Fisher Island 101: Everything You Need to Know About the Richest Zip Code in America

If you’ve ever looked across the water from Bayside Marketplace toward the Atlantic, you’ve likely seen a secluded oasis of Mediterranean-style mansions and pristine white sand. That is Fisher Island (Zip Code 33109)—an island so exclusive that it has been ranked as the wealthiest zip code in the United States for nearly a decade.

At Miami on the Water®, our sightseeing cruises take you right to the edge of this private sanctuary. Since the island is inaccessible by car, a Miami boat tour is officially the only way for the public to catch a glimpse of this billion-dollar lifestyle.

Why 33109 is the Wealthiest Neighborhood in the U.S.

Fisher Island isn’t just wealthy; it’s a separate economy. As we move through 2026, the island has solidified its lead as the pinnacle of American luxury, driven by a global “flight to safety” and Miami’s status as a world financial hub.

Fisher Island Real Estate Stats for 2026

• Average Income: Over $2.5 million annually (according to Bloomberg and IRS data).
• Median Home Price: A staggering $9.5 million, with new penthouse developments like Six Fisher Island reaching $50 million+.
• Global Diversity: Residents represent over 50 different nationalities, from professional athletes to Fortune 500 CEOs.

Six Fisher Island: The New Standard of Luxury

The most significant update for 2026 is the completion of The Residences at Six Fisher Island. Built on the last remaining development parcel on the island, this 10-story masterpiece features just 50 bespoke homes. With a 16,000-square-foot penthouse that hit the market for $90 million, “Six Fisher” has redefined what ultra-luxury looks like even by Fisher Island standards.

The Legendary History: “My Island for Your Boat”

The story of Fisher Island is as fascinating as its real estate prices. The island’s provenance is a tale of three legendary figures:

1. Dana Dorsey: South Florida’s first Black millionaire originally purchased the island in 1918.
2. Carl Fisher: The automotive pioneer and “Father of Miami Beach” bought the island a year later.
3. William K. Vanderbilt II: In a legendary 1925 trade, Vanderbilt gave Fisher his 250-foot yacht, the Eagle, in exchange for 7 acres of the island.

Why You Can’t Just Drive There

Fisher Island has no bridges. This physical isolation is its greatest amenity, ensuring total privacy for its residents. To set foot on the island, you need one of three things:

• The Private Ferry:

  • A 24/7 auto-ferry that departs from Terminal Island. However, you cannot board unless you are a resident, a registered guest, or have a confirmed club invitation.

• A Private Helicopter:

  • There is a dedicated landing pad for the island’s elite.

• A Yacht:

  • The island features two deep-water marinas with over 100 slips capable of holding yachts up to 250 feet long.

What to Look for on Your Miami Boat Tour

When we cruise past Fisher Island, keep your eyes peeled for these “Only on Fisher” highlights:

• The Vanderbilt Mansion: The historic heart of the island with its iconic Spanish-Mediterranean architecture.
• Imported Bahamian Sand: The beaches here aren’t typical Miami sand; the island imports pristine white sand from the Bahamas.
• Golf Cart Life: You’ll notice very few cars. Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation for residents.
• Peacocks & Wildlife: The island is a designated sanctuary; it’s common to see peacocks roaming the manicured golf courses.

Celebrity Residents: Famous Faces of Fisher Island

While privacy is the island’s main export, several names have become synonymous with the 33109 zip code:

Oprah Winfrey’s Former Island Estate

The media mogul formerly owned a legendary 6,000-square-foot penthouse in the Villa Del Mare building.

Tennis Legends and Modern Tech Titans

From Caroline Wozniacki to the new wave of Silicon Valley “refugees,” the island remains the preferred enclave for those seeking the ultimate in security.

Experience the Magic of Fisher Island via a Miami Sightseeing Cruise

Because the island is a closed community, a Miami Sightseeing Cruise is the only way for visitors to experience its grandeur. Our tours provide a 360-degree view of the island’s shoreline, giving you the perfect “insider” look at the mansions and the iconic Miami skyline.