Miami is located at the southeastern corner of the United States near the tip of the Florida peninsula. Its climate is marginally tropical, with hot, moist summers and warm, drier winters and an average annual temperature of about 24° C (76° F). Situated along the Atlantic Ocean, Miami grew rapidly because of its resort and recreational opportunities. Since 1980, however, a more diversified economy has emerged in the city and metropolitan region. Miami’s economy is increasingly international in its orientation; the city’s connections to Latin America are particularly vital.

Miami’s economy, until recently dominated by tourism, is increasingly diversified. Tourism still plays a significant role, with 9.5 million visitors staying overnight in Miami-Dade County each year. A sizable proportion of this flow is focused on the port of Miami; the city’s growing fleet of cruise ships has made it one of the world’s leading passenger ports. Trade is another important activity, and the city increasingly serves as the gateway between the United States and Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. Banking and international finance have become major functions of Miami’s bilingual business community. Light industry is also important, and lightweight clothing is a notable product.

Miami Beach is located on a long, narrow island (and adjacent islets) between the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, near the city of Miami; incorporated 1915. Miami Beach is a world-famous, year-round resort, with palatial oceanfront hotels, ornate nightclubs, and extensive sand beaches. Causeways link it with the mainland.

Real Estate: Florida - Boca Raton - Coral Springs - Ft. Lauderdale - Hialeah - Hollywood - Miami - Miami Beach - Palm Beach - Plantation - Weston - West Palm Beach