For families, we recommend these Miami neighborhoods:

• Coral Gables: Excellent public and private schools, parks, and family-friendly community events.
• Coconut Grove: Bohemian vibe with good schools and the Barnacle Historic State Park.
• Aventura: Suburban feel with top-rated schools and the massive Aventura Mall.
• Surfside: Quiet beach community with a small-town feel and good elementary schools.

Miami's most exclusive luxury neighborhoods include:

• Sunset Islands: Waterfront mansions with private docks, average price $7.5M+
• Venetian Islands: Ultra-luxury estates between Miami and Miami Beach, average $8.5M+
• Golden Beach: Gated oceanfront community with strict architectural controls, average $6.8M+
• South of Fifth: Ultra-luxury condos like Faena House and The Apogee, average $4.2M+
• Fisher Island (not covered here): The most exclusive private island community, accessible only by ferry or helicopter.

The most walkable neighborhoods in Miami are:

• Brickell (Walk Score: 95) - Miami's financial district with sidewalks, shops, and restaurants at every turn.
• South Beach (Walk Score: 92) - Compact and flat with everything within easy walking distance.
• Downtown Miami (Walk Score: 90) - Connected by the Metromover free public transit system.
• Coconut Grove (Walk Score: 75) - Charming streets with sidewalk cafes and boutique shopping.

For nightlife enthusiasts, these neighborhoods offer the best options:

• South Beach: World-famous clubs like LIV and Story, plus countless bars along Ocean Drive.
• Brickell: Upscale cocktail bars and rooftop lounges catering to young professionals.
• Wynwood (not covered here): Arts district with trendy breweries and music venues.
• Midtown (not covered here): A mix of dance clubs and casual bars popular with locals.

Key differences between Miami and Miami Beach:

• Geography: Miami Beach is a barrier island separate from mainland Miami, connected by causeways.
• Atmosphere: Miami Beach is more tourist-focused with vibrant nightlife, while Miami offers diverse urban and suburban lifestyles.
• Real Estate: Miami Beach is predominantly condos with ocean views, while Miami offers more single-family homes and variety.
• Culture: Miami Beach has strong Art Deco heritage, while Miami has more cultural diversity.
• Convenience: Miami offers easier access to airports, schools, and business districts, while Miami Beach provides immediate beach access.