How to Move to Miami: Your Complete Guide

If you're thinking about moving to Miami, you’re probably looking for sunshine, palm trees, and a lifestyle that’s anything but ordinary! This South Florida city is known for its vibrant energy, year-round warm weather, and cultural diversity. Miami is where city life meets coastal relaxation, offering everything from buzzing nightlife and world-class restaurants to quiet beachfront escapes.  

But just like any major move, relocating to Miami comes with its own unique set of challenges, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed if you don’t plan ahead. 

At U-Haul, we’ve helped thousands of people make the move to Miami. Whether it’s families, students, or professionals, we’ve learned what makes every type of move successful. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know and make your move to the 305 as smooth as possible. 

An Overview of Miami’s Cost of Living 

Living in Miami means warm weather, coastal views, and, yes, a higher-than-average cost of living. Miami’s overall cost of living is about 20% more expensive than the national average. 

Housing Costs 

Miami’s median home price sits around $670K, but the good news is that the housing market hasn’t been as competitive in recent years. Renting in Miami tends to be more expensive, with the average monthly rent sitting at over $2,000 per month. 

But whether you’re buying or renting, you’ll find a wide range of housing types, from beachside condos to suburban homes. This makes Miami a versatile place where you can either settle down or sit in the center of the action. 

Utilities & Food 

Energy bills average $210 per month, and food costs for a single person can cost around $379/month, making it one of the more expensive places to grocery shop. Luckily, thanks to Miami’s tropical weather, you can get many fresh fruits and local products that couldn’t be found in other states. And on top of this, you’ll have access to some of the most delicious Latin cuisine, so try and save a little extra in the budget for that! 

Transportation 

Traffic in Miami is comparable to Los Angeles: kind of packed and kind of crazy. And owning a car is a necessity in Miami, especially outside of downtown areas. You’ll also want to get a SunPass for toll roads; they’re hard to avoid in South Florida. 

Choosing the Right Neighborhood for You 

Miami has a variety of neighborhoods, each has its own unique lifestyle, culture, and rhythm. That’s why finding a neighborhood that matches your energy and priorities is key to thriving in the city. When choosing where to live, it’s also important to consider your proximity to work, how walkable or transit-accessible the area is, and the general vibe.  

If you have the opportunity, spend some time exploring different neighborhoods before committing. Each one has a completely different feel, and what works for one person may not be right for another. 

Brickell 

For those seeking a lively, upscale lifestyle, Brickell is a top choice. Known as Miami’s financial district, it’s filled with high-rise apartments, luxury condos, and an active nightlife scene. The average rent here is about $3,900, making it one of the pricier areas in the city. Brickell is especially popular with young professionals, remote workers, and those in finance or tech who want to have the hustle-and-bustle of city life. 

Coconut Grove 

If you prefer a more laid-back, residential feel, Coconut Grove might be the right fit. This historic neighborhood is rich with greenery, charming parks, and family-friendly energy. With an average rent of $2,343 per month, it’s great for families, retirees, and nature lovers looking for a quieter lifestyle while still being close to the city center. 

Coral Gables 

Coral Gables offers a classic suburban vibe with Mediterranean-style architecture, tree-lined streets, and upscale shops and restaurants. It’s known for being clean, safe, and well-maintained, which makes it a favorite among professionals with families, graduate students, and long-term residents who value a peaceful, polished environment. The neighborhood is also one of the most affordable in the Miami area, at only $2,590/month on average.  

Wynwood 

For a younger, more creative crowd, Wynwood is a cultural hotspot. Famous for its murals and art galleries, it attracts artists, digital nomads, and those in the startup scene. Rents here average around $3,298, and the neighborhood is especially appealing to creatives, entrepreneurs, and trend-conscious renters seeking a vibrant community. 

Little Havana 

If affordability and cultural richness are your priorities, Little Havana could be a great choice. Known for its Cuban roots, colorful streets, and strong sense of community, this neighborhood is a more budget-friendly option close to downtown, with an average rent of about $2,508. It’s a good fit for students, new transplants, and budget-conscious individuals looking for authentic local flavor and walkability. 

Miami’s Housing Market Snapshot 

As of April 2025, the median home price in Miami is approximately $670,000. Purchasing a home in Miami can be a sound investment, given the city's continuous growth and demand. However, it's important to assess your long-term plans and financial readiness before taking the leap. 

Planning the Move 

We recommend that you have specific planning months prior to your move to reduce stress and ensure a smooth relocation:  

Two Months Before: During this time, you can begin researching neighborhoods, schools, and employment opportunities. Start decluttering and organizing your belongings. 

One Month Before: You should also secure housing, schedule utility connections, and notify relevant parties of your address change. 
 
Two Weeks Before: Before moving, it’s recommended to confirm moving dates, arrange for moving services or truck rentals, and begin packing non-essential items. 

Moving Week: Start packing essentials, cleaning your current residence, and going through a final walkthrough to ensure nothing is left behind. 

U-Haul offers various services to assist with your move, including truck rentals, U-Box containers, and moving supplies. 

Life After the Move 

Now you’ve arrived in Miami! Get and good rest and start exploring the city. Miami is a melting pot of cultures, with a significant Hispanic and Caribbean influence. Therefore, you can learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance daily interactions.  

Also, expect a tropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. If you’re from dry states like Arizona, prepare to bring umbrellas and raincoats as Miami rains a lot. Last but not least, stay prepared for hurricane season, which runs from June to November. 
 
For transportation, while public transportation is available, many residents prefer to drive. Be mindful of traffic patterns and parking regulations. 

Make Moving Easier in Miami with U-Haul 

U-Haul is committed to supporting your move to Miami and wants to ensure you have a smooth and stress-free move.  

Moving Truck Rentals: U-Haul has moving trucks of all sizes that can fit any move. Hence, you can conveniently go to any U-Haul pickup location throughout the valley.  

U-Box Containers: These containers come in all sizes and give you the flexibility and control to plan the perfect move. You can ship them to your new home or store them until you know where you’re going. 

Self-Storage: If you need extra space after you move, you can store your stuff at a U-Haul self-storage location nearby.  

Moving Supplies: U-Haul also offers moving supplies and packing materials ready when needed! You can grab them from any of the U-Haul locations.  

Moving Help: If you don’t feel like moving by yourself, consider using Moving Help. Moving Help features local labor services to help load and unload your stuff.