Miami’s Richest Neighborhoods—Where the Money Actually Moves (and How to Buy Smart There).

Exploring Miami’s richest neighborhoods and zip codes isn’t just about showcasing pricey homes, it’s about giving serious buyers real insight. In this guide, I break down the economic and social factors behind Miami’s most exclusive areas, with direct links to the best listings and our analytics pages so you can see live numbers and historical performance. After 20+ years selling Miami luxury real estate, I’ve seen how demand for high-end homes and condos has surged. The real wealth is concentrated in select pockets, exclusive islands, gated communities , and iconic condo towers—and that’s where I focus.  If you’re considering buying in these markets and want expert guidance, call or text me at 305-508-0899 or email [email protected].

Miami Beach – Indian Creek Island

Miami’s Billionaire Bunker as it is known, home to just 40 properties on 250 acres. An island of only 0.4 square miles, one of the smallest, richest, and most elite neighborhoods in America. The island is home to the ultra wealthy: Forbes 100 CEOs, supermodels and Hollywood A-listers. The island is so secure and private that it has its own 24/7 police force that patrols the island via boat, jeep, and jet ski. There is only one bridge entrance to the island with the closest neighborhood of Bal Harbour in its door steps. The only downside is that properties very rarely come up. Currently only 1 for sale on the market and no recorded MLS sales in the last 4 years.

Miami Beach – North Bay Rd (waterfront lots)

North Bay Rd is often considered as the prime street location for Miami Beach residents. It’s just a couple minutes away from Lincoln Rd, Purdy Ave and other prime beach locations. North Bay Rd is quiet and picturesque, which is ironic considering it runs parallel to the very busy Alton Rd. These exclusive waterfront homes enjoy solid inter-coastal views and are on a par with homes on Hibiscus Island.  What are Miami’s Richest, Most Exclusive and Expensive Neighborhoods for 2020?

Miami Beach – Palm,  Hibiscus and Star Island

The Venetian Islands

One of Miami’s most desired waterfront neighborhoods and a hotspot for luxury buyers from the northeast and California. The Venetian Islands are known for the many brand-new, waterfront mansions and this is definitely a place to consider if you want to be in one of Miami’s most exclusive neighborhoods. Not the ideal waterfront for families because fast traffic makes for a hazardous kids’ bike ride. Accessibility to Brickell, Wynwood, and the Design district is excellent. As is access to Sunset harbor on the beachside.

Fisher Island Condos – Palazzo della Luna & Del Sol

Fisher Island consistently ranks in the top 3 of most expensive zip code in the US and the most expensive in Miami Dade. People choose Fisher Island for its unmatched privacy and exclusivity — accessible only by ferry or boat — paired with world-class amenities like a private beach club, golf course, tennis center, and fine dining. It’s a self-contained paradise that offers both seclusion and luxury just minutes from Miami.

Miami Beach Condos – South of Fifth and Surfside

South of Fifth remains one of Miami’s most coveted condo neighborhoods, blending world-class dining and refined beachside living. Anchored by iconic restaurants like Joe’s Stone Crab and Prime 112, this enclave offers a more residential, boutique feel with very few hotels and a strong community of primary residents. Luxury towers such as Continuum, Apogee, Ocean House, 321 Ocean, and Glass define the skyline, each offering resort-style amenities and direct beach access. Life here means walking to cafés, marinas, and art-filled streets, all while enjoying privacy, security, and some of the city’s highest-performing real estate.

While South of Fifth remains iconic, it’s no longer Miami’s priciest condo market. Today, Surfside has taken the lead with ultra-luxury towers like the Four Seasons, Fendi Château, Arte, and 87 Park, where average prices per square foot surpass South of Fifth. More secluded and private, Surfside offers a quieter beachfront lifestyle while still delivering world-class architecture, amenities, and exclusivity.

Coral Gables – Gables Estates

This incredible gated community is home to a solid number of direct ocean facing homes (only 42 direct ocean facing homes exist in Miami). Leucadendra drive, Arvida Parkway and Casuarina Concourse are the streets. If you want a couple of acres on the open water then this is one of the few places you will find it. The best schools in the state are mere minutes away and there are a number of excellent Golf Courses, as is the heart of Coconut Grove and Coral Gables. Truly the best suburban living environment that Miami has to offer.

Coral Gables  – Cocoplum

Ponce Davis

Ponce Davis is one of Miami’s best-kept secrets, often mistaken for Coral Gables but technically an unincorporated pocket that offers more flexibility in design and fewer restrictions. This small, upscale neighborhood is defined by its large lots and quiet, suburban feel, making it especially attractive for families who want space, privacy, and proximity to the city’s best private schools. Over the last few years, Ponce Davis has seen a wave of new construction as older homes are replaced with modern estates, fueling rapid appreciation and positioning it as one of the most in-demand areas for buyers seeking value outside the more restrictive enclaves of Coral Gables. While inventory remains limited, homes here regularly achieve multimillion-dollar sales, with demand driven by its rare balance of location, lot size, and family-oriented lifestyle.

Coconut Grove – Gated Communities

Coconut Grove has transformed from its bohemian roots into one of Miami’s most desirable neighborhoods, seeing some of the strongest appreciation in recent years. Its organic character, lush tree canopy, walkability, and proximity to elite private schools make it especially appealing for families. While the Grove still carries hints of its eclectic past, the renaissance since 2015 has elevated it into a luxury market of its own, with Cocowalk’s revival, new construction estates along Biscayne Bay, and record-setting sales that rival Miami’s most exclusive communities. Despite generally smaller lots compared to Coral Gables, demand for Grove properties within walking distance of shops, cafés, and the bay remains incredibly strong, cementing its status as one of Miami’s most authentic and sought-after enclaves. The most desired private communities are: The Moorings, Hugh Coves and Estrada Estates.

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