I know this is a stupid question but Is there a difference between Miami and Miami Beach, FL? -

Are they two separate cities?...Is Miami Beach the better part?

Yes, they are two separate cities with separate taxes and postal codes and whatnot, except the same bus system is shared. Having lived in both places, the beach is much nicer. The land area is thin and moves along north to south up and down the coast and is narrow. It is typically more expensive to live in North beach or South beach as opposed to the City of Miami or its suburbs, but then again that would depend on if you are single or supporting kids.Good luck.