Thinking about making South Florida your home?
You may be wondering: What’s it really like to live in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties?
In short: this region offers a unique blend of global culture, coastal living, and economic opportunity. From the beaches of Miami to the suburban neighborhoods of Broward, life here is about choices — and lifestyle plays a central role.
Here’s an overview of what you can expect when you live in Miami or move into the surrounding areas.
A Regional Overview: Miami-Dade and Broward Together
South Florida is more than just “Miami.” While Miami-Dade County anchors the region with its urban core, Broward County provides balance with suburban communities, business hubs, and access to both coasts. Together, they form one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the United States.
- Miami-Dade County: Known globally for its vibrant culture, nightlife, luxury waterfront real estate, and status as a financial and trade hub.
- Broward County: Includes cities like Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Plantation, Davie, and Weston, offering a mix of suburban living, beaches, and growing corporate centers.
Living here means you’re connected not only to beaches and marinas but also to airports, cruise ports, universities, and a strong international presence.
Miami Lifestyle: Energy, Culture & Luxury
A Global City by the Sea
To live in Miami is to live in a place that blends Caribbean, Latin American, and European influences. The result is a cultural landscape rich with dining, art, music, and festivals.
Neighborhoods like Brickell, Downtown, Coconut Grove, Wynwood, and Miami Beach bring everything from sleek high-rises to historic charm, while Coral Gables offers Mediterranean-inspired architecture and tree-lined boulevards.
Amenities as a Way of Life
Miami developments set the standard for luxury amenities: rooftop pools, wellness spas, coworking lounges, and integrated smart technology are becoming the norm. Whether you choose a high-rise in Brickell or a boutique building on Miami Beach, the focus is on lifestyle, not just square footage.
Broward County Lifestyle: Balance and Accessibility
Suburban and Coastal Mix
If you move into Broward County, you’ll find a different rhythm. Cities like Fort Lauderdale combine boating culture with a growing downtown scene, while areas like Davie and Weston offer spacious homes, larger lots, and a more suburban environment.
For many, Broward offers more space for the price, with easier commutes to both Miami and Palm Beach counties. It’s a strong choice for those who want a balance between coastal access and suburban convenience.
Business and Convenience
Broward is also home to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades, and several major business hubs. That makes it especially attractive for those who want international access without being in the middle of Miami’s busiest districts.
Cost of Living and Housing Market Overview
Miami-Dade
- Average home value: Around $577,000 (varies by neighborhood and property type).
- Market trends: Luxury and waterfront remain resilient; mid-range segments are adjusting.
- Lifestyle premium: Homes closer to water, nightlife, or transit carry higher costs.
Broward
- Median listing price: Around $550,000 (with variation by city).
- Market trends: Strong demand in suburban communities, with relative affordability compared to Miami.
- Lifestyle premium: Waterfront in Fort Lauderdale or Hollywood offers Miami-style living at a slightly lower entry point.
Across both counties, the market is shifting in 2025: supply is higher, giving buyers more negotiating room than in past years.
Commuting, Transit & Connectivity
One of the most practical aspects of living in Miami-Dade or Broward is mobility:
- Highways: I-95, I-75, and the Florida Turnpike connect the two counties.
- Transit: Brightline high-speed rail now connects Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach — with Orlando service expanding regional mobility.
- Airports & Ports: Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport put the world at your doorstep, while both counties have major cruise ports.
Lifestyle Choices: What Matters to You
When deciding whether to live in Miami or move to Broward, think about the lifestyle fit:
- Miami-Dade: Urban, fast-paced, nightlife-driven, luxury-focused, international.
- Broward: Balanced, suburban-meets-coastal, business-friendly, accessible.
Both give you sunshine, beaches, and access to water sports, boating, and outdoor living. The difference comes down to pace, density, and cost.
Final Takeaway
Living in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties means embracing a lifestyle that blends sun, sea, and opportunity. Whether you want the energy of downtown Miami, the elegance of Coral Gables, the boating culture of Fort Lauderdale, or the suburban charm of Weston, South Florida gives you choices.
If your next chapter includes a move in Miami or into Broward, the key is to align your budget, lifestyle, and goals with the right neighborhood.
