Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Miami, FL
Thinking of moving to Miami, FL? With a vibrant population of 449,514 and a tropical climate boasting 70% sunny days, Miami offers lively neighborhoods, year-round warmth, and rich cultural diversity. The median home price is around $570,000, with average rent for a two-bedroom at $2,350, reflecting its popularity and high demand. While the cost of living is above national average and crime rates are higher than average, Miami compensates with world-class healthcare, a bustling arts and dining scene, and access to top beaches. Commutes average 29 minutes, and education options include strong magnet schools and renowned universities, making Miami a dynamic place to call home.
Demographics - Miami, FL
Miami is a bustling city with a population of about 449,500 and a high density of over 13,000 residents per square mile. The community is notably diverse, with over 65% identifying as White, nearly 17% as Black, and a significant 74.5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. The median age of 40 suggests a balanced mix of young professionals and established families.
Population:
449,514
Density:
13,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
74.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
65.4%
Black:
16.7%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
16.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Miami, FL?
Living in Miami comes at a premium, with a median home value of $570,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom at $2,350. While Florida's lack of state income tax is a financial advantage, the overall cost of living index of 127.1 indicates expenses are well above the national average, especially for housing and transportation. Utilities and healthcare costs are closer to the U.S. norm, making budgeting essential for new residents.
Median House Value:
$570,000
Gross Rent:
$2,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$2,750
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$820
State Taxes:
Low:
0% (no state income tax)
|
High:
0% (no state income tax)
Cost Of Living Index:
127.1
Grocery:
110.2
Housing:
154.2
Utilities:
98.5
Transportation:
122.8
Health Care:
98.6
Miscellaneous:
104.5
Crime
Is Miami, FL a safe place to live?
Miami experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with about 603 violent crimes and 3,180 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. Residents face a 1 in 166 chance of being affected by violent crime and a 1 in 31 chance of property crime, so it's important to research neighborhoods for safety. Despite this, many areas remain vibrant and welcoming with active community initiatives.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
603
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,180
Crime Index:
3,783
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 166
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Miami, FL year-round?
Miami's tropical climate provides warm weather year-round, with summer highs near 89°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 62°F. The city enjoys about 70% sunny days and receives nearly 62 inches of rain annually, mostly during the summer months. This climate is ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying Miami's famous beaches.

Winter
Min:
62°F
Max:
76°F

Spring
Min:
68°F
Max:
83°F

Summer
Min:
76°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
72°F
Max:
85°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
61.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
70%
Neighbors
Miami neighborhoods are lively and multicultural, with a median income of $37,500 and a notable 20% poverty rate. The city has a strong presence of non-English speakers and an average commute time of just under 30 minutes, reflecting its urban, working-class character. Education levels are solid, as nearly 78% of adults hold at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$37,500
Household Income:
$47,860
Family Income:
$51,700
Per Capita Income:
$29,300
Income Male:
$34,900
Income Female:
$30,800
Poverty Rate:
20.0%
Non English Speakers:
74.5%
Rent:
$2,350
Unemployment Rate:
5.3%
Public Transport Usage:
11.8%
Commute Time:
29.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
77.7%
Bachelors or More:
27.6%
Education
How are the schools in Miami, FL?
Miami offers a range of educational opportunities, including well-regarded public and private schools such as Coral Way K-8 Center and Belen Jesuit Preparatory School. Higher education is anchored by Miami Dade College and the nearby University of Miami, together serving over 60,000 students. The city’s diverse school options and collegiate presence make it attractive for families and students alike.

Public Schools
Name:
Coral Way K-8 Center
Street:
1950 SW 13th Ave
Phone:
305-854-0515
Students:
1,570
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Design and Architecture Senior High
Street:
4001 NE 2nd Ave
Phone:
305-573-7135
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.1

Private Schools
Name:
Belen Jesuit Preparatory School
Street:
500 SW 127th Ave
Phone:
305-223-8600
Students:
1,370

Colleges
Name:
Miami Dade College
City:
Miami
State:
FL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
46,000
Name:
University of Miami
City:
Coral Gables
State:
FL
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
17,000
Healthcare
Miami is home to top hospitals like Jackson Memorial and Baptist Hospital, offering comprehensive emergency and specialty care. With 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 80% of the population covered by health insurance, access to healthcare is strong. The city’s healthcare index of 71.2 suggests generally good quality and availability of medical services.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Jackson Memorial Hospital
Address:
1611 NW 12th Ave, Miami, FL 33136
Phone:
(305) 585-1111
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Baptist Hospital of Miami
Address:
8900 N Kendall Dr, Miami, FL 33176
Phone:
(786) 596-1960
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
80.3%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Miami, FL?
Miami's housing market is dynamic, with a median home price of $570,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $2,350. Home values have appreciated by over 7% in the past year, though the owner-occupied rate is relatively low at 32.7%, indicating a strong rental market. New construction is steady, and vacancy rates are moderate, offering options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$570,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
32.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
2.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Miami residents are served by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles at 2515 W. Flagler St, providing essential services for licensing, vehicle registration, and more. The local DMV can be reached at 305-643-7800, and many services are available online through their official website. Newcomers will find the DMV process straightforward and accessible.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
2515 W. Flagler St, Miami, FL 33135
Phone:
305-643-7800
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.