Reasons to Move to Miami Gardens, Florida

Miami Gardens, Florida, is a vibrant and diverse city that offers an exciting blend of culture, community, and convenience. Known for its rich history and dynamic atmosphere, Miami Gardens is home to the iconic Hard Rock Stadium, where residents can enjoy thrilling events ranging from NFL games to international concerts. The city’s lush parks, like the sprawling Amelia Earhart Park, provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including picnicking, biking, and fishing. With a population that reflects a variety of backgrounds and cultures, Miami Gardens fosters a sense of belonging, making it an ideal place for families looking for a welcoming community.

Beyond its attractions, Miami Gardens boasts a strong educational system, with several highly-rated schools and educational programs that cater to students of all ages. The city’s strategic location offers easy access to major highways, connecting residents to Miami’s bustling downtown and beautiful beaches in just a short drive. As you explore the local dining scene, you’ll discover an array of delicious cuisine reflecting the city’s multicultural flair, from Caribbean to Latin American influences. Whether you’re drawn by the vibrant lifestyle or the appealing amenities, Miami Gardens presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a thriving community—one that invites you to uncover all it has to offer.

Cost to Move to Miami Gardens, Florida

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Cost of living in Miami Gardens, Florida

Housing Costs

The housing market in Miami Gardens, Florida, is relatively competitive. As of 2024, the median price for a single-family home in the area is approximately $377,500, although prices can fluctuate based on size and location, with some homes selling for over $600,000. Rental prices are similarly varied, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment coming in around $1,685 per month, which is significantly higher than the national average. The city’s proximity to Miami and other popular areas drives up housing costs, making it necessary to budget carefully if you plan to rent or buy in Miami Gardens. [Source] [Source]

Utilities

Utility costs in Miami Gardens can be higher than the national average, with the average monthly expense for a family at $641. This includes essentials such as electricity, water, and gas. Due to the city’s tropical climate, air conditioning use is a significant factor in driving up utility bills, especially during the hot and humid summer months. The average utility bill for a couple comes to about $428 per month. It’s important to account for these costs when calculating your monthly expenses. [Source]

Groceries/Food

The cost of groceries in Miami Gardens is slightly higher than the national average, reflecting South Florida’s overall higher cost of living. A family can expect to spend around $1,142 per month on groceries, while singles and couples spend an average of $322 and $644, respectively. Local grocery prices for staple goods are in line with those in larger metropolitan areas, but local markets and specialized stores might offer some cost-effective options. [Source]

Transportation

Public transportation is readily available in Miami Gardens, with the Miami-Dade Transit system offering bus and rail services that cover the city. For residents who drive, gasoline prices and car maintenance in the area are in line with state averages, but heavy traffic can increase commuting costs. The average transportation cost for a family is approximately $371 per month, while singles and couples might spend around $119 to $238 monthly. [Source]

Healthcare

Healthcare costs in Miami Gardens align with the broader Miami-Dade region. Prices for healthcare services, including doctor visits and insurance, can be higher than national averages. However, Miami Gardens benefits from being near major hospitals and healthcare facilities, which can be a plus for families and retirees alike. The average monthly cost for a family can vary depending on the level of coverage and services needed but typically ranges between $300 to $500. [Source]

Is Miami Gardens, Florida a safe place to live – Crime Rates?

Crime Rate

Miami Gardens has a crime rate that is higher than 82% of other cities and towns in Florida, with a total crime rate of 27 incidents per 1,000 residents. This means that the chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Miami Gardens is approximately 1 in 37. Although this rate is higher than the national average, it’s important to note that the crime rate varies by neighborhood within the city. For example, areas like Myrtle Grove and Skyway South are considered safer compared to others. (Source)

Violent Crime Rate

The violent crime rate in Miami Gardens stands at 4.64 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the national median of 4. The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime, such as armed robbery, aggravated assault, rape, or murder, is about 1 in 215. While this figure is above average for cities in the U.S., Miami Gardens ranks similarly to other cities of comparable size. (Source)

Property Crime Rate

Property crimes, which include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft, are more common in Miami Gardens, with a rate of 22.41 per 1,000 residents. The chance of being a victim of property crime is approximately 1 in 45. However, the likelihood of property crime varies by neighborhood, with the southwest area of the city seeing a higher number of incidents than the northwest. (Source)

Police Presence

The Miami Gardens Police Department is active in the community, implementing various crime prevention initiatives, including the “Slow Down” campaign to reduce speeding and enhance road safety. The department frequently engages with residents through public outreach programs, contributing to a sense of security in certain parts of the city. Additionally, the presence of neighborhood watch groups and other local programs are instrumental in maintaining safety. (Source)

Property Crime Trends

Over recent years, property crime rates in Miami Gardens have shown fluctuations, with certain neighborhoods experiencing higher rates than others. For example, in the southwest part of the city, there are about 299 property crimes per year, while the northwest part experiences fewer incidents with only around 102 annually. However, these areas might see inflated crime statistics due to the higher number of retail establishments where these crimes often occur. (Source)

What are the demographics of Miami Gardens, Florida?

White

In Miami Gardens, the White population accounts for approximately 2.7% of the total residents.

Black or African American

The Black or African American population makes up the majority, at 66.6% of the residents in Miami Gardens.

Hispanic or Latino

The Hispanic or Latino population represents 27.5% of the city’s total population, with many of the Hispanic residents living in the southwestern areas of the city.

Two or More Races

About 2.7% of residents in Miami Gardens identify as being of two or more races.

Asian

The Asian population in Miami Gardens is relatively small, comprising only 0.4% of the total population.

Native American

No significant population identifies as Native American in Miami Gardens, with 0.0% of the population listed under this category.

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

There is no significant representation of Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander residents in Miami Gardens.

Other

About 2.7% of the population in Miami Gardens identifies as being from another racial category outside of the main groups listed above.

Sources

Miami Gardens, Florida Population by Age and Gender

Total Population

The total population of Miami Gardens, Florida is approximately 110,717 as of 2023, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.68% from the previous years.

Population by Gender

The gender distribution is nearly even, with about 49.4% male and 50.6% female residents.

Age Distribution

The age distribution is as follows:

  • Under 18 years: 27.6%
  • 18 to 24 years: 11.3%
  • 25 to 44 years: 27.1%
  • 45 to 64 years: 21.3%
  • 65 years and older: 12.7%

Median Age

The median age of residents in Miami Gardens is 39.7 years.

Dependency Ratios

The dependency ratio is approximately 57.1%, indicating that for every 100 working-age individuals, there are about 57 dependents (youth and elderly).

Population Pyramid

The population pyramid of Miami Gardens displays a relatively balanced structure with a broader base in the younger age groups.

Sex Ratio

The sex ratio in Miami Gardens is approximately 98 males for every 100 females.

Population Growth Rates

Miami Gardens has experienced a population growth rate of -0.68% from 2020 to 2023, contrasting with a national growth rate of 1.02% during the same period.

Marital Status by Age and Gender

Approximately 43% of the population is married, with notable variations across different age groups.

Educational Attainment by Age and Gender

Overall, 81.2% of residents have graduated high school or attained a higher degree. The percentage with a bachelor’s degree or higher is 18.6%.

Economic Participation by Age and Gender

The labor force participation rate in Miami Gardens is around 61.6%, with a noticeable disparity in participation rates between genders.

Health Statistics by Age and Gender

The life expectancy for residents is estimated at approximately 78.5 years, with females generally living longer than males.

Sources

Miami Gardens, Florida Zip Codes

  • 33014
  • 33054
  • 33055
  • 33056
  • 33169
  • 33179

What is the history of Miami Gardens, Florida?

Inception and Incorporation

Miami Gardens, Florida, was incorporated on May 13, 2003. The city was established to bring together several unincorporated areas of Miami-Dade County, including the neighborhoods of Carol City, Norland, Opa-locka North, Bunche Park, and Scott Lake. These communities were primarily African American and West Indian, with a strong desire for self-governance and local control over services and zoning.

Origins of the Name

The name “Miami Gardens” comes from Florida State Road 860, commonly known as Miami Gardens Drive, which runs through the heart of the city. This major thoroughfare became synonymous with the area, and thus the name was adopted for the new city.

Demographic and Economic Background

Before incorporation, Miami Gardens was largely residential, and it had a reputation for being a middle- to lower-middle-income area. The population at the time of incorporation was predominantly African American, with a mix of Caribbean immigrants, including Haitians, Jamaicans, and other West Indians. The city has the largest concentration of African Americans in Florida.

Reasons for Incorporation

One of the primary motivations behind Miami Gardens’ incorporation was the desire for better control over the future development of the area. The unincorporated status made the region vulnerable to decisions made by Miami-Dade County without local input. This resulted in dissatisfaction among residents regarding how resources were distributed, especially concerning crime control and economic development.

Early Governance and Challenges

After incorporation, Shirley Gibson became the city’s first mayor. Under her leadership, one of the city’s first acts was to halt low-income housing projects. Residents believed these developments had contributed to crime and economic instability in the area. Despite this, in the early years, Miami Gardens faced significant challenges, including high crime rates and low property tax revenues, making it the third-lowest city in terms of tax income in Miami-Dade County.

Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)

In 2012, Mayor Oliver Gilbert, the city’s second mayor, proposed the creation of a Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) to address blighted areas and stimulate economic growth. The CRA aimed to improve the physical environment and attract private investment to rejuvenate the city. This was a crucial step in addressing urban decay and making the city more attractive for businesses and residents alike.

Hard Rock Stadium and Development

One of the city’s most notable landmarks is Hard Rock Stadium, home to the NFL’s Miami Dolphins and the University of Miami Hurricanes. Although built before the city’s incorporation, the stadium is a focal point for local culture and economy. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations and expansions, bringing in major events such as Super Bowl LIV in 2020 and being designated as a venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Recent Developments and Growth

Miami Gardens has continued to develop in recent years, focusing on community safety, economic revitalization, and improving the quality of life for its residents. Although it initially faced challenges with crime, significant efforts have been made to reduce crime rates and attract new businesses to the area. The city has also worked on improving its infrastructure and public services to make it a more desirable place to live.

Sources

Miami Gardens, Florida Weather

Average Temperature (by Month)

Miami Gardens experiences hot and humid weather for much of the year. The hottest month is August, with average high temperatures of 91°F and lows of 78°F. The coldest month is January, with highs around 77°F and lows near 61°F. Average annual temperature is 78°F.

Precipitation Patterns

The city has a tropical monsoon climate, with rainy summers. June sees the highest precipitation, with about 10.62 inches of rain. In contrast, January receives the least, with 1.83 inches.

Humidity Levels

Humidity in Miami Gardens stays high year-round, averaging around 71%. The most humid months are June and July, with levels peaking at 73%.

Wind Patterns

Winds average about 13-16 mph during most of the year, peaking in the spring months. April has the highest average wind speeds, reaching up to 16 mph.

Comparison with State and National Averages

Miami Gardens’ temperatures are slightly higher than the Florida state average, which sees highs around 90°F in the summer. Compared to the national average, Miami Gardens is much warmer year-round, especially in winter, where much of the U.S. experiences freezing temperatures.

Sunlight

Miami Gardens has abundant sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 246 sunny days annually, significantly more than the U.S. average of 205 days.

Extreme Weather Events

The city is susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November.

Sources

Climate & Weather Averages in Miami Gardens
Average Weather in Miami Gardens

Average Income in Miami Gardens, Florida

Average Annual Salary

The average annual salary in Miami Gardens, Florida, is approximately $42,870. This figure reflects earnings across various professions and industries within the city.

Most Popular Jobs/Careers

Common occupations in Miami Gardens include retail salespersons, registered nurses, customer service representatives, and administrative assistants.

Highest Paid Jobs Popular to the Area

The highest-paid jobs in Miami Gardens often include management positions in healthcare, finance, and engineering sectors, where salaries can exceed $100,000 annually.

Comparison with State and National Averages

The average income in Miami Gardens is slightly lower than the statewide average for Florida, where the median household income is around $59,227 annually. Compared to the national average income of approximately $63,179, Miami Gardens’ income levels reflect regional economic factors.

Sources

Taxes in Miami Gardens, Florida

Property Taxes

Property taxes in Miami Gardens, Florida, are based on the assessed value of the property. The millage rate varies by location within Miami-Dade County, where Miami Gardens is located. For detailed property tax rates, consult the Miami-Dade County Property Appraiser’s Office.

Sales Taxes

The sales tax rate in Miami Gardens consists of a state sales tax of 6%, a county sales surtax of 1%, and an optional discretionary sales surtax that can range from 0% to 2.5% depending on local jurisdictions. This brings the total sales tax rate to between 7% and 9.5%.

Income Taxes

Florida does not impose a state income tax on individuals, which means residents of Miami Gardens are not subject to state income taxes on their earnings. However, federal income taxes still apply.

Utility Taxes

Utility taxes may apply to services such as electricity, natural gas, and telecommunications within Miami Gardens. Rates and specific taxes can vary, so it’s advisable to check with local utility providers for details.

Hotel Occupancy Tax

The hotel occupancy tax rate in Miami Gardens is 6% of the total rental amount charged by the hotel or transient rental property. This tax revenue helps fund local tourism and cultural initiatives.

Entertainment Taxes

Specific entertainment taxes in Miami Gardens may vary depending on the type of entertainment venue and event. Rates and regulations can be obtained from the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs or local event organizers.

Tax Payment Schedule

Property taxes are typically due by March 31st each year, with discounts available for early payment. Sales taxes are collected at the point of sale and remitted to the state on a monthly or quarterly basis, depending on the volume of sales.

Penalties for Late Payment

Penalties for late payment of property taxes in Miami Gardens include interest charges that accrue over time, typically starting at 3% after the due date. Specific penalties for other taxes vary; consult local tax authorities for details.

Where to Pay

Taxes can be paid online, by mail, or in person at designated government offices or through authorized payment processors. Check with the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector for payment options and locations.

Contact Information

For specific inquiries about taxes in Miami Gardens, contact the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector’s Office:

Comparison with State and National Averages

Florida’s lack of state income tax benefits residents of Miami Gardens compared to other states with income taxes. Sales tax rates are comparable to other counties in Florida but may be higher than some states with lower sales tax rates.

Sources

Is Miami Gardens, Florida a Good Place to Live for Singles?

Events and Activities

Miami Gardens offers a variety of events and activities suitable for singles. Check out Eventbrite for local happenings, from music festivals to food tastings.

Gyms

Explore fitness options in Miami Gardens with facilities like local gyms offering state-of-the-art equipment and classes to stay active.

Housing

For singles looking to rent in Miami Gardens, check out current listings on Zillow. The area offers a range of apartments and houses for different budgets and preferences.

Percentage of Single Residents

Approximately 45% of Miami Gardens residents are single. This reflects a vibrant demographic of young professionals and individuals enjoying the city’s amenities.

Comparison with State and National Averages

Miami Gardens’ percentage of single residents aligns closely with the state average for Florida but may be slightly higher than the national average. This indicates a favorable environment for singles within the state.

Sources

Is Miami Gardens, Florida Good for Families?

Miami Gardens, Florida, is generally considered a good place for families due to its moderate crime rates, favorable weather, reasonable housing costs, and diverse employment opportunities.

Parks and Family Activities

Discover family-friendly parks and activities in Miami Gardens through local community resources like Miami Gardens Parks & Recreation, offering playgrounds, sports fields, and community events.

Restaurants

Explore dining options suitable for families in Miami Gardens:

Housing

Explore homes for sale suitable for families in Miami Gardens through listings on Realtor.com. The area offers a range of single-family homes with different amenities and price points.

Percentage of Family Residents

Around 60% of Miami Gardens residents are married, indicating a substantial portion of families within the community.

Comparison with State and National Averages

Miami Gardens’ percentage of family residents closely aligns with the state average for Florida and reflects a family-friendly environment within the region.

Sources

How are the schools in Miami Gardens, Florida?

Miami Gardens, Florida, offers a range of educational options for children, from Pre-K to higher education. The schools in Miami Gardens are supported by various funding sources aimed at enhancing educational outcomes. Academic performance varies across schools, with some achieving higher scores and commendations for their programs.

Pre-K Schools

Explore Pre-K options in Miami Gardens through GreatSchools, which provides information on early childhood education centers and their ratings.

Kindergarten Schools

Find Kindergarten programs at Niche, which ranks schools based on factors like academics, teachers, and diversity.

Elementary Schools

Discover top-rated Elementary Schools in Miami Gardens listed on SchoolDigger, offering insights into school rankings, test scores, and student-teacher ratios.

Middle Schools

Explore Middle School options and performance metrics on GreatSchools, providing comprehensive profiles of schools in the area.

High Schools

Find High School information, including graduation rates and college readiness, on Niche, a platform for school rankings and reviews.

Colleges & Universities

Explore higher education opportunities in Miami Gardens at U.S. News & World Report, which ranks colleges and universities based on academic quality and student outcomes.

Churches in Miami Gardens, Florida

List of Churches in Miami Gardens, Florida

Conclusion: Why you should consider moving to Miami Gardens, Florida

Miami Gardens, Florida offers a vibrant and diverse community with a wealth of opportunities for individuals and families alike. From its rich cultural tapestry to its strong educational institutions and ample recreational amenities, Miami Gardens provides a welcoming environment for residents. The city’s commitment to growth is evident in its ongoing development projects and flourishing job market. With beautiful weather year-round and a central location offering easy access to both urban amenities and natural beauty, Miami Gardens stands out as an ideal place to call home. Whether you’re seeking a new job opportunity, a supportive community, or simply a sunny place to live, Miami Gardens promises a fulfilling and enjoyable lifestyle.