Going with bf to Ft. Lauderdale - My options? (Miami)

Hi all,
my boyfriend has an offer to work in Ft. Lauderdale. I'd really love to join him, but I suggest that for me it could be quite complicated in terms of having a job there.
Is it right that I will get just a tourist visa, because we are not married? And thus, I will also not be able to get a working permission?
And would things change, if we were married?
I am so unsure about my chances of coming with him! Your advice would be greatly appreciated! ;-)

Thanks,
Carolin