Finding a job in South Florida: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach

Imagine a salty breeze and a turquoise setting as you lounge on your back porch.  There are palm trees.  There are beaches.  There are terracotta roofs on Caribbean style homes.  Welcome to south Florida, the setting for such renowned cities as Miami, Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale.

There is no city in the world quite like Miami, Florida.  It is a bustling metropolis, the fourth largest metro area in the country, and serves as the financing hub for the southeast region of the country.  Rich in culture, Miami has strong Cuban roots, which adds to its tropical zest.  Doctors who prefer to work with a diverse patient population will find Miami particularly satisfying.  Due to its colorful scenery and pleasing climate, the city has also become a center for the entertainment industries including film, television, fashion, music and performing arts.  In fact, the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, the second largest center of its kind, attracts several high-profile concerts, operas, ballets, and musicals throughout the year.  In addition to a thriving arts community, Miami also hosts a sports team in each of the four major league sports—including the Miami Dolphins and the Miami Heat.

While not as large or populated as Miami, nearby Palm Beach has garnered plenty of attention as an appealing city.  As a reputed city for the wealthy, Palm Beach has been home to many celebrities including the Kennedy family, Donald Trump, Vera Wang, and Jimmy Buffet.  In 2003, the city was actually cited as “America’s Best Place to Live” by Robb Report magazine.  The title was earned in large part because of its affluence, “abundance of pleasures,” and “community-oriented sensibility.”  The streets of this uptown beech community are often speckled with residents riding their bicycles to the local grocery store or along the beach. 

Slightly more affordable Fort Lauderdale is another south Florida gem.  Called the “Venice of America,” the city is known for its extensive canal system and tourism appeal.  Outdoor shopping districts and beach boutiques can be found on various streets about town.  In addition, Fort Lauderdale is home to Broward General Medical Center which is a Level I trauma center and acute care facility.  The center houses both the Chris Evert Children's Hospital and the Heart Center of Excellence.

Regardless of which city is the best match for you, doctors practicing in south Florida can be guaranteed a sunny—and clean—setting.  This region is known for its fresh air, clean drinking water, and well-maintained streets.  Specifically, Miami was ranked as "America's Cleanest City" in 2008 according to Forbes Magazine.  So, if a clean tropical breeze or a diverse patient population sounds appealing, consider south Florida when choosing your next practice locale.