North Miami, FL

North Miami was originally incorporated as the Town of North Miami Shores in 1926, and later took on the name Town of North Miami in 1931. It reincorporated in 1953 as North Miami.

The September 1926 hurricane hurt real estate sales, and many residents became delinquent in taxes. The area recovered after World War II, when former military veterans and their families began to inhabit the area. Roads, homes and businesses flourished, and by 1951 North Miami hit the record books as one of the fastest-growing neighborhoods in the United States.

The Museum of Contemporary Art celebrates the arts scene in the area through its display of collectibles. The museum sits in downtown North Miami for easy access by locals.

The city encourages its residents to cultivate a healthy lifestyle by promoting its monthly Get in Gear Community Monthly Bike Ride, and locals love the annual Holiday Concert in the Park, held in December.

Plenty of dining options lie within this spectacular city. Ricky Thai Bistro delivers a true taste of Thailand. Locals love the red curry shrimp and the tom kha goong, just a couple of the restaurant's long list of entrees. On the lighter side, try the green papaya salad. With fresh food made to order, this venue gets a five-star rating. Those craving Italian food enjoy a meal at Casa Mia Trattoria. With an intimate atmosphere, this location makes for a great date night. The crab ravioli in lobster-bisque sauce melts in your mouth. Regulars also indulge in the farfalle al pesto and lasagna dishes. Save room for dessert and order a cannoli. If you want to dine outside, you can even bring your dog. For appetizing Cuban food, residents flock to Three Palms Cuban Cafe. Serving up authentic Cuban cuisine in an inviting atmosphere, this neighborhood restaurant keeps locals coming back for more. Their breakfast options, such as the Hialeah breakfast, huge croissants and cafe con leche, start your day on the right track. Swing by for lunch and feast on the media noche sandwich, a Cuban classic served on sweet bread. North Miami has its fair share of nightlife locations, and with the city of Miami a mere 10 miles away, residents have no trouble finding evening entertainment. Locals spend their time at Billy's Pub Too. Customers enjoy playing ping pong, shooting pool and throwing darts while slugging down a cold brew at this sporty dive bar. If you like to listen to awesome live music by local musicians and national acts, visit Luna Star Cafe. Serving up exotic beers and excellent entertainment, this establishment earns the love of many residents. Be advised that only cash is accepted here.

NoMi Express serves as a free community bus service in North Miami. Bicycle routes run throughout the area, making the streets safe for cyclists. Many locals prefer to get around on foot, as most sections of the neighborhood are walkable. Most streets include sidewalks, which make biking and walking outside of trails safe. It's fairly easy to hail a cab, and Uber provides an alternative in the area.

When you want to enjoy the outdoors, North Miami makes it possible by providing several parks throughout the city. Oleta River State Park offers biking and hiking trails, rafting and kayaking. You'll find others paddleboarding and canoeing the park's waterways. The views leave people amazed and at one with nature. Pavillion rentals are available as well. Several biking, hiking and kayaking events occur here throughout the year.

Alfred Besade Park includes two playgrounds, a large grassy section for soccer, a sandy area. Kids and dog enjoy running around at this free park. Locals get fit at Pepper Park, using the area for walking and jogging, and by playing football, baseball and basketball on the open fields. This kid and dog-friendly park has enough outdoor activities to keep the entire family happy.

Overall, the cost of living in North Miami is rather reasonable, running about 7 percent less than the average in the Miami's area. Plan on spending around $1,000 per month to rent a one-bedroom residence. A beer at a bar costs around $9, but several local dive bars cut that price in half. Gas runs approximately 4 percent higher than the national average.

North Miami houses a wide variety of shopping options, including chain stores, several locally owned boutiques and a few high-end establishments. Women frequent Dakies Boutique for clothes by brands like Rubber Ducky and Lush, and Good Time Jeans. Selling trendy clothes along with basic staples, shoppers find everything from blazers and blouses to skirts and leggings. Party and evening dresses are affordably priced here as well. Local moms love shopping at Give Wink baby boutique for unique items like chew beads and handmade headbands. They also sell contemporary baby furniture, stationary and baby-shower invitations, as well as embroidered baby clothes, towels and other accessories. Vixon is another boutique that locals in North Miami love. Shoppers find modern clothing for women along with accessories to complete a stylish outfit. Extremely helpful employees help make for a fantastic shopping experience. Although no farmers markets lie in the immediate North Miami area, many locals travel a few miles outside the neighborhood to markets in Miami. Coconut Grove Saturday Organic Market sells raw vegan ice creams, which satisfy every sweet tooth. Try a raw veggie or fruit pie - they make unique, appetizing treats. Endlessly Organic is another option in the nearby area. Buy local produce, eggs, nuts and bakery items. Directly in the North Miami neighborhood, residents shop at Whole Foods, Publix, Costco and Presidente Supermarket for standard grocery needs.