Moving to Miami

While Florida is one of the most popular states in the US in terms of tourism, Miami is one of the most popular cities within that state. This is due to a variety of factors, including the location of the city as well as its tremendous cultural epicenter.

Miami is actually the second largest city in Florida, comprising the largest metropolitan area in the entire southeastern United States. The growth of the city; however, has been relatively recent. History indicates that individuals have lived in the area for hundreds of years and interest in the Miami area certainly grew following Spanish colonization. The village of Miami was not actually plotted until the mid 19th century and it was not until the latter part of that century, in 1896 that the city was actually incorporated. The growth of the population of Miami and the Miami metropolitan area has grown primarily over the last few years, partially due to a large immigrant influx. In a little more than one hundred years, the population of Miami has grown from just 300 to a population of more than 5 million in the greater Miami metropolitan area.

For the most part, Miami is considered to be a cultural melting pot comprised of cultures coming from the Caribbean islands, Latin America and Cuba, in particular. Unlike many cities, Miami actually has three official languages. They are English, Spanish and Haitian Creole. About ¾ of the population of Miami speaks a language other than or in addition to English.

In addition to the beautiful balmy weather, Miami has grown to its current state of importance and popularity widely due to the fact that it is a well known international financial center. The city's ties to the Caribbean as well as South and Central America allows the area to play an important role in international business.

If you are considering moving to the Miami area, you should know that the city covers a broad territory with suburbs extending all the way from Biscayne Bay and the Everglades to the north area along Lake Okeechobee. Several barrier islands are also included in the Miami area, along Miami Beach and South Beach.

The climate of the Miami area is as can be expected; consisting of a warm and humid temperature range. Occasionally, cold fronts will be experienced during the winter months; however, the temperatures during the winter months usually tend to be quite mild and moderate.

Persons considering a move to Miami, should be aware that the Miami area is prone to an intense hurricane seasons that runs from July to November each year. While hurricanes are not always necessarily experienced; the hurricane season can result in a wet season; culminating in rains and storms. When hurricanes do strike; however, they can prove to be destructive and deadly, requiring the need to board up properties and evacuate with a moment's notice.

Like any other locale, there are also a few rather unpleasant facts that you should be aware of if you are planning to move to Miami. One of the most important of facts is the rather high crime rate in the Miami area. Miami currently ranks as the second most dangerous metropolitan area in the United States.

Despite the high crime rate; however, large amounts of individuals continue to flock to the Miami area from both inside the United States' boundaries as well as outside the boundaries in order to take advantage of the balmy weather, cultural and employment opportunities.

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