MiamiDade

Miami-Dade County, commonly referred to as Miami-Dade, is a county in the southeastern part of Florida, United States. It is the state’s most populous county, with a 2020 census population of 2,761,581. The county seat is the city of Miami. The region lies along the Atlantic coast, with Biscayne Bay and the Everglades forming important geographic features and ecosystems.

History and name: The county was created in 1836 as Dade County, named for Major Francis L. Dade who died in the Second Seminole War. It was renamed Miami-Dade County in 1997 to emphasize the county’s largest city.

Governance: Miami-Dade operates under an elected Board of County Commissioners and a separately elected County Mayor who serves as the chief executive. The Board enacts policy and budgets, while county departments administer services across unincorporated areas and many municipalities.

Economy: The economy is driven by tourism, international trade, finance, healthcare, and construction. PortMiami, a major container port and cruise hub, and Miami International Airport are key economic assets. The region supports a large real estate sector and a broad mix of industries.

Demographics and culture: The population is highly diverse, with large Hispanic (notably Cuban) and Caribbean communities, as well as other immigrant groups. English and Spanish are widely spoken, alongside Haitian Creole. Notable districts include Little Havana, Wynwood, and Miami Beach.

Education and transportation: Major higher education institutions include the University of Miami, Florida International University, and Miami Dade College. Public transit consists of Metrorail, Metromover, and extensive bus networks; major highways link the county to regional destinations. The area also includes portions of Everglades National Park.