Miami Move-In Realities: 5 Things No One Tells You (But Should)

Last week I shared how I moved from England to Miami. You’d think the hard part was planning an international move and that once I landed, it’d be smooth sailing. Nope. Miami is not like other cities where everyone smiles and says “Have a nice day!” or where a repairman actually shows up on time. It took me a while to figure things out, so here are five things I wish I’d known in my first few weeks.

1. Get Your Apartment Fixed Straight Away

When you sign the lease and move in, you assume everything will be perfect. Spoiler: it usually isn’t. In all three apartments I’ve had (and from what my friends say), something’s broken or needs attention right away. During the walk-through with the realtor or when you pick up the keys, make a detailed list of issues—AC leaking, shower door not closing, faulty light bulbs, freezer that hasn’t been defrosted since the Clinton administration, whatever. Tell the realtor and landlord immediately. Get it in writing.

More often than not, they’ll expect you to handle repairs yourself, so make sure they agree to cover it (or deduct from rent if they allow). Keep receipts. The longer you wait, the more likely you’ll end up paying out of pocket.

2. Where to Buy the Essentials

Whether your place is furnished or unfurnished, moving to Miami usually means realizing—often on day one—that you’re missing something important. For me, it was bedding. On my very first day in Miami, I made it my mission to buy sheets and blankets, only to discover that at the time, South Beach had almost nowhere to buy basic household items. I ended up cabbing downtown just to make my bed livable. Thankfully, things have changed. Today, new South Beach transplants have it much easier. The shops at 5th Street and Alton Road now include Ross and TJ Maxx, where you can pick up bedding, towels, kitchen basics, and all the small things you didn’t think about until you needed them immediately. If you’re furnishing more than just the basics, Target in Midtown, just over the MacArthur Causeway, is an easy (and relatively inexpensive) ride and still a go-to for many locals getting settled.

When it comes to food and groceries in South Beach, you have plenty of options—though shopping habits here are a little different than in the suburbs. The main grocery stores on the beach include Publix, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Fresh Market, all within reasonable distance depending on where you live. That said, many locals don’t do massive weekly grocery hauls. Instead, it’s common to pick up essentials like wine, vegetables, rice, canned goods, and snacks from neighborhood markets, bodegas, and drugstores scattered throughout South Beach. These smaller spots may cost a little more, but they’re convenient, walkable, and perfectly suited to Miami Beach living—where spontaneity often wins over meal planning.

3. Sign Up for Internet (and Plan for the Wait)

Utilities might be included in your rent, but if not, you’ll need to set up internet, electric, and possibly wait a few days for installation. In the meantime, what do you do without Wi-Fi? Miami Beach has free citywide Wi-Fi that usually reaches your apartment (signal can be spotty, though). If it’s weak, head to any Starbucks or the public library on 22nd Street. You’ll see people emailing or Skyping loved ones on the library steps—welcome to the club.

4. It Isn’t Hot Here All the Time (Pack Layers!)

This one’s mostly for the girls, but guys—listen up too. I moved here in November, dreaming of endless sunshine and beach days. So I packed only summer clothes and left my warmer stuff in England. Big mistake. Yes, we’re in South Florida, but we get cold spells too. Every year, temperatures dip into the 30s and 40s, and not every apartment has heat. Add in the freezing AC blasting in every store, office, bus, and movie theater, and you’ll soon be wishing for that favorite sweater. When you pack all your summer outfits, throw in a few winter pieces—just in case.

5. And Saving the Best (or Worst) for Last… “Miami Time”

When I first moved in, my apartment’s AC leaked water all over the floor. I called a repair company who promised the guy would be there the next day at 8 a.m. to diagnose it. I figured I’d be done by 9 and get on with my day. My new boss laughed when I told her. “Not a chance,” she said. “Welcome to Miami time.”

Miami does things on its own schedule. Whether it’s the heat, the Hispanic influence, or just the city’s laid-back chaos, I don’t know. What I do know is you can’t fight it—it’ll infuriate you at first, but eventually you get used to it. You might even become one of those people who’s always “fashionably late.” That AC repairman? Showed up three hours behind schedule. Miami time, indeed.

My first few weeks here were tough without knowing these things, but I learned fast—and I’m happy to pass it on. This isn’t meant to scare you away; it’s meant to help you hit the ground running. Miami is a fabulous place to live and welcomes new residents all year long. If you’re thinking about moving here, keep these tips in mind, start packing, and get ready for the ride. It’s worth it.

Miami Today (2026 Update)

Miami’s quirks haven’t changed much—landlords still drag their feet on repairs (document everything and follow up relentlessly), internet setup can still take days (though fiber options are faster now), and “Miami time” remains legendary. Rents have climbed significantly since 2011, but the city’s energy, beaches, and social scene are as addictive as ever. If you’re moving here, welcome—pack layers, patience, and a sense of humor. You’ll need all three!

Editor’s Note: Originally published October 17, 2011. Updated in 2026 with new photography, while preserving Jess Matlin's experience living in Miami.