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Watson Island, Miami,FL

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Watson Island in Miami is a vibrant and unique neighborhood that offers a refreshing blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. Known for its lush greenery and waterfront views, this area is perfect for those who want to enjoy outdoor activities without straying too far from the city buzz. Watson Island is home to the Miami Children's Museum, a standout attraction that draws families and visitors eager to engage in interactive exhibits and educational fun. For nature lovers, Jungle Island provides a wonderful chance to get up close with exotic animals and enjoy botanical gardens, making it a popular spot for weekend outings.

Living in Watson Island means you’re just a short drive away from Downtown Miami, situated conveniently to the northeast of the city’s vibrant core. This proximity allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: a quieter, scenic neighborhood with easy access to the bustling downtown area filled with cultural venues, dining, and nightlife. Whether you work in the city or like to explore its numerous attractions, commuting from Watson Island is straightforward and typically hassle-free, making it an ideal spot for professionals and families alike.

Aside from its natural and cultural attractions, Watson Island also boasts charming waterfront parks and marinas, perfect for boating enthusiasts or anyone who loves spending time by the water. The neighborhood’s accessibility to major highways and public transportation further enhances its appeal for newcomers. If you’re relocating to this part of southeast Miami, you’ll appreciate the mix of recreational opportunities, family-friendly venues, and the ease of city access that Watson Island offers. It’s a hidden gem that combines the tranquility of island living with the excitement of Miami’s urban lifestyle.

Community Snapshot

Population 60
Density (People/sqml.) 1,873
Median Age 51.1
Married Couples
76%
76% of the population of Watson Island aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
36%
36% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Watson Island, 36% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 36% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Watson Island neighborhood age breakdown chart

Watson Island demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 60 residents, Watson Island is notably smaller than many other Miami neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 1,873 people per square mile, Watson Island offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Miami neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 51, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in Watson Island

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Types of Crime

Watson Island neighborhood age breakdown chart

Watson Island Crime Map

The Watson Island crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

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Home Price $2,000,001
Median Rent N/A
People/Household 2.7

Home Price Breakdown

Watson Island neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 4% Own 96%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 57% After 2010 43%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Watson Island, home prices come in around $2,000,001, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Watson Island can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

The average rent price is about $0, which is lower than many surrounding areas. This makes it an appealing option for renters seeking budget-friendly living without sacrificing convenience, location, or quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Lakeside Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Starbucks
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Ichimura Miami Japanese Garden
Attraction
min.
min.
CARNIVAL CRUISE
Attraction
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Brew Ville
Bar
min.
min.
Kelly's Cajun Grill
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Carribean Life
Grocery Store
min.
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Whole Foods Market
Grocery Store
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Parks

Seamans Park
Park
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Watson Park
Park
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Shops

Gift Shop
Gift Shop
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Sunglass Hut
Optician
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

MacArthur Causeway & Fountain Street
Bus Stop
min.
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MacArthur Causeway & Watson Island
Bus Stop
min.
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Transit Stations

Museum Park
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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Walgreens
Pharmacy
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Health Care

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Safety

Seaport / Port of Miami Fire Department Station 39
Fire Station
min.
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Miami Police Department - NET
Police
min.
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
District Summer Center E
1500 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL
High School KG - 12 School Score
District Summer Center G
1500 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL
High School KG - 12 School Score
Miami-Dade Virtual High School Franchise
1501 Ne 2Nd Ave, Miami, FL
High School 6 - 12 School Score
District Summer Center D
1500 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL
High School KG - 12 School Score
Pk Early Intervention Program
1501 Ne 2 Ave Rm 234, Miami, FL
Elementary School PK - PK School Score
Bridgeprep Academy Of Greater Miami
137 Ne 19Th St, Miami, FL
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
District Summer Center L
1500 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL
High School KG - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Watson Island combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Watson Island can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $250,652
Household Income $180,792
Unemployment 0.0%

Income Breakdown

Watson Island Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Watson Island, median household incomes average $180,792, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In Watson Island, the unemployment rate is just 0%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

Watson Island is known for its unique blend of natural beauty and entertainment. One of the main highlights is Jungle Island, a popular eco-adventure park featuring exotic animal exhibits and interactive experiences. The island also offers stunning waterfront views of Biscayne Bay, making it a favorite spot for boating and water sports enthusiasts. Additionally, Watson Island hosts the Miami Children's Museum, which attracts families with its engaging exhibits and educational programs.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, Watson Island is home to several notable landmarks. One key site is the historic Watson Island Bridge, which connects the island to the mainland and has been a vital transport link since the 1920s. The island's proximity to the Port of Miami also adds to its significance, as the port is one of the largest passenger ports in the world. While Watson Island itself is more modern, its role in Miami’s maritime history is notable.

How far is Downtown?

Watson Island is conveniently located just about 1 to 2 miles east of Downtown Miami. It takes roughly 5 to 10 minutes by car to reach the heart of Downtown, depending on traffic. The island is accessible via the MacArthur Causeway, which connects it directly to key areas like Downtown Miami, Miami Beach, and the Miami Design District, making it an ideal location for those who want to be close to urban amenities while enjoying a more serene environment.

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