Miami, FL vs Fort Lauderdale, FL: 129 vs 132

$1,657/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$1,776/mo ↑ 7%

$59,390/yr ↓ 26%

Median Income

$79,935/yr ↑ 35%

$475,200 ↑ 4%

Home Value

$455,600 ↓ 4%

$1,666/mo ↓ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,778/mo ↑ 7%

446,663

Population

183,032

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Miami, FL and Fort Lauderdale, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 129 and 132 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $119/month cheaper in Miami, saving renters about $1,428/year.

Median household income is $20,545/year higher in Fort Lauderdale. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Miami is $475,200 compared to $455,600 in Fort Lauderdale.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions

Miami vs Fort Lauderdale — common questions

Is Miami or Fort Lauderdale cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Miami is cheaper to live in with an index of 129 compared to 132 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Miami and Fort Lauderdale?

Median rent in Miami is $1,657/month and in Fort Lauderdale it's $1,776/month — a difference of $119/month.

Which city has higher income, Miami or Fort Lauderdale?

Median household income is $59,390 in Miami and $79,935 in Fort Lauderdale. Median household income is $20,545/year higher in Fort Lauderdale.

How do taxes compare between Florida and Florida?

Both cities are in Florida and share the same state tax rates: 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.

Should I move to Miami or Fort Lauderdale?

It depends on your priorities. Miami has a cost index of 129 with median rent of $1,657/mo, while Fort Lauderdale has a cost index of 132 with rent of $1,776/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Miami, FL vs Fort Lauderdale, FL (2026)

Miami

Fort Lauderdale

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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