Known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture, lush landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, Coral Gables is an excellent place to live a high-quality life. Whether you’re considering a move or simply curious about what makes this city so special, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the insights you need. You will also get the pros and cons of living in Coral Gables to give you a balanced view of what life is like in this beautiful city.
Overview of Coral Gables
Before starting the Coral Gables relocation guide, you must have an overview of this city. Coral Gables is located in the southeastern part of Florida, in Miami-Dade County. Since it is situated just southwest of downtown Miami, it is a convenient and desirable place to live for those who work in the city but prefer a more suburban and peaceful environment.
Coming to the climate, this city enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, so you should be prepared for hot and humid summers, with temperatures often reaching the high 80s to mid-90s (Fahrenheit), and warm, dry winters, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s. The good thing is that the abundant sunshine and mild winter temperatures make it an ideal location for outdoor activities year-round.
Coral Gables Relocation Essentials
1- Real Estate and Housing
You will get access to a diverse range of real estate and housing options in this city. Whether you want something more historic or modern, these homes offer a unique blend of history and contemporary comfort.
- Mediterranean Revival Style – These are best for history lovers as they are often built in the early to mid-20th century. Along with this, they feature distinctive architectural elements such as stucco walls, red-tiled roofs, wrought iron details, and arched doorways.
- High-End Condominiums – If you want luxury, you can get a good condo in Coral Gables for modern living with upscale amenities. These condos often feature state-of-the-art fitness centers, pools, concierge services, and stunning views of the city and surrounding areas.
- Modern Apartment Complexes – If you are looking to rent, then Coral Gables has a variety of modern apartment complexes that provide convenient and comfortable living. These apartments range from cozy studios to spacious multi-bedroom units, catering to different needs and preferences.
As per Zillow, if you want to buy a house in Coral Gables, the average home value will be around $1,498,077. Coming to the rent prices, the average rent in this city is $2600/month. If you want a two or three-bedroom apartment, then expect to pay around $3,842/month and $6,160/month respectively.
Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Coral Gables:
- Gables Estates – If you want a luxurious space and high-quality life, this area is known for its stunning waterfront properties and private, gated community. It has proximity to top-rated schools, making it perfect for families.
- The Biltmore Area – This area is very popular for its beautiful homes and amenities. Along with all the facilities, you also get access to beautiful golf courses and the historic Biltmore Hotel.
- Granada – This is a perfect place for people who want to be surrounded by natural beauty. It is known for its charming tree-lined streets and offers a calming residential atmosphere while still being close to the heart of Coral Gables.
2- Transportation and Accessibility
Coral Gables offers a variety of transportation options that cater to both residents and visitors, ensuring easy accessibility within the city and to the surrounding areas.
Well-Connected Roadways – This city is intersected by several major roads, including US-1 (South Dixie Highway), Le Jeune Road, and Ponce de Leon Boulevard. The good thing is that all these roads give you easy access to the main areas within the city. They also connect to major highways, which makes traveling and community easier.
Public Transportation – Coral Gables is served by the Miami Metrorail’s Green Line. It also gives you access to stations such as Douglas Road and University Station, which makes traveling to various parts of the city simpler. The Metrorail connects Coral Gables to Downtown Miami, the airport, and other key areas, so you also have a reliable public transit option.
3- Employment Opportunities
Coral Gables offers a robust job market with a diverse range of employment opportunities. The University of Miami is a top employer that offers employment opportunities in education, research, administration, and support services. This city also has various renowned schools, which provide numerous teaching and administrative positions.
Since it has top-rated healthcare institutions such as Doctors Hospital and Coral Gables Hospital, medical professionals and nurses can easily grow their careers here. Some other industries include finance and banking, real estate, hospitality, and legal services.
4- Healthcare Facilities
This city is home to a variety of top-notch healthcare facilities, providing residents with access to comprehensive medical care. The Doctors Hospital is a renowned medical center where you can get various services like emergency care, orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, and general medical care. You also get access to Coral Gables Hospital, which is famous for its specialized care in cardiology, including cardiac catheterization and rehabilitation, as well as advanced orthopedic treatments and surgeries.
If you need urgent care, you have options such as Baptist Health Urgent Care and MD Now Urgent Care. These centers offer treatment for common illnesses, injuries, infections, and minor procedures. They also provide diagnostic services, including X-rays, EKGs, and laboratory testing.
5- Entertainment & Recreational Activities
Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, nature lover, or foodie, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. The Actors’ Playhouse is a great venue if you want to enjoy various performances, from musicals and comedies to dramas and children’s theatre. If you want to enjoy some outdoor activities, you can visit the Venetian Pool or Matheson Hammock Park to get access to waterfalls, grottos, and lush landscaping.
The Miracle Mile is another good place to experience a diverse shopping and dining scene. For upscale restaurants and entertainment, you can also go to the Merrick Park.
Pros and Cons of Living in Coral Gables
Before moving to any city, it’s important to know the pros and cons of living there. Here’s a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of calling Coral Gables home.
Pros of Coral Gables
1- Beautiful Architecture and Scenic Streets
Founded by George Merrick in the 1920s, this city is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean Revival architecture. During outdoor exploration, you will get to see elegant arches, red-tiled roofs, and intricate details that exude historic charm. The tree-lined streets give you a peaceful walking experience while providing shade and good air. Coral Gables also features multiple green spaces, which gives you access to various parks and recreational areas.
2- Safe and Family-Friendly Environment
If you are asking is it worth moving in Coral Gables FL, then you should consider the safe environment of this place. The crime rates in the city are 64% lower than the national average, which makes it perfect for families. Along with this, the city fosters a strong sense of community with various family-friendly activities and amenities.
3- Vibrant Cultural Scene
If you’re a history lover, then you will love the vibrant cultural scene of Coral Gables. The city is home to cultural landmarks such as the Venetian Pool and the Coral Gables Museum. People who are interested in learning more about the city’s architectural heritage and community development can visit this place and explore a range of exhibits and educational programs. Apart from this, the city also hosts numerous cultural events and festivals, including the Coral Gables Art Festival and Carnival on the Mile.
Cons of Coral Gables
1- Higher Cost of Living
Coral Gables is known for its beauty and modern amenities but this desirability comes with a high price tag. Whether you want to purchase a home or rent an apartment, you should expect to pay more compared to some other cities. Along with this, everyday expenses, including groceries, dining out, healthcare moving cost, and utilities, tend to be higher, which is caused due to the city’s affluent status and the demand for premium goods and services.
2- Traffic Congestion
Coral Gables can experience significant traffic congestion, which can impact your commute times and fuel usage. Since it has a central location and popularity, which means that many people commute in and out of the area for work, school, and leisure. This can lead to heavy traffic and hamper your travel experiences. Despite efforts to manage traffic flow, the road infrastructure in and around Coral Gables can become overwhelmed, particularly during rush hours.
Conclusion
Moving to Coral Gables is more than just a lifestyle choice; it’s an experience steeped in history, culture, and a sense of community that you can’t find everywhere. Whether you’re drawn to the high-quality education offered by top-tier schools and the prestigious University of Miami or the allure of diverse real estate options ranging from historic homes to luxury condos, Coral Gables offers something for everyone.
Although the living cost and traffic congestion may be higher than others, the city’s beauty, safety, and plethora of amenities outweigh these drawbacks, making coral gables safe place to live.