Discovering Sunny Isles: A Neighborhood Profile in Miami, Florida

by | Aug 1, 2023 | Neighborhood Profiles | 0 comments

Sunny Isles Beach, a city located on a barrier island in northeast Miami-Dade County, is a popular tourist destination known for its luxurious living. The neighborhood boasts 2.5 miles of pristine coastline, with crystal clear water and soft white sand, making it the perfect place for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The area is also home to a diverse community, with stores lining Collins Avenue, the main thoroughfare through the city.

Sunny Isles Beach offers residents a dense urban feel, and most residents own their homes. The neighborhood has a population of 22,234 and is part of South Florida’s Miami metropolitan area. The city is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Intracoastal Waterway on the west. The area is home to a lot of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks, making it an ideal place for families and individuals who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Location and Overview

Sunny Isles is a beautiful neighborhood located in the northeast corner of Miami-Dade County, Florida. It is a friendly and welcoming city with a population of 22,234 and is part of South Florida’s Miami metropolitan area. The neighborhood is situated on a barrier island, bounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Intracoastal Waterway on the west.

Sunny Isles Beach, a popular tourist destination, is located in the heart of the neighborhood. The beach is known for its clear waters, soft sand, and breathtaking views. The neighborhood is also known for its luxury resorts, high-end shopping, and fine dining options.

The zip code for Sunny Isles is 33160, and it covers an area of 2.6 square miles. The neighborhood is conveniently located near major highways, making it easy to travel to other parts of Miami. The Miami International Airport is located just 20 minutes away, making it a popular destination for both tourists and residents.

Sunny Isles is a diverse neighborhood, with a mix of residents from different ethnic and economic backgrounds. The median age of residents is 49.9, and the average individual income is $47,228.43. The poverty rate in the neighborhood is 12.5%, and the unemployment rate is 2.1%.

In summary, Sunny Isles is a beautiful and friendly neighborhood located in the heart of Miami. Its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and fine dining options make it a popular destination for both tourists and residents alike.

Demographics

Sunny Isles Beach is a diverse neighborhood located in Miami, Florida, with a population of 22,342 as of the 2020 census. The neighborhood is known for its cultural diversity, with a mix of residents from different ethnic backgrounds.

The population of Sunny Isles Beach is made up of a mix of ethnicities, including Russian, Cuban, White, Italian, and European. The neighborhood has a significant population of Russian and Cuban residents, reflecting the diverse cultural makeup of Miami.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median age in Sunny Isles Beach is 49.9 years, and the population density is 22,001.3 people per square mile. The neighborhood has a slightly higher percentage of men than women, with 45.98% men and 54.02% women.

Sunny Isles Beach has a high percentage of residents born in another country, with 23% of the population being non-citizens. The neighborhood has a significant population of Cuban ancestry, reflecting the strong Cuban community in Miami.

In terms of education levels, 19% of the population in Sunny Isles Beach has a master’s degree or higher, and 13% have a bachelor’s degree. The unemployment rate in the neighborhood is 2.1%, and the poverty rate is 12.5%.

Overall, Sunny Isles Beach is a friendly and diverse neighborhood with a mix of residents from different ethnic backgrounds. The neighborhood has a significant population of Russian and Cuban residents, reflecting the diverse cultural makeup of Miami.

Real Estate

Sunny Isles Beach is a densely urban neighborhood that offers a range of residential real estate options. The real estate market in Sunny Isles Beach is known for its high-rise apartments and luxurious condos that offer breathtaking views of the ocean.

The median real estate price in Sunny Isles Beach is $655,044, making it one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Florida. However, the rental price in the area is relatively affordable, with an average rental cost of $2,714 per month.

The population density in Sunny Isles Beach is 18,148 people per square mile, which is higher than the average population density for the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach Metro Area. The neighborhood has a mix of seasonally occupied and year-round residents.

Sunny Isles Beach has a real estate vacancy rate of 21.7%, which is higher than the national average. The majority of the vacant properties are high-rise apartments and single-family homes.

Overall, the real estate market in Sunny Isles Beach is competitive, with a high demand for properties in the area. The neighborhood offers a range of residential options for both renters and homeowners, with luxurious condos and high-rise apartments being the most popular choices.

Economy and Employment

Sunny Isles Beach has a diverse economy with a focus on tourism and hospitality. The city’s location on the Atlantic coast of Florida has made it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. The city’s economy is also supported by the healthcare, retail, and real estate industries.

According to the American Community Survey, the median household income in Sunny Isles Beach is $50,617, which is lower than the median household income for Miami-Dade County. The city has seen a decline in median household income over the past year, which may be attributed to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the local economy.

The unemployment rate in Sunny Isles Beach is 8.2%, which is higher than the national average of 6.0%. However, the city has seen job growth over the past year, and future job growth is predicted to be higher than the national average.

In terms of working and employment, the majority of workers in Sunny Isles Beach are employed in white-collar jobs, with 71.18% of workers in this category. The largest industries in the city are healthcare and social assistance, accommodation and food services, and retail trade.

Childhood poverty is a concern in Sunny Isles Beach, with 13.2% of children living below the poverty line, according to the American Community Survey. The city has implemented programs to address this issue, including the Sunny Isles Beach Foundation, which provides scholarships and financial assistance to local families in need.

Overall, while the economy in Sunny Isles Beach has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the city has seen job growth over the past year and has a diverse economy with a focus on tourism and hospitality. However, childhood poverty remains a concern, and the city has implemented programs to address this issue.

Education

Sunny Isles Beach is home to a variety of educational opportunities for students of all ages. The city has a mix of public, private, and charter schools, offering a range of educational programs.

Public schools in Sunny Isles Beach are part of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools system. The city has two public schools: Norman S. Edelcup/Sunny Isles Beach K-8 and Alonzo and Tracy Mourning Senior High Biscayne Bay Campus. Both schools have received high ratings from Niche, a website that ranks schools and neighborhoods in the United States.

In addition to public schools, Sunny Isles Beach has several private schools, including the Hochberg Preparatory School, a Jewish day school, and the St. Lawrence Catholic School. These schools offer a faith-based education to students.

Higher education opportunities in Sunny Isles Beach are available at nearby colleges and universities. Florida International University and Johnson & Wales University are both located within a short drive of the city.

According to Niche, 13% of Sunny Isles Beach residents hold a bachelor’s degree, and 19% have a master’s degree or higher. This suggests that the city values education and encourages its residents to pursue higher education opportunities.

Overall, Sunny Isles Beach offers a variety of educational options to its residents. Whether you are looking for a public, private, or faith-based education, you are sure to find a school that meets your needs in this friendly and welcoming city.

Lifestyle and Entertainment

Sunny Isles Beach offers a unique mix of luxury living, laid-back atmosphere, and stunning natural beauty, making it a sought-after vacation place and community to call home. With its 2.5 miles of pristine coastline, Sunny Isles Beach is often referred to as “Florida’s Riviera,” and it’s easy to see why.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is clean and well-maintained, making it a popular destination for families and tourists alike. In fact, Sunny Isles Beach has been awarded the “Blue Wave Beach” designation for its commitment to environmental excellence.

Aside from the beach, Sunny Isles Beach also boasts some of the highest-end luxury shops, restaurants, and high fashion boutiques. Visitors can stroll along Collins Avenue and enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. The luxury shops offer a wide range of designer brands, and the high fashion boutiques are perfect for those looking for the latest trends.

Sunny Isles Beach is also home to some of the most luxurious buildings in Miami, and it’s often referred to as the “Monaco of Miami.” The buildings are well-maintained, and the up-keeping is evident throughout the community.

For those looking for entertainment, Sunny Isles Beach hosts a range of events throughout the year, including art festivals, music concerts, and cultural celebrations. The community is also home to some of the cleanest parks, making it an ideal place for families with children.

In terms of community, Sunny Isles Beach is a melting pot of different cultures and immigrants from around the world. The community is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home. The walk time is also convenient, with many amenities within walking distance.

Overall, Sunny Isles Beach offers a friendly and luxurious lifestyle with a range of entertainment options. Whether you’re looking for a vacation place or a community to call home, Sunny Isles Beach has something for everyone.

Transportation

Sunny Isles Beach is a barrier island located in northeast Miami-Dade County, Florida. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and high-end shopping centers. When it comes to transportation, the city offers several options for residents and visitors.

Public Transportation

The city of Sunny Isles Beach offers a free shuttle service to its residents and visitors. The shuttle service has three different lines that operate on different schedules. The Orange Line #1 and #2 run from Monday to Sunday, while the Blue Line runs from Monday to Friday. The shuttle service is a great option for those who want to explore the city without having to worry about driving and parking.

Lack of Public Transportation

While the city of Sunny Isles Beach offers a free shuttle service, it is important to note that there is a lack of public transportation options in the area. The shuttle service is limited to the city limits and does not connect to other neighboring cities. For those who need to travel outside of Sunny Isles Beach, they will need to rely on other forms of transportation such as taxis, ride-sharing services, or rental cars.

Other Transportation Options

For those who prefer to drive, Sunny Isles Beach is easily accessible via major highways such as I-95 and A1A. The city also has several parking lots and garages available for visitors. Additionally, the city is bike-friendly and has several bike lanes and rental options available.

Overall, while the city of Sunny Isles Beach may have a lack of public transportation options, it still offers several transportation options for residents and visitors. From the free shuttle service to the bike-friendly streets, the city has something for everyone.

Safety and Law Enforcement

Sunny Isles Beach is considered a safe neighborhood in Miami, with a crime rate that is lower than the national average. According to NeighborhoodScout, Sunny Isles Beach has a crime index of 48, which means it is safer than 48% of U.S. neighborhoods. Residents generally feel safe in the area, with 71% reporting that they feel very safe and have no safety concerns.

The Sunny Isles Beach Police Department is responsible for maintaining law and order in the area. The department has a proactive approach to policing and strives to create programs that reduce the need for police response while creating a safer, more secure environment. The department also works closely with the community to build trust and foster positive relationships.

The department offers a range of services to residents, including accident reports, fingerprinting, and vacation house checks. Residents can also request extra patrols in their neighborhoods if they feel the need for additional security.

In addition to the police department, Sunny Isles Beach has a number of other safety measures in place. For example, the city has a comprehensive emergency management plan that outlines procedures for dealing with natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and other emergencies. The city also has a fire department that responds to fires, medical emergencies, and other incidents.

Overall, Sunny Isles Beach is a safe neighborhood with a proactive police department and a range of other safety measures in place. Residents can feel confident in their safety and security while living in this community.

Neighborhood Characteristics

Sunny Isles Beach is a unique mix of residents, cultures, and lifestyles. The neighborhood is known for its luxurious high-rise apartment complexes and stunning oceanfront views. With a population of 22,064 people, Sunny Isles Beach is a medium-sized coastal city in Miami, Florida.

According to NeighborhoodScout, Sunny Isles Beach is a diverse neighborhood with a high percentage of foreign-born residents. The neighborhood has a mix of cultural groups, including Russians, Brazilians, and Venezuelans. The neighborhood’s internal cohesiveness is strong, and residents are friendly and welcoming.

One of the most significant challenges in Sunny Isles Beach is the crowded places. The neighborhood is a popular tourist destination, and during peak season, the streets and beaches can be crowded. However, the neighborhood’s residents are used to this and are generally tolerant of the crowds.

Sunny Isles Beach has a unique mix of commercial and residential properties. The neighborhood’s high-rise apartment complexes provide stunning views of the ocean, and many residents enjoy the amenities that come with living in a luxury building. There are also many small businesses in the neighborhood, including restaurants, cafes, and shops.

In summary, Sunny Isles Beach is a diverse and welcoming neighborhood with a unique mix of residents, cultures, and lifestyles. While the neighborhood can be crowded during peak season, residents are generally tolerant of the crowds. The neighborhood’s internal cohesiveness is strong, and residents are friendly and welcoming.

Local Amenities

Sunny Isles Beach is a vibrant community that offers a wide variety of amenities for both residents and visitors. From outdoor activities to luxurious resorts, Sunny Isles Beach has something for everyone.

For those who love spending time outdoors, Sunny Isles Beach has plenty of options. The neighborhood boasts 2.5 miles of pristine coastline, with crystal clear water and soft white sand. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. In addition, there are several parks in the area, including Heritage Park and Gateway Park, which offer playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.

For those looking for a luxurious getaway, the Acqualina Resort is a must-visit destination. This five-star resort offers world-class amenities, including a private beach, three oceanfront swimming pools, and a state-of-the-art spa. The resort also has several dining options, including the acclaimed Il Mulino New York restaurant.

In addition to the Acqualina Resort, there are several other options for those looking to stay in Sunny Isles Beach. The neighborhood has several hotels and resorts, including the Trump International Beach Resort and the Marenas Beach Resort.

For those looking to explore the surrounding area, Bal Harbour is just a short drive away. This upscale neighborhood is home to several high-end shops and restaurants, as well as the Bal Harbour Shops, which feature designer boutiques from around the world.

Overall, Sunny Isles Beach has plenty of local amenities to offer, whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, luxurious resorts, or upscale shopping and dining.

Cost of Living

Sunny Isles Beach is a beautiful neighborhood located in Miami, Florida. It is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike due to its stunning beaches, great restaurants, and exciting nightlife. However, living in Sunny Isles Beach can be quite expensive. The cost of living in Sunny Isles Beach is 30.5% higher than the national average, according to BestPlaces.

Housing is one of the most expensive aspects of living in Sunny Isles Beach. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,100 per month, which is higher than the national average. If you are looking to buy a home in Sunny Isles Beach, be prepared to pay a premium. The median home price in Sunny Isles Beach is $1.2 million, which is more than double the national average.

Despite the high cost of living, Sunny Isles Beach residents enjoy a high per capita income. The median after-tax salary is $6,468, which is enough to cover living expenses for 3.1 months, according to Livingcost.org. This is due in part to the thriving tourism industry in Sunny Isles Beach, which provides many job opportunities for residents.

In summary, living in Sunny Isles Beach can be expensive, especially when it comes to housing. However, the high per capita income and job opportunities in the area make it a desirable place to live for those who can afford it.

Languages Spoken

Sunny Isles Beach is a diverse community with a mix of cultures and languages. The most commonly spoken language in the neighborhood is English, which is used by the majority of the population. However, Spanish is also widely spoken and is the second most spoken language in the area.

According to the latest census data, approximately 55% of the population in Sunny Isles Beach speaks English as their primary language. Spanish is spoken by about 35% of the population, making it a significant language in the area. Other languages spoken in the neighborhood include Russian, Hebrew, and Portuguese.

The community is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, which makes it easy for non-native English speakers to integrate into the neighborhood. Many residents are multilingual, and it is not uncommon to hear people speaking a mix of English and Spanish in everyday conversations.

There are several language schools and institutes in the area that offer courses in English and Spanish, catering to both adults and children. Additionally, many businesses in the neighborhood have bilingual staff, making it easy for non-native English speakers to communicate and access services.

Overall, Sunny Isles Beach is a neighborhood where diversity is celebrated, and people from different cultures and backgrounds can come together and thrive.

Nearby Areas

Sunny Isles Beach is located in Miami-Dade County, Florida, making it a part of the greater Miami metropolitan area. There are several nearby areas that residents and visitors can explore.

To the north of Sunny Isles Beach is Aventura, which is known for its upscale shopping and dining options. Aventura Mall is one of the largest malls in the country and features over 300 stores, including high-end luxury brands. Downtown Aventura offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a night out.

Bal Harbour is located to the south of Sunny Isles Beach and is another popular shopping destination. The Bal Harbour Shops feature designer boutiques and high-end department stores. The area also offers several restaurants and cafes with ocean views.

Miami Beach is just a short drive south of Sunny Isles Beach and is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. The area offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Downtown Miami is also easily accessible from Sunny Isles Beach and offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries. The area is also home to several popular neighborhoods, including Brickell and Wynwood.

Overall, Sunny Isles Beach is located in a prime location, with several nearby areas to explore and enjoy.

Tourism

Sunny Isles Beach is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The city’s pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm sunshine make it the perfect place for a relaxing vacation. Tourists can enjoy a variety of water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. The city also has several parks with playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities.

Visitors to Sunny Isles Beach can take a stroll down Collins Avenue and enjoy the luxurious lifestyle of the city. Rolls-Royces and other high-end cars are a common sight on the streets. The city has several high-end shopping centers, including the Aventura Mall, which is just a short drive away.

Sunny Isles Beach is also a popular destination for nautical enthusiasts. The city has several marinas where tourists can rent boats and yachts to explore the beautiful waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The Haulover Marina is just a few minutes away and offers a wide range of water activities, including fishing and diving.

The city has a significant Greek population, and visitors can experience the Greek culture by visiting the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. The church hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the annual Greek Festival.

Sunny Isles Beach is a family-friendly destination, and visitors can see women with babies and children playing on the beaches and in the parks. The city has several playgrounds and picnic areas where families can spend quality time together.

Joggers and fitness enthusiasts will love Sunny Isles Beach’s beautiful jogging trails and parks. The city has several parks with jogging and walking trails, including the Heritage Park and the Samson Oceanfront Park.

Scooters are a popular mode of transportation in Sunny Isles Beach, and tourists can rent them to explore the city. The city has several rental shops that offer scooters, bicycles, and other modes of transportation.

Overall, Sunny Isles Beach is a friendly and welcoming destination for tourists of all ages. With its beautiful beaches, luxurious lifestyle, and wide range of activities, it is no wonder why it is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.

Architecture and Construction

Sunny Isles Beach is a neighborhood in Miami, Florida, known for its luxurious high-rise buildings and stunning architecture. The area has undergone significant development in recent years, with many new buildings and construction projects taking place.

Architecturally, Sunny Isles Beach is a mix of modern and contemporary designs. Many of the buildings feature sleek, glass exteriors and unique shapes and angles. The neighborhood is also home to several iconic landmarks, including the Porsche Design Tower and the Acqualina Resort & Residences.

Construction in Sunny Isles Beach is a major contributor to the local economy. Many of the area’s buildings are constructed using the latest technology and materials, ensuring they are both durable and energy-efficient. The construction industry in Sunny Isles Beach is also known for its commitment to sustainability, with many buildings incorporating green features such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems.

Overall, architecture and construction are an integral part of the Sunny Isles Beach community. The neighborhood’s unique designs and commitment to sustainability make it a popular destination for both residents and visitors alike.

Climate and Geography

Sunny Isles Beach is a city located on a barrier island in northeast Miami-Dade County, Florida. The city is part of South Florida’s Miami metropolitan area and is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Intracoastal Waterway on the west. The city has a total area of 1.78 square miles, of which 1.01 square miles is land and 0.77 square miles is water.

Sunny Isles Beach enjoys a subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The city experiences an average of 249 sunny days per year, which makes it a perfect destination for those who love the Florida sun. The average temperature in the city ranges from 75°F (24°C) in January to 89°F (32°C) in August.

The city is located at an elevation of 3 feet above sea level, which makes it susceptible to flooding during hurricanes and tropical storms. However, the city has implemented various measures to protect its residents from the effects of such events. The city has a comprehensive hurricane preparedness plan, which includes evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and emergency services.

Overall, the climate and geography of Sunny Isles Beach make it an ideal destination for those who love the Florida sun and the beach. However, visitors and residents should always be aware of the potential risks associated with living in a coastal area, especially during hurricane season.

Latin American Influence

Sunny Isles Beach is a city located in northeast Miami-Dade County, Florida, and it is part of South Florida’s Miami metropolitan area. The city is known for its vibrant Latin American community, which has a significant influence on the area’s culture, cuisine, and lifestyle.

With a large population of Hispanic or Latino residents, Sunny Isles Beach has become a hub for Latin American culture. The city’s Latin American influence can be seen in its many restaurants, cafes, and shops that offer authentic Latin American cuisine, music, and art. Visitors can enjoy a variety of Latin American dishes, including Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, and ceviche, among others.

Cuba is one of the most significant Latin American countries that have influenced Sunny Isles Beach. The city has a large Cuban community, and visitors can experience the Cuban culture by visiting the many Cuban restaurants and cafes in the area. The city also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year that celebrate Cuban culture, including the annual Calle Ocho Festival.

The Latin American influence in Sunny Isles Beach extends beyond just cuisine and culture. Many businesses in the area cater to the Latin American community, including banks, supermarkets, and healthcare providers. The city also has a large number of Spanish-speaking residents, and many businesses offer services in Spanish to cater to their needs.

In conclusion, Sunny Isles Beach’s Latin American influence is a significant part of the city’s culture and lifestyle. Visitors can experience the vibrant Latin American culture through the city’s cuisine, music, art, and events. The city’s diverse and friendly community welcomes visitors from all over the world to experience its unique blend of Latin American and American culture.