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From its signature South Beach Art Deco District to its sparkling white sand coastline, Miami Beach is a worldwide destination for arts, culture, and the beauty of its beaches. A South Florida island city, Miami Beach is connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, with its beautiful beaches stretching from North Shore Open Space Park to South Beach at the southern end. Known as “The Magic City,” Miami Beach is the only major US city founded by a woman and is the second-largest metropolis on the East Coast.
Living in Miami Beach can be a dream come true, but as with any city, it comes with its pros and cons. Read on for an honest list of the good and not-so-good aspects of life on Miami Beach.
What makes Miami Beach a marvelous place to live
First, let’s dive into the positives. A haven for models and celebrities alike, the city is flush with an abundance of Miami Beach, FL, luxury real estate. Coupled with the appeal of the pastel-colored buildings that line Ocean Drive, buyers are instantly drawn to Miami Beach’s architectural beauty. People from around the country flock to Miami Beach to vacation, fall in love with its beauty, and return to live, work, or retire. Below you’ll find a list of the top five pros to living in Miami Beach.
1. Let’s talk finances
Floridians do not pay personal income taxes. They also do not pay taxes on inheritances or estate earnings. Since they only have to pay Federal taxes, this leaves a considerable portion of profits in their pocket. The area’s vital manufacturing and trade industries and prominent financial districts will benefit professionals. In addition, the local government is enticing more tech firms and startups to set down roots in the Miami Beach area.
2. There’s so much to do!
Miami Beach is rich in history, culture, fun, and excitement. Whether you long to walk barefoot on the pristine beachfront, party all night in the vibrant nightclubs, or enrich yourself with the culture of its many museums, there’s something for everyone in Miami Beach. Families are drawn to its theme parks and festivals, while others are drawn to its cultural districts, national parks, and professional sports teams. The Miami Dolphins, Miami Heat, and Florida Marlins are just a few favorite sports teams you can cheer on from the sidelines.
3. The climate is ideal
Year-round average temperatures vary from 63 to 89 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, temperatures rarely drop below the low 50s, even in winter. Sunshine is practically year-round, so you no longer need to worry about winter’s dark and dreary days.
4. Miami Beach is known for its natural beauty
Whether it’s the beaches that define paradise, national parks filled with wild splendor, or breathtaking sunsets with deep purples and vibrant orange hues, you will be in awe of your surroundings.
5. The Magic City is home to some of the East Coast’s best dining and shopping experiences
The many oceanfront restaurants here are revered for their world-renowned chefs who have come from around the globe to call Miami Beach home. Some of the resident’s favorite fine dining restaurants include Habitat, with its fresh, locally inspired dishes; Katsuya South Beach, with its master sushi chef Katsuya Uechi; and The Bazaar by Jose Andres, famous for Latin and Caribbean influences.
Are you looking for some retail therapy? You cannot beat the Miracle Mile and Downtown Coral Gabels for fantastic shopping, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and festive entertainment.
The unavoidable cons of living in Miami Beach
While the positives of living in Miami Beach far outweigh the negatives, there are some drawbacks that you should be aware of. The following are the top five reasons people become frustrated with life at the beach.
1. The ongoing headache of Miami Beach traffic
Traffic can be a definite drawback, depending on your neighborhood in Miami Beach. The city has been making strides in improving traffic flow, but you should also be familiar with some of the alternatives to driving. The Metrorail, MetroMover, Metrobus, and Tri-Rail are inexpensive ways to get around the city. They also offer rideshares like Uber and Lyft, and you can rent E-scooters, E-bikes, and regular bikes.
2. The summers can be rough
With high temperatures and high humidity, the weather during the summer months can be unbearable in Miami Beach. Tropical storms and hurricanes also pose yearly threats and can cause significant damage.
3. There are bugs everywhere
A tropical climate and mild winters will lead to an abundance of bugs, some of them enormous. Residents must deal with roaches, fruit flies, mosquitos, scorpions, and spiders. Furthermore, Miami is also home to pesky snakes and dangerous alligators.
4. The high probability of flooding
The city of Miami reports that nearly all of Miami Beach is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area. The University of Miami also conducted studies concluding that flood events in the area have increased over the past 10 years because of sea level rise.
5. Healthcare is expensive
There is a high cost of healthcare in Miami Beach, which is still relative to the rest of the country. Even with health insurance, medical procedures, doctor visits, and emergency care costs continue to rise.
The Miami Beach real estate market
With Miami Beach’s highly desirable location, the housing market reflects its popularity among homebuyers looking for an oceanside oasis. Its convenient location, close to amenities and entertainment alongside a tranquil coastline, gives residents the best of both worlds.
Are you thinking of giving Miami Beach a try?
If you’re impressed by all that Miami Beach offers, consider investing in your own piece of luxury real estate in Miami Beach. Real estate leader Attila Ozan Yildiz is a top-tier expert on the Magic City real estate market, and he is ready to help you find your perfect new home. The Miami Starr Properties team is well-versed in all that Miami Beach has to offer. Let them guide you on your journey!
