Best Neighborhoods in Miami, FL 

What are the best places to Live in Miami, FL? 

Miami, Florida, is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. Known for its white-sand beaches, tropical weather, and internationally influenced-cuisine and culture, Miami is full of opportunity. If you have thought about what life might be like in Magic City, you have come to the right place. The first step towards moving to Miami is figuring out where to live.

While you might be wondering about the best places to live in Miami, our team has you covered. We also have you covered on the best places to live in Florida. Considering what the safest neighborhoods in Miami are and what areas in Miami you should avoid, this guide was created to help you find which neighborhood best suits your needs. Read on to learn more about the ten Best Neighborhoods in Miami, Florida.

Living in Miami, Florida, is fun. Unlike any other city, Miami is unique and is prized for its international influence with a strong Latin American and Caribbean culture. The city's diversity sets it apart, with 60% of the Miami population speaking Spanish. Full of adventure, a celebrated art scene, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightclubs, there is always something interesting to discover.

Living in Miami is relatively affordable, but some neighborhoods are more affluent than others. While Miami is overall considered safe, much like any other large city, Miami has its own set of more dangerous areas and areas that should be avoided when looking for real estate. With over 40 neighborhoods in Miami to choose from, finding the perfect fit can be a bit stressful. Hopefully, with the help of this neighborhood guide, the hunt for your dream home in Miami will be easier to navigate. First, It is important to figure out what you desire in a neighborhood and consider all your options.

Here are the best places to live in Miami 

Coral Gables

Considered one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Miami, this prestigious quality puts Coral Gables at the top of our list. This safe community is found southwest of Downtown Miami and is the location of the University of Miami. Nicknamed "The City Beautiful," Coral Gables has tree-lined streets, well-manicured mansions, and historical landmarks such as the Venitian Pool.

Close to the Miami International Airport, this neighborhood was one of the first planned communities in the area. Unlike 11% of other neighborhoods in the country, safer living in Coral Gables is perfect for raising a family. Locals enjoy many restaurants, local boutiques, shops, and parks, offering residents an urban-suburban feel.

Local Favorites:

• 345 Cafe Italiano: This restaurant serves fresh, authentic Italian food and is a favorite among locals and tourists. Make sure to try the traditional gelato and crepes. 
• Miracle Mile: This main road runs through the city's central business district, home to designer shops, art exhibits, and delicious restaurants. 
• Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden: This 83-acre garden features many tropical plants, including palms and flowers. Learn about the garden and admire exotic butterflies.

Coconut Grove

Founded in 1873, this upscale neighborhood is one of Miami's safest places to live. Featuring waterfront gated communities, 24/7 police protection, relaxed cafes, and trendy shops, Coconut Grove is a sought-after neighborhood. Coconut Grove is a prime destination only minutes from Downtown Miami and close to the ocean.

One of the oldest communities in the city, the best places to live in this area are in the northeast and southwest Coconut Grove. Home to a mangrove forest, sailing clubs, and marinas, living in Coconut Grove means having the beach in your backyard.

Local Favorites:

• Barnacle Historic State Park: This five-acre state park is the home of the oldest house in Miami. Built in 1891, this historic home and park give visitors a glimpse into what life was like during the frontier era. 
• Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: Former estate of businessman James Deering, this national historic landmark was built between 1914 and 1916 and gives tours daily. 
• Coco Walk Mall: Featuring over 30 stores, a movie theater, and premier dining and entertainment, this iconic lifestyle center is a hidden gem of the neighborhood.

Kendall

With a crime rate 40% lower than the United States average, living in the gated community of Kendall is safer than living in 52% of any other neighborhood in the country. Located southwest of Coral Gables, the neighborhood of Kendall is a great place for young professionals and families.

This suburban neighborhood has highly rated public schools, parks, popular coffee shops, and restaurants. Unlike other areas of Miami, living in Kendall gives residents a peaceful, laid-back, and slower-paced feel. With a population of 75,000 people, the community continues to grow and gain popularity.

Local Favorites:

• The Falls in Kendall: This open-air shopping mall and hangout spot features over 111 upscale stores and designer retailers. 
• Dadeland Mall: The most iconic and original mall in Miami, this mall is anchored by the largest Macy's in Florida. 
• Tu Candela Bar Miami: This Latin club and bar is a hot spot with live Latin music and dancing.

Pinecrest

Located east of Kendall, the neighborhood of Pinecrest is a picturesque suburban village. Envied for its large lots, manicured lawns, and white picket fences, Pinecrest is considered one of the top-tier neighborhoods in the Miami area. Home to some of the largest and most desirable houses in the southeastern United States, the neighborhood of Pinecrest is beautiful, serene, and expensive.

Reflecting old values and the sense of a tight-knit community, partake in social events and gatherings to unite the neighborhood. When living in Pinecrest, expect sunny parks, gated driveways, and low-speed limits. Valuing safety, few crimes are reported here. Bike on one of the many biking trails, head to the local farmers market, or picnic with the family.

Local Favorites:

• Pinecrest Gardens: This 20-acre park is a garden and forested area home to a playground, the neighborhood farmers market, and events such as the Garden Cinema movie nights shown from April through October. 
• Sailing Adventures Miami: The best way to experience breathtaking Miami sunsets is aboard this private sailing and boat charter. 
• Atelier Monnier: A French bakery and wine boutique offering sandwiches, salads, coffee, and pastries.

Aventura

Part of the Miami metropolitan area, the neighborhood of Aventura is a planned suburban city near North Miami and Golden Beach. This planned community is one of Miami's largest suburbs and offers its residents an upscale environment with the best views of the waterfront. Well known for its diversity, amazing school system, and prime shopping, Aventura is among the top Miami neighborhoods for a reason.

First developed in 1970, living in Aventura provides a high quality of life with easy access to the beach and marinas lined with million-dollar yachts. With palm tree-lined streets, abundant golf courses, high rises, carefully planned green spaces, and shopping centers, the quality of life in Aventura is unbeatable. In our opinion — Aventura is one of the best neighborhoods in Miami, Florida.

Local Favorites:

• Aventura Mall: This premier shopping center is anchored by Nordstrom and features three stories of designer shops, a movie theater, and popular dining. 
• Aventura Circle: This walking trail is a three-mile circle that loops around a lake and is close to the Aventura Mall. This is a great place to walk the dog or bring the kids. 
• Tidal Cove Miami: The perfect family activity, this waterpark has waterslides, a raft ride, a lazy river, and a water playground. With poolside views and luxurious amenities, Aventura residents can save 20% on ticket prices.

Bal Harbour

For those looking for the finest and most desirable Miami neighborhoods, Bal Harbour is an exquisite paradise with pristine white sand beaches and an air of exclusivity. Found in Northern Miami Beach, the neighborhood of Bal Harbour has a resort-style feel with waterfront views, trendy boutique shops, and first-class dining.

Surrounded by Biscayne Bay and the Bay Harbour Islands, high-rise condominiums and private beaches are what to expect in this community. This small and high-end village is where celebrities and models like to call home. The epitome of luxury, Bal Harbour is the perfect coastal destination.

Local Favorites:

• Bal Harbour Shops: Two stories of boutiques and shops, this open-air shopping center is a collection of world-class designers and brands.
• Bianco's Gelato: Found in the Bal Harbour Shops, taste this high-end traditional Italian gelato with unique and delicious flavors. 
• Le Zoo: Dine al fresco at this French Brasserie in the Bal Harbor Shops. Dine on steak frites and plats du jour while sipping on some of the best wine and crafted cocktails.

Key Biscayne

Adored for its fantastic beaches and Island living, Key Biscayne is a barrier Island across from Miami and is nestled between two state parks, the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and Crandon Park. Since this Island community can only be reached by one road, residents searching for peace and quiet away from the busy streets of Miami will love living in Key Biscayne.

Home to state parks, hiking and biking trails, an iconic 19th-century lighthouse, and beautiful clear blue waters, living in Key Biscayne is the tropical vacation that never ends. Celebrities such as Cher and Brad Pitt are known for loving Key Biscayne. Famous for its nearby coastal barrier reef, it experiences vibrant neon colors of coral and over 500 species of majestic reef fish.

Local Favorites:

• Biscayne National Park's Maritime Heritage Trail: The only federally recognized underwater trail in the United States, this underwater park allows snorkelers to explore six shipwrecks that have been mapped out. The oldest shipwreck that can be explored dates back to 1891.
• Crandon Golf Course: A golf lovers' haven, this 18-hole Island golf course is surrounded by tropical plants and the ocean. The only public golf course in Biscayne Bay, playing golf here is a secluded and intimate experience. 
• DUNE Burgers on the Beach: Found in the Ritz Carlton, this burger bar and lounge is the best place to admire the view while dining on fantastic gourmet burgers.

Wynwood

What was once an industrial part of town full of warehouses and old shops has since been turned into one of the most popular neighborhoods in Miami, Florida. Showcasing outdoor colorful murals, galleries, and museums displaying works crafted by local street artists, the neighborhood of Wynwood is a well-known art district in the city.

Art galleries, trendy clothing stores, nightclubs, hip coffee shops, and fantastic craft breweries have been popping up all over town. Residents will never run out of things to do in this friendly neighborhood and entertainment area. Head to the local farmers' market for fresh produce, practice yoga outdoors with friends, admire street art or hop on a brewery. Coveted for its beautiful architecture and real estate, Wynwood is an up-and-coming community.

Local Favorites:

• Wynwood Brewing Company: The first craft brewery in Miami featuring a taproom and limited edition beers. Try the IPAs or the blonde ale.
• Wynwood Walls: This outdoor museum has brought the best street artists together to create beautiful graffiti masterpieces. Painted by street artists from all over the world, this free museum is a landmark of Wynwood.
• Coyo Tacos: This urban bar and taco shop serves traditional Mexican street food with handmade corn tortillas and the best homemade tequila and margaritas.

Brickell 

Brickell is considered the city's financial district and has a beautiful cityscape with high-rises, luxury condos, and business towers. As an urban center, Brickell is a trendy neighborhood perfect for young professionals. Located East of Interstate 95, Brickell is easily accessible near high-end boutiques, chic art galleries, rooftop bars, and waterfront restaurants. Brickell has amazing walkability and public transportation, like living in Manhattan, New York. 

Search homes for sale in Brickell. 

Local Favorites: 

• Sugar: Enjoy delicious drinks on the 40th floor of East Miami. 
• La Mar: Dine on Peruvian fare while enjoying some of the best views in the city. 
• Okeydokey: This three-story venue features a food hall, an outdoor patio, entertainment, and nightlife. 

Little Havana 

Recognized as Miami's Cuban district, Little Havana is a vibrant neighborhood home to immigrants from Central and South America. Not only does Little Havana have beautiful homes for sale, but it is full of art galleries and flavorful restaurants. Most famous for its small businesses and cultural activities, Little Havana is a great place to live and visit. 

Local Favorites: 

• Azucar Ice Cream Company: Featuring seasonal flavors and sorbet. 
• Ball and Chain: Hang out at this live music bar with Cuban food and drinks. 
• Exquisito Chocolates: Order freshly made chocolates, truffles, and confections.

Where to Live in Miami - The Bottom Line

From prestigious Island communities to hip urban artistic neighborhoods, Miami has some of the most luxurious and laid-back neighborhoods perfect for business professionals or raising a family. Whether you want an ocean view or to be near some of the most upscale shops and restaurants, a neighborhood in Miami meets all your wants and needs.

By keeping safety, lifestyle, and cost of living in mind after reading this guide, your Miami neighborhood search will hopefully not be as overwhelming. Our team is here to help when moving to Florida, particularly in Miami.

Florida has many beautiful places to live, like Boca Raton, Lakeland, Destin, and Palm Coast. To find your dream home and neighborhood, contact our realty specialists today.

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