Ask HN: How's the Miami Scene?

There are definitely some tech folks and companies that have moved from the west coast to Miami. I feel like in the beginning of the pandemic lots of VCs made noise about moving to Miami, and I know some crypto companies have opened up offices and HQs there. I still live in California but have family in the Miami metro and from here it seems like the overall tech scene there is fledgling at best. It hasn't hit critical mass yet. It's definitely better than 2 years ago, but still not anywhere near the Bay Area, Seattle, New York or even smaller hubs like Austin, Utah, Portland Boulder or Atlanta.

I'm a recent arrival in Fort Lauderdale, from San Jose (though I spent several years in Boston as well). The vibe is uniquely its own down here. The biggest difference is that tech feels like a minority in South Florida. That is, unlike the experience of Boston or SF, you'll be an oddity, and a curiosity. Wow, app developer? Really?

People are friendly, the drinks are strong, and the pretty relaxing, cheap beachfront lifestyle is a warm welcome. It's not a place I'd view as a career destination.

If you're looking for a lifestyle change _outside of the office_, and your idea of a good time is working less and chilling on the beach, well, it's a fantastic option.

On the other hand if you're considering Miami for a tech career alone - well, it's a second fiddle town. The seriousness and quality of the local startups reflect that. There are a lot more crypto bros masquerading as a viable business than anything else.

Personally, I'm working remotely for a Bay Area company while living on the beach here. A pleasant mix of the two.

Edit: As for your specific questions... Summers are low nineties with a humidity index in the nineties as well. You'll not want to go out for a good six weeks, save in the water. But the rest of the year is beautiful.

Cost of living in Miami proper is similar to Boston, but 20 minutes outside and it's half price. I picked Fort Lauderdale over Miami primarily due to a more relaxed and upscale vibe. We're 20 minutes away. Highly recommend checking both FTL and Miami out, as the two have different scenes and crowds.

Brickell is.. well, vertical, modern, expensive, vibrant and dirty. Would you want to live directly on State street? Same idea.

If you're looking for something a bit less sterile - might look at Edgewater in MIA or Flagler Village in FTL.

This may go without saying, but it is VERY HOT in the summer. I grew up in Florida and I know how hot it gets from experience… and even I am shocked every time when I go back and feel like my face is melting off my body. Miami is hot and humid the way Vladivostok is cold.

What's the housing and rent situation like where you are? Do you need a car or is it generally a walkable place?

How did Boston and San Jose compare in your experience? Any notable differences, VC money and Biotech aside?