Kendale Lakes, Coral Gables, FL

Kendale Lakes Neighborhood Overview

Neighborhood Overview

Kendale Lakes is a well-established, primarily residential community located in southwest Miami-Dade County, often associated with the broader Coral Gables area due to its proximity and desirable address. It is distinctly characterized by its series of interconnected, man-made lakes and canals, which provide scenic water views and a sense of spaciousness throughout the neighborhood. Developed primarily in the 1960s and 1970s, Kendale Lakes offers a tranquil, suburban atmosphere with a strong sense of community, appealing to families, professionals, and retirees seeking a quieter lifestyle while maintaining convenient access to Miami's urban core.

The neighborhood's layout is defined by its picturesque waterways, with many homes featuring lakefront or canal-front lots. Its location is a key asset, situated just west of the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826) and north of Kendall Drive (SW 88th Street). This provides residents with straightforward commutes to Downtown Miami, Coral Gables, Doral, and Miami International Airport, typically within 20-30 minutes. While administratively part of unincorporated Miami-Dade County, its Coral Gables mailing address contributes to its prestige and perceived value within the South Florida real estate market.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Kendale Lakes is predominantly composed of single-family homes from the mid-century modern and Florida ranch eras, with many properties having been updated or expanded over the decades. Architectural styles are varied but typically feature practical, spacious layouts on generous lots, with a significant portion of homes boasting direct lake or canal frontage—a defining and highly sought-after feature. The median home value of approximately $346,600 positions Kendale Lakes as a comparatively affordable entry point into the Coral Gables-adjacent market, offering substantial value, especially for water-access properties.

Ownership is the dominant model here, fostering a stable community of long-term residents. The market includes a mix of original owners, families who have lived in the area for decades, and newer buyers attracted by the value proposition and location. Recent trends show steady appreciation, driven by the enduring demand for single-family homes with outdoor space and water access in Miami-Dade. While most properties are single-family, there are also some townhome complexes and garden-style apartment clusters, primarily along the major thoroughfares, offering more affordable rental options within the community.

Lifestyle & Amenities

Kendale Lakes is a car-dependent community designed for suburban convenience. Daily needs are met at nearby shopping plazas like The Crossings and Kendall Commons, which host major retailers including Publix, Walmart, Home Depot, and a diverse array of chain and local restaurants, banks, and service providers. Dining options range from casual Cuban cafeterias and Colombian bakeries to popular national chains, reflecting Miami's multicultural fabric. For more upscale shopping and dining, residents have easy access to the Streets of Doral, Dolphin Mall, and the boutiques of Coral Gables.

Recreation is centered around the neighborhood's aquatic landscape, with many residents enjoying kayaking, fishing, or simply the tranquil views. The community is served by several county parks, including the expansive Kendale Lakes Park, which offers athletic fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. While not a highly walkable neighborhood for errands, its residential streets are pleasant for walking and cycling. Public transit is limited to Metrobus routes along major arteries, making private vehicle ownership essential. The overall lifestyle is one of relaxed, suburban comfort with all necessities within a short driving distance.

Schools & Education

Families in Kendale Lakes are served by the Miami-Dade County Public School District, with several well-regarded schools in the vicinity. The neighborhood is zoned for elementary schools such as Ruth K. Broad Bay Harbor K-8 Center and others, which generally receive average to above-average ratings. For secondary education, students typically attend schools in the broader Kendall area, with options including G. Holmes Braddock Senior High School, a large and academically diverse institution known for its extensive magnet and Advanced Placement programs.

The presence of these solid public options is a significant draw for middle-income families. Additionally, the surrounding area is rich in private and charter school alternatives, catering to a variety of educational philosophies and needs. Proximity to several higher education institutions, including Miami Dade College's Kendall Campus and Florida International University (FIU), provides opportunities for continuing education and contributes to a well-educated local workforce. The school landscape offers practical, quality choices for resident families without the premium often associated with top-tier school districts in more expensive municipalities.

Community & Demographics

Kendale Lakes is a diverse, middle-class community with a median household income of approximately $64,714, which aligns with broader Miami-Dade County averages. The population is a vibrant mosaic, with a strong representation of Hispanic and Latino residents—primarily of Cuban, Nicaraguan, and Colombian descent—alongside non-Hispanic White, Black, and Asian households. This diversity is reflected in the local businesses, cultural events, and community atmosphere, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment.

The age distribution is fairly balanced, with a notable presence of both young families attracted by the relative affordability and space, as well as empty-nesters and retirees who have aged in place, appreciating the stability and familiar surroundings. The community character is generally quiet, residential, and family-oriented. A sense of neighborhood pride is evident in the well-maintained properties and active community associations in certain sections. The demographic profile paints a picture of a hard-working, established community that values homeownership, stability, and the suburban Florida lifestyle.

Real Estate Market Insights

For real estate professionals, Kendale Lakes represents a crucial segment of the Miami market: the attainable single-family home. Its median price point, notably below the Miami metropolitan average, positions it as a high-demand area for first-time homebuyers, growing families, and investors seeking rental properties in stable neighborhoods. The consistent demand for homes with water access creates a premium sub-market within Kendale Lakes, where canal-front homes command higher prices and often see faster turnover. This duality offers agents opportunities across buyer profiles and budgets.

Current market dynamics favor sellers due to sustained inventory constraints, but the neighborhood remains a relative value play compared to adjacent areas like Coral Gables, Pinecrest, or South Miami. Investment potential is strong, driven by steady rental demand from those seeking suburban living without the premium price tag. Key selling points for agents to highlight include the Coral Gables mailing address, the unique lake and canal system, the functional home layouts on good-sized lots, and the exceptional connectivity to major employment centers. For buyers priced out of core

Kendale Lakes Market Data

Top Real Estate Agents in Kendale Lakes, Coral Gables

Nearby Neighborhoods in Coral Gables, FL

← Back to all Coral Gables, FL real estate agents

← Back to all Florida real estate agents