Miami is home to about 400,000 people and is currently the seventh-largest state in the US. This sunny magic city is the second-largest Metropolis on the East Coast and welcomes around 14 million tourists each year. We can go on and on to state the numerous reasons that make Miami so attractive. You might be a student and young adult, and perhaps you are wondering how life in Miami would be. Wel, here is what you should know about living in Miami in your 20s and 30s.
Pros of living in Miami in your 20s and 30s
Miami is one vibrant cultural city with lots of things to do. Here are some of the reasons you will enjoy living in Miami as a young adult:
Coffee tastes better in Miami
If you think Starbucks tastes good, wait until you taste Miami's Cuban coffee. Miami serves a mean coffee that will leave your taste buds tingling with excitement. The most famous espresso is the Cortaditos and is typically served with a delicious pastelito in the morning and afternoons.
The food scene is nothing short of spectacular
Miami has a cocktail of cultural flavors since most of its inhabitants come from Brazil, Cuba, Costa Rica, and Colombia. If you love Cuban food, then your taste buds will be in for a treat when you move to Miami. This coastal city also boasts some spectacular fine dining establishments. If you are a young adult who enjoys good food, your stay in Miami will be very pleasant.
The party never ends!
Miami is known to have one of the most vibrant nightlife scenes in the entire country. If you are a college student or a young graduate who loves to party, you will enjoy living in Miami. Of course, if you can afford it. Most bars and clubs stay open as late as 5 am, and the state allows liquor to be sold 24/7, meaning you can get a drink any time you feel like it. And if you prefer more laid-back social experiences, there are all kinds of social events in Miami.
There is a strong alumni network
As you study in Miami, you are likely to make new friends and maintain these connections even after you are done with school. One of the significant benefits of studying in Miami is the presence of numerous alumni associations that allow you to keep in touch with your former classmates. You will be glad to know that you have a close-knit alumni community to support you wherever you go.
You will enjoy year-round sunshine
If you decide to move to Miami as a young adult in your 20s and 30s, expect to enjoy sunny weather all year round. This weather is ideal for many fun outdoor activities such as picnics or a fun day at the beach—no need to pack your flip-flops away just because it is cold or snowy. Temperatures in Miami rarely drop below 60ᴼF, so if you enjoy tropical weather, you will be in for a treat.
The hot, sunny weather is ideal for students and graduates in Miami to engage in various activities of their choice. You could opt to go to the beach or visit the city's various museums and national parks. If you are not a fan of drinking, there are also many performing arts centers and theaters to hone your talents.
The job market is quite good
Many manufacturing industries and international companies in Miami present many job opportunities for fresh graduates in the city. Finding a job isn’t that hard though it doesn’t mean it is too easy. Well, Miami is also home to numerous banks and investment firms where graduates specializing in finance can land good jobs. The tech startup scene is also growing as the big guns of Silicon Valley relocate to South Florida. The unemployment rate in Miami is currently at 5.7%, and even without a college degree, you can still find a job to help foot the bills. The beauty is that Florida is only one of the 7 states that don’t collect income taxes.
Cons of living in Miami in your 20s and 30s
Just like any other city, living in Miami has its pros and cons. There are downsides to life in Miami as a young adult. Here are some of the most prominent cons of life in Miami:
The cost of living is generally high
The cost of living in Miami is 16% higher than in the rest of the country. Unless you are financially stable or have support from your family, living in Miami might be a challenge as a young adult. Rent will be one of the toughest expenses as a young adult living in Miami. Sure, you can find a house in Downtown Miami for around $1500, but you probably wouldn't enjoy living in the suburbs. As you choose a place to live, you should also keep in mind the crime rate in Miami, which is currently 27% higher than the national average. A decent house in Miami will set you back around $2,500 to $3,000 per month, which is too costly for someone who is not financially stable.
Tip: You can try to live in a convenient place located as close to your job as possible. A place like Brickell is nice for young professionals in love with city life and working downtown.
The Miami weather is too humid
The year-round sun is one of the primary reasons tourists visit Florida every year. However, the humidity can reach intense levels, especially during the summer. You might find yourself sweating profusely even under a shade. Expect your utility bills to skyrocket unless you want all your skin to melt off. These expensive utility bills might challenge fresh graduates and students living in Miami.
Miami is home to lots of bugs
If you hate bugs and creepy crawlies, then you will not enjoy your stay in Miami. This sunny and humid city has tropical weather that allows various flora and fauna to thrive. Many giant bugs, insects, and reptiles inhabit Miami, including spiders, fruit flies, roaches, and mosquitoes. It would be best to come armed with insect repellent as you move to Miami.
Traffic is heavy in Miami
The dense population and the significant number of tourists who visit Miami each year contribute significantly to the heavy traffic. If you need to get to class on time or travel to work, the traffic in Miami will inconvenience you greatly. Even if you buy a car, you will still spend a substantial amount on fuel and maintenance.
Wrapping up
Well, that’s it! We hope you can now make informed decisions about life in Miami in your 20s and 30s. Ensure you do your due diligence if you are thinking of moving to Miami for school, work or business.