Last Updated: February 2026
If you’re thinking about moving to Brevard County, Florida, there are some things the real estate agents and YouTube influencers won’t tell you. And I should know—I actually live here.
I’m Carrie Liotta, a local real estate agent specializing in waterfront properties in Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach, and the broader Space Coast. I share educational videos about Space Coast real estate on my YouTube channel to help people understand what waterfront living actually means here. Before you think “Oh great, another sales pitch”—stop. This is different. I’m going to tell you the stuff that might actually make you NOT want to move here, because that’s what you need to know to make the right decision for your life.
I make my living helping people relocate to Brevard County, but I’d rather you know the truth upfront than be disappointed later. Let me give you the real picture—the good, the bad, and what nobody else is saying.
The Weather Reality Nobody Wants to Talk About
Everyone sees the beach photos and thinks “paradise,” right? Here’s what they don’t tell you: Yes, it’s beautiful. But June through September? It’s not just hot—it’s surface-of-the-sun hot with 90% humidity.
You’ll walk to your mailbox and need a shower. I’m talking heat index of 105, 110 degrees. Your car becomes an oven. And then there are the afternoon thunderstorms. Every single day in summer, like clockwork around 3 PM, the sky opens up. We’re not talking a light drizzle—I’m talking sideways rain, lightning, and flooding on the roads. You learn real quick not to schedule outdoor activities between 2 and 5 PM in the summer.
Hurricane Season: The Elephant in the Room
But the real elephant in the room? Hurricane season. From June to November, you’re checking weather apps constantly. You will buy plywood. You will stock up on water and canned goods. You will evacuate at least once. Every few years, we get a serious threat—Matthew, Irma, Ian. You’ll spend days prepping, boarding up, potentially leaving your home not knowing if it’ll still be standing when you get back.
And insurance? Homeowners insurance in Florida is brutal. We’re talking $3,000, $5,000, even $8,000 a year for a modest home. If you’re in a flood zone? Add flood insurance on top of that. These are real costs people don’t factor in until they get here.
Just so you know, I want you to be prepared—this is what it costs to live in paradise.
The Job Market and Economic Reality
Unless you work for NASA, a defense contractor like L3Harris or Northrop Grumman, or you’re remote, the job market here is limited. We don’t have the corporate headquarters or the tech scene. The pay scales are lower—a job that pays $80K in Orlando might pay $60K here. But the cost of living? It’s catching up fast. Housing has doubled in five years. So you’re making less but spending almost the same.
Traffic and Infrastructure Challenges
And traffic—oh man. We used to be this quiet beach community. Those days are gone. I-95 is a parking lot during rush hour. US-1 through Melbourne and Palm Bay? Forget about it. The infrastructure hasn’t kept up with the population boom—we’re getting over 1,000 people moving here every month. Construction is everywhere and it’s been going on for years.
If you’re thinking you’ll commute to Orlando for work—that’s an hour and a half to two hours each way during rush hour. That’s 3-4 hours a day in your car. People do it, but it wears on you.
Nightlife and Entertainment Expectations
And if you’re coming from a big city expecting nightlife and culture—pump the brakes. We’ve got some great local spots—Downtown Melbourne, Eau Gallie Arts District, some solid breweries. But this isn’t Miami. After 9 PM, this place rolls up the sidewalks. Your Uber Eats options are limited. Most restaurants close by 9 or 10. The entertainment scene is very family-focused, which is great if you have kids, but if you’re young and single, you might feel isolated.
“Carrie helped us to find our dream location at a price that worked with our budget. Professional and upbeat—we enjoyed working with her!” — Recent Client Review
Wildlife and Environmental Realities
Here’s another thing nobody mentions enough: the wildlife and bugs. We have alligators. In retention ponds. In golf courses. In canals. That lake behind your dream house? There’s probably a gator in it. You absolutely cannot let your small dogs or kids near the water unsupervised. Period. Every year, we have incidents. This is not a joke.
The Bug Situation
Then there are mosquitoes—biblical plague levels in summer. You cannot be outside at dawn or dusk without getting eaten alive. Your yard needs to be treated regularly or it’s unbearable.
Love bugs—if you don’t know what these are, just wait. Twice a year, in May and September, your car will be covered in smashed bugs. They swarm the highways. It’s disgusting and if you don’t wash your car immediately, they can damage your paint.
Red Tide and Other Natural Phenomena
And red tide—when it hits, the beach smells like dead fish and your eyes burn. You can’t enjoy the water. It doesn’t happen every year, but when it does, it’s bad. We also have snakes, some venomous, fire ants, and palmetto bugs—which are basically giant flying cockroaches. It’s a subtropical environment, so there’s just a lot of nature.
Why I Still Love Living in Brevard County
Okay, so after all that, why do I still live here? Why do I love it? Because despite all those challenges, Brevard County is special.
Rocket Launches in Your Backyard
You can watch SpaceX rocket launches from your backyard. SpaceX launches are almost routine now, and you can literally stand in your driveway and watch history being made. That is incredible.
Beach Access and Outdoor Lifestyle
You’re 10 minutes from the beach no matter where you live. You can go to the beach after work. You can surf before breakfast. Your kids can grow up with the ocean as their playground.
The community is tight-knit and genuinely friendly. People know their neighbors. They help each other during hurricanes. There’s a real sense of community here.
Quality Schools and Family Life
The schools are actually pretty good—Brevard County schools rank well for Florida. We’ve got some excellent public schools and magnet programs.
There’s no state income tax in Florida. Depending on what you’re making, that could save you thousands a year.
And the quality of life—it’s slower. More relaxed. Less rat race. You can have a big yard, space, room to breathe. If you’re raising a family and you want that small-town feel with beach access and space for your kids to run around, it’s incredible.
The outdoor activities are endless—fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing, boating. You can be outside year-round. But you have to go in with your eyes open.
“Carrie is a true professional and an absolute powerhouse—she got our house sold! Her approach was impressive—the photography, video tour and social media outreach were outstanding, leading to multiple offers in a down market. She was an absolute rock when it came to managing multiple hurdles with various offers.” — Satisfied Seller
Understanding Brevard County’s Waterfront Reality
Now, let me talk about something I specialize in—waterfront living. Because this is where a lot of people make expensive mistakes they didn’t even know to ask about.
Bridge Heights: Your Boat’s Best Friend or Worst Enemy
If you’re buying waterfront property because you want to boat, you need to understand bridge heights. Not all boats can fit behind each home because of the bridges. Let me show you on the map where bridges are located, what boats fit under each one, what neighborhoods are affected, and the swing bridge schedules that impact your access timing.
The Eau Gallie Causeway, the Melbourne Causeway, the Pineda Causeway—each has different clearances. Some are fixed bridges with limited height. Some are swing bridges that open on schedule. This affects what size boat you can keep at your dock and how easily you can get out to the ocean or the river.
Let’s eliminate the wrong homes first so the right ones feel obvious.
Seawall Reality: The $100,000 Question
Here’s another hard truth about waterfront properties: seawalls. If you’re looking at waterfront homes, you need to prepare for this.
First generation seawalls from the 1960s? Limited time left. You’re looking at $100,000+ replacement in the near future. Second generation seawalls from the 2000s? You’ve got 10-20 years remaining. Brand new seawalls? Decades of worry-free use.
I tell my clients: just so you know, I want you to be prepared—this is what it costs to own waterfront property responsibly.
The Corrosion Factor
And there’s the corrosion on everything—your car, your boat, grills, anything metal. Salt air is beautiful, but it’s brutal on your belongings. Hurricane windows aren’t always mandatory, but they’re a smart investment. Dock size limitations matter. Stagnant water at canal ends can be an issue.
These are the things I walk through with every client because I want to match homes to lifestyle reality, not fantasy. I know the water itself—not just the houses on it.
“Working with Carrie Liotta was the best decision I could have made! As a Merritt Island Realtor, she guided me through every step and found me the perfect home. She’s a Merritt Island real estate expert and the best realtor for waterfront homes in Merritt Island, Florida.” — Happy Homebuyer
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Move to Brevard County
You’re Perfect for Brevard If You’re:
- A remote worker who wants beach access and lower costs than South Florida
- A space industry professional—this is your hub
- Retired and want a slower pace with good weather
- Raising kids and want a safe, community-focused environment
- An outdoor enthusiast who loves water activities—you’re going to be in heaven
- Okay trading nightlife and big-city amenities for natural beauty and space
Brevard Might Not Be For You If You:
- Need a thriving job market outside aerospace—you’re going to struggle
- Can’t handle heat, humidity, and bugs—you’re going to be miserable
- Want urban culture and nightlife—we don’t have it
- Aren’t prepared for hurricane season reality—don’t move here and complain about hurricanes
- Need public transportation—we basically don’t have it
- Are young and single looking for a social scene—unless you’re okay driving to Orlando constantly, you might feel isolated
How I Help Families Relocate Successfully
Listen, if after hearing all of this—the good and the bad—you’re still interested in Brevard County, then you might just be perfect for this place. And I’d love to help you navigate your move.
What is your lifestyle like? What do you want to be around? Because everywhere here on the Space Coast can feel very different. I help people understand these nuances:
- Walkable vs. quiet and tucked away
- How important boating really is vs. just water views
- Privacy vs. convenience vs. community feel
- Proximity to Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach, or the ports
I’ve helped dozens of families relocate here successfully because I tell them the truth from day one. No surprises. No regrets. I’m not trying to sell you a dream—I’m trying to help you make an informed decision about whether this is the right place for your life.
“Carrie was incredible with top tier communication! As brand new buyers she was with us every step of the way from touring to closing, and always went out of her way to ensure our needs were met.” — First-Time Homebuyers
“Carrie is so helpful! She gets right back to you when asking questions. I follow her on TikTok. She gives amazing information about Cape Canaveral Cocoa Beach area in Florida.” — YouTube/Social Media Follower
Many of my clients find me through my YouTube channel where I break down the realities of waterfront living, bridge heights, seawalls, and everything you need to know about the Space Coast before you move here. I believe in educating first, selling second.
What Clients Say About Working With Me
The pattern I hear most often is about presence. My clients thank me for great communication, answering all their questions, and getting back to them quickly. They say I’m “the best realtor they’ve ever had” because I “go above and beyond.” But really, I’m just being a teacher first, a calm presence in high-stakes decisions, and a trusted guide—not a closer.
“Carrie is very knowledgeable concerning Brevard county realty. She goes the extra mile to give her clients a great experience, I highly recommend her!” — Local Client
“Carrie repeatedly went above and beyond to ensure we found our perfect home. Without reservations I highly recommend her.” — Grateful Client
“Carrie does an exceptional job! Super knowledgeable about the area in general and specific properties details! She is engaging and her warm friendly personality makes the experience such a joy!” — Delighted Client
Learn More on My YouTube Channel
I create educational videos twice a week on my YouTube channel covering everything you need to know about living on the Space Coast. You’ll find detailed breakdowns of:
- Bridge Heights Explained – Which boats fit where and how to navigate Brevard’s waterways
- Seawall Reality Checks – What to look for and what replacement actually costs
- Neighborhood Tours – Real walkthroughs of different communities and their personalities
- Waterfront Property Deep Dives – What makes each canal, river, and location unique
- Market Updates – Honest insights into what’s happening in Brevard County real estate
- First-Time Buyer Education – Everything you need to know before purchasing
I don’t create hype content or try to sell you a dream. My videos are designed to help you make informed decisions about whether Brevard County—and specifically waterfront living—is right for your actual lifestyle. Subscribe to get weekly educational content that cuts through the noise and gives you the truth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Brevard County
What is the cost of living in Brevard County compared to other parts of Florida?
Brevard County’s cost of living is moderate for Florida. Housing costs have increased significantly—doubling in the past five years—but they’re still lower than South Florida markets like Miami or Fort Lauderdale. Expect to pay $3,000-$8,000+ annually for homeowners insurance, and add flood insurance if you’re in a flood zone. There’s no state income tax, which helps offset some costs. Overall, you’ll find it more affordable than coastal South Florida but catching up to Orlando’s pricing.
What are the best neighborhoods in Brevard County for families?
For families, I recommend looking at Suntree in Melbourne (excellent schools, family-friendly), parts of Merritt Island near good schools, and Viera (newer development with great amenities). Each neighborhood has a different feel—some are walkable, others are quiet and tucked away. The key is matching the neighborhood to your lifestyle. What matters most to you? Proximity to beaches? Good schools? Community feel? Let’s talk about your priorities.
How bad are the hurricanes in Brevard County really?
Hurricane season runs June through November. We don’t get direct hits every year, but you will experience hurricane preparations, potential evacuations, and the stress of monitoring storms. Recent significant storms include Matthew (2016), Irma (2017), and impacts from Ian (2022). You’ll need to budget for hurricane supplies, shutters or impact windows, and potentially evacuation costs. Insurance is expensive and sometimes hard to obtain. This is a real consideration—if hurricanes make you anxious, carefully consider whether coastal Florida is right for you.
What’s the job market like in Brevard County?
The job market is heavily focused on aerospace and defense (NASA, SpaceX, L3Harris, Northrop Grumman), healthcare, education, and tourism. Remote workers do well here. If you need to find local employment outside these industries, options are more limited and salaries tend to be 20-30% lower than Orlando or Tampa. Many people commute to Orlando (1.5-2 hours each way during rush hour), but that takes a toll over time. If you’re job hunting, have a solid plan before moving.
Are there really alligators everywhere?
Yes. Any freshwater body—retention ponds, lakes, canals, golf course water hazards—likely has alligators. They’re most active at dawn and dusk. Never let small pets or children near water unsupervised. Never feed alligators (it’s illegal and dangerous). Most gators avoid humans, but you need to respect that you’re living in their habitat. If you’re waterfront, assume there are gators nearby. It’s just part of living in Florida.
What should I know about buying waterfront property in Brevard County?
Bridge heights are critical—they determine what size boat you can keep and where you can navigate. Seawalls are expensive to replace ($100,000+), so know the age and condition before buying. Dock size, water depth, canal vs. river location, ocean access, and whether you’re in a flood zone all matter significantly. Salt air causes corrosion on cars, boats, and metal. Waterfront insurance is more expensive. I specialize in helping buyers understand these realities so they buy the right waterfront property for their actual boating lifestyle, not a fantasy.
What are the best areas for waterfront living in Brevard County?
Popular waterfront areas include Merritt Island (Indian River and Banana River access), Cocoa Beach (oceanfront condos and homes), Satellite Beach, Indian Harbour Beach, Melbourne Beach, and parts of Rockledge along the Indian River. Each area has different characteristics—some have better ocean access for boating, others are more protected and calm. Your budget, boating needs, and lifestyle preferences determine the best fit. I can walk you through the differences on a map and explain what works for your specific situation.
Is Brevard County a good place to retire?
Many retirees love Brevard County for the year-round warm weather, beach access, lower cost of living than South Florida, outdoor activities, and relaxed pace of life. However, consider: hurricane preparedness becomes harder as you age, summer heat and humidity can be challenging for health conditions, and you’ll need good homeowners insurance. Healthcare facilities are good (Holmes Regional Medical Center, Parrish Medical Center). If you want an active, outdoor-oriented retirement near the beach without South Florida prices, Brevard works well.
How do I choose the right realtor in Brevard County?
Choose a realtor who actually lives here and knows the local market intimately. You want someone who will tell you the truth—even uncomfortable truths about properties, neighborhoods, or costs—rather than just trying to close a deal. Look for expertise in your specific needs (waterfront properties, family neighborhoods, investment properties). Communication matters—you want someone responsive who keeps you informed throughout the process. Read reviews and ask for references from past clients. And find someone who listens to your lifestyle needs, not just your budget.
What’s the commute like from Brevard County to Orlando?
Plan on 1.5-2 hours each way during rush hour (typically 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM). Outside rush hour, it’s about an hour. That’s 3-4 hours daily in your car if you commute for work. Some people do it, but burnout is real. Consider whether remote work, finding local employment, or accepting a longer commute is sustainable for your lifestyle. The drive is mostly highway (I-95 north to I-4 west), but traffic congestion has increased significantly in recent years.
Ready to Make an Informed Decision?
If you want to talk one-on-one about your specific situation—whether Brevard County is right for you, which neighborhoods match your needs, what to expect with waterfront properties—I’m here for an honest conversation. No pressure, no sales pitch—just the truth about what it’s really like to live on Florida’s Space Coast.
Even if you decide Brevard isn’t for you after we talk, that’s totally fine. I’d rather have that conversation now than have you move here and regret it six months later. Most things are fixable, but choosing the wrong location isn’t one of them.
Contact Carrie Liotta
Space Coast Real Estate Expert | Waterfront Property Specialist
Serving Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach, Melbourne, and Brevard County
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Related Articles You Might Find Helpful
- Complete Guide to Waterfront Living in Brevard County
- Understanding Bridge Heights for Boaters in Brevard County
- Brevard County Neighborhood Guide: Where Should You Live?
- The True Cost of Living in Brevard County, Florida
- Hurricane Preparedness for New Florida Residents
- Best Schools in Brevard County: A Parent’s Guide
Want more in-depth education? Subscribe to my YouTube channel for weekly videos that dive deep into these topics and more. I cover everything from specific neighborhood tours to detailed explanations of waterfront living challenges most agents won’t discuss.
About the Author: Carrie Liotta is a local real estate agent specializing in waterfront properties throughout Brevard County, Florida. She lives in the area and is passionate about helping families make informed decisions about relocating to the Space Coast. With deep expertise in waterfront logistics, bridge heights, seawalls, and matching homes to lifestyle reality, Carrie is known for her honest, educational approach and commitment to client success long after closing. She shares her knowledge through weekly educational videos on her YouTube channel, where she breaks down the realities of Space Coast living that other agents won’t discuss.
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal observations and professional opinions of the author based on living and working in Brevard County, Florida. Real estate market conditions, costs, and local characteristics may change over time. Always conduct your own research and consult with qualified professionals before making relocation or real estate decisions.