9021-Where? Miami Beach is where it’s at!

While California may be home to some of the most recognizable zip codes in the U.S. thanks in part to a teen angst drama (currently its second incarnation) depicting the good life in Beverly Hills, if you really want to go where the money is, we suggest you party in the city where the heat is on: Miami. Topping Forbes’ list of the most expensive zip codes in 2008 is 33109, more commonly known as Miami Beach’s exclusive Fisher Island.

What’s the area’s allure? Once the winter playground of William Vanderbilt, today the 216-acre island is a celebrated residential enclave of exclusivity, complete with a population of a mere 475. Vanderbilt’s mansion serves as the isle’s centerpiece, and The Fisher Island Hotel and Resort, The Spa Internazionale, two deep water marinas, tennis center, championship golf course, fine dining establishments, gourmet market, polo field, and pristine beaches provide ample entertainment options for residents and visitors alike. The community boasts its own day school, fire & emergency station, and post office, and of course, mainland Miami is a mere hop, skip, car ferry, seaplane, yacht, or helicopter ride away.

A home on this small wonderland rose by $525,000 over the last year, cementing Fisher Island’s place at the top of the Forbes list. The median sale price of a home is $3.85 million, and most residences are in high-rise condo buildings with patios and balconies that offer views over the water. With residents such as Oprah Winfrey and legendary tennis star Boris Becker, those lucky enough to call Fisher Island home are certainly in good company.

Via Forbes