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Best Miami Neighborhoods to Live in 2021

miami aerial view

Dreaming of the Sunshine State? There’s nowhere more lively, diverse, and dynamic than Miami. A metropolitan city placed within steps of the beach, you don’t need to choose a lifestyle – have the city and the sea all in one!

miami downtown ocean with palm trees

With nearly half a million people living within a 36 square mile space, Miami is buzzing. 59% of the population is foreign-born and 34% of residents are of Cuban descent. Miami’s appeal also brings transplants from other parts of the US who want to come and bask in this lively and diverse city. In the last decade, Miami has seen a fast urbanization rate and the addition of many high-rise buildings, increasing populations in the inner city.

Miami is a scenic city bathed in sun with stunning beaches, shopping malls, restaurants, bars, nightlife, and more. If you’re hearing the call to move to the city, you’ll find the neighborhoods are as diverse in character as the population itself. We’ve put together a list of the best Miami neighborhoods to live in 2021 to help you find your next home sweet home.

South Beach

Known worldwide, South Beach is the area that most often comes to mind when people think of Miami. If you’re looking for a beachy lifestyle with easy access to shopping, dining, and nightlife, this may be your place.

Sure, it has a reputation as the playground for celebrities and the very wealthy, but South Beach has more to offer. The Art Deco architecture is charming, the beach is laidback, and you can indulge in world-class nightlife and shopping. Since South Beach has global recognition, you’ll find that both tourists and locals here are eclectic, arriving from all corners of the world.

miami south beach ocean drive

Cars aren’t necessary if you live in South Beach as it’s very pedestrian-friendly. Most locals get around on bikes, scooters, and the Miami Beach Trolley. When looking for a place to live, you’ll find a lot of options. With older condos in the Art Deco District, single-family homes in Bayshore, and luxury condos at South of Fifth (SoFi, as the locals call it), stepping out of the door feels like a celebration in South Beach.

Brickell

If urban life is more your pace, Brickell has you covered. Located south of Miami’s Central Business District, locals lovingly refer to Brickell as the “Manhattan of the South”. Formerly home to banking, finance, and investment institutions, this neighborhood used to become a ghost town in the evenings.

These days, Brickell has become a vibrant and fast-paced neighborhood for those who like city life. You’ll find it alive with activity both day and night, and if you live here, everything is within walking distance. Most residents live without a car and rather walk or take public transport.

You’ll find an array of cafes, bars, restaurants, and cuisines from all around the world. There is also plenty of shopping with a nice mix of boutiques, designer stores, and big-name brands. You’ll have all of the buzz of urban life but don’t worry, there are green spaces as well. Brickell has parks you can relax in to balance the hustle and bustle. Downtown, Wynwood, and the Design District are nearby, offering cultural activities to suit any interest.

As far as real estate goes, you’ll primarily find condos and apartments here.

Coral Gables

Old-world charm meets contemporary living in Coral Gables, all in a gorgeous scenic setting. If the sound of rich cultural heritage with a contemporary twist appeals to you, this may be your next home base.

You’ll find peaceful, tree-lined streets in Coral Gables, where you can wander around and soak up the old-world vibes. The local parks are home to artistic sculptures and beautiful fountains, and the famous Venitian Pool is an attraction that draws visitors from all around.

miami coral gables

This neighborhood has upscale boutiques, sidewalk cafes, and galleries. You’ll also find some of Miami’s most well-regarded restaurants. The “old meets new” vibe bolsters a financial district that is home to many international corporations, drawing cultural diversity.

Real estate in Coral Gables ranges from gated communities at the waterfront housing mansions and celebrity estates, to more modest options in the center of the area. Recently more high-rise condos are joining the neighborhood.

Pinecrest

Picturesque, tree-lined streets, welcoming neighbors, and large lots with luxury mansions set the scene for Pinecrest. This affluent suburban village has a laid-back vibe, despite being close to the thriving areas of Coral Gables and Downtown Miami.

You won’t get stuck with much city noise and traffic congestion here. Pinecrest has strict local zoning laws which keep the area tidy and orderly where residents can be found walking or cycling to get around.

The shopping and dining options in Pinecrest are more limited, but you’ll find locally owned boutiques and restaurants with longstanding reputations. You’re just a moment from Coral Gables, though, where you’ll have plenty to choose from.

This zip code is consistently ranked as one of the most expensive in the country, so you’ll likely find most of the real estate in your search to be high-end mansions on huge properties. There are some Florida-style, more modest properties but they’re harder to come by.

Coconut Grove

Tropical living with a small-town vibe in close proximity to all downtown has to offer, Coconut Grove covers a lot of bases. Known as “The Grove” to locals, this neighborhood is the oldest continuously inhabited area of Miami.

Lush parks, charming historical architecture, and shady streets to cover you from the Florida sun, you’ll live a laid-back life with a welcoming vibe here. There’s a bit of a bohemian streak that hearkens back to its past as a hippie commune in the 1960s.

Coconut Grove is famous for its quaint downtown center and vibrant bayfront. You’ll find boutiques, sidewalk cafes, bars, and an outdoor shopping mall here. Enjoy the nightlife? The options here are eclectic, hosted by locally-owned restaurants, sports bars, and neighborhood favorite dive bars.

miami coconut grove

A favorite amongst the Coconut Grove locals, there are local parks and marinas down at Bayfront Avenue. Getting out on the water is popular in this neighborhood so you’ll likely either become – or befriend – boat owners. There’s a big community spirit here with lots of local events filling the calendar.

Real estate is available in a wide variety including older duplexes and condos, and Mediterranean-style villas in gated communities. There are some high-rises recently built near the waterfront offering luxury accommodations with views to match.

When you’re ready to make your move to Miami and find out why they nicknamed it “the Magic City”, Unpakt can help. We’ll connect you with a trusted, reliable mover to help you make the shift. 

About the author

Unpakt Team