Moving to Miramar

If you’re considering a move to Miramar, Florida, you’re looking at a city that combines access to urban conveniences with suburban tranquillity. Nestled in the heart of the Miami metropolitan area, Miramar is a perfect balance between the bustling city life of Miami and the more relaxed pace of Fort Lauderdale.

Miramar’s strategic location also means you’re never too far from South Florida’s renowned beaches and vibrant cultural scenes, and a host of dining and shopping opportunities. Whether you crave the nightlife of Miami or a quiet afternoon in a Fort Lauderdale café, Miramar puts it all within reach, and the city is also home to numerous parks and recreational activities.

Cost of living in Miramar

Living in Miramar can be quite pricey, especially in terms of housing. The city’s housing market costs well above national and state averages, making it a significant consideration for anyone planning to move here.

Aside from housing, daily essentials such as groceries, healthcare, and transport also add up to a higher cost of living than many other areas. The city also has a higher price tag for electricity, water and internet services.

However, Florida’s lack of a state income tax may balance out some of the financial burdens for residents. Despite the higher costs, Miramar continues to attract residents with its vibrant lifestyle and ample amenities.

See Cost of Living in Miami for more about living in the area.

Getting around in Miramar

In Miramar, a range of transport options supports your daily commute. Personal vehicles remain the primary choice for many, with a well-connected road network facilitating easy access across the city and to surrounding areas. Major highways like I-95 and the Florida Turnpike are just a stone’s throw away, making road trips and intercity travel a breeze.

Public transport also plays a crucial role in Miramar’s mobility. The city’s free Community Shuttle enhances local connectivity, linking you to major shopping centres, parks and essential services without a penny spent. Broward County Transit buses integrate seamlessly with the shuttle service for wider travel, extending your reach into the greater Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas.

For those preferring pedal power or a leisurely stroll, Miramar caters well with dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian paths. Safety measures such as speed bumps and well-placed pedestrian signals create a safer environment for all road users.

Useful links

• Miramar Community Bus Service
• Broward County Transit

Healthcare in Miramar

Miramar has a robust network of healthcare facilities, ensuring you have access to quality medical care. The city hosts several hospitals, including the comprehensive Memorial Hospital Miramar and others in the Memorial network, catering to various health needs, from emergency services to specialised care.

Health insurance coverage is diverse in Miramar, and facilities like Sanitas Medical Center also cater to self-paying patients, providing affordable options without compromising on care.

For specialised medical services, Miramar doesn’t disappoint. With facilities dedicated to paediatric care, elder care, and even speciality pharmacies, residents can access tailored services close to home. The city’s strategic position allows easy travel to larger medical hubs in Miami and Fort Lauderdale for more complex medical needs.

Read more about Understanding Health Insurance in the USA.

Useful links

• Memorial Hospital Miramar

Schools in Miramar

Miramar offers many educational opportunities, making it an ideal location for families with school-aged children. Whether you’re looking for public, charter, magnet or private schooling, Miramar’s diverse options cater to various educational needs and aspirations.

The city’s public schools are part of the Broward County Public Schools district, one of the largest in the United States. High-quality education is a staple here, with institutions like Sunset Lakes Elementary shining as examples of excellence.

Charter schools like Somerset Academy High School boast specialised programmes, including the prestigious International Baccalaureate, tailored to foster advanced academic skills and global awareness among students. Magnet schools in Miramar, such as Charles W. Duval Elementary, focus on specific disciplines like STEM, equipping students with critical skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics from an early age.

Private schools in Miramar have smaller class sizes and specialised curricula for those seeking more personalised education. While Miramar itself does not host international schools, nearby Miami and Fort Lauderdale are home to several with curricula like the International Baccalaureate and Cambridge International Examinations.

Useful links

• Broward County Public Schools
• Somerset Academy

Weather in Miramar

Miramar has a subtropical climate, which means warm, humid weather throughout the year. The city’s proximity to the ocean moderates temperatures, making it comfortable for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Summers in Miramar can be sweltering, with July often being the peak. Early mornings or late evenings bring the most pleasant conditions if you're planning outdoor activities. Conversely, winters are mild, with January being the coolest month, ideal for enjoying the numerous parks and outdoor spaces.

Miramar faces its share of natural challenges, such as the increased risk of heat waves and flooding. The city has taken steps to mitigate these risks through robust flood-control measures and the maintenance of green spaces that help reduce the urban heat island effect.

Useful links

• TripReport: Miami Climate and Weather

Working in Miramar

Whether you’re interested in the dynamic world of cruise lines at Carnival Cruise Lines, the innovative fields at Comcast, or the specialised technologies at Ecolab, you’ll find that Miramar is a bustling hub for ambitious professionals.

The city has substantial employment opportunities and supports a thriving work culture. Its proximity to major metropolitan areas like Miami and Fort Lauderdale enhances its appeal as a workplace while maintaining a balance with personal life.

The Miramar Chamber of Commerce and Miramar Business Association are pivotal in connecting professionals and fostering economic growth, providing excellent networking and career advancement platforms.

Useful links

• Broward County Economic Development Council

Accommodation in Miramar

Miramar is home to a variety of rental options to suit your lifestyle, whether you’re looking for a cosy single-family home or a modern apartment. Finding the right rental in Miramar is straightforward. Platforms like Trulia and Zillow streamline the search process, allowing you to filter options by price, size, and amenities.

In Miramar, you’ll surely find a neighbourhood that feels like home. For those seeking exclusivity and enhanced amenities, gated communities in Miramar offer luxury living with access to swimming pools, clubhouses and more. These areas make for a quiet retreat with all the benefits of upscale amenities.

Family-friendly areas abound, with neighbourhoods like Somerset Miramar South K-5 and Sunset Lakes boasting ample parks and recreational facilities, perfect for raising a family. The city also caters to those who enjoy a vibrant urban lifestyle. Many neighbourhoods blend residential and commercial spaces, combining easy access to shops, restaurants and entertainment options.

Useful links

• Trulia Rentals
• Zillow Rentals
• ForRent.com

Lifestyle in Miramar

Miramar encourages a dynamic lifestyle with abundant leisure activities, shopping and dining opportunities. The shopping scene in Miramar is especially rich, featuring everything from large national retailers at the Grand Boulevard to unique local boutiques. Dining options also abound, with everything from casual eats to gourmet fare, reflecting the city’s cultural diversity.

Miramar is a hub of cultural and recreational activities with something for everyone. The Miramar Cultural Center | ArtsPark, with its 800-seat theatre and botanical garden, is a focal point for the arts, hosting various events from concerts to art exhibitions. The city’s vibrant calendar includes the annual Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival and the UniverSoul Circus, showcasing local and international talent.

While Miramar may not boast the bustling nightlife of larger cities, it has a selection of venues that bring you a variety of evening entertainment. Along Miramar Parkway and Pembroke Road, you’ll find spots ideal for those looking to enjoy live music or a lively dance floor. Further along State Road 7 are establishments that serve up a more laid-back atmosphere with casual dining and drinks.

Miramar is a haven for sports enthusiasts of all ages, boasting various facilities and programmes catering to various athletic interests. The city’s youth sports organisations, such as the Miramar Police Athletic League and Miramar Optimist Club, supply an excellent foundation for children and teens to engage in sports while learning valuable life skills like teamwork and sportsmanship.

With over 40 parks and recreational facilities, including the expansive Miramar Regional Park, residents have ample space and opportunities to indulge in outdoor activities. These parks feature everything from picnic areas and playgrounds to an amphitheatre for live events, making Miramar a lively hub for community and leisure activities.

See Lifestyle in Miami for more on what to see and do in the metropolitan area.

Useful links

• Miramar Cultural Center | ArtsPark
• Miramar Parks and Recreation