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Miami is the cultural, economic and financial center of South Florida in the United States. It is located in southeastern Florida. Miami is one of the most vibrant and colorful cities in the world and it is renowned for its rich cultural mix and art-deco buildings. It is the country's major center for finance, commerce, culture, entertainment, the arts, and international trade. Since its founding in the late 19th century, Miami has been influencing other cities around the world. It is famous for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, vibrant nightlife, Art Deco Historic District, Little Havana, and architecture that ranges from wooden bungalows to high-rise condos.
As per the 2020 US Census, Miami had a population of 470,914. Miami is one of the most diverse cities in the United States. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Miami's population consists of 70% Hispanic or Latino, 18% White, and 19% African American. Miami is a melting pot of cultures with a large population of Cubans, Colombians, and other Latin American ethnicities. When it comes to religious beliefs, Miami is quite diverse with a significant number of Catholics, followed by Protestants, Jews, and those who practice other religions or have no religious affiliation. Miami is also home to a large number of multilingual residents, with Spanish being widely spoken along with English. Miami is home to a number of interesting facts such as it being the only major city in the United States to be founded by a woman (Julia Tuttle). Miami also boasts the largest collection of Art Deco architecture in the world.
Miami operates under a mayor-commissioner type of government. The city commission consists of five commissioners, each elected from single-member districts. The city commission constitutes the governing body with powers to pass ordinances, adopt regulations, and exercise all powers conferred upon the city in the city charter. The mayor is elected at large and appoints a city manager who oversees the administrative operations, implements the policies and laws decided by the city commission. The City of Miami is responsible for providing a number of local services including police, fire rescue, parks and recreation, public works, and waste management.
Miami is a major center of commerce and finance and boasts a strong international business community. The city has a GDP of over $344 billion, accounting for a substantial portion of Florida's total GDP. The size of its economy is larger than that of some countries. Miami is also known as the 'Cruise Capital of the World' with the Port of Miami serving over 5 million passengers annually.
Miami has been planning for future growth with a focus on improving its infrastructure. The city has been investing in new energy, water, and sewerage infrastructure, enhanced digital connectivity and new transportation initiatives. Some of the investment is provided by the private sector, through utilities. Business is particularly concerned at the lack of capacity in digital infrastructure. There are areas in the city that still do not have access to superfast broadband, which is seen as a priority for action by the Mayor.