Living in Coconut Grove, Miami: Your Ultimate Guide to Homes, Schools & Waterfront Living 2025
Living in Coconut Grove means embracing Miami’s oldest and most enchanting neighborhood—a lush, tree-canopied village where historic charm meets contemporary luxury along the shores of Biscayne Bay. Known affectionately as “The Grove,” this neighborhood within the City of Miami stands apart from South Florida’s high-rise corridors with its winding streets, Bahamian-influenced architecture, and a village atmosphere that feels more like a small coastal town than part of a major metropolitan area.
📋 Table of Contents
- Where is Coconut Grove and Why Does Location Matter?
- Getting Around: Walkability & Transit in Coconut Grove
- Lifestyle & Culture in The Grove
- Coconut Grove Real Estate Market 2025
- Dining & Entertainment
- Schools & Education in Coconut Grove
- Safety & Community
- Pros & Cons of Living in Coconut Grove
- Who Should Live in Coconut Grove?
- Frequently Asked Questions
🌴 Coconut Grove Quick Facts
- Location: South-central Miami-Dade County, along Biscayne Bay
- ZIP Codes: 33133, 33146
- Population: ~20,000 residents
- Median Home Price: $2.0M – $4.0M (single-family); $1M – $5M+ (condos)
- Top Schools: Ransom Everglades, Carrollton, George Washington Carver Elementary
- Commute to Brickell: 10-15 minutes
- Commute to MIA: 15-20 minutes
- Best For: Families, professionals, boating enthusiasts, village lifestyle seekers
Coconut Grove’s appeal transcends typical real estate metrics. Yes, property values rank among Miami-Dade’s highest, and the neighborhood attracts executives, international buyers, and multi-generational families seeking the best schools and safest streets. But The Grove’s true distinction lies in its lifestyle: morning runs along Bayshore Drive with bay breezes and sailboat views, weekend brunches on banyan-shaded patios around CocoWalk, evening strolls through Peacock Park where families gather for concerts and festivals, and a genuine sense of community that’s increasingly rare in South Florida’s transient landscape.
The real estate market in Coconut Grove reflects this desirability with a diverse inventory spanning meticulously maintained historic cottages, modern tropical estates in gated enclaves like The Moorings and Hughes Cove, and striking architectural condominiums along the bayfront—including the twisted glass towers of Grove at Grand Bay (designed by Bjarke Ingels) and the sophisticated residences of Park Grove (by OMA’s Rem Koolhaas). Whether you’re a family prioritizing access to elite private schools like Ransom Everglades and Carrollton, an investor evaluating luxury waterfront condos, or a professional seeking walkable village living minutes from Brickell and Downtown Miami, Coconut Grove offers options that few South Florida neighborhoods can match.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about living in Coconut Grove in 2025—from real estate pricing and investment dynamics to school quality, dining culture, and daily lifestyle. If you’re considering relocating to Miami or exploring new neighborhoods within the city, understanding what makes The Grove special is essential to making an informed decision.
Where is Coconut Grove Miami and Why Does Location Matter?
Coconut Grove occupies a privileged position on Biscayne Bay in south-central Miami-Dade County, situated directly south and southwest of Brickell and Downtown Miami. The neighborhood is bounded by US-1 (South Dixie Highway) to the west and northwest, Coral Gables along its western edge (near LeJeune Road), and stretches east to the bay shoreline. To the south, The Grove transitions into South Miami and additional Coral Gables territory, while the Rickenbacker Causeway provides direct access east to Key Biscayne via a scenic route that begins near the Grove’s northern edge.
The neighborhood’s geography is defined by its relationship with Biscayne Bay. South Bayshore Drive runs along the waterfront, offering stunning views of the bay, downtown Miami’s skyline, and the marinas that anchor The Grove’s boating culture. Just offshore lies Grove Isle, a private island community connected by causeway, adding another dimension to the neighborhood’s exclusive waterfront character.
Coconut Grove is typically divided into several sub-areas, each with distinct characteristics: Center Grove forms the village core around CocoWalk, Grand Avenue, and Main Highway, where boutique shops, restaurants, and historic sites like The Barnacle Historic State Park concentrate. North Grove extends toward Vizcaya Museum & Gardens (technically just outside The Grove but closely associated) and includes working-class Bahamian heritage alongside newer development. South Grove encompasses some of the most exclusive gated communities and waterfront estates. Notable enclaves include Bay Heights, The Moorings, Camp Biscayne, and Hughes Cove—all guard-gated single-family communities that command premium pricing.
The primary ZIP code is 33133, with portions near the Coral Gables border falling into 33146. Key landmarks that orient residents and visitors include CocoWalk (the commercial and entertainment hub), Dinner Key Marina (one of the largest marinas in Florida), Peacock Park (waterfront park hosting community events), Kennedy Park, Regatta Park, and the historic Barnacle property—one of Miami’s oldest homes, now a state park.
Major roads serving The Grove include US-1/South Dixie Highway (north-south arterial), South Bayshore Drive (scenic bayfront route), Main Highway (historic village road), and Douglas Road/27th Avenue (quick access west to Coral Gables and the airport). This geography places Coconut Grove within 10-15 minutes of Brickell’s financial district, 15-20 minutes from Miami International Airport, and 8-15 minutes from the University of Miami campus—making it ideal for professionals, university faculty, and families seeking central positioning with a village atmosphere.
Getting Around: Walkability & Transit in Coconut Grove Miami
Living in Coconut Grove offers some of Miami’s best walkability, particularly within the village core around CocoWalk, Main Highway, and the bayfront parks. The compact geography of Center Grove means residents can walk to cafés, restaurants, boutiques, parks, and entertainment venues without driving—a rarity in car-dependent South Florida. Tree-canopied sidewalks along residential streets create pleasant walking environments, while the bayfront promenade along South Bayshore Drive attracts joggers, cyclists, and families pushing strollers throughout the day.
Bike lanes and shared roadways make cycling viable for recreation and short errands within The Grove. Many residents bike to the village for morning coffee, weekend brunch, or evening dining, taking advantage of shaded streets and relatively low traffic volumes on interior roads. The culture of outdoor activity is strong—expect to see runners, cyclists, and dog walkers on virtually every street, especially during cooler morning and evening hours.
Despite excellent walkability within the village core, Coconut Grove remains car-dependent for most daily needs beyond the immediate neighborhood. Grocery shopping (with the exception of a small Publix in the village), medical appointments, airport runs, and commuting to employment centers typically require a vehicle. Most single-family homes include private garages and driveways, while condo buildings offer assigned parking (sometimes with additional costs for guest spaces or second vehicles).
Public transit access is better than many Miami neighborhoods thanks to two Metrorail stations: the Coconut Grove Station (at Grand Avenue and US-1) and the Douglas Road Station (at the western edge, bordering Coral Gables). Metrorail provides direct rail service to Brickell, Downtown Miami, the Civic Center/Health District, Miami International Airport, and points north. For professionals commuting to downtown offices, Metrorail offers a viable alternative to driving, with trains running every 7-15 minutes during peak hours.
The Miami Trolley operates free service through Coconut Grove with multiple routes connecting the village core to Metrorail stations, Vizcaya, and surrounding areas. While frequency isn’t always consistent, the trolley provides a no-cost option for local circulation and is popular with residents running errands without cars.
Commute times from Coconut Grove are among Miami-Dade’s most favorable: Brickell and Downtown Miami are typically 10-15 minutes by car or Metrorail (non-rush); Miami Beach is 20-30 minutes via the MacArthur or Venetian Causeways; Miami International Airport is 15-20 minutes via US-1 or 836; and Fort Lauderdale is 40-55 minutes via I-95. The University of Miami in Coral Gables is just 8-15 minutes away, making The Grove particularly attractive to faculty, staff, and graduate students.
💡 Pro Tip: Plan on owning at least one vehicle when living in Coconut Grove, but appreciate that the village lifestyle allows for genuine walkability and the ability to leave your car parked for local activities—a quality that distinguishes The Grove from more sprawling Miami neighborhoods.
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Lifestyle & Culture in Coconut Grove
The lifestyle in Coconut Grove blends historic village charm, outdoor living, and sophisticated urban amenities into a package that appeals to those seeking something beyond typical South Florida residential experiences. This is a neighborhood where century-old banyan trees shade sidewalks, where sailors prep boats at Dinner Key Marina for weekend sails on Biscayne Bay, where families gather at Peacock Park for outdoor movies and festivals, and where a genuine sense of community persists despite proximity to downtown Miami’s towers.
Demographics in The Grove skew toward established families with school-age children (drawn by top-tier private schools and strong public options), successful entrepreneurs and executives who value the village lifestyle over urban high-rise living, long-time residents with multi-generational connections to the neighborhood, and international buyers—particularly from Latin America and Europe—seeking secure, prestigious addresses with strong schools. This creates a sophisticated, globally-minded community where multilingual conversations are common and cultural diversity is woven into daily life.
The vibe is decidedly relaxed yet upscale—think weekend brunches on tree-shaded patios rather than nightclub bottle service, sailing regattas rather than beach clubs, farmers markets rather than ultra-lounges. Residents dress casually (shorts, sundresses, sandals are standard even at nicer restaurants), embrace outdoor activities, and prioritize family time and wellness over late-night entertainment. This isn’t Brickell’s young professional energy or Wynwood’s artistic edge—it’s a mature, established community where people have chosen quality of life over urban excitement.
Community engagement runs deep in Coconut Grove, with active neighborhood associations, historic preservation efforts, and resident-organized events that bring people together. The annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival (one of the nation’s premier outdoor art shows), King Mango Strut parade (quirky New Year’s tradition), and regular farmers markets create social fabric that newer developments struggle to replicate. Parents connect through schools, sports leagues, and park programs, while dog owners form friendships during morning walks—The Grove’s abundant green space and pet-friendly culture making it ideal for animal lovers.
Safety ranks among residents’ top reasons for choosing Coconut Grove. While no urban neighborhood is crime-free, The Grove benefits from active policing, engaged residents who look out for one another, and the security measures of gated communities (The Moorings, Hughes Cove, Camp Biscayne, Bay Heights) that house many of the most expensive properties. Single-family streets are quiet and residential, with low through-traffic, while the village commercial core has typical urban awareness requirements (lock cars, don’t leave valuables visible) but generally feels safe day and night.
The sailing and boating culture deserves special mention—Dinner Key Marina, one of Florida’s largest municipal marinas, serves as a social hub for sailors, with yacht clubs, sailing schools, and weekend regattas creating a distinct maritime community within The Grove. Even non-boat-owners appreciate the visual appeal and lifestyle association, with waterfront dining venues and parks offering front-row seats to bay activity.
Evening and weekend life centers on dining (from casual cafés to chef-driven restaurants), waterfront strolls, live music at venues like CocoWalk, and family-friendly park activities rather than nightlife per se. Those seeking club scenes, rooftop bars, and late-night options typically venture to Brickell, Wynwood, or Miami Beach—The Grove’s appeal lies in what it offers rather than what it intentionally avoids.
Coconut Grove Real Estate Market 2025
The real estate market in Coconut Grove reflects its status as one of Miami’s most prestigious addresses, with property values supported by limited inventory, strong schools, lifestyle appeal, and enduring demand from multi-generational families, executives, and international buyers. The market divides cleanly into two categories: single-family homes dominating interior streets and gated enclaves, and luxury condominiums concentrated along the bayfront.
Single-Family Homes in Coconut Grove
Single-family home inventory spans historic cottages (some dating to the early 1900s), mid-century modern properties, contemporary tropical architecture, and gated waterfront estates. Median pricing typically falls in the $2.0 million to $4.0 million range for non-waterfront properties in good locations with updated finishes and 3-4 bedrooms. These homes appeal to families prioritizing yard space, privacy, and the ability to customize properties over time—many buyers purchase with plans to renovate or rebuild entirely, treating land value as the primary asset.
Waterfront and gated community properties command significant premiums, with estates in The Moorings, Bay Heights, Hughes Cove, and Camp Biscayne typically ranging from $7 million to $25 million+ depending on lot size, water frontage, dock facilities, elevation, and finishes. These represent trophy properties with multi-generational appeal, often trading off-market or through discreet whisper listings rather than public MLS exposure. Buyers in this tier include ultra-high-net-worth families, international executives, and successful entrepreneurs seeking the best The Grove offers—often comparing these properties to similar options in Coral Gables’ gated communities like Gables Estates or Cocoplum.
Luxury Condominiums in Coconut Grove
Condominium inventory clusters along South Bayshore Drive and Grand Avenue, featuring world-class architecture and resort-style amenities. Iconic developments include:
- Park Grove (OMA/Rem Koolhaas design; delivered phases including Two Park Grove and Three Park Grove): Contemporary luxury with bay views, extensive amenities, and architectural pedigree; units typically $1.5M-$5M+
- Grove at Grand Bay (Bjarke Ingels’ twisted glass towers): Ultra-luxury with unique design, waterfront positioning, and full-service amenities; units $2M-$10M+ for penthouses
- Mr. C Residences (Cipriani-branded): Boutique luxury with hotel services, bayfront location, and Italian design sensibility; units $1.5M-$4M+
- Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove: Established luxury with hotel services and bay views; units $1M-$3M+
- Grove Isle (Island House, Harbor House): Private island community with lower-rise buildings; units $800K-$3M+
These condominiums attract empty-nesters downsizing from single-family homes while staying in The Grove, international buyers seeking turnkey luxury with full services, and professionals who want the village lifestyle without yard maintenance. Amenities typically include concierge, valet parking, fitness centers, pools, spas, and often on-site dining or room service through hotel partnerships.
💰 Investment Perspective: Coconut Grove’s real estate market has shown consistent appreciation driven by limited supply, strong rental demand (particularly from University of Miami affiliates and corporate relocations), and the neighborhood’s enduring appeal to families and professionals. Waterfront properties and architecturally significant condos tend to hold value best during market corrections, while interior single-family homes offer renovation/rebuild opportunities for value-add investors.
For those interested in buying in Miami or investing in Miami real estate, Coconut Grove represents a mature, stable market with strong fundamentals and lifestyle appeal that transcends typical real estate cycles.
Dining & Entertainment in Coconut Grove
The dining and entertainment scene in Coconut Grove reflects the neighborhood’s sophisticated yet relaxed character, with an emphasis on outdoor seating, waterfront views, and culinary quality over trendy nightlife. The village core around CocoWalk, Main Highway, and Grand Avenue concentrates most options, creating a walkable dining district that draws residents and visitors throughout the week.
Notable Restaurants & Cafés
- Lulu in the Grove: Upscale Mediterranean with waterfront terrace dining; popular for special occasions and date nights
- Greenstreet Café: Grove institution for breakfast, brunch, and people-watching on the sidewalk patio; casual American fare
- Ariete: Chef-driven contemporary American with creative tasting menus; Michelin recognition and local acclaim
- Jaguar Sun: Tropical-inspired fine dining with seasonal menus and wine pairings; intimate setting
- Monty’s Raw Bar: Waterfront seafood shack with outdoor seating, live music, and sunset views; casual Grove classic
- The Spillover: Neighborhood bar and grill with sports viewing, outdoor seating, and comfort food
- Lokal: Craft burgers and local beers in a laid-back setting; popular with families and young professionals
- Bombay Darbar: Long-standing Indian restaurant with authentic cuisine and loyal following
CocoWalk serves as the entertainment hub with a mix of restaurants, bars, and occasional live music venues. While not a nightlife destination like Wynwood or South Beach, The Grove offers enough options for casual evenings out, date nights, and family dining without leaving the neighborhood.
The farmers market at Regatta Park (Saturdays) has become a social institution, where residents shop for local produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods while catching up with neighbors—embodying The Grove’s community-oriented lifestyle.
Schools & Education in Coconut Grove Miami
Education ranks as a primary draw for families moving to Coconut Grove, with access to some of Miami’s most prestigious private schools and strong public school options creating an environment where academic achievement is prioritized and supported.
Top Private Schools
- Ransom Everglades School: Elite independent school (grades 6-12) with rigorous academics, strong college placement (Ivy League and top universities), extensive athletics and arts programs, and waterfront campus. Tuition ~$45K-$50K annually; highly selective admissions.
- Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart: All-girls Catholic school (PK-12) with strong academics, values-based education, and excellent college prep. Tuition ~$30K-$40K annually.
- Immaculata-La Salle High School: Catholic co-ed high school with college prep focus and strong community ties. More accessible tuition than Ransom or Carrollton.
Public Schools
- George Washington Carver Elementary: Highly-rated public elementary (K-5) serving The Grove; strong test scores and engaged parent community
- Coconut Grove Elementary: Another solid public option with diverse student body and active PTA
- Ponce de Leon Middle School: Serves middle school students from The Grove and surrounding areas
The proximity to University of Miami (8-15 minutes) also influences The Grove’s educational culture, with many university faculty, staff, and graduate students choosing to live in the neighborhood for the commute convenience and village atmosphere.
For families prioritizing education, Coconut Grove offers a rare combination: access to elite private schools without sacrificing neighborhood character, walkability, or outdoor lifestyle—a balance that few South Florida neighborhoods achieve.
Safety & Community in Coconut Grove
Safety and community engagement are defining characteristics of life in Coconut Grove, contributing significantly to the neighborhood’s appeal for families and long-term residents.
Crime & Safety
Coconut Grove benefits from lower crime rates than many Miami neighborhoods, particularly in the gated communities (The Moorings, Hughes Cove, Bay Heights, Camp Biscayne) where 24/7 security, controlled access, and engaged residents create highly secure environments. The village core and residential streets maintain active police presence, neighborhood watch programs, and a culture of residents looking out for one another.
As with any urban area, basic precautions apply: lock vehicles, don’t leave valuables visible, be aware of surroundings in parking areas at night. But overall, The Grove feels safe day and night, with families comfortable walking to parks, restaurants, and shops at all hours.
Community Organizations
The Coconut Grove Civic Club, Village Council, and various neighborhood associations actively engage residents in preservation efforts, development oversight, and community events. This civic participation creates social cohesion and gives residents voice in shaping The Grove’s future—a level of engagement that distinguishes established neighborhoods from newer developments.
Regular community events (arts festivals, farmers markets, park concerts, holiday parades) provide natural opportunities for neighbors to connect, creating the village atmosphere that defines The Grove’s identity.
Pros & Cons of Living in Coconut Grove Miami
✅ Pros
- Village atmosphere with walkable core and tree-canopied streets
- Access to elite private schools (Ransom Everglades, Carrollton)
- Waterfront living and boating culture on Biscayne Bay
- Strong sense of community and civic engagement
- Central location (10-15 min to Brickell, 15-20 min to airport)
- Excellent dining and entertainment within neighborhood
- Lower crime rates and safe residential streets
- Metrorail access for downtown commutes
- Historic charm and architectural diversity
- Abundant parks and outdoor recreation
⚠️ Cons
- High property prices ($2M-$4M+ for single-family homes)
- Limited inventory and competitive market
- Car still necessary for most daily needs beyond village core
- Private school tuition adds significant costs for families
- Less nightlife/entertainment than Brickell or Wynwood
- Older housing stock may require renovations
- Parking challenges in village core during peak times
- Hurricane/flood risk for waterfront properties
- Traffic congestion on US-1 during rush hours
- May feel too quiet for those seeking urban energy
Who Should Live in Coconut Grove?
Coconut Grove is ideal for:
- Families with school-age children prioritizing access to top private schools (Ransom Everglades, Carrollton) and safe, community-oriented neighborhoods
- Professionals and executives seeking village lifestyle with easy commutes to Brickell/Downtown while avoiding high-rise living
- Boating enthusiasts and sailors who want waterfront access, marina proximity, and bay lifestyle
- Empty-nesters downsizing from larger homes but wanting to stay in established, walkable neighborhoods with culture and dining
- University of Miami faculty/staff valuing short commutes and sophisticated community
- International buyers seeking secure, prestigious addresses with strong schools and central positioning
- Long-term residents who appreciate historic character, community engagement, and quality of life over trendy amenities
Coconut Grove may not be ideal for:
- Young professionals seeking nightlife, rooftop bars, and urban energy (consider Brickell or Wynwood)
- First-time buyers with limited budgets (median prices $2M+ for single-family homes)
- Those who prefer new construction and modern amenities over historic charm
- Renters seeking affordable options (rental inventory limited and expensive)
- Car-free lifestyle seekers (vehicle still necessary despite good walkability)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Coconut Grove
Is Coconut Grove a good place to live in Miami?
Yes, Coconut Grove is consistently ranked as one of Miami’s best neighborhoods for families, professionals, and those seeking village lifestyle with waterfront access. The combination of top-rated schools, walkable village core, strong community, and central location makes it highly desirable despite premium pricing.
How much does it cost to live in Coconut Grove?
Single-family homes typically range from $2.0M to $4.0M for non-waterfront properties, with waterfront and gated estates reaching $7M to $25M+. Luxury condos range from $800K to $10M+ depending on building, views, and finishes. Rentals for 2-3 bedroom apartments/condos typically start at $3,500-$5,000/month.
What are the best schools in Coconut Grove?
Top private schools include Ransom Everglades School (grades 6-12, elite independent school with Ivy League placement) and Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart (PK-12 all-girls Catholic school). Strong public options include George Washington Carver Elementary and Coconut Grove Elementary.
Is Coconut Grove walkable?
Yes, the village core around CocoWalk, Main Highway, and the bayfront offers excellent walkability for dining, shopping, parks, and entertainment. However, a car is still necessary for grocery shopping, medical appointments, airport access, and commuting to employment centers outside The Grove.
What is Coconut Grove known for?
Coconut Grove is known as Miami’s oldest neighborhood with historic charm, tree-canopied streets, waterfront living on Biscayne Bay, sailing culture at Dinner Key Marina, elite private schools, the annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival, and a village atmosphere that feels distinct from typical South Florida high-rise development.
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