Only in the 305: 12 Tell-Tale Signs You Were Raised in Miami

PSA: If you’re from Miami, skim the headlines and head to the bottom of this article to let us know if we missed anything; we all know you don’t need to read the nitty-gritty details about life in your city.

If you’re anyone else and ever wondered how to spot someone from Miami, you’re in for an (entertaining) treat.

Here are 12 signs that scream, “I’m from Miami!”

They’re Fluent in Spanglish

Miami locals don’t just speak English or Spanish. They blend the two into a magical mix called Spanglish.

You’ll hear phrases like, “Let’s go to la playa, bro,” or “Que cool, right?”

This seamless switch between languages is second nature for many Miamians.

Being bilingual is common in Miami, thanks to its large Hispanic population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 75.1% of Miami-Dade County’s residents speak a language other than English at home, with Spanish leading the charge.

If someone can flawlessly mix “bro” and “oye” in a sentence, they’re probably from Miami.

They Know Traffic Is Inevitable

Miami traffic is legendary, and locals have come to terms with it. Rush hour can feel eternal, and major highways like I-95 and the Palmetto Expressway are often clogged.

Miamians know to leave extra time for commutes and use apps like Waze religiously.

According to the 2024 INRIX Global Traffic Scorecard, Miami is the sixth most congested city in the U.S.

Locals cope by embracing podcasts, playlists, and patience while navigating the gridlock.

They’re Obsessed With Cafecito

Coffee in Miami isn’t just a drink; it’s a lifestyle. Specifically, Cuban coffee, or cafecito, is the go-to pick-me-up.

Served in tiny cups, it’s strong, sweet, and packs a punch that can power you through the day.

Cafecito culture is deeply ingrained in Miami’s social fabric. Locals often gather at ventanitas (small coffee windows) to chat and enjoy this liquid gold.

It’s more than caffeine—it’s a community ritual.

Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable

Living in Miami means dealing with year-round sunshine. Miamians know the importance of protecting their skin from harmful UV rays.

You’ll often see locals lathering up with sunscreen before heading outdoors, whether they’re going to the beach or running errands.

The sun in Miami is no joke. Miami sees an average of 248 sunny days per year, with 205 sunny days being the national average.

Locals have learned the hard way that skipping sunscreen can result in a nasty sunburn, so they’ve made SPF a daily ritual.

Flip-Flops Are Everyday Wear

For Miamians, flip-flops aren’t just for the beach.

They’re practically a wardrobe staple. Whether grabbing cafecito or heading to a fancy dinner, locals have mastered the art of making flip-flops work for any occasion.

This laid-back footwear choice makes sense in a city with tropical weather. Who wants to deal with sweaty feet in closed-toe shoes?

Miamians embrace the breezy vibe with their go-to sandals.

Their Wardrobe Screams Summer

In Miami, winter coats are almost nonexistent. Locals wear lightweight fabrics, bright colors, and tropical prints year-round.

Linen shirts, sundresses, and shorts dominate their closets.

With average lows rarely dipping below 60°F, Miamians have little use for cold-weather gear.

When the rare “cold front” hits, they’ll bundle up in jackets and scarves—even if it’s only 65°F outside.

They’re Experts in Beach Etiquette

Ask a Miamian about the best beach spots, and they’ll give you an expert rundown. They know the prime locations, the best times to go, and how to avoid the tourist traps.

Most locals also respect beach etiquette, like leaving no trash behind and keeping the music at a reasonable volume.

Miamians take pride in their beaches, from the bustling South Beach to the serene Crandon Park.

The beach isn’t just a destination—it’s a way of life.

They Have a Love-Hate Relationship with Hurricanes

Hurricane season is a fact of life for Miami residents.

Locals are well-prepared, stocking up on supplies and keeping an eye on the forecast from June to November. They’ve learned to differentiate between a “meh” tropical storm and a serious hurricane.

While hurricanes are stressful, Miamians have a sense of humor about them.

You might hear jokes about “hurricane parties” or see memes about Floridians braving the winds with a cafecito in hand.

They’re Foodies with a Twist

Miamians are passionate about food, especially when it comes to Latin cuisine.

From empanadas and croquetas to arepas and pastelitos, locals have access to a culinary treasure trove. They’ll eagerly recommend their favorite spots for authentic flavors.

Food trucks and hole-in-the-wall restaurants are often preferred over big chains.

Miamians know that the best meals are sometimes found in the most unexpected places.

They Party Like Pros

Miami nightlife is world-famous, and locals know how to have a good time. They’re pros at navigating the city’s hottest clubs, rooftop bars, and lounges.

Whether it’s dancing until dawn or sipping cocktails by the bay, Miamians bring the energy.

Music plays a huge role in Miami’s party scene.

Salsa, reggaeton, and electronic beats are the soundtrack to nights out. Locals know how to keep the party going long after the tourists call it a night.

They’re Proud of Their City’s Diversity

Miami is a melting pot of cultures, and locals take pride in its diversity.

With people from all over Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond, the city is a vibrant tapestry of traditions, languages, and cuisines.

This cultural richness makes Miami unique.

Locals celebrate events like Calle Ocho Festival and Carnival Miami, which showcase the city’s heritage and bring the community together.

They Embrace the “Miami Time” Mentality

Punctuality isn’t a strong suit in Miami. Locals often operate on “Miami time,” meaning they’re fashionably late to just about everything.

Whether it’s a dinner party or a meeting, a 15- to 30-minute delay is pretty standard.