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Alex is the founder of 9Kilo Moving, which he started to help people easily find and choose the right moving company to make their move as stress-free and seamless as possible. He has spent over 20 years working in the moving industry, so he knows every aspect of the business and uses his knowledge to write about the industry and give moving advice. More on about us page

Miami

Ah, Los Angeles, the La-La-Land of possibilities and magic, not to mention the home to the Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame. However, if you've had enough and more of all the noise surrounding Los Angeles, then it might be time to acquaint you with the fact that LA is not the only city sprinkled with fairy dust; we're talking about the actual City of Magic, Miami.

Home to America's Spanish influence and beautiful sandy beaches, Miami is a city that is constantly buzzing with energy and life. Contrary to Los Angeles, Miami is not as densely populated which means that you can actually find some peace and quiet here. If you're looking to move to the Big-M in Florida, why don't you first go on ahead and read about everything you'd need to know before moving from Los Angeles to Miami?

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Factors To Consider Before Moving From Los Angeles To Miami

Weather Conditions

Los Angeles has great weather conditions all year long. The temperatures in Los Angeles are usually mild, with the exception of a few days in the summer when it can get hot. Miami, on the other hand, has warm weather throughout the year, with the exception of a few days in the winter when it can get quite chilly.

Summers in Los Angeles is great for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the outdoors. Miami summers, though, have average temperatures ranging between 85°F and 95°F. Winters in Los Angeles are mild, with temperatures averaging between 50°F and 60°F. Winters in Miami are considerably cooler, with the average temperatures ranging between 65°F and 75°F, the coldest month being January. You should know that Miami has a tropical monsoon climate. So expect lots of showers and pack your raincoats and galoshes before making the move as you'll be encountering rain as never before.

Spring and fall in these cities are also quite different. In Los Angeles, spring is usually mild with some rain showers, while fall is dry and cool. Miami’s spring is hot and humid, while fall is warm and dry. All in all, when moving from Los Angeles to Miami, you’re bound to experience a change in weather which will be leaning more towards the warmer side throughout the year.

Cost of Living

Living expenses is one of the primary modes of comparison that one undertakes before making the leap to another city. If you're used to LA's exorbitant living expenses, then we believe it's time your wallet takes a breather because Miami costs nearly 20% lower than the City of Angels. While Los Angeles is rated 176.2 on the cost of living index, Miami is at a moderate 122.4. While both these scores are higher than 100 (which denotes the U.S. average), the sheer difference can only be illustrated by looking at some hard numbers.

Buying A House

Buying a house is a dream come true for many. It offers stability, is an investment as well as gives you a long-term abode to create memories with friends and family. Zillow tells us that, in Los Angeles, the average price for a house is a whopping $944,651. The story is quite different in Miami where the average house price is only $477,471. Therefore, you'll be able to buy yourself a much bigger house in the Magic City of Miami for half the cost!

Renting An Apartment

Renting is the next best option for those who lack financial stability or simply do not want the long-term responsibility of owning a home. Los Angeles is notoriously known for being one of the most expensive cities in America to rent an apartment. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in LA is $2,046 per month, while the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $2,711 per month. Miami is much more affordable in comparison, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment being $1,427 per month and the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment being $1,834 per month.

So your overall housing costs will definitely be cheaper in Miami in comparison to Los Angeles, irrespective of whether you’re planning to buy or rent a house.

Utilities

Utility costs often get forgotten about when people compare the cost of living across cities, but they can really add up! PayScale tells us that, while the utility expenses in Los Angeles are calculated to be nearly 8% higher than the national average, in Miami, the cost of utilities dip down to 1% lower than the national average. 

According to Numbeo, in Los Angeles, the average monthly cost for utilities (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) is $145.99. In Miami, the average monthly cost for utilities is only $136.19. With this difference adding up month after month, we’ll let you do the math in order to calculate just how much you’ll be saving in Miami on utilities alone!

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Job Market

An attractive job market is a factor that sways most people towards or away from a city. Los Angeles is home to many major corporations and the job market is quite competitive. It's no secret that the major industry in LA is the entertainment industry. If you're not in the entertainment industry, it may be difficult to find a job that matches your skillset and pays well. The high level of competition also makes your chances of landing a good job quite small. But hey, having lived in LA, you already know this.

Let's instead break the good news that the job market in Miami is much more diverse, with many major corporations as well as many small businesses. There are also many opportunities in the medical field and tourism industry in Miami. The other industries that Miami thrives on include finance, trade, and transportation.

Some of the biggest employing companies in Miami include:

  • University of Miami
  • The Related Group
  • Ryder System Inc.
  • Baptist Health, South Florida
  • American Airlines
  • Carnival Cruise Lines
  • Club Med
  • Florida Power and Light Company
  • Royal Bank of Canada
  • Southern Wine and Spirits

The unemployment rate in Miami is also much lower than in Los Angeles, which currently stands at 3.0%, while it is an astounding 7% in the latter. This should give you a better picture of what your chances at getting your dream job in Magic City are.

Transportation

Public transportation can be a huge boon for those who don't have a vehicle of their own or those who are environmentally conscious. Miami has a great public transportation system, and thank God for that because the high levels of traffic would make it imperative you use public modes of transportation. If you’d like to fly into the city of Miami, have no fears, because Miami is more than equipped with three international airports, all located centrally within the city; Miami International Airport, Fort Lauderdale International Airport, and the Palm Beach International Airport.

The Los Angeles public transportation system is operated by the LA Metro and it includes a network of buses, light rails, and subways. A one-way ticket on the LA Metro costs $1.75 while a monthly pass costs $100. The Miami-Dade Transit operates the public transportation system in Miami and, similar to the LA Metro, it includes a network of buses and Metrorail. However, Miami's public transportation system is not as comprehensive as LA's and it does not include a subway system. The Tri-Rail connects the three counties of Miami, Broward, and Palm Beach.

However, if you're not a train person, Miami also offers public bus services that touch most of the important stops in the city. While the frequency of these buses is not very reliable, they are a safe and relatively inexpensive mode of transportation, especially for those who need to travel to and from work/university every day. The Miami Trolleys are the iconic orange and green vehicles you’ll see plying across the major neighborhoods in the city - including Coconut Grove, Little Havana, Wynwood, etc.

For those who prefer the comfort and security of a car, you could always opt for calling a taxicab or avail of ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. If you’re particularly lucky, you might even get a ride in Freebee, which is a small electric vehicle that offers you rides for free. However, Freebies only run in the neighborhoods of Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Key Biscayne, Downtown, Brickell, Wynwood, Miami Lakes, and Miami Beach.

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Miami's Strong Points

  • Miami has some of the best weather in the country. The average temperature is a balmy 75°F and the sun shines for an average of 300 days out of the year.
  • What would Miami be without its world-famous beaches? From South Beach to Sunny Isles to Hollywood Beach, there's a beach for everyone in Miami, all in close proximity to the city center.
  • Miami is one of the best food cities in the country. From Cuban sandwiches to fresh seafood to delicious desserts, your food buds will forever remain sated in this city. And with so many different cultures represented in the city, you'll never get bored with the food options.
  • Miami's nightlife is legendary, be it high-end nightclubs or hole-in-the-wall bars. The city also has amazing Latin dance clubs!
  • The city has a highly diverse job market and a significantly low unemployment rate. Its economy is also very small-businesses-friendly.
  • Rent and utilities come at a significantly lower price in Miami, which brings the overall cost of living to a manageable margin for most people.

Top Neighborhoods To Move To In Miami

Coconut Grove

This neighborhood is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Miami. It is home to many shops, restaurants, parks, and art galleries. Coconut Grove is also close to the beach, making it a perfect place to live for those who love the outdoors. Living up to its name, Coconut Grove is also extremely leafy and green. It’s known for the presence of a large number of attractive spots like Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, the David T. Kennedy Park, the Alice Wainwright Park, as well as the famous CocoWalk Mall. Coconut Grove is also one of the safest neighborhoods in Miami.

Median Value Of Homes Sold: $875,000.

Monthly Median Rent: $2,643

Brickell

Brickell is a financial district and is home to many high-rise buildings. If you're looking for a luxurious lifestyle, Brickell is the place for you. The neighborhood has a very low crime rate and features many upscale restaurants, bars, and shops. It is a neighborhood in downtown Miami that has gorgeous views of the waterfront of Miami Circle Park owing to its close proximity to the Miami River. If you’re someone who has the budget for it and are looking for a job in finance as well as has an affinity for living by a riverside, then Brickell will make you a very happy person!

Median Value Of Homes Sold: $603,000

Monthly Median Rent: $2,586

Downtown Miami

If you're looking for a lively and vibrant city atmosphere, Downtown Miami is the place for you. It is home to many shops, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Downtown Miami is also close to the beach, making it a great place to live for those who love water and the outdoors. It is the hub of all things happening and has the Pérez Art Museum Miami, Florida Grand Opera, Bayfront Park, and the Adrienne Arsht Center, all located within itself. However, the downside of living in Downtown Miami is that it can be quite noisy and crowded. But if you love the hustle and bustle of a city, Downtown Miami is going to be unforgettable!

Median Value Of Homes Sold: $580,000

Monthly Median Rent: $2,975

Wynwood

Wynwood is an arts district that is home to many galleries, museums, and art studios. It is also home to a number of restaurants, bars, and shops. Wynwood is a great place to live for those who are looking for a creative and vibrant atmosphere. The Wynwood Walls is a famous outdoor museum that hosts a wide variety of street artists every year. If you’ve got a soft spot for all things art and can’t wait to live in a neighborhood full of museums and art galleries, then Wynwood is the place for you. It is to be noted, however, that the population of Wynwood primarily consists of young artists, so the place might be a little too chic and vibrant for you if you’re looking for something quiet and lowkey.

Median Value Of Homes Sold: $540,000

Monthly Median Rent: $2,782

Key Biscayne

Talking about quiet and lowkey, this neighborhood is an island located just off the coast of Miami. It is known for its pristine beaches, luxury condos, and high-end restaurants. Key Biscayne has a very low crime rate and is a great place to live for those who are looking for a luxurious and peaceful lifestyle. While it is quite isolated from the city center of Miami, a good educational structure, as well as medical infrastructure, makes this place worth the money!

Median Value Of Homes Sold: $1,378,595

Monthly Median Rent: $3,325

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Things To Take Care Of When You're Moving From Los Angeles To Miami

There are a few things you should take care of before moving from Los Angeles to Miami:

  • Get your car serviced. Miami is known for its bad traffic, and you don't ever want to be stranded on the side of the road in the city.
  • Make sure you have health insurance. Miami is a great place to live in, but it can be quite expensive. Make sure you're covered in case of an emergency.
  • Learn about the Miami culture. Miami is known for its Latin culture, and it can be quite different from the culture in Los Angeles. Make sure you learn about the culture before you move so that you can acclimate to your new surroundings more quickly.
  • The Magic City is known for its bad traffic, so familiarize yourself with the public transportation system. Miami has a well-developed public transportation system but it can be quite different from the system in place in Los Angeles. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the system before you move.
  • Learn about the climate. Miami has a tropical climate, and it can be quite different from the climate in Los Angeles. The heat and humidity can sometimes get the better of you, so make sure to do adequate research and pack the right kind of clothing and accessories.

Los Angeles To Miami Moving Costs

The cost of moving from Los Angeles to Miami can vary depending on the size of your move, the distance of your move, and the amount of help you need with your move. However, on average, the cost of moving from Los Angeles to Miami will be anywhere between $5,000 and $8,000.

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Miami is a great place to live, but it can also be expensive for some. Make sure you have enough money saved up before you move. To get an accurate estimate of the cost of moving from Los Angeles to Miami, contact a professional moving company. They will be able to give you an estimate based on the size and distance of your move. Always make sure to compare quotes from different companies, read the reviews and ratings of trusted forums, and list down the specifics of the journey before the move is undertaken.

See also: Best Moving Companies in Los Angeles, CA | 5 Best Neighborhoods in Miami for Families

Summing Up

Moving from Los Angeles to Miami can be a great decision for those who are looking for a change of scenery. Miami is known for its beautiful weather, vibrant culture, and luxurious lifestyle. However, it should be noted that Miami is primarily a beach city and has a laid-back culture. Some neighborhoods struggle with crime, and the ones that are relatively safer have a living expense rate that is far from inexpensive. However, it can offer a great living experience and can prove to be a breath of fresh air after your brief stint in LA!

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FAQs On Moving From Los Angeles To Las Vegas

What Are The Benefits Of Moving From Los Angeles To Miami?

The benefits of moving from Los Angeles to Miami include a change of scenery, a more tropical climate, and a vibrant culture. Miami is also known for its luxurious lifestyle and high-end restaurants.

What Are The Costs Of Moving From Los Angeles To Miami?

The cost of moving from Los Angeles to Miami can vary depending on the size of your move, the distance of your move, the nature and volume of your goods as well as the number of rooms in your apartment/house. However, on average, the cost of moving from Los Angeles to Miami will be anywhere between $5,000 and $8,000.

See also: Affordable Moving Companies

What Is The Culture Like In Miami?

Miami is known for its Latin culture, which is reflected in the food, music, and architecture of the city. Miami is also home to a large number of Spanish-speaking residents. Miami has a large number of transplants from all over the world, so the culture of the city is constantly changing, extremely diverse, and multi-faceted.

What Are Some Of The Attractions In Miami?

Some of the popular attractions in Miami include the South Beach, the Everglades, and the Miami Zoo. Miami is also home to a large number of museums, art galleries, and theaters. Some other spots that are worth the visit in Miami include the Wynwood Walls, the Design District, and Calle Ocho.

See also: Moving From Los Angeles To Chicago | Moving From Los Angeles To Dallas