associated with the schools in their area before applying, as they may need to put some money aside to cover these costs.

Newcomers with children who don’t speak English as a first language will also be glad to know that extra English classes are available to children who need them.

Charter schools

Charter schools are public schools that are bound by a performance contract with the district school board in exchange for more freedom in how they teach the state-mandated curriculum. This gives parents more scope in choosing a school that suits their child’s talents and personality at various levels of education.

The balance between freedom and accountability means that charter schools in Miami are among some of the best in the state. Charter schools are non-profit organisations partly funded by the Florida Department of Education.

Charter schools are obligated to accept all applicants, but in the case there are more applicants than places available, they are required by law to use a lottery system to determine which students can attend. Many schools also have a waiting list, from which they can accept students as places become available.

Magnet schools

There’s been increased emphasis on building magnet schools and converting existing schools to operate on this model for several years. Unlike regular public schools, magnet schools in Miami often emphasise a particular focus area.

They often enjoy better reputations, lower drop-out rates and more diversity than standard public schools. Some of the best schools in Florida, and the USA as a whole, include Miami’s magnet schools which specialise in fields like maths, science, technology and the arts.

About a third of all magnet schools have an admissions process that enables them to draw from a talented pool of students. This process could be in the form of an entrance examination, an interview, or an audition, depending on the subject area the school specialises in. The remaining two-thirds of magnet schools either select all students who apply, or if there are fewer places available than applicants, they use a lottery system to select students.

Useful links

• Read Education and Schools in the USA for more on the national education system.
• The Miami-Dade County Public Schools offers a tool for parents to find a public school in their neighbourhood.

Private and international schools in Miami

A significant proportion of expat students attend private schools in Miami, many of which offer religious, and particularly Catholic, instruction. These tend to have good reputations and superior facilities at a higher cost than public schools. Gaining admission to one of the city’s private schools can be difficult, and families should be prepared for entrance exams, interviews, extensive school tours and open days for potential students.

Many of these institutions provide financial aid to qualifying students who can’t afford tuition. That said, this shouldn’t be counted on, as funding availability is also highly competitive and may have certain restrictions.

Unfortunately, international schools in Miami that offer overseas curricula are limited, although several private and charter schools offer the International Baccalaureate curriculum.

Homeschooling in Miami

Parents who wish to homeschool their children in Miami need to file a notice of intent to homeschool with the county superintendent. The superintendent will then accept the notice and register the home education programme.

Parents who choose to homeschool their children themselves will need to keep a portfolio of records and materials. These include a log of educational activities, worksheets, workbooks, materials created by the student, etc. Children will also have to be evaluated annually by a teacher registered in Florida or a licensed psychologist. Another option is for children to take a state student assessment test under conditions approved by the school district.

Parents can also choose to enrol their child in an ‘umbrella’ school. This organisation then takes on the responsibility of overseeing the homeschool programme while the child still receives their schooling at home.

Useful links

• For homeschooling resources, parents can visit the South Florida Homeschool Resource Centre.

Special-needs education in Miami

Public schools in the Miami-Dade County follow a policy of maximum inclusion. The city even has an Inclusive Schools Week, which is a national movement to encourage schools to give special needs students more opportunities when it comes to taking classes and participating in activities with their general education peers.

Miami also boasts some excellent special-education private schools. These schools primarily serve specific groups of students like children with learning difficulties, speech or hearing impairments, handicapped students, and so on.

Parents of special needs students should contact the school district and network with other parents to find their perfect fit school.

Useful links

• Miami-Dade County Public Schools’s Department of Exceptional Student Education offers a multitude of resources for parents of children with special-needs education.

Tutors in Miami

Miami has a wide range of options when it comes to tutoring. Parents can enrol their children in tutoring centres, enlist the help of a private tutor for one-on-one or group classes, or even find tutors online.

A unique tutoring option in Miami is found in the Miami-Dade Public Library System. Certified teachers are available to meet with small groups of children between grades K-12 at the city’s public libraries. These teachers provide help with homework and tutoring in reading, maths and science. Tutoring sessions usually last an hour and are held on Saturdays. The best part is that this option is free of charge.

The Magic City elicits images of neon-lit clubs, humid Latin rhythms and shimmering beaches. The lifestyle in Miami is one of its most attractive features.

Whether exploring the restaurants and nightlife of the Art Deco District or gliding along the Everglades in an airboat, residents of Miami can enjoy all the attractions of a world-renowned holiday destination year-round.

Shopping in Miami

Newcomers have various options when it comes to shopping in Miami, whether they want to soak up the sun ambling down the city’s retail avenues or explore the glossy interiors of its shopping malls.

For a more authentic shopping experience, new arrivals can explore the boutiques and independent stores of Bayside Market Place and Mary Brickell Village.

Nightlife in Miami

There are few experiences quite like enjoying the nightlife scene in Miami. The city is famous for its electric evening entertainment, from opulent lounges to tropical bars. It’s perhaps best known for its Latin clubs, from cafés infused with Cuban culture to live music venues that rumble with the flavour of Latin rhythms.

Those moving to Miami will discover that each neighbourhood has a distinct nightlife identity. While Miami may be famous for its beach clubs, neighbourhoods such as Wynwood and Downtown Miami are home to trendy warehouse club scenes.

Sports and outdoor activities in Miami

Newcomers who prefer their entertainment out in the sun will enjoy the range of sports and outdoor attractions on offer in Miami. South Beach is arguably the most celebrated beach in Miami and is broken up into sections to satisfy a wide variety of sun worshippers. 

Lovers of the great outdoors can enjoy nature trails that meander through mangrove forests, visit the renowned Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, or camp in one of the city’s national parks.

Active newcomers will revel in the chance to go boating in Biscayne Bay, cycling along Sunset Drive or doing yoga on the beach. The city also boasts championship golf courses and some of the most famous names in sports, with the Miami Heat and the Miami Dolphins attracting thousands of zealous basketball and football fans to their stadiums regularly.

See and do in Miami

New arrivals to Miami will have a great time finding their way around and discovering the many attractions in the city, from sunkissed beaches to trendy shopping malls. Here’s a selection of what to see and do in Miami.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

This magnificent villa houses original Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical furniture throughout its more than 32 decorated rooms. The manicured perfection of its gardens is simply breathtaking to stroll through – not to mention the opulent grandeur of the villa itself.

Ancient Spanish Monastery

Dating back to 1133 AD, the Monastery of St Bernard de Clairvaux is one of Miami’s most popular tourist attractions. The monastery, which originally came from Segovia in Spain, was brought over to Miami by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in 1925 and rebuilt brick by brick.

Miami Children’s Museum

The Miami Children’s Museum has various interactive, educational exhibits to explore, as well as offering events and camps. It’s a great place for children to learn in a creative atmosphere. 

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science has everything from a planetarium to a wildlife centre. At Monkey Jungle, visitors of all ages can do a guided walk through forest foliage while all manner of monkeys swing in the trees above. This is a great place for children to learn about the natural world around them, as well as the greater universe.

Biscayne National Park

The Biscayne National Park is home to some fascinating coral reefs, magnificent wildlife and even a few eerie pirate shipwrecks. It’s known as one of the best scuba-diving sites in the United States, and visitors have the opportunity to see local wildlife in their natural habitat.

What’s on in Miami

The annual events in Miami are as varied as the city itself. Residents and visitors can choose between a range of festive activities that showcase and celebrate the city’s culture and history.

As a result of the city’s mild weather, there are events all year round. Here are some of the top yearly events in Miami.

Coconut Grove Arts Festival (February)

Each year on President’s Day weekend, the neighbourhood of Coconut Grove plays host to a fabulous outdoor art festival. With everything from photography and jewellery to sculpture and woodwork, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. On top of all the incredible works on display, the event is accompanied by live music and local food.

Calle Ocho (March)

The biggest Hispanic bash in the United States, Calle Ocho is a fantastic way to become more familiar with Miami’s vibrant culture. Newcomers who like a little Latino flavour should head down to the streets of Little Havana to enjoy the shows, parades, dancing and revelry. This massive party has 12 stages and stretches across 20 blocks.

Miami Beach Pride Week (April)

The city’s LGBTQ+ community comes out in full force to celebrate Pride Week, with the Miami Pride Parade being a major highlight. Friends and allies from all walks of life are welcome to join the celebration. The parade is accompanied by live music events and celebrity appearances.

Goombay Festival (June)

The Bahamas culture has been an active influence in Miami since the 19th century. In June of each year, the streets of Coconut Grove are transformed into a celebration of the Bahamas and its people. There is dancing, a street parade, music and streetside Caribbean food, making this a truly unique experience.

Miami Carnival (October)

This cultural celebration of Caribbean-Latin flavour attracts hordes of people each year. The carnival includes four signature events: Junior Carnival, Panorama, J’ouvert and a costumed Parade and Concert, featuring performers, floats and colourful costumes. New arrivals in Miami should head down to the streets to enjoy the festivities.

When moving to a new city, it's only natural to have a few queries and concerns. To ease the transition, here are some answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions about Miami.

Do I need to know Spanish?

Foreigners will easily get by with English, but knowing Spanish will certainly help. More people speak Spanish than English in the city, and everything from advertisements to radio programmes and street-side conversations are in Spanish. Business is often conducted in Spanish, and when dealing with the many international Latin American companies based in the area, speaking the language will be an advantage. Newcomers will therefore do well to learn Spanish.

How hot is it?

Miami's temperatures don't usually get unbearably hot. July or August are the warmest months, averaging below 90°F (32°C). Winter months are cooler but are rather mild, and temperatures never drop to freezing levels. 

What are the best areas for newcomers to live in Miami?

There are many popular areas and suburbs in Miami that are favoured by foreigners. Newcomers should consider their preferences for lifestyle, distance from the city centre, the amenities available nearby and their budget when selecting a neighbourhood.

While certain areas such as Brickell, South Beach and Bay Harbour offer luxury accommodation options and tend to house the city's more wealthy residents, Little Havana is home to the young and hip and is more budget-friendly.

See Areas and Suburbs in Miami for more information. 

Do I need to be concerned about hurricanes?

In the case of an approaching hurricane, the government will make sure residents are updated on weather conditions and imminent evacuations. Homeowners may want to purchase hurricane insurance, and residents are encouraged to have an evacuation kit with essential portable items ready. 

Despite a somewhat limited public transport network, getting around in Miami is fairly easy. While Miami’s public transport network is considered one of the most extensive in Florida, the system is not quite up to the standards of other major cities like Boston or New York.

Given how spread out the wider metropolitan area is, transport authorities have struggled to integrate public transport in Miami as effectively as has been done in other cities. As a result, bus and train journeys can be slow, and most residents prefer to drive.

Public transport in Miami

Public transport in Miami is overseen by Miami-Dade Transit (MDT) and consists of a fairly comprehensive bus network, a rail network and the Metromover, an automated ‘people mover’ that operates in Downtown Miami.

The public transport network uses an integrated ticketing system, and fares can be paid using a rechargeable smart card called the EASY Card.

Buses

The bus system in Miami services the entire city, with more than 90 routes covering the hard-to-reach areas and suburbs in the city. The only drawback to using the city’s Metrobus system is that buses often run late due to traffic congestion. Most bus services arrive frequently, and there are a few 24-hour options.

The city even offers an express service during rush hour, and passengers can pay using their EASY cards or tickets. During the baseball season, the Metrobus offers a shuttle to the Miami Marlins baseball games.

Metrorail

Metrorail and Metromover are Miami’s answer to a subway. The Miami Metrorail system is a two-line train system that serves the city and its surrounding areas. The system consists of more than 20 stations and connects areas in the city centre to outlying suburbs.

The Metrorail operates between 5am and midnight. Metrorail trains are fairly frequent, arriving every 12 minutes during peak hours. The Metrorail offers bicycle racks on every car and at every station. There are also free bicycle lids available on a first-come, first-served basis to encourage park and riding.

Metromover

The Metromover is a free and automated shuttle that runs a limited route. The Metromover is the quickest and most efficient way to get around central Miami. This option will help newcomers avoid expensive parking, and the gridlocked traffic Miami is famous for. The Metromover runs every day of the week between 5am and midnight and arrives every minute and a half during rush hours and every three minutes otherwise.

Trolley

Travelling by trolley is a fun and unique way to explore Miami and Miami Beach. To make it even better, the trolley is also free in most neighbourhoods. The trolley operates seven days a week between 8am and 11pm on four different routes. Most trolleys run every 30 minutes, depending on the route. Notable stops include the Miami Beach Botanical Garden and the Convention Center.

Useful links

• The Miami-Dade County Public Transit Authority has more information on the city’s integrated public transport system.

Taxis in Miami

Taxis in Miami are known for being relatively expensive but are widely available. It’s usually best to book a taxi by phoning ahead of time. Unlicensed taxis are illegal in Miami, so passengers are advised to only take cabs with ‘taxi’ or ‘cab’ written on the side. Another option is to get a taxi at designated ranks found outside most Metrorail stations. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft are operational in Miami.

Most taxis in Miami will have card payment options available, but it’s recommended to check with the driver beforehand. Passengers should note that they will be responsible for paying for any tolls they come across on their journeys.

Useful links

• For traditional taxis, new arrivals can check out Miami Beach Taxi and Yellow Cab Company
• Uber and Lyft are among the most popular ride-hailing apps in Miami

Driving in Miami

Most of Miami’s residents prefer to own a car rather than relying on public transport. While driving in Miami is no easy task, having a vehicle of their own affords newcomers an increased level of independence.

Navigating the streets of Miami is fairly straightforward because of the city’s grid system. Road conditions and signage are also generally good, and the streets are clearly numbered.

Drivers who are new to the city should take extra care and be aware that locals have a reputation for driving particularly aggressively and often breaking the posted speed limits. The experience of driving in Miami is made more frustrating because of traffic congestion during rush hour.

Expats can drive on their foreign driving licence for one year. Thereafter, expats will need to secure a local driving licence. Most foreigners moving to Miami can avoid taking the State of Florida-mandated Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course, which is typically the first step in obtaining a driving licence in Miami. Expats will need to take a written and a practical driving test to successfully obtain a Miami driving licence.

Read Transport and Driving in the USA to learn more about national driving licences and standards.

Cycling in Miami

Cycling in Miami’s popular beach areas is a commonality, but the city is still developing an urban cycling culture. Miami has several biking trails located across the city’s parks and has also launched a bike-sharing programme for Miami Beach. The bike-sharing and rental programme is known as Citibike and allows residents to rent out solar-powered bicycles from any of their 160 stations scattered across the city.

Useful links

• Visit Citibike to find out more about acquiring a membership or renting out a bicycle in Miami.