dexter’s house in miami

Where Was Dexter’s House in Miami?

The television series Dexter, set in Miami, Florida, didn’t actually film in the city itself. Dexter’s house and apartment were located in Long Beach, California, providing the backdrop for the life of Dexter Morgan, the show’s main character.

Although the show is set in Miami, filming costs and logistical considerations frequently lead production companies to other locations. Long Beach offered a more affordable and manageable environment for creating the fictional world of Miami for Dexter’s dedicated fanbase.

The Real Location of Dexter’s House

The actual house used for the exterior shots of Dexter Morgan’s residence is at 105 Vista Del Golfo, Long Beach, California. This quiet residential street provided the perfect, unassuming setting for the double life Dexter leads as a blood spatter analyst and serial killer. This home has become an unofficial landmark for fans of the show.

Dexter’s Apartment Location

Dexter’s apartment building, where he lived for many seasons, is also located in Long Beach, California. The building used for exterior shots is at 1155 N. Brand Blvd. While the exterior shots depict Dexter’s apartment, the interior scenes were typically filmed on a sound stage.

Why Not Miami?

While the show’s creators intended for a Miami backdrop, financial constraints and the availability of suitable filming locations significantly influenced the decision to film in Long Beach. California offers tax incentives and a well-established film industry infrastructure that made it a more practical choice.

The Illusion of Miami

Despite being filmed in California, the production team went to great lengths to create the illusion of Miami. Careful set design, the use of palm trees, and strategic camera angles helped to establish the intended atmosphere. Stock footage of Miami was also incorporated to add to the authenticity of the setting. You can learn more about the production of Dexter on Wikipedia.

FAQs About Dexter’s Filming Locations

Where was the Miami Metro Police Department filmed?

The exterior shots of the Miami Metro Police Department were also filmed in Long Beach, California.

Did the cast ever film in Miami?

While some establishing shots of Miami were used, the primary cast did not regularly film in Miami.

Can you visit Dexter’s house?

Yes, Dexter’s house is a private residence, you can view it from the street, but please be respectful of the homeowners’ privacy.

Was Dexter’s boat, the Slice of Life, a real boat?

Yes, the “Slice of Life” was a real boat used for filming. It was a crucial element in Dexter’s character.

Why was the show moved to Oregon in the revival, Dexter: New Blood?

The change of location to Oregon in “Dexter: New Blood” reflected a significant shift in Dexter’s life and circumstances, as he sought a new beginning far from his past.

Summary

While Dexter is set in Miami, the primary filming locations for both Dexter’s house and apartment were in Long Beach, California. Financial and logistical reasons drove this decision, but the production team effectively recreated the atmosphere of Miami through careful set design and filming techniques.