A Cuban woman residing in Miami has ignited a significant discussion on TikTok by voicing her dissatisfaction with the city and contemplating a move elsewhere. In a video shared by user @yusyvaldez17, she criticizes the lack of respect and the decline in customer service in the southern Florida city, delivering a powerful message: "I'm fed up with Miami, I'm about to move out of Miami."
Expressing her frustration from her car, the TikToker questions the cultural climate of the area, stating, "I don't know what's happening in this town, but the disrespect, lack of education, and rudeness have increased." She clarifies that her grievances are not related to the cost of living or financial status: "It's not about that; I'm talking about society, folks. Everywhere you go, it's mistreatment, disrespect, and a lack of civility."
Once a staunch defender of the city, she now feels disillusioned: "I used to say there's nothing like Miami... but now, I'm ready to take it back." She ponders whether her intolerance stems from aging, yet she insists the issue is widespread: "It's society. I understand that big cities are crowded and expensive... I'm not complaining about the economy, I'm complaining about society."
Her critique extends to the degradation of customer service: "Customer service, respect, attention, education—it's all gone, and now it's just 'whatever'." She concludes with a bold statement: "I'm about to move to any state far away just to really feel like I'm in the USA."
The video has garnered thousands of comments, mostly supporting her views. Many users shared similar experiences with interactions at Miami's shops and public spaces, noting they felt as if they were "in Cuba" or observed a "total lack of education and professionalism."
A substantial portion agreed that the city has changed dramatically in recent years, while others recounted finding better quality of life after relocating to places like Lehigh Acres, Cape Coral, Tampa, or even states like Tennessee, Illinois, or Kentucky.
Some responses highlighted the contrast between Miami and other U.S. cities: "In Illinois, people are polite and respectful... that's where it's really the United States," one person commented. Another noted, "My wife came from Canada to try living in Miami and couldn't stand it. She says it's like being in Cuba."
Several users mentioned they had already decided to leave Miami or were considering it. "I left 9 months ago and won't return to live there," one wrote. Another shared, "I moved to West Palm Beach and immediately noticed the difference in treatment and service."
Others argued that the situation isn't unique to Miami but is a broader issue: "It's all over the United States," they commented. Some even joked with remarks like "Miami is Cuba with American food" or "Miami was, but it is no longer."
A Growing Debate
The statements by @yusyvaldez17 add to a series of accounts that have gained attention on social media in recent months. Since January, several Cubans living in the U.S. have shared their decisions to relocate from Miami to other cities, citing both economic and social reasons.
In January, a Cuban in Kentucky explained why he wouldn't return to Miami: "Do you think I'd stop paying $1,175 for my house to pay $2,500 for an efficiency? No way!" In July 2024, another user shared that she left Miami 10 years ago and has no regrets: "From my experience, I don't regret the decision at all."
More recently, accounts from Lehigh Acres or Cape Coral highlight the benefits of moving to quieter, less congested areas with better social interaction.
In another story, a Cuban stated he couldn't take it anymore and decided to leave Miami: "I'd rather live in a small, truly American city, learn the language, work, and live peacefully."
These narratives underscore a growing debate within the Cuban community in the United States, particularly in Florida, about the exhaustion many feel regarding life in Miami, not just because of prices or traffic, but due to what they perceive as a deterioration in human interaction and community life.
Common Concerns Among Miami Residents
Why are some Miami residents considering moving away?
Many residents are contemplating leaving Miami due to perceived declines in social interactions, customer service, and overall quality of life, as well as the high cost of living.
What alternatives are being considered by those leaving Miami?
Some individuals are considering relocating to quieter, more affordable areas such as Lehigh Acres, Cape Coral, or states like Tennessee, Illinois, or Kentucky.
How have social media platforms contributed to the discussion?
Platforms like TikTok have amplified these discussions by providing a space for individuals to share their experiences and opinions, garnering widespread attention and support.