Ten Reasons Miami Was Better in the '90s (2024)

There's a lot to be said for the 1990s. Neon colors, boy bands, and Cory and Topanga's cuteness reigned supreme. Wait, or is that today's world? sh*t's getting confusing lately, what with all the pop culture throwbacks. But seriously, the '90s were pretty rad all the way around -- particularly...

By Hannah Sentenac

May 8, 2013

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There's a lot to be said for the 1990s. Neon colors, boy bands, and Cory and Topanga's cuteness reigned supreme.

Wait, or is that today's world? sh*t's getting confusing lately, what with all the pop culture throwbacks.

But seriously, the '90s were pretty rad all the way around -- particularly in Miami. Back in the good old days, we had fewer people, better baseball, and a lot more models milling around. Check out the top ten reasons why the 305 was better before the millennium hit.

See also:

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10. There weren't as many tourists.

Really, there weren't as many people in general, but South Beach certainly wasn't as overrun with lobster-red Northerners and Speedo'd Europeans as it is these days. Granted, they're pumping funds into our local economy (at least, when it's not funneled into the pockets of corrupt politicians). But still, spending a Sunday on the beach without hoardes of loud touristas would be a welcome change every once in awhile.

9. Dudes wore Hammer pants and fanny packs.

Seriously. Did you see Pain and Gain? Priceless.

8. The Rock was in attendance at UM.

What other alum could ever possibly live up?

7. Gianni Versace was still alive and well and living in his South Beach mansion,

Let's face it, his presence significantly upped the class factor of Ocean Drive.

6. There were more models.

In the '90s, the fashion industry was well-established in the 305, but we lost that crown to NY and LA a long time ago.

5. There were more gays.

Post-1990s, Miami lost a lot of its flamboyant friends to Fort Lauderdale. Seriously sucks for us.

4. There were fewer people.

Which means fewer douchebags and fewer bad drivers. In 1990, there were 1,973,194. Today, we're approximately 2,591,035 strong. Ugh.

3. The Marlins were winning.

Imagine that. In 1997, the Marlins won the World Series, a concept well beyond the wildest imaginations of today's Marlins fans. Oh, and El Tremenda Mierda didn't exist, the taxpayers hadn't sunk $360 million into a failing stadium, and no one in Miami had heard of Jeffrey Loria.

2. Affordable real estate

After a building boom in the '80s, the early '90s offered lots of deals to be had in the 305. Back then, home ownership was still an attainable dream for many of your average Joes and Janes. These days, good luck buying anything without one hell of a hefty nest egg.

1. Um, everything was better in the 90s. Duh.

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Ten Reasons Miami Was Better in the '90s (2024)

FAQs

Why did the 90s seem so much better? ›

But it's not entirely surprising why the '90s are remembered so fondly by many people living in certain parts of the world, under certain material conditions. It was the end of the Cold War, it was heralded as the End of History. It was the coming of an entirely new millennium and the Information Age.

What is so great about Miami? ›

This coastal metropolis in Southern Florida is known for its large beautiful beaches, lively nightlife scene, and a wide variety of some of the most beautiful real estate in the United States. Locals call Miami "The Magic City", and it is easy to see why considering all the great food, art, and homes.

When did Miami get popular? ›

During the early 1920s, an influx of new residents and unscrupulous developers led to the Florida land boom, when speculation drove land prices high. Some early developments were razed after their initial construction to make way for larger buildings. The population of Miami doubled from 1920 to 1923.

Why was the 1990s the best decade? ›

No cellphones

The one thing people weren't into in the '90s were their cellphones—because they didn't exist! Sure, pagers could beep and rotary phones could ring, but they didn't keep people glued to social media the way cells do today. It was a freer time, away from status updates and notifications.

Why 90s nostalgia so strong? ›

"Reminiscing about the 90s and 00s is comforting because it gives us connection to times in our lives where we felt more free, adventurous and connected to other people". Many fans of the 90s, like fashion blogger Ellie, weren't around then - so why is it nostalgic to her? According to Clay, it's "cultural continuity".

Why is Miami so iconic? ›

Sunshine and Beaches All Year

Always Warm: Miami has a really warm and sunny climate all the time. It's perfect for people who love the beach and sun. Amazing Beaches: The city is famous for its beautiful beaches, especially South Beach, with its clear blue water and fun vibe.

Why is Miami a great city? ›

The beaches are world class

There are few beaches in the world that can compete with Miami's sandy shores. The city's miles of pristine coastline conjure up all kinds of activities; you'll find beach volleyball games, outside gym classes and, of course, the most gorgeous sunbathing spots you'll ever experience.

Why is Miami called Miami? ›

Miami was named after the Miami River, derived from Mayaimi, the historic name of Lake Okeechobee and the American Indians who lived around it. Miami is sometimes colloquially referred to as The 305, Magic City, Gateway to the Americas, Gateway to Latin America, Capital of Latin America, and Vice City.

Is Miami cheap or expensive? ›

Although the average cost of living in Miami is more expensive than the national average, it is more affordable or as affordable as other major U.S. cities when you take a look at the big picture.

What is Miami best known for? ›

Miami is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful skyline views, making it a popular tourist destination. The city offers a range of accommodations, from affordable hotels to luxurious options, catering to all types of travelers.

Why is Miami called The Magic City? ›

Miami and its metropolitan area grew from just over one thousand residents to nearly five and a half million residents in just 110 years (1896–2006). The city's nickname, The Magic City, comes from this rapid growth. Winter visitors remarked that the city grew so much from one year to the next that it was like magic.

What happened in Miami in 1997? ›

On May 12, 1997 a F1 tornado moved through the downtown Miami around 2:00 P.M. EDT. Even though the tornado produced significant damage, it will be remembered for the photographs and videos taken as it moved through the skyscrapers of downtown Miami. The images made newscasts and headlines around the world.

What happened in Miami in the 80s? ›

Miami was well situated to be a hub for cocaine smuggling due to its position in the Caribbean and the widespread use of Spanish. By 1981, Miami was responsible for trafficking 70% of the US's cocaine, 70% of its marijuana, and 90% of its counterfeit Quaaludes.

Why is Miami called the 305? ›

How Miami got its famed 305 area code. Long before Pitbull called himself Mr. 305, everyone in Florida had a claim to the area code. Flashback: The Sunshine State was assigned 305 back in 1947, one of the first 86 area codes created in the U.S., the Miami Herald reports.

Why was 90s music so much better? ›

One of the biggest reasons why '90s music is still popular is because it was a time when anyone could make it big. There were no rules or specific genre requirements that artists had to follow. This allowed for creativity and experimentation, which today's music scene lacks.

Was the US better in the 90s? ›

The 1990s are remembered as a time of strong economic growth, steady job creation, low inflation, rising productivity, economic boom, and a surging stock market that resulted from a combination of rapid technological changes and sound central monetary policy.

Why growing up in the 90s was the best? ›

One of the greatest strengths of the 90s kids is their ability to empathize with people from different generations. They have experienced life without the internet and social media, which gives them a unique perspective on life.

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