Things to know about living in Homestead

If you are considering moving to Homestead, FL, this guide is for you. Discover all the benefits of living in Homestead, whether you are a young adult, a retiree, or moving with a family. Homestead will surely offer you a lifestyle with a life-work balance. However, before moving here with moving companies Florida offers, learn about Homestead’s real estate, best school options, job market, town’s facilities, and proximity to other places. So, without any further ado, let’s meet Homestead.

Meet Homestead

Homestead, FL, is a community with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1875 by William D. Cooley. Namely, Cooley aimed to create a town that would provide jobs for poor homesteaders trying to make a living after the Civil War. His vision included access to education and medical care, which are still available today.

Located just 30 miles south of Miami, Homestead offers the charm of a small town with the conveniences of city living. It’s an affordable and safe place for families, with numerous parks and playgrounds providing plenty of outdoor activities for children. The schools in Homestead are highly regarded, making it an ideal place for families planning for the future. Outdoor enthusiasts will find Homestead a prime destination due to its proximity to two major national parks: Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park.

Reasons people move to Homestead

Homestead is a great option for those moving to South Florida on a budget. Although this city is not full of events and happenings like the neighboring city of Miami, it’s a good place to raise a family. Considering this city’s perfect location, it’s no wonder that many young professionals choose this city as their new home. Homestead’s favorable climate, with mild winters and warm temperatures year-round, appeals to those who enjoy outdoor activities. So, if you have a family and want to live in a quiet area but still close to Miami, then Homestead is for you. So, find a new house, schedule movers Homestead FL offers, and relocate without any stress.

Living in Homestead: Cost of living

Living in Homestead, FL, offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other parts of South Florida. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly expenses:

• Without Rent: $841 to $2807
• Rent & Utilities: $3224 to $4467
• Food: $616 to $1620
• Transport: $61 to $157
• Monthly Salary After Tax: $4524
• Quality of Life: 68
• Population: 80.7K

These numbers highlight that Homestead provides a good balance between cost and quality of life, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing amenities and lifestyle quality.

Homestead rent and utilities

Rent and utilities in Homestead, FL, vary based on the type and location of the apartment. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center, measuring around 430 square feet, typically costs $3146 per month. For those looking for more affordable options, a cheap one-bedroom apartment of the same size costs approximately $2885 per month.

For larger families, a three-bedroom apartment in the city center, around 860 square feet, averages $4517 monthly, while a cheaper three-bedroom apartment costs about $3964 per month. Utility bills for one person, covering electricity, heating, water, etc., are approximately $196, whereas for a family, the cost is around $301.

An internet plan with 50 Mbps+ speed costs about $90.60 per month. The mortgage interest rate for a 20-year term is about 6.52%. In terms of property purchases, the price per square meter for an apartment in the city center is around $5044, while in the suburbs, it’s about $3788. So, if you plan to buy or rent a home in Homestead, after choosing the one, hire residential movers to handle the whole moving process.

The job market in Homestead

The job market in Homestead, FL, is diverse and offers various opportunities across multiple industries. Key sectors include healthcare, education, agriculture, retail, and the service industry. The city’s proximity to Miami also enhances job prospects in tourism and hospitality, with the Homestead-Miami Speedway and local attractions drawing numerous visitors and creating job opportunities​. The median after-tax salary in Homestead is $4524, which covers living expenses for about 1.1 months.

Also, Homestead is favorable for starting a business due to its lower cost of living and supportive community environment. The city offers resources and programs to help entrepreneurs and small business owners succeed, making it an attractive location for new ventures. So, consider hiring the services of commercial movers Miami companies provide and relocate your business to Homestead with minimum downtime. All in all, Homestead is ranked 3815th globally and 1379th in the United States for livability.

Homestead schools

​Homestead, Florida, offers a diverse array of educational institutions catering to various student needs. Homestead Senior High School provides specialized magnet programs. These include Veterinary Science, Nursing, Computer Game Development, and Hospitality & Tourism Management, enhancing students’ academic experiences. Kingswood Montessori Academy, a private institution, serves children from 18 months to fifth grade, emphasizing individualized learning and fostering a love for education. Next, Coconut Palm K-8 Academy, a public school, serves approximately 1,210 students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, with 40% achieving proficiency in math and 37% in reading.

Somerset Academy South Homestead offers a culture that maximizes student achievement and fosters the development of accountable, 21st-century learners in a safe and enriching environment. Next, Homestead Middle School provides various academic and extracurricular programs, including parent engagement initiatives and school tours. South Dade Senior High School, established in 1953, is a magnet school offering International Baccalaureate and other academic programs, serving a diverse student population. All in all, these institutions collectively contribute to a robust educational landscape in Homestead.​

Living in Homestead: Transportation

Transportation in Homestead, FL, offers affordable and convenient options. A local transport ticket costs around $2.37, while a monthly pass is approximately $85.50. For taxi services, an 8 km (5 miles) ride averages $14.40. Gasoline is relatively inexpensive at about $0.93 per liter (0.26 gallons). These costs make commuting and getting around the city budget-friendly for residents. Additionally, Homestead’s proximity to Miami provides easy access to more extensive public transportation networks, enhancing connectivity for daily commutes and leisure travel.

Safety in Homestead

​Homestead, Florida, is generally considered a safe community with crime rates comparable to national averages. It is considered safer than 8% of U.S. cities, according to Neighborhood Scout. The city has implemented various initiatives to enhance public safety, including community policing and neighborhood watch programs. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local safety measures and participate in community efforts to maintain a secure environment. While Homestead offers a welcoming atmosphere, it’s advisable for residents and visitors to remain vigilant, especially in unfamiliar areas. For the most current and detailed crime statistics, consulting local law enforcement agencies or official city resources is recommended.​

Enjoy peace and quiet life  in Homestead

Another great thing about Homestead is that it is a great place for families. What is more, if you are looking for peace and quiet, Homestead will deliver that, too! There are plenty of parks and nature trails where you can enjoy your leisure time. Uninterrupted by loud noises or crowds of people, it has got all the benefits of a big city without all the hustle and bustle (we call that “living small”). And if you want a little more action, Miami is just 20 minutes away by car, so it won’t take long before you’re back in the center of things again!

Living in Homestead: Things to do

Homestead, although a quiet city, has a lot of opportunities. As previously said, it’s close to Everglades National Park and has great beaches. First off, there are some amazing restaurants and shops in town. There’s Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews, which has really fantastic burgers and fries. What is more, you can get authentic Cuban food at any of the local restaurants in Homestead. You’ll find plenty of steak houses, seafood restaurants, and even a few vegan joints. No matter what kind of food you’re looking for, there’s a place for you here in Homestead! Also, there are other shops, such as there’s Barnes and Noble. This is where you can get your favorite books or records or anything else you need. And if you’re looking for something fun like a museum or an art gallery? They’ve got those too!

Great beaches in Homestead

The weather here is great all year round. And what is more, there are some great beaches. The best beaches near Homestead are South Beach, Haulover Park Beach, and Matheson Hammock Park Beach. South Beach is located in Miami-Dade County and has beautiful white sand beaches that stretch along Biscayne Bay. Haulover Park Beach offers soft sand and calm waters. That makes it easy for families with young children to enjoy swimming or playing in the water without getting too deep. Matheson Hammock Park Beach also has soft sand and calm waters. However, it is only accessible by boat or seaplane due to its remote location on Key Largo Island. The only barrier island in the Florida Keys chain!

Is Homestead worth moving to?

Yes, Homestead is worth moving to, especially if you’re looking for affordability, a family-friendly environment, and proximity to both Miami and nature. The cost of living is lower compared to many other South Florida cities, making it an attractive option for families and young professionals. It offers a mix of small-town charm and urban convenience, with good schools and job opportunities across various industries.

Are there any cons of living in Homestead?

Living in Homestead comes with some drawbacks. The city has limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to Miami, making it less appealing for those seeking an active social scene. Summers can be extremely hot and humid, and the area is vulnerable to hurricanes, requiring storm preparedness. Traffic congestion, especially during commutes to Miami, can be frustrating.

How to organize the move to Homestead

To organize your move effectively, start by creating a detailed moving checklist. Include tasks such as hiring a reliable moving company like Pro Movers Miami, notifying utility companies of your move, and updating your address with important institutions. Begin packing non-essential items well in advance and label all boxes clearly. It’s also wise to declutter your belongings to reduce moving costs and effort. On a moving day, ensure all essentials are packed separately and easily accessible.

Additionally, create a timeline to ensure everything is completed on time. Confirm moving dates and times with your moving company to avoid last-minute issues. If possible, schedule an inspection of your new home before moving in to make sure everything is ready. Ensure that all appliances and furniture are in proper working order. Consider setting up temporary accommodations if you need to complete any last-minute tasks before moving. By planning ahead and staying organized, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new home in Homestead.

Move to Homestead with Pro Movers Miami

Enjoy living in Homestead after moving here with Pro Movers Miami! Our dedicated team makes your move seamless, allowing you to settle into your new home quickly. Homestead is a great place to call home. With our professional moving services, you’ll have more time to explore the beautiful Everglades and Biscayne National Parks, enjoy local dining, and participate in community events. With Pro Movers Miami, one of the best moving companies Miami Dade has, you can focus on discovering your new community while we take care of all the moving details. Contact us today for a stress-free move and start your new adventure in Homestead!

References:

Cost of Living in Homestead, FL: rent, food, transport. (2020, July 27). Livingcost. https://livingcost.org/cost/united-states/fl/homestead