Miami is famous for luxurious lifestyle and high price tags, But that’s not all. I’m going to reveal top 5 affordable cities in Miami that offer incredible value and are a perfect place to live with your family, especially if you have kids!
#1 Doral
Our number one spot goes to Doral, and it’s easy to see why it’s quickly becoming one of Florida’s hottest places to live. Doral truly has it all:
- Top-rated schools
- Pro-business environment
- Highly educated workforce
The city offers tons of things to do, especially if you’re raising a family. Plus, the cost of living is still affordable, but probably not for long! And I’m not the only one saying that. Forbes Magazine even ranked Doral as Number 2 in America’s Top 25 Towns to Live Well. No wonder the population has doubled in the past 10 years, with over 81,000 people now calling Doral home!
The median home value sits around $530,000, compared to the county median of $560,000.
And rent? About $2,500 a month. So, whether you’re buying or renting, you’re getting great value for your money.
If education for your kids is your motivation, Doral is A+++ all the way! Every single school here is rated “A” by the State of Florida. Yep, you read that right, every school. Whether you’re looking for the best education for your kiddos or thinking of going back to school yourself, Doral is the place to be. With three institutions of higher learning, you can pursue your dreams and become who you’ve always wanted to be.
Now, if your career and work is a big part of your decision, listen up, Doral is a business powerhouse. We’re talking about over 9,000 businesses, including some Fortune 500 companies, right here in town. It’s literally a hub for international trade and commerce. More than 150,000 people commute here daily, drawn by the city’s dynamic energy and prime location. So, whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to start something new or climbing the corporate ladder, Doral’s got the opportunities you need.
But it’s not all work and no play in Doral. When you’re off the clock, Doral is packed with things to do. You’ve got Simon’s International Mall for some serious retail therapy, and hundreds of restaurants serving up cuisines from all over the world. Plus, with Doral’s central location, you’re just a short drive from all the South Florida action.
And if you’re thinking long-term, Doral’s got you covered. US News & World Report ranked it third on their list of the best places to retire in the U.S. So, whether you’re planning to stay for a few years or a few decades, Doral’s a city that grows with you.
#2 kendall
A Miami neighborhood that stands out for its laid-back lifestyle with a touch of urban living. Conveniently located about 15 miles southwest of Downtown Miami, it’s a perfect place for families, young professionals, and retirees.
With a population of 78,402, it’s no wonder this area is one of the top places to live in Miami. Let’s cover some of the reasons why
With a median home price of $530,000 compared to the county median of $560,000 and median rent price of $2,400 a month. Data show that majority of residents own their homes, which translates into well-maintained properties, safer streets, and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Kendall is home to top-rated public schools and home to the Miami Dade College. Kendall Campus providing higher education opportunities, making it a great location for families and students.
The neighborhood is packed with amenities to keep you entertained and satisfied. From charming restaurants and cozy coffee shops to parks and shopping centers, there’s something for everyone. One of the major draws is Dadeland Mall, one of Greater Miami’s top shopping destinations, featuring over 180 stores and tons of dining options.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Kendall won’t disappoint. The area boasts three golf courses, multiples lakes, and well-maintained parks, making it a beautiful, charming suburban neighborhood. Whether you’re into golfing, jogging, or simply enjoying nature. Let’s not forget the Miami Zoo, one of the largest and oldest zoological gardens in Florida. It’s a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
Lastly, Kendall offers excellent public transportation options, including the Metrorail, making it easy to get around without a car. Whether commuting to work or heading into downtown Miami, the transit system in Kendall is both convenient and efficient.
Kendall truly offers peaceful suburban life with all the perks of urban life. Whether you’re looking to settle down with a family, start a new chapter as a young professional, or simply enjoy a quieter life, Kendall provides an ideal environment that caters to diverse lifestyles. The high rate of homeownership in Kendall plays a crucial role in maintaining its strong community spirit and contributes to the neighborhood’s reputation as one of the best places to live in Miami.
#3 Hialeah
Known as the “City of Progress” Hialeah is a vibrant and diverse community, where tradition and history coexist with contemporary life, making it an interesting choice for anyone looking to move to Miami.
What makes Hialeah special? The deep roots in Cuban American culture, The city feels like a small town with a big heart, Image a place where lifelong friends gather weekly to catch up, where people greet each other by name at local restaurants, and where Spanish is commonly spoken, adding to the city’s distinctive atmosphere. Hialeah is a suburb of Miami with a population of 223,000 residents.
Hialeah’s rich Cuban culture makes it feel like a piece of Cuba in the U.S., adding a special unique charm that’s hard to find anywhere else in Miami.
Hialeah is one of the most affordable areas in Miami-Dade County. With a median home price of $455,000, median rent $2,400 a month, it’s a budget-friendly option compared to the Miami Dade county median home price of $560,000.
The city offers a mix of residential and industrial areas, where homes sitting alongside businesses however, Hialeah is undergoing a big transformation, with 8 new developments and a $ 620 Million investment beginning to reshape the landscape, making Hialeah an appealing spot for younger people looking to buy a home.
Hialeah’s economy is built on hard work, often called the “Hialeah hustle”. Many residents run their own businesses or work in small companies, which are the heart of the local economy. Living in Hialeah offers a mix of old and new. The city has a strong sense of community, affordable living, and a deep cultural heritage. You can enjoy parks, historic sites and a growing local business and food scene. Despite its industrial feel, Hialeah is full of character and potential.
Hialeah is a city of contrasts: rich in tradition yet for the future, It’s a place where you can enjoy both charming and old Miami with excitement of what it is coming next.
#4 Homestead
Trust me, this place is a hidden gem! Located about 35 miles southwest of downtown Miami, Homestead offers a laid-back, suburban lifestyle full of charm. With a population of around 80,000 , Homestead has grown steadily, embracing new developments while preserving its small-town feel. And with over 110 years of rich history, this city has beautifully maintained its unique identity throughout its evolution playing a vital role in Miami-Dade County.
Homestead is generally more affordable than many other parts of Miami-Dade County. The median home price is about $450,000 while median rent price is $2,400 a month, making it an attractive option for those looking to get more space and value for their money.
Economically, Homestead’s foundation is built on services, tourism, and agriculture. While recognized as a major agricultural hub in South Florida, known for producing fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants, the city also benefits from the presence of the Homestead Air Reserve Base. Which is very important military installation not only provides economic benefits but employment opportunities to the region but also plays a crucial role in national security and disaster response efforts, particularly given South Florida’s vulnerability to hurricanes.
Homestead is also home to some fantastic attractions. The Homestead-Miami Speedway is a 1.5-mile oval racing track that hosts the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and the ARCA Racing Series. And let’s not forget the Homestead-Miami Open, a prestigious tennis tournament that’s an honor to host in Homestead!
Now, let’s talk about natural beauty which is undeniable here. Homestead is surrounded by breathtaking natural preserves like the Homestead Wildlife Preserve and Homestead Lake Wildlife Preserve. Also serves as the gateway to two major national parks: Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park. These natural attractions draw tourists from around the world, making Homestead a key player in Florida’s tourism industry.
For those who appreciate history, Homestead has its fair share of historical sites too. You can explore:
- The Flagler Museum;
- The Homestead Air Reserve Base;
- The Homestead Railroad Museum;
- The Andrew J. Young International Trade Center.
These sites give you a wonderful glimpse into the rich history of the area.
As Miami expands, Homestead is evolving too, with new residential developments, shopping centers, and improved infrastructure. It’s well-connected to the rest of Miami-Dade County by major highways, and public transportation is on the rise.
Homestead is also diverse, with a vibrant community reflected in local events and cuisine. It’s a great place for families, with a range of public and private schools to choose from. In summary, Homestead offers a unique blend of affordability, community, and access to nature. Whether you’re seeking a quieter life or new job opportunities, it’s an ideal choice without sacrificing proximity to Miami’s amenities. If you’re considering a move, Homestead might just be the perfect place for you!
#5 North Miami
With a population of around 60,000 residents, this neighborhood truly shines for its convenient location, affordability, beachside living, perfect blend of urban energy, and suburban feel. Located right between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, North Miami is just 10 miles from Downtown Miami, 20 miles from Fort Lauderdale, and a quick 4-mile drive to the beach. Many of my homebuyers love North Miami because it is perfectly positioned for families with members working all over the city.
Whether you’re heading north to Fort Lauderdale or south to Downtown Miami, the commute is smooth and easy. Plus, you can catch stunning sunsets from the beach every day, just like I do!
With a median home value of $430,000 and a median rent of $2,200 it’s an attractive option for those looking to maximize their investment without breaking the bank.
I can’t emphasize enough how North Miami’s location is a sweet spot between some of Miami’s hottest destinations. North Miami is border with city of Aventura, Sunny Isles, Surfside, Bal Harbour, and also just a quick 20-minute drive to Downtown Miami and Brickell. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale shopping Aventura mall, beach days, or a luxurious night out, everything is just a short drive away.
North Miami is served by many grade A schools, and it is home of Florida International University “FIU” Biscayne Bay Campus.
On the other side of the coin: North Miami is on a fast track but what truly sets North Miami apart right now is the SoLé Mia development, a transformative, 184-acre master-planned community. Imagine over 4,000 residences, sprawling parks, retail spaces, and even a state-of-the-art healthcare facility all in one neighborhood. SoLé Mia isn’t just a development; it’s a vision of the future, making North Miami the place to be for those who want to experience urban living redefined.
On a side note: Sole Mia is a $4 Billion dollar development with a man made Massive Crystal Lagoon having a surface of 21 Olympic size pools with sandy beaches and waterfront locations for entertainment.
North Miami will continue to impress its resident with a new healthcare facility being built by U-Health (University of Miami Hospital) which promises to elevate healthcare services in the area.
If it was not enough North Miami offers a wide variety of Urban Parks, Museum and cultural centers Such as:
- Oleta River State Park: The largest urban park in the Florida State Park system, ideal for kayaking, biking, Camping, and awesome shallow water beach perfect for families and kids of all ages;
- Museum of Contemporary Art we also call MOCA: A must-visit for art lovers;
- Enchanted Forest Elaine Gordon Park: is a 22-acre oasis of tropical plants, trees and animals;
- Pepper Park Tennis Center: With over 50,000 attendees at events per year, this facility offers basketball courts, tennis courts, and large green spaces for sports and recreation.
Now you have a glimpse of the 5 best affordable cities to live in Miami!
Thanks for reading, I’ll see you in the next article!
