By Jessica Ryan
Updated: Sep 15, 2026
6 min read
Reviewed by Martin Pаnауоtоv
Martin is founder of MoveAdvisor, formerly MyMovingReviews.com.
677 movers in Opa Locka
What to know when moving to Opa Locka, FL
Opa Locka at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 51.3% of residents are renters and the median household income is $42,779.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $1,346, making it relatively affordable for the Miami-Dade area.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 23.8%, economic challenges exist alongside the opportunities.
- Commute:
- Only 4.9% use public transit, indicating a car-dependent lifestyle.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,346 in monthly rent to match the local market.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Opa Locka is characterized by a significant renter population, with over half of its residents renting their homes. The area has a relatively low educational attainment rate, with only 9.7% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. This is coupled with a poverty rate of 23.8%, indicating that economic challenges are a reality for many residents. The community experiences about 120 rainy days a year, prompting the need for rain gear.
Probably not your spot if: You are looking for a highly educated population, as only 9.7% have a bachelor's degree.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Population stands at 31,165, with a median household income of $42,779.
- Median gross rent is $1,346, offering a budget-friendly option compared to nearby areas.
- 51.3% of the population are renters, reflecting a significant rental market.
- The poverty rate is 23.8%, indicating economic challenges within the community.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Schools & Higher Ed
Access to education options is broad, with a total of 80 postsecondary institutions in the nearby area, including:
- Advance Science International College in Miami Lakes
- Albizu University-Miami in Miami
- Barry University in Miami
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Opa Locka experiences about 48.7 inches of rain annually, with 120 rainy days each year, so be prepared for wet weather. Local outdoor spots worth checking out include:
- Amelia Earhart Park - 4.6 stars (10,841 reviews)
- Pérez Art Museum Miami - 4.5 stars (7,734 reviews)
- Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science - 4.4 stars (7,747 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
The job market in Miami-Dade County, where Opa Locka is located, has an unemployment rate of 2.5% as of December 2025. The labor force includes 1,470,605 individuals, with 1,434,350 employed.
- Unemployment rate: 2.5% in December 2025
- Employed: 1,434,350 individuals
- Labor force: 1,470,605 individuals
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
