Miami’s Growth Shouldn’t Come With a Bigger Tax Bill

By Rachel Moscoso

Vibrant energy and undeniable culture have fueled Miami’s growth. But behind the scenes, the city’s spending is spiraling out of control.

Miami’s budget has expanded far faster than population growth or inflation can justify. New data from Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) found that since 2019, the city’s general fund has jumped 44%, an increase of $358 million in just five years. During that same time, Miami added 193 full-time employees, even though its population grew by only 23,000 residents.

Here’s what that means in real terms: for every new resident who moves to Miami, the city’s budget grows by $15,320. That’s not sustainable growth; that’s government bloat.

At a recent press conference in Miami, CFO Ingoglia said it best: “If this was a business, the city of Miami would go bankrupt.”

After accounting for inflation, population changes, and pay increases for essential workers, the audit still found roughly $94 million in excessive spending that can’t be explained by real need. Those dollars could have stayed in the hands of hardworking taxpayers. Instead, they’ve been absorbed into a government system that keeps growing without producing better results.

Miami residents already face high costs. Rising property taxes, insurance premiums, and housing costs have left many residents struggling to keep up. When local government overspends, it piles on yet another burden. Every unnecessary expense means fewer dollars for families, entrepreneurs, and local employers trying to make ends meet.

Transparency and accountability are the foundation of responsible governance. Audits like the DOGE review give Floridians the tools to see how their money is being managed and whether it’s being used wisely. Miami’s leaders should welcome that oversight, not resist it.

Miami taxpayers deserve a city government that treats their dollars with the same care they treat their own household budgets. That means focusing on core services, cutting waste and abuse, and committing to smarter fiscal management.

If Miami continues on its current spending trajectory, taxes will keep rising and trust will erode. But with honest leadership and a renewed commitment to efficiency, the city can set a new standard for responsible local government that respects taxpayers, prioritizes results, and safeguards Miami’s future.

Miami’s growth should be something to celebrate, not an excuse for runaway spending.

Rachel Moscoso is the Deputy State Director of Americans for Prosperity-Florida.