Living in Coral Gables vs Miami Proper from a municipal government standpoint (condos)

[jr8999]

I'm considering a condo in either central Coral Gables or Miami Proper (The Grove, Brickell etc). I have researched the difference in logistics related to buildings, neighborhoods and other amenities. I'm pretty confident I have a good handle on that aspect.

I would like to get some comments and/or opinions related to the differences in municipal governments between the smaller city of Coral Gables vs Miami. I've read that living in The Gables is similar to living in a giant HOA. I know it may have more stringent rules and regulations etc but I'm mostly ok with that. I've also read that trying to get anything done to improve the community/infrastructure in Miami and much more difficult both logistically and politically.

I understand that I may be comparing apples and oranges but want to make sure I'm not missing something obvious.

Thanks!

[blueherons]

Coral Gables is so strict for good reason. It is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the USA. There are no street signs, the street names are written on rocks on the ground. Good luck finding an address after dark. The Miracle Mile used to be one of the ritziest shopping districts in the US. Without fail, if I had a change to live in Coral Gables, I'd jump all over it.

I love Coconut Grove, it is also one of my favorite neighborhoods anywhere. If I could live in one of the waterfront condos there, I would choose it over Coral Gables.

So non waterfront Coral Gables, waterfront, Coconut Grove.

[jr8999]

Originally Posted by blueherons

Coral Gables is so strict for good reason. It is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the USA. There are no street signs, the street names are written on rocks on the ground. Good luck finding an address after dark. The Miracle Mile used to be one of the ritziest shopping districts in the US. Without fail, if I had a change to live in Coral Gables, I'd jump all over it.

I love Coconut Grove, it is also one of my favorite neighborhoods anywhere. If I could live in one of the waterfront condos there, I would choose it over Coral Gables.

So non waterfront Coral Gables, waterfront, Coconut Grove.

I feel the same way. I love both Coral Gables and Coconut Grove. I've been doing a lot of research the last few years. If I had an unlimited budget I would live on the water in the Grove. Coral Gables is a great second choice for me.

The strict aspect of Coral Gables appeals to me if it keeps "The City Beautiful"

[CXT2000]

In terms of municipal governance and how each jurisdiction is governed, then Coral Gables. I personally dislike Coral Gables (not my cup of tea for a city) but it is a carefully planned jurisdiction that works well for what it envisions itself to be. So in terms of governance and how a city is panned/run, then Coral Gables easily.