Black history, wealth, and excellence reign supreme in Overtown in
Miami. Despite its undeniably racist former name—it was called “Colored Town” in the Jim Crow era—the African-American community here thrived to the point of making the place their own. The place is even regarded as “The Harlem of the South,” further proving that the community's influence here knows no bounds. From homegrown businesses to local hotspots, Overtown shares a different side to Miami's excessive urban pleasures. You couldn't have found a more fascinating place to explore, possibly even settle down in, than this historic district.
Where is Overtown in Miami?
Though it's located up north, Overtown is still one of
Miami's central neighborhoods. The historic district isn't too far from the city center, not to mention the fact that it's also surrounded by the city's other, equally prominent areas. Downtown Miami is only southwest of Overtown, while Riverside is to its southeast, Allapattah is to its east, Wynwood is to its north, and Edgewater is to its northwest. With such popular districts nearby, it's no wonder Overtown remains a talked-about part of town, notwithstanding its fascinating history and strong Black community.
Is it Safe in Overtown, Miami?
Unfortunately, it's not. Overtown ranks among the least safe neighborhoods in Miami, often due to gang violence. It has some of the highest
crime rates in Miami, too, approximately 456% higher than the national average. Does this mean you shouldn't go here at all? Not necessarily. Much like the other parts of the city, Overtown remains relatively safe during the day. Though you still have to take the necessary safety precautions, and it's better to here accompanied by a local who knows the area, you'll still stay safe during the day. It's nightfall that you have to be worried about.
What's The Vibe in Overtown, Miami?
Despite how dangerous it tends to get, there's no denying that Overtown is another vibrant neighborhood in Miami. Its unique mix of African-American history and contemporary culture keeps it utterly fascinating, earning it the moniker of “The Harlem of the South.” Now, Overtown may not be as jazzy as its New York City counterpart, but it's fun here just the same. Art, music, and food play as big a part here as its history, luring in locals and tourists alike with its cool hotspots and vivacious residents. It's no wonder some still risk settling down here when they
move to Miami.
Is it Expensive in Overtown, Miami?
Overtown is fairly pricey considering
Miami's living costs typically skew high, but it's still more affordable than most of Miami. Take the rent here, for example, which is at an average $1,863.00 per month. This may seem high in the grand scheme of things, but it's still lower than the city-wide average, which is $2,800.00 per month. And though Overtown has many great places to eat, they're far from the upscale hotspots you'll find in Downtown Miami and the like. Eating out here will typically cost around $15.00 to $25.00 per meal in affordable to mid-range restaurants.
What to See in Overtown, Miami
Admittedly, Overtown doesn't have that many notable sights to see, if any. It's far from the tourist-friendly places that Downtown Miami, Brickell, and Miami Beach are. The murals painted over its many walls are definitely a sight to see, but they're not that unique to the likes of Wynwood. The neighborhood does, however, have local hotspots that convey the area's fascinating history and heritage. The Black Archives - Historic Lyric Theater on NW 2nd Avenue is a good example since it's a popular performance venue that has stood since 1913. Today, it remains a staple platform for local musical acts and other artists.
What to Do in Overtown, Miami
If you can't necessarily sightsee in Overtown, then what is there to do around here? Experience life as a local. With its unique heritage and extensive history, you couldn't have asked for a better place to learn more about Miami, specifically its black community. For instance, the area boasts some of the best soul food spots in the city, culinary institutions that champion African-American cuisine at its finest. The aforementioned Black Archives - Historic Lyric Theater, on the other hand, highlights local black music from the early 20th century to today. You won't find such amazing establishments anywhere else in Miami and beyond!
The Best Restaurants in Overtown, Miami
Speaking of the best place to eat in Overtown, the foodie scene here is truly not to be overlooked. Are these also the
best restaurants in Miami? Well, that's debatable. What is true about it is that Overtown has such awesome eateries, they're worth going back to this relatively unpopular neighborhood again and again. NW 3rd Avenue alone has the likes of Jackson Soul Food, House of Wings, and Lil Greenhouse Grill, among many others. They're some of the finest hotspots in the city where you can indulge in soul food at its most authentic.
These are some of the best places to eat in Overtown:
- CRAFT Midtown on NE 1st Avenue
- Giselle Miami on NE 11th Street
- Tâm Tâm on NW 1st Street
- Bistro Café on NE 1st Avenue
- Red Rooster Overtown on NN 2nd Avenue
- House of Wings on NW 3rd Avenue
- Jackson Soul Food on NW 3rd Avenue
- Lil Greenhouse Grill on NW 3rd Avenue
- World Famous House of Mac on NW 7th Avenue
- Tanuki River Landing NW N River Drive
What to Know About Renting in Overtown, Miami
As already mentioned, the rent in Overtown isn't all that high. Compared to the city-wide average of about $2,800.00 per month, the average rent in this neighborhood is only around $1,863.00 per month. Not that low in the grand scheme of things, but definitely way more affordable compared to the rest of the city. As for why Overtown has such low rent, it may be because the place has very few
luxury apartments to rent in Miami. Not to mention the area's unfortunate reputation as one of the most dangerous parts of town.
Known as “The Harlem of the South,” Overtown is the premier Black district in Miami. The place has and continues to uphold the influence, wealth, and prominence of the city’s African-American community, making it one of the most exciting parts of town.
