Miami Beach has a long history of being a trend-setting, culturally diverse destination for tourists and residents alike. From the well-preserved Art Deco buildings, to the natural beauty of the white sand beaches, to the allure of chic, modern-day South Beach, Miami Beach has no shortage of amenities or attractions.
The desire to live in Miami Beach has created high-demand in the luxurious urban market. But this demand does not mean finding an attractive listing is impossible to find. With a little market research there are houses available at value prices that provide all the draws of Miami Beach without going over budget.
- Luxury Housing
It’s no secret, Miami Beach has an in demand housing market. Whether it’s for work, relaxation or retirement, everyone has a reason to move to Miami Beach.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty reports the median sales price in Miami Beach at $395,000.
When looking at market trends, the $395,000 median price is a 12.5% increase quarter-over- quarter for Miami Beach listings. This increase is the result of a surge of luxury high-rise development projects reaching completion. However, the market has slowed down in a broader scope, with more listings coming to market than those that are closing. So if you’re in the market for a quality home in an appreciating market, now is an opportune time to take advantage of a slow market and save some money, before market conditions favor sellers.
- Get Out without Your Car
One of the biggest draws of Miami Beach is how walkable the city is. Walkscore.com gave Miami Beach a score of 76 for walkability and a 68 bike score. Both of these statistics show that residents value being able to get around while leaving their car parked. All of the beaches are connected via wide, lively boardwalks, and incorporate the rest of the Miami Beach’s pedestrian network, connecting areas like Lincoln Road Mall.
- The Climate
Miami Beach averages 252 sunny days a year. That’s almost two extra months of sunny days compared to the national average. With all those extra sunny days you’ll have more than enough time to enjoy days on the beach and walking around town. Make sure you bring sunblock and some water when you leave the house, as the mercury regularly hits 89°F. Pair that with the fact that the coldest it gets is ~62°F, which means there’s not a snow drift in sight, except outside a hockey rink or two.
- The Beaches
Speaking of beaches, Miami Beach has no shortage of shoreline space to fulfill all your outdoor needs. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to bask in the sun, or catch the perfect rip curl, Miami Beach has it covered. Lummus Park is a popular beach recreation area adjacent to South Point Park. It’s great if you want to experience a lively day at the beach, while escaping the urban city environment.
For those looking for a more laid back vibe on the beach, check out Surfside. It’s a quiet beach mostly used by residents, and as the name implies, is great for surfing. If you’re looking for a place to bring your furry family member, head to Haulover Beach. A section of the beach designated for dogs so they can enjoy the ocean spray without hassle.
- Parks and Natural Preserves
Miami Beach has no shortage of parks to visit. Many of the beach areas are classified as parks as they typically have shoreline beaches and programmed recreational areas for volleyball, biking, and ball sports. Besides the beach, South Point Park has a pier to fish from, or watch cruise ships and yachts pass by. The park is connected to Miami Beach via boardwalks and walking paths making it easy to navigate from one beach to the next if you want to.
Biscayne National Park is located just south of Miami Beach and protects the area around Biscayne Bay. The clear, shallow water makes it a great place to see wildlife and plants as you snorkel or paddleboard. Stiltsville is the only sign of human development in the park and is worth exploring.
Stiltsville started with one stilt cabin built one mile offshore to avoid the reach of the law in Miami. The area gained notoriety for wild parties over the years as more stilt cabins were erected. In the 1960’s, tropical storms destroyed the majority of the offshore community and no redevelopment was allowed. The seven remaining stilt cabins were incorporated into the national park to help preserve them as historical buildings.
- Local Culture
Miami Beach is bursting with a variety of cultural influences that contribute to the city’s allure. Little Havana transports visitors from Miami Beach to Latin America. The vibrant music serves as the soundtrack to a community full of cafes and bistros offering traditional Latin dishes and coffee.
As visitors make their way out of Little Havana, another influence reveals itself throughout the city. Miami Beach was heavily developed during the Art Deco Movement of the 1920’s & 30’s and celebrates the architecture accordingly. Many of the hotels and storefronts are done in bright pastel colors and geometric shapes, two of the dominant features of Art Deco. Take a walking tour (formal or self-guided) through the Art Deco Historic District to see the most iconic buildings.
- Miami Beach Nightlife
The only thing hotter than a day in Miami Beach is a night out. Miami Beach is world-renowned for its nightlife, drawing in Hollywood celebrities, professional athletes and everyone who wants to be noticed. LIV ultraclub sets the standard throughout Miami Beach and nightlife scenes the world over. With the world’s hottest DJ’s playing sets this is the epitome of a glamorous night out. If you plan on getting into LIV, make sure you’re on the list or have a tip ready for the doorman.
If the bright lights and celebrity run-ins aren’t your style, Miami Beach has places for you to get out and enjoy too. Visitors can find low-key beach bars serving more budget-friendly cocktails along the boardwalks throughout the city.
- Travel With Ease
Moving to Miami Beach means you’re moving from somewhere else. That somewhere else still has family and friends you maintain relationships with. Miami International Airport is one of the busiest Airports in the US, serving 35 million passengers a year. Whether you’re taking a direct flight to Chicago, or heading to an international destination, commuting is less of a headache with an international airport-hub within proximity.
If you’re considering moving to coastal Florida and want to enjoy the high life, Miami Beach should be on your list. Between the vibrant cultural scene and world-class amenities, there’s no shortage of ways to unwind. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty has experienced real estate professionals in Miami Beach who understand the local housing market and can help you find your perfect home in Miami Beach.
Contact us and one of our experienced real estate professionals will help you complete your next real estate transaction in confidence, so you can establish yourself and enjoy everything Miami Beach has to offer.
