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Coral Gables!

 

 

“The City Beautiful”

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Coral Gables

 A City in Miami-Dade County, Florida

 

Coral Gables is a meticulously planned, upscale city in Miami-Dade County known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture, lush tree-lined boulevards, and timeless elegance. Nicknamed “The City Beautiful”, Coral Gables blends historic charm with modern sophistication, offering residents and visitors a mix of cultural landmarks, world-class shopping, fine dining, and proximity to Miami’s vibrant urban core.

Venetian Pool, Coral Gables

Coral Gables, Florida. Venetian Pool.
Photo by Gagliardi Photography

Location & Size

Coral Gables is located in Miami-Dade County, southeastern Florida, just southwest of downtown Miami. It borders the city of Miami to the north and east, South Miami to the west.  Coral Gables covers approximately 37 square miles and extends toward Biscayne Bay on its eastern edge. Its location places it only a short drive from Miami International Airport and the beaches of Key Biscayne and Miami Beach.

Founded

Coral Gables was founded in 1925 by George Merrick, a visionary developer who transformed thousands of acres of his family’s citrus groves into one of America’s first fully planned communities. Designed during Florida’s land boom, Merrick envisioned a “City Beautiful” inspired by Mediterranean Revival architecture, with grand entrances, broad boulevards, lush landscaping, and strict design codes to ensure aesthetic harmony. The city quickly became known for its iconic landmarks, including the Biltmore Hotel and Venetian Pool, both built in the 1920s. Despite the land bust and Great Depression slowing early growth, Coral Gables rebounded in the mid-20th century, becoming home to the University of Miami and a thriving business district. Today, it remains a model of thoughtful urban planning, blending historic preservation with modern sophistication while retaining the elegance and charm of Merrick’s original vision.

CORAL GABLES WEATHER

Population

 As of 2024, Coral Gables has an estimated population of around 49,000 residents.

Known For

  • Distinctive Mediterranean Revival architecture

  • Miracle Mile and Merrick Park for luxury shopping and dining

  • University of Miami, a major educational and cultural hub

  • Historic landmarks like the Biltmore Hotel and Venetian Pool

  • Strict zoning codes that preserve the city’s beauty and character

Cost of living

Coral Gables has a high cost of living, reflecting its exclusivity and amenities.

  • Median Household Income: $115,000

  • Median Home Price: $1.1 million

  • Average Rent (1-bedroom): $2,900/month

Things to do

  • Swim in the historic Venetian Pool

  • Explore the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

  • Tour the Biltmore Hotel and play a round of golf on its historic course

  • Stroll through Miracle Mile or Shops at Merrick Park

  • Attend cultural events at the Actors’ Playhouse or Lowe Art Museum

Fun Facts

  • The Biltmore Hotel’s tower was inspired by the Giralda bell tower in Seville, Spain.

  • Coral Gables was one of the first planned communities in the U.S., designed with uniform architecture and lush landscaping.

  • The city’s founder, George Merrick, envisioned it as a blend of Old World charm and tropical beauty, which still defines it today.

Nearby Cities

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