These Are the Safest Neighborhoods in Miami [2024]

Want to live near the beach, enjoy a first-class arts and culture scene, and have access to a variety of cuisines? Then the vibrant city of Miami may be the perfect place. This little slice of paradise is popular with families, retirees, young professionals, and students alike. But it’s not just the beach and food and culture scenes that draw these people in. They’re also moving to Magic City for the fantastic weather, good schools, great nightlife, ample job opportunities, and lower cost of living compared to other large metropolises. In fact, Miami saw a population gain of 55 percent from 2019 to 2022. But when it comes to choosing a place to live in Miami, you’ll want to consider both the pros and cons of this city — one of which is the crime level. But how much crime is there really? And which neighborhoods are considered the safest neighborhoods in Miami? That’s what this guide will answer.

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Having a safe place to live is key when you’re moving to any city, and let’s be clear: Miami has its fair share of both safe and unsafe areas. The Miami crime rate index is 11 (with 100 being the safest), and your chance of becoming a victim of a crime is 1 in 34. But keep in mind that Miami is large, with a population of around 450,000 people. To put it in perspective, the Miami crime rate is just a little higher than the Florida rate, and for violent crime, it’s just below the national median. However, the city’s property crime is higher than both the national and state numbers.

The good news? Miami is considered to be safer than other major Florida cities like Orlando, which has a crime index of 3, and where your chance of being a victim of crime is 1 in 21.

Miami Neighborhoods — FAQs

Q: What is the nicest area in Miami?
A: Some of the nicest areas in Miami include Brickell and Coconut Grove.

Q: Is Miami one of the safest cities?
A: According to NeighborhoodScout, Miami is only safer than 11 percent of all other cities throughout the U.S. However, compared to other major Florida cities, Miami is significantly safer. Orlando, for example, is only safer than 3 percent of all other cities in the U.S. It’s also important to consider that Miami is a large city, and crime is often concentrated in certain areas. 

Q: Where is it affordable to live in Miami?
A: Coconut Grove, Miami Shores, and Bay Harbor Islands are affordable places to live in and around Miami.

Q: What is the richest part of Miami?
A: The richest parts of Miami include Fisher Island, Star Island, and Indian Creek Island.

Safest Neighborhoods in Miami (With Some Suburbs, Too!)

So is Miami safe? If you choose to move to any one of these 11 areas, the answer is yes! They include areas that are safe to walk around, areas with beaches to take the kids to, areas with affordable homes and apartments that are located near shops, restaurants, and parks — and more.

Coconut Grove is a Miami neighborhood that hugs the shoreline of Biscayne Bay.

1. Coconut Grove

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,775
• Median home sale price: $1.52M
• Great for: Families, good commute, diversity, outdoor activities

Coconut Grove is a neighborhood that hugs the shoreline of Biscayne Bay and offers residents quiet streets with plenty of easy access to the water. Families love settling down in this area of town because it’s close to good schools and plenty of things for kids to do. This Miami neighborhood is divided into a Southwest and a Northeast section, but both areas are served by a variety of green spaces, like The Barnacle Historic State Park (that features a mangrove forest), David T. Kennedy Park, and Armbrister Park. 

Set sail on a boat to the Dinner Key Picnic Island Park, or visit the nearby West Islands Nature Park and learn about native animals and the unique environment of the islands. Grand Avenue features plenty of shopping options, like the popular CocoWalk Shopping Mall, the Coconut Grove Organic Farmers Market, and even the Shore to Door Fish Market. And locals love the fresh seafood options at Bayshore Club Bar & Grill and Flanigan’s. 

2. Coral Gate

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,500
• Median home sale price: $923,500
• Great for: Young professionals, families, outdoor activities

If you’re looking for a Miami neighborhood that ranks high when it comes to walkability, then the Coral Way sub-neighborhood of Coral Gate is a great choice for young professionals and families. While the downtown area of Miami is considered to be the most walkable, neighborhoods like Coral Gate are set up so you can easily walk to stores, restaurants, or your job. Residents of all ages like to walk or bike the trails at Coral Gate Park or play with the kids and walk the dog through Rotary Park. And you can easily catch a bus to work on Tamiami Trail, or check out what’s new in the arts scene at Trail Theater. This area of Miami is also known for its excellent Cuban cuisine. Check out Versailles Restaurant or La Casita for some of the best fish and carne con papas!  

The Centro City Plaza is also a short distance away, perfect for all your shopping needs, as is all the fun at the Magic City Casino. Not to mention, you’re never far away from beautiful beaches like Hobie Island Beach Park!

Miami’s Venetian Islands neighborhood is composed of six separate islands in Biscayne Bay, all connected by the Venetian Causeway.

3. Venetian Islands

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $4,100
• Median home sale price: $1.37M
• Great for: Families, jobs, outdoor activities, access to Miami Beach

If you’re a retiree, a working professional, or moving with your family, and you’ve always wanted to live near the beach, getting a home in the Venetian Islands neighborhood should be high on your list! This is one of the safest neighborhoods in Miami composed of six separate islands in Biscayne Bay and connected by the Venetian Causeway. The beautiful Miami Beach is a stone’s throw away from this neighborhood — and if you’ve been wondering, “Is Miami Beach safe?,” it is! No matter which island you choose to live on, you’re going to have waterfront views and easy access to marinas, yacht clubs, and both public and private beaches.

Living in this neighborhood also gives you access to the Miami Beach Ocean Walk, Lummus Park, the Maurice A. Ferré Park, and cultural institutions like the Perez Art Museum Miami, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, and the Miami Friends of the Japanese Garden.

4. Shenandoah

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,900
• Average home value: $812,800
• Great for: Students, young professionals, nightlife, beach access, restaurants

Another cute, walkable neighborhood in Miami is Shenandoah. Young professionals and students especially like to take advantage of the easy-to-navigate streets that are full of beautiful Mediterranean-style homes and apartment buildings. Shenandoah Park is great for a game of football, a swim in the pool, to walk the dog, or to visit the local library. And the area is served by the Shenandoah Elementary school and Middle School, which are both very easy for the youngest residents of the area to walk to. 

When you’re in the mood for something sweet, head over to the Bariloche Gourmet for the best in Argentinian pastries, cakes, and empanadas. Residents also love the Cuban eats at Sanguich and the fresh Cuban juices at El Palacio de los Jugos.

In Brickell, you’ll find high-rise condo buildings with fantastic views and smaller spots next to local cafes and restaurants.

5. Brickell

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,400
• Average home value: $630,800
• Great for: Families, young professionals, short commute, outdoor activities, public schools

Brickell is home to some of the large businesses and corporations that help make Miami the glittering city that it is. But you’ll also find high-rise condo buildings with fantastic views, as well as smaller spots next to local cafes and restaurants. The people in this neighborhood make up a tight-knit community, and they like to take advantage of the wonderful south Florida weather by exploring the Commodore Trail. Simpson Park is another popular place to get some exercise or enjoy a relaxing picnic. 

There are lots of bus stops along Bricknell Ave., and the Tenth St. Promenade Metromover Station is great when you want to leave the car at home. This is also one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Miami, and you’ll find wonderful restaurants to try all throughout the area, including sushi at Sexy Fish Miami, tacos at La Birria Taqueria, and tasty brews at Sky Coffee Buenos Aires.

6. Silver Bluff

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,800
• Median home sale price: $865,000
• Great for: Students, young professionals, nightlife, diversity, health and fitness options

Silver Bluff is a fantastic neighborhood for young professionals and students, especially if they’re attending St. Thomas University or working in healthcare at HCA Florida Mercy Hospital. There are pharmacies and supermarkets within walking distance, and you’ll easily be able to head over to Silver Bluff Park or Marjory Stoneman Douglass mini park when you need a bit of exercise or want to hang out with friends and family. Silver Bluff is also conveniently located near S Dixie Hwy (Route 1), which makes it easy to get anywhere you need to go in Miami. 

Take in what local artists have to showcase at the Bernice Steinbaum Gallery or go antiquing at Retro Rhapsody when you’re craving a bit of culture. And when it’s time to grab a bite, locals can’t get enough of the pizza at Casola’s Pizzeria & Sub Shop or the Venezuelan arepas at Doggi’s Arepa Bar. 

Fisher Island is luxury living at its finest. The real estate options here are very expensive, and this community consistently boasts of having one of the highest per capita incomes in the entire U.S.

7. Fisher Island, FL

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $4,950
• Average home value: $6.33M
• Great for: Families, outdoor activities, beaches, jobs
• Time to get to downtown Miami: 35 minutes

Fisher Island is luxury living at its finest. This Miami suburb is located on a barrier island that’s only connected by a ferry, helicopter, or a private boat to the mainland. So if it’s privacy and a slower pace of life away from the hustle and bustle of the big city you’re after, Fisher Island is the gated community you’ve been looking for. The real estate options here are very expensive, and this community consistently boasts of having one of the highest per capita incomes in the entire U.S. So naturally, you’ll find beautiful waterfront homes, and most of the condos on the island have multiple bedrooms, which is why the housing prices and rent tend to skew very high. 

There are plenty of private beaches, a golf course, and parks right on the island, if you’re looking to get outdoors and soak up the Florida sunshine, as well as must-try upscale restaurants like Fisher Island Club Garwood Restaurant and the Beach Club Restaurant. You’re also close to all the fun in downtown Miami, as well as access to Miami Beach, South Pointe Park, and South Pointe Beach — all of which are just a boat ride away.

8. Coral Gables, FL

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,850
• Average home value: $1.47M
• Great for: Retirees, students, families, weather, easy commute, jobs
• Time to get to downtown Miami: 20 minutes

If you’re looking for one of the best Miami suburbs (ranked #1 by Niche), then you should consider finding a home in Coral Gables, FL. This area is packed with lots of exciting options when it comes to outdoor activities, the arts scene, and wonderful dining. Coral Gables is also home to the University of Miami. If you’re a student there, an apartment in the area means you also have easy access to the collections at the Lowe Art Museum, Tahiti Beach, and the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (including the butterfly conservatory!) 

But you don’t need to be a student to enjoy all this bustling Miami suburb has to offer. Families love the public school system, retirees enjoy golfing at the Riviera Country Club, and professionals appreciate that they can be in downtown Miami quickly. And all walks of life like the access to the beaches and the amazing dining scene that offers Cuban fare at Havana Harry’s, Honduran items at Mi Casita, and happy hour fun near the water at Greenstreet Cafe.

After a refreshing hike along the Robin’s Birding Trail, Key Biscayne locals can enjoy the amazing views of Cape Florida Lighthouse.

9. Key Biscayne, FL

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $4,000
• Average home value: $1.63M
• Great for: Families, retirees, schools, safety
• Time to get to downtown Miami: 20 minutes

If you’re looking for one of the best Miami suburbs to call home that has all kinds of opportunities to explore the outdoors right in your backyard, then Key Biscayne could be for you. This Miami suburb is located between two large parks, Crandon Park and Bill Baggs Florida State Park. Here, you’ll find a variety of fun amenities such as Crandon Beach, Crandon Park Tennis Center, Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne, Key Biscayne Yacht Club, and the Robin’s Birding Trail that leads to the 19th-century Cape Florida Lighthouse. 

In the center of the community, you’ll find the Village Green Park (and dog park), a community center, top-notch schools, shopping options, and lots of locally owned restaurants. Favorites include the breakfast fare at Clasica Victoria, Mediterranean at Toscana Mare, and the amazing seafood at Boater’s Grill (where a GPS location is provided, so patrons can arrive by sea!). 

10. Bay Harbor Islands, FL

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,275
• Average home value: $648,700
• Great for: Families, nightlife, diversity
• Time to get to downtown Miami: 30 minutes

If you’re on the hunt for one of the best neighborhoods in Miami for families, then consider taking a closer look at the Bay Harbor Islands. These two islands are separated from the Florida mainland by Biscayne Bay, but they are connected by the Broad Causeway, which means you can easily get to almost anywhere in Miami quickly. And with a mix of gorgeous waterfront homes as well as apartments and condos, there’s a spot for all walks of life in this Miami suburb. 

In addition to spending time at the Town of Bay Harbor Islands Park, you can easily hop on the Kane Concourse and be on Miami Beach in no time at all. Locals also love how close they are to nearby Indian Creek Country Club. And when you need a break from the outdoor activities, be sure to enjoy some seafood at Flanigan’s or Japanese at KINOKA Sushi Bar & Asian Cuisine.  

Miami Shores is a great community for retirees, young professionals, and families alike.
(Source: Carolina Caicedo Realtor via Facebook)

11. Miami Shores, FL

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,100
• Average home value: $747,500
• Great for: Young professionals, families, jobs, outdoor activities
• Time to get to downtown Miami: 20 minutes

The friendly community of Miami Shores, FL, is a great place to live if you want a safe suburb that’s still quite walkable and offers quick access to downtown as well as the Miami Shores Bayfront Park and Beach. Residents love that they can walk or bike to shopping options along Biscayne Blvd. or N 6th Ave., or check out one of the many local restaurants. Favorites include the American fare at Pinch Kitchen and bowls, salads, and fresh juices at Pura Vida. 

And when you live in Miami Shores, you’ll be able to get your fill of golf, tennis, or pickleball at the Miami Shores Country Club or let the kids play basketball or outdoor racquetball at the C. Lawton McCall Community Center. 

Relocate to One of the Safest Neighborhoods in Miami With PODS

Moving to a safe neighborhood in Miami could be easier than you think with the help of PODS portable storage containers. Just choose the size (or sizes) you need to move your household, and load on your schedule. Need help with the packing or heavy lifting? PODS can recommend local packing and loading assistance. And when you’re ready, a PODS pro will pick up the container and drive it to your new Miami neighborhood, where you can take as much time as you need to unload. The best part? One month of storage is always included with every move!

Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.