A colorful, diverse beachfront community off the coast of Miami
Miami Beach is known for its cosmopolitan culture, unique architecture and resort-style living. This city of 80,000 packs a lot of fun into an island community nestled between Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The Beachwalk stretches the entire length of the island -- from North Beach, through Mid-Beach and into South Beach. “You have three distinct areas that each have a different flavor,” says Nancy Batchelor, a Realtor and team leader with Compass who has sold several homes on the island.”
South Beach is a glamorous entertainment district known the world over. It is anchored by Ocean Drive and its colorful buildings, which form the heart of the Art Deco Historic District. Beaches are the focus of recreational activity, but residents can enjoy picturesque parks, golf courses and tennis centers. They also have access to upscale shopping and dining, world-class museums and state-of-the-art event centers. “The appeal is that there’s something for everyone,” Batchelor says. “It’s a vibrant, exciting adult playground. There are people who never leave the island because it’s all right here.”
The full stretch of Lummus Park alongside the historic art deco Ocean Drive.
Beach goers enjoying the day with friends and outdoor sports in Miami Beach.
The beautiful blue waters of Lummus Park is the perfect temperature to swim in year round.
The GoodTimes Hotel is a great place to grab a drink in Lummus Park.
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World-renowned South Beach is in the heart of the Art Deco Historic District
South Beach demands attention with its colorful buildings that house a contemporary mix of dance clubs, cocktail lounges and bars – from dives to hotel rooftops. “Ocean Drive is probably one of the most photographed spots in the world,” Batchelor says. “It’s iconic.” Nikki Beach, a luxury beach club concept dubbed the “sexiest place on Earth,” is pure South Beach. Visitors can lounge oceanside in luxury cabanas as they dine on seafood and drink the day away. Other popular attractions include Basement Miami, a disco-tinged hot spot with a bowling alley and an ice-skating rink and Do Not Sit On The Furniture, a casual club that specializes in DJs and house music. Lincoln Road is South Beach’s commercial corridor. “It has all sorts of popular stores and restaurants amid beautiful palm trees,” Batchelor says. “It’s a really neat vibe to stroll down Lincoln Road.” In North Beach is the Tambourine Room, a Michelin-starred French fine-dining restaurant.
Art Deco style buildings line the streets of Lummus Park.
Historic buildings and vibrant nightlife is what you can expect from Miami Beach.
The Colony Hotel is probably to most iconic of the Art Deco buildings in Lummus Park
Old school classic vehicles can also be soon throughout Lummus Park.
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Attractions include Wolfsonian-FIU Museum, Miami Beach Convention Center
The island’s cultural attractions include the Wolfsonian-FIU Museum, instantly recognizable by its Mediterranean Revival building in South Beach, and the nearby Jewish Museum of Florida, housed in a repurposed historic synagogue. The Miami Beach Convention Center hosts events year-round and is one of the featured sites for Art Basel Miami and the Miami International Boat Show. Next door is Miami Beach Botanical Garden, a family-friendly urban green space.
Miami International Auto Show
Many large corporate events happening at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
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Beachwalk highlights the island’s diversity
The beach always beckons, offering the perfect spot for sunbathers, swimmers and anyone who wants to enjoy a sunny day amid white sand and turquoise water. The oceanfront is a cultural attraction on its own. “What’s great about Miami Beach is that it’s a melting pot,” Batchelor says. “And along the beachwalk, you’ll hear every kind of language. It’s one of my favorite things about the city.” The surrounding waters are a haven for nautical adventures, from jet skis to deep-sea fishing boats to yachts. Miami Beach Marina on the island’s south side offers storage for vessels up to 250 feet long and incredible views of Biscayne Bay. “It’s breathtaking to see the big, beautiful cruise ships go by.”
Nearby South Pointe Park features a 450-foot fishing pier and a promenade with beach access. Lummus Park is popular among fitness enthusiasts, who are attracted by sand volleyball courts and exercise equipment. The city is home to dozens of parks and green spaces that offer camps and programs for the island’s youth, from toddlers to teens. Miami Beach Golf Club, established more than 100 years ago, features an 18-hole public layout in a unique setting. “It’s attractive because it’s in the heart of Miami Beach,” Batchelor says. “You can also play tennis and pickleball, which is really popular now. You can just show up and jump into a game.”
Ocean front walkways and beautiful parks are amongst the best attractions in Miami Beach.
The beach in Lummus Park is the most popular in Miami.
Miami Beach offer easy beach access for the residents and visitors to enjoy the day out there.
Beach Padel is a popular sport in Lummus Park.
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Single-family homes are scarce because of popular demand
The median home price here is a little more than $600,000, but that number is skewed by a collection of small condos that start in the low $100,000s. Condos offering two bedrooms or more range in price from $800,000 to $7 million, depending on location and amenities. “The newer condos offer more amenities, but the older condos offer more square footage,” Batchelor says. “Everybody wants the ocean view, but the city view is very nice, too.”
Surfside just north of the city was the site of a devastating condo collapse in 2021. “Ever since then, they have really cracked down on the maintenance of buildings,” Batchelor says. “Because of that, insurance rates have increased dramatically, and HOA costs have increased to catch up with the improvements.”
Midcentury designs are prominent among the island’s established single-family homes. Mediterranean Revival architecture is the most common motif. Many homes feature pools, and waterfront properties are spread throughout the island. While there are options for under $1 million, prices in this town climb fast. Sleek modern-style waterfront homes stand out among the island’s newest and most expensive properties. These imposing homes range from $20 million to $50 million. Several of them are concentrated on small residential islands between Miami Beach and the mainland. “For single-family homes, there’s limited inventory because it’s such a popular place and everyone wants to be there,” Batchelor says.
A state-funded First-Time Homebuyer Program offers up to $150,000 for qualified homebuyers to purchase property in Miami Beach. The major drawback to living on an island is the ever-present threat of severe weather. Residents should be aware that flooding and wind damage are extreme risks, especially during hurricane season, and insurance rates will reflect that. Miami hasn’t been hit by a major hurricane since Andrew in 1992. The fallout from that storm led to some of the nation’s strongest building codes.
Nautilus homes by the bay have piers for yachts.
Residential buildings in Lummus Park are historic feats of architecture.
Homes in the Nautilus neighborhood are a mix of revivals and modern architecture.
Nautilus has some authentic classic Deco homes.
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South Pointe and North Beach elementaries are top-rated schools
Miami-Dade County Public Schools earns an A-minus from Niche, which rates it as the second-best district for teachers in Florida. South Pointe Elementary and North Beach Elementary are the highest-rated island schools, each earning an A-minus.
North Beach Elementary school
North Beach Elementary school
South Pointe Elementary School
South Pointe Elementary School
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Miami’s business sectors are right across the bay
Residents enjoy relative solitude, but the Miami mainland is easily accessible from all three sections of the island. Downtown Miami and the Brickell financial district are both 25-minute drives across the bay. “Miami Beach is a prestigious place to live, but it’s still close to where all the jobs are,” Batchelor says. Once on the mainland, light rail commuter stations and Interstate 95 provide convenient travel throughout the region. Mount Sinai Medical Center is on the bayfront in Mid-Beach. Miami International Airport is about 12 miles away via I-195.
Brickell is the financial heart of Miami.
Edgewater is comprised of high-rise condominiums many overlooking Biscayne Bay.
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Crime
Recent data shows that property crime in Miami Beach is the highest in the state. According to FBI numbers from 2022, the city's rate is 8,557 incidents per 100,000 residents. Such crimes, which include larceny, burglary, theft and vehicle theft, are typically higher in areas where people congregate. Given its status as a tourist destination, the island can be a target for criminals. While murders are rare, Miami Beach is also high on the list of Florida cities with the highest violent crime rates.
Written By
Matt Pallister
Photography Contributed By
Gabor Kovacs
Video By
Grace Kim
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Moises Saca,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Miami Beach, FL sell after 130 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Miami Beach, FL over the last 12 months is $595,000, up 13% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
A true one-of-a-kind in the heart of Miami Beach’s iconic Art Deco District! This fully furnished 1-bedroom residence at Nolobi, designed by renowned architect Chad Oppenheim, seamlessly blends historic character with modern luxury. Soaring 12.5-ft ceilings create a bright, airy feel, while the custom kitchen features oversized cabinetry, black stainless steel appliances, and top-tier finishes,
Rental Income Opportunity. Discover a prime investment in the heart of Miami Beach with this renovated 1,300 sq ft condo at Ocean View Plaza. This 2-bed, 2-bath residence showcases sweeping views from a rare double balcony. The split-floor plan is highlighted in modern LED lighting and tile floors and new central AC ensuring year-round comfort. The luxurious master suite includes a walk-in
Spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home filled with natural sunlight. Newly renovated bathrooms, new refrigerator and microwave, and a lot of closet space plus extra storage in the building. Enjoy two balconies for seamless indoor–outdoor living and two parking spaces. Quiet, well-kept building in a prime Normandy Isle location close to parks, dining, shops, and the beach. Move-in ready.
Seller Motivated - Spectacular Direct Ocean views from this 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath apt, Updated Kitchen with new appliances. Oceanfront Building on Millionaires Row. The Carriage House has Completed the Building's Restoration, Exterior Painting and New Hurricane Impact Windows. SELLER PAID $65K ASSESSMENTS IN FULL! Luxurious Building with all Amenities, Oceanfront heated Pool with Jacuzzi, Sundeck,
Rare, 930 SF 1 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom, direct bay facing unit at the Vistas on Belle Island. This unit features travertine flooring, in-unit washer/dryer, a new A/C unit, updated primary bath, and a generously sized terrace overlooking the pool and bay. The Vistas is a full-service building with meticulously manicured grounds, boat dock, gym, pool, kayak & paddle board storage, and hammock lounge
Rarely available 4BR/4BA two-story townhouse in sought-after Sunset Harbour with nearly 2,800 SF of interiors and six private balconies. Residents enjoy access to the Yacht Club’s resort-style pool and can walk to Pura Vida Cafe, Publix, Whole Foods, and the city’s top gyms and fitness classes. All this in one of Miami Beach’s most vibrant and desirable neighborhoods.
Available now! Modern luxury located on the greens of La Gorce Country Club Golf Course. This fully furnished 5-bed, 5.5 bath estate spans nearly 3,800 SF with sleek contemporary design, open living spaces, and walls of glass framing stunning golf course views. The chef’s kitchen features top appliances and a spacious island, while elegant living areas flow seamlessly to the outdoors. Upstairs,
NEW TO THE MARKET! Newly renovated and fully furnished spacious 1 Bedroom in Historic Mediterranean South Beach building! Steps from Lincoln Road. Calming and beautiful zen furniture design representing from various countries in Asia. Unit has everything!! Central AC, washer/dryer in unit, newer air fryer/oven/microwave combo, new kitchen cabinetry and new bedding/mattress. Ample sunlight during
Great location close to Lincoln Road, Gehry's New World Center and to the beach. Complex of two Art Deco buildings with a private, gated courtyard. Building is well maintained and quiet. This first floor corner unit has high ceilings and lots of windows and is spacious and bright. Hardwood floors throughout. Full-size washer and dryer in unit. Large walk-in closet. View of courtyard and also of
Situated in south-central Miami Beach is the coastal-suburban community of Nautilus, which received its name from its geographical shape resembling a mollusk. Sitting just 7 miles east of downtown Miami, its convenient location, less than a mile from the mainland bridge, has become integral to its identity. “It is a community-oriented neighborhood with plenty of parks,” shares Anna Sherrill, a real estate agent with One Sotheby’s International Realty Inc. and resident of a community just south of the neighborhood. Nautilus is a community with the convenience of a suburb and experience of island life, with quiet streets and sightings of manatees and dolphins swimming about.
Beyond the natural beauty of the Intracoastal Waterway and the nearby Biscayne Bay, Nautilus residents have great public green spaces to spend a day outdoors. Morning strolls with the pup happen at Pinetree Park, which boasts a dog park, waterfront trails and a boat ramp for paddleboarding and kayaking. Getting active in a game of pickleball or tennis takes place in Polo Park, which offers public courts alongside a shaded playground where many head to play during the heat of the summer. Meanwhile, personal celebrations like birthday parties can be hosted underneath the pavilion at Muss Park, situated in the neighborhood’s center.
Homes here are highly sought after, with a few properties listed for less than $2 million and some reaching upwards of $80 million. The Spanish-revival and Mediterranean influence throughout Miami, with clay-tiled roofs, is displayed here. However, Modern styles and historic Art Deco designs are also present as the aesthetic is popular within Miami Beach. Many homes feature backyard pools, and those that border the bay or interior waterways have private docks for a day on the water. Nautilus’ suburban landscape is almost entirely freestanding houses with wide residential streets. Still, a few complexes, like the Ritz-Carlton Residences, offer luxury condos ranging from $350,000 to multimillion-dollar units, depending on size and condition.
Independence Day is an exciting time for those living in the neighborhood. Homeowners can appreciate the fireworks show over Biscayne Bay from the comfort of their homes or collect in Fisher Park to watch the celebration. For an even closer look, Bayside Marketplace offers a Fireworks Cruise that carries passengers through the bay and offers music and an onboard bar to enjoy. Miami Beach is a hub for events that locals can participate in, including the South Beach Wine and Food Festival, a tradition of the area, where attendees can participate in wine tastings, seminars and more.
Nautilus has plenty of convenient spots and local flavors along West 41st Street for shopping and dining. Everyday necessities can be picked up from Yes! Market a kosher grocery store, while retail options like GUESS, Urban Outfitters and more are explored at Lincoln Road Mall, a few miles south of the community. When it's time for breakfast, residents can grab bagels from Roasters ‘N Toasters, a New York City-style deli known for its breakfast and lunch menus. Meanwhile, authentic Cuban cuisine can be appreciated less than a block away at Latin Café.
At summer’s end, young students head to North Beach Elementary, which has received an A-minus from Niche. Older students will attend Nautilus Middle School before heading to class at Miami Beach Senior High School, both of which have earned a B from Niche. The High School offers its students various academies, like Digital Media, Entrepreneurship and more.
“A big selling point in the neighborhood of Nautilus is its convenient location,” shares Sherrill. Those heading into downtown Miami can reach the area in an 8.1-mile drive by hopping onto I-95 South. Slightly farther is the Miami International Airport, where residents can catch their flight via a 9.5-mile trip along I-195 West. Meanwhile, classes at Miami Dade College sit just across the bridge, and the shores of Miami Beach are a short 2.3 miles away via Alton Road.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Miami Beach Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
108,019
Median Age
46
Population Density
13 ppl/acre
Population under 18
16.7%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
21.7%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$65,182
Below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$101,149
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
90.4%
College Graduates
51.4%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
23.2%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
69.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
68''
Average Winter Low Temperature
62°F
Average Summer High Temperature
91°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®®
35/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®®
20/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.