Coral Gables was planned in the 1920s by George Merrick as "The City Beautiful," and it still follows that vision. Mediterranean Revival architecture, tree-lined streets, landmark plazas and strict design review give the city a look unlike anywhere else in Miami-Dade.
The city is home to the University of Miami's main campus, the Miracle Mile shopping district and the historic Venetian Pool. Buyers choose between historic single-family homes, newer estates, and condominiums close to downtown Gables.
What buyers look for
- Historic Mediterranean Revival homes, which come with design-review rules
- Condominiums near Miracle Mile and downtown Gables
- Larger single-family estates, including waterfront properties in the south
- Proximity to the University of Miami, Brickell and Miami International Airport
Design review and historic homes
Coral Gables keeps its look through design review. The city's Board of Architects reviews new construction and exterior changes, and properties with historic designation need additional approvals. Paint colors, roofs, windows and additions can all be subject to review, so plan renovations with the rules in mind.
Neighborhoods and home types
North and central Gables
Historic single-family homes from the 1920s onward, many in the Mediterranean Revival style, on tree-lined streets near the Biltmore Hotel, the Granada golf course and downtown.
South Gables
Larger lots, newer estates and waterfront homes with canal or bay access, including gated communities such as Cocoplum and Gables Estates.
Condos near downtown
Condominiums cluster around Miracle Mile and along Ponce de Leon Boulevard, within walking distance of shops, restaurants and offices.
Everyday life
Downtown centers on Miracle Mile and Giralda Plaza, a pedestrian street lined with restaurants. The free Coral Gables Trolley runs along Ponce de Leon Boulevard, and Metrorail stations sit along U.S. 1 at the edge of the city. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and Matheson Hammock Park are in the south of the city, and the Biltmore Hotel and Venetian Pool are local landmarks.
Before you buy
Check whether a home has historic designation and what approvals past renovations had. Older homes deserve a close look at roofs, plumbing and electrical systems. In the south, check the flood zone and the condition of seawalls and docks, and get insurance quotes during the inspection period.
Coral Gables by the numbers
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-year estimates.
Schools
Public schools in Coral Gables are part of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, and Coral Gables Senior High School is located in the city. Attendance boundaries can change, so confirm the zoned schools for a specific address with the district. Miami-Dade County Public Schools.