Pros and Cons of Living in Merritt Island, Florida: What
You Really Need to Know in 2025
If you’re thinking about relocating to Merritt Island, Florida, you’re not alone. From its picturesque waterways to its laid-back coastal lifestyle, Merritt Island continues to be one of the most sought-after locations on Florida’s Space Coast. But just like any paradise, there are both pros and cons to living here.
As a Merritt Island Realtor and long-time local, I’ve helped countless clients navigate the ups and downs of buying and selling homes in Merritt Island Florida—especially waterfront and luxury properties. Whether you’re relocating, retiring, or simply looking for the perfect coastal home, this guide covers what you really need to know before making the move.
The Pros of Living in Merritt Island, FL
1. Boater’s Paradise
Merritt Island is known as the boating capital of Brevard County. Surrounded by the Banana River, Indian River, and the Barge Canal, the area is ideal for boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Many houses for sale in Merritt Island Florida offer private docks and direct water access, giving you the rare opportunity to go from your backyard to the Atlantic Ocean in minutes. This makes the area extremely popular with those seeking luxury real estate in Merritt Island Florida, especially canalfront and riverfront homes.
2. Outdoor Lifestyle All Year Long
With the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, riverfront parks, and miles of natural trails, outdoor living is a huge part of daily life here. Residents enjoy birdwatching, fishing, boating, biking, and even watching rocket launches from their backyards.
If you’re someone who values an active lifestyle surrounded by water, nature, and sunshine, real estate in Merritt Island Florida offers the perfect backdrop.
3. Lower Property Taxes
Unlike many nearby areas, Merritt Island is unincorporated, which means property taxes tend to be lower than those in neighboring cities like Cocoa or Melbourne. This is especially helpful for buyers looking to invest in luxury homes, as the savings can be substantial.
For those comparing waterfront or canalfront properties across the Space Coast, this financial advantage often tips the scales in Merritt Island’s favor.
4. Top-Rated Public Schools
Education is another major plus. Most public schools in Merritt Island are A-rated, with strong academic and extracurricular programs. Whether you’re relocating with family or just want to invest in a location with solid school zones, Merritt Island delivers.
As a local Merritt Island real estate specialist, I always advise clients to factor in school zoning—not just for family needs but for long-term property value.
5. Strong Sense of Community
Merritt Island has a small-town feel with a big heart. From school events to local fundraisers, this is the kind of place where neighbors look out for one another. Community pride runs deep, and newcomers are often surprised by how welcoming everyone is.
If you’re looking for connection and a true sense of belonging, Merritt Island offers something special—especially in its well-established waterfront communities.
The Cons of Living in Merritt Island
1. Traffic Can Be a Challenge
With limited access points via SR-528, SR-520, and Courtenay Parkway, traffic can become congested—especially during rush hour, school drop-offs, and rocket launches.
Compared to larger cities, it’s still manageable, but it’s worth noting when you’re exploring homes for sale in Merritt Island Florida, especially if you’re commuting to the mainland regularly.
2. Limited Shopping & Dining
The once-thriving Merritt Square Mall has seen a decline in recent years, and while there are plenty of local gems, big-name stores and high-end restaurants are more common in Viera or Melbourne.
If boutique shopping and culinary variety are on your must-have list, be sure to plan accordingly. But the quiet, laid-back vibe is part of what many residents love about Merritt Island.
3. Hot, Humid Weather—and Hurricanes
From May to October, the area gets very hot and humid, with average highs in the 90s and humidity levels over 80%. Add to that the potential for tropical storms and hurricanes, and storm prep becomes part of everyday life.
Flood zones and insurance costs are an important consideration—especially if you’re purchasing waterfront property. A knowledgeable Realtor Merritt Island Florida (like me!) can help you understand risk levels, elevation certificates, and mitigation options.
4. Older Homes Can Mean Higher Maintenance
Roughly 80% of homes on the island were built before 1990. While many have been beautifully renovated, some still have dated systems like cast iron plumbing or aluminum wiring.
This is why working with an experienced Merritt Island real estate expert is so important—especially when purchasing older homes. Pre-inspections, contractor referrals, and accurate pricing all matter.
5. Higher Home Insurance Costs
Because of its location and elevation, homeowner’s insurance in Merritt Island can be more expensive than inland areas. Depending on the home’s location and elevation, flood insurance may also be required—costing anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars annually.
This is particularly true for buyers looking at luxury real estate Merritt Island Florida along the riverfront or in low-lying areas. That said, many insurance costs can be offset by updates like impact windows, new roofs, or elevation changes.
What Do Homes Cost in Merritt Island?
- Canalfront Homes: Start in the low $300,000s for older homes; modern, updated canal homes average $700K–$900K.
- Riverfront Homes: Expect $1.2M–$2M on average, with luxury estates exceeding $5M.
- Non-Waterfront Homes: Range from $275K to $600K+ depending on size, upgrades, and location.
Whether you’re searching for a family home near top-rated schools or a luxury waterfront escape, there are houses for sale in Merritt Island Florida for every lifestyle and budget.
Final Thoughts: Is Merritt Island Right for You?
The bottom line? Merritt Island offers an unmatched coastal lifestyle, with boating, wildlife, community, and natural beauty all rolled into one. But like any dream location, it comes with trade-offs—namely weather, insurance, and older properties.
If you’re looking for guidance, I’m here to help. As a top-rated Luxury Realtor Merritt Island Florida, I specialize in matching clients with the right home, in the right location, at the right price.
Ready to Start Your Search?
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, I’m your go-to local guide. From personalized property tours to expert advice on Merritt Island real estate, I’ll help you make informed, confident decisions.
📲 Contact me today to get started, or browse the latest homes for sale in Merritt Island Florida on my website.
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