Welcome to South Miami Heights, where the sun is always shining and the streets are full of life. From the charming cafes and eclectic boutiques, to the vibrant nightlife and lush tropical parks, this vibrant neighborhood has something for everyone. So come on down and experience it all for yourself!
Introduction to South Miami Heights
South Miami Heights is a census-designated place (CDP) located southwest of Downtown Miami in Miami-Dade County, Florida, United States. The population was 15,905 at the 2010 census. South Miami Heights is mainly a residential community which derives its name from its location on higher land at the south end of Miami-Dade County. It is part of the greater Kendall area and is sometimes considered a part of that area but legally and ethically separate from it.
The community has long enjoyed convenient access to shopping, recreation and entertainment opportunities in nearby Homestead and Cutler Bay. In addition to its renowned farmer’s market — Tom Jones Produce Market — local businesses serve their innovative Mexican fusion food products at restaurants like El Gallito Grill, Paellas Floridas and Tacos Charros Mexicanos. There are also two popular golf courses (Crandon Golf Course, which is the site of a notorious pro golfer alligator attack in 2007; and Grand Palms Resort & Golf Club).
In recent years, South Miami Heights has become an increasingly popular residential area due to its close proximity to downtown Miami as well as its excellent public schools like Coral Reef Senior High School which was recognized for excellence by U.S. News & World Report. Residents enjoy a variety of parks with an array of activities including camping, fishing, disc golf courses, play areas, trails and more spread across town with Larry & Penny Thompson Park near historic Redland as one of the favorites among locals.
History of South Miami Heights
South Miami Heights is an unincorporated community in Miami-Dade County, Florida, located between Homestead and Perrine. The community is bounded by the Homestead Air Reserve Base to the north and Kendall Drive (SW 88th Street) to the south. South Miami Heights has been home to many different cultures and backgrounds throughout its history.
The area was originally settled by Seminole Native American peoples in the latter half of the 19th century. After railroad construction began in 1898, immigrant workers from Haiti, Cuba, England, and Jamaica moved into South Miami Heights and established an agricultural community. By the mid-1920s, South Miami Heights had become a small town with a population of 350 residents who worked primarily in farming and produce markets.
In 1926 an effort was made to incorporate South Miami Heights as an official town. This failed when local promoters were unable to raise sufficient funds for incorporation efforts due to the Great Depression. Following incorporation attempts, farmers from homestead started moving into South Miami Heights due to its more favorable location for cultivating produce on land which is slightly higher than Homestead lands that had become swampy at times due to canal flooding from hurricanes and tropical storms during seasons of high rainfall. This influx led to a further population increase as well as commercial development throughout World War II when railroad development enabled improved access for local truck farmers shipping vegetables throughout most of southern Florida counties.
In 1965 Hurricane Betsy caused extensive damage from wind as well as flooding from tidal surge coming up through canals into South Miami Heights homes while simultaneously collapsing much of Homestead’s infrastructure including roadways severely reducing access between south western portions south-of-homestead via SW 288th street directly link connecting Homestead Air reserve base down through Richmond heights passing through Cutler ridge settlement below then called ‘Redpoine’.
Geography and Climate of South Miami Heights
South Miami Heights is a largely residential community located in the south end of Miami-Dade County, Florida. The area is between thirty to fifty feet above sea level and has an average temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
South Miami Heights has a humid subtropical climate with temperatures remaining fairly constant year-round. July is typically the wettest month, while October to January is generally dry. The annual average rainfall for South Miami Heights is around sixty one inches (1,554 mm). On average, the area gets over 2,000 hours of sunshine each year.
The highest point in South Miami Heights reaches approximately seventy feet above sea level. Its average elevation is about thirty five feet (10 m) due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay which cause occasional flooding and storm surge during tropical storms or hurricanes.
The soil in South Miami Heights contains large amounts of lime making it very alkaline, although clay content increases towards more residential spots such as Kendall Drive and Red Road. The topsoil in different areas throughout South Miami Heights contains large amounts of organic matter as this region was once heavily wooded during colonial times and some parts still contain woody swamps containing cypress trees.
Demographics of South Miami Heights
South Miami Heights, located in the southern part of Miami-Dade County, is home to a culturally diverse population of individuals. According to the 2010 census, its population was 25,313, including 10.6% African-American or black, 78.1% White or Caucasian, 8.9% Hispanic or Latino and 2.4% other races.
In terms of age, 28.6% of the population was under 18 years old and 7.7% were 65 years old and over when last surveyed in 2010; however these figures are likely to have changed in the intervening decade. In terms of education in 2010, 82 percent of adults over 25 had some form of schooling beyond high school while 14 percent of adults held a college degree or higher level qualification such as a postgraduate degree or professional qualification.
Social deprivation is low across South Miami Heights with 17 percent of residents living below poverty line (compared to 16 percent nationally). Unemployment at the time was 7 percent versus 5 percent nationally while median household income was$40 314 per annum compared to $50 221 nationally). The area offers access to a variety of traditional stores as well as tourism attractions such as Miccosukee Gaming Resort and Hialeah Park Casino & Racing Track for recreation purposes given its proximity close to Everglades National Park and NASA’s Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex within easy reach via Interstate 75 southbound around 50 miles away from downtown Miami
Education in South Miami Heights
South Miami Heights is a vibrant and diverse community located in Miami-Dade County, home to excellent educational opportunities for students of all ages. Quality public schooling is provided through Miami-Dade County Public Schools, as well as several private and charter schools. Early childhood education classes are available at local daycare centers and schools, ensuring children have the best start possible. For those seeking higher learning, several college and universities offer programs for people of all backgrounds.
K-12 students in South Miami Heights benefit from local public school options such as Howard D. McMillan Middle School, Richmond Heights Elementary School, Bathgate Elementary School and Felix Varela Senior High School. Private schools nearby include Abraham Lincoln Educational Center, St. Lawrence Catholic School and Divine Saviour Academy. Charter schools options include SLAM Academy – Science Leadership Arts & Math Academy Of South Miami at Martin Luther King Park.
Higher education opportunities abound in South Miami Heights with myriad college and university campuses within the area or close by on US-1 Highway or Florida’s Turnpike. International Technological University (ITU) offers graduate programs combining traditional MBA coursework with hands on real world experience in their 4D Labs Technology Recreation Center; Columbus State College provides associate degrees across multiple disciplines; The University of Florida has facilities nearby; colleges like B & G Institute Incorporated offer vocational courses; whilst cultural institutions such as ArtServe provide inspiring art classes for school age children or adults who wish to learn about the fine arts for personal development or career advancement.
Shopping and Dining in South Miami Heights
South Miami Heights is a small suburban community located in Miami-Dade County, Florida. With its close proximity to downtown Miami and its array of amenities, the area is an ideal place to shop and dine. From specialty stores to international cuisines, there is something for everyone. You can find everything from basic household items to the freshest seafood, trendy clothing, accessories and much more in this charming neighborhood.
For those seeking a relaxed shopping experience, Southwest 186th Street is home to small boutique-style shops offering unique items as well as essentials you might need on a day-to-day basis. For those looking for an exotic taste of international cuisine, many eateries line neighboring 187th street offering up authentic flavors from all around the world including Mexican fare at Rigalettos Family Restaurant and Japanese dishes at Sushi Takumi Japanese Cuisine & Bar.
If you’re searching for a memorable dining experience, Café 3406 is South Miami Heights’ hidden gem with their fresh steak entrées in an inviting atmosphere sure to please any appetite. For those who prefer something on the healthier side or need quick grab-and-go meals there’s SuViche Peruvian Restaurant with vibrant ceviche bowls and quinoa salads perfect for lunch or dinner. And for those seeking out treats for special occasions – Fatcakes Bakery offers tasty cakes and pastries made with love sure to satisfy any sweet tooth craving!
When it comes time unwind after a busy day of shopping or treat family and friends out at South Miami Heights there’s always something here waiting just around the corner!
Recreation and Entertainment in South Miami Heights
South Miami Heights is a great place to find plenty of fun and entertainment for the whole family. The area is home to several parks, from large neighborhood playgrounds to suburban parks with ponds and trails for outdoor activities. Families can explore a variety of restaurants that serve everything from Mexican fare to Italian dishes. Shopping can also be found in South Miami Heights, with several big-box stores and shops offering retail items at reasonable prices. In addition, the area has some unique activities that invite exploration, including homesteading ranches, airboat rides on the nearby Everglades National Park and guided fishing adventures. Residents are also welcome to take in some culture at the Frost Museum of Science or visit local farmers markets. South Miami Heights offers something for every taste and age range with its varied recreation options.
Real Estate in South Miami Heights
Real estate in South Miami Heights is a great option for those looking for amentities, convenience and affordability. Located in the heart of Miami-Dade County, this neighborhood offers proximity to downtown Miami and just minutes from the beaches. Homeowners can choose from a wide range of housing types, including single-family homes, townhomes, condos and more. The area also features 60 acres of parkland as well as several schools; K1-12th grade education is offered in the area. Additionally, several major employers are located nearby including Baptist hospital and Florida International University. Shopping centers are also easily accessible providing endless retail options. Whether you’re looking for a quaint family neighborhood or luxury living close to downtown Miami – South Miami Heights has it all!
