Coral Gables

Miami's safest and most upscale area with Mediterranean architecture and tree-lined streets. Very low crime, quiet atmosphere. Far from beaches and nightlife, most places close early. Expensive.

Tree-lined streets, Mediterranean architecture, and an old-money atmosphere make Coral Gables feel like a different city entirely. Crime is very low, streets are well-maintained and well-lit, and you see active neighborhood patrols. The University of Miami is here, adding students to balance the wealthy residents. You can walk around any time and feel safe - it's quiet and regularly patrolled. Miracle Mile is the main shopping street with cafes and restaurants that serve locals, not tourists. People sit at sidewalk cafes for hours reading or working, so eating alone is normal. The tradeoffs: Coral Gables is far from beaches and nightlife. You'll need Uber to get to South Beach or Brickell for evening entertainment. Most places close by 10pm except on weekends. Everything is expensive - restaurants cater to the affluent crowd. If safety is your priority and you want a quiet base, this works. But it feels more like a European suburb than Miami.