MIAMI-Great Fun, food, weather, culture, people, n
-
3/28/2006
Miami is NOT for everyone. I came here 5 years ago from the Midwest, I speak English, Spanish, and French. Miami is a very International City, (not just Hispanic). So if you don't like culture, and you can't make more than $50k per year, or you aren't willing learn new things...Miami is not for you. Miami has great nightlife, great restuarants from all over the world, and just about everything you could want including the beach. BUT....there is a reason everyone keeps coming here...and it shows in the following:
REAL ESTATE - Housing is very pricy here compared to other large cities (Except NYC). Average 3/2 in a "good" area is around $400,000. - The caveat is that appreciation is running around 15-20% still. Taxes and insurance are pretty high as well (around $10,000+ per year)
TRAFFIC - If you are not used to heavy traffic, Miami will wear on you quickly. You have to get used to it.
JOBS - If you have a Bachelors, some experience and present yourself well, you should have NO trouble finding a good job either in Academia (Art, Education, Healthcare, Media) ---but you really should speak Spanish for most of these...or non Academia - Sales, Marketing,....lots of competition though, but at least they keep growing.
If you are moving here from a smaller city or the midwest, be ready for crowds, traffic, and everyone does seem to be in a hurry. But if you can afford $400,000 for a house, or rent for $1500-$2000/month for a 1-2 BR, you can have lots of fun in Miami. If not, it will wear on you immediately.
Mr | Kendall, FL