Merritt Island, Florida, is a unique and interesting area located on a barrier island along the central coast of the state, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon. It’s part
of Brevard County and is well-known for its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center and its natural beauty. Here’s a closer look at Merritt Island:

1. Kennedy Space Center: One of Merritt Island’s most famous landmarks is the Kennedy Space Center, located on the island’s northern end. This NASA facility is a hub for space exploration and launches. It offers a range of visitor experiences, including the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, astronaut encounters, and bus tours of the space center.

2. Natural Beauty: Merritt Island is home to several natural attractions, including the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which covers over 140,000 acres. This refuge is a haven for wildlife and offers opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and observing diverse ecosystems. It’s an excellent spot for seeing alligators, manatees, and a variety of bird species.

3. Beaches: The island features beautiful beaches such as Playalinda Beach, which is part of the Canaveral National Seashore. This beach offers wide expanses of sand and relatively undeveloped coastline, making it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

4. Climate: Merritt Island enjoys a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Summers are typically hot and humid, while winters are mild and pleasant, making it a good destination for outdoor activities throughout the year.

5. Recreation: In addition to its beaches and wildlife areas, Merritt Island has several parks and recreational facilities. These include areas for boating, fishing, and kayaking. The island’s location between the lagoon and the ocean provides a variety of water-based activities.

6. Community and Living: Merritt Island has a mix of residential communities and is known for its suburban feel. It offers a range of housing options and is relatively close to larger cities like Cocoa Beach and Melbourne, providing access to additional amenities and services.

7. History: The island has a history tied to its role in the space program, as well as its Native American heritage. The area was once inhabited by the Ais people, and artifacts and historical sites provide insights into the region’s past.

Population

• Population (2020): 34,518
• Population Change (2010 – 2020): Appx. same
• Median Age (2023): 50
• Married Population (2023): 63%
• Homeownership and Renters (2023): Homeowners 80%, Renters 20%
• Poverty Rate (2022): 6.5% compared to the US national average of 11.5%

Demographics (2022)

• White Non Hispanic: 82.9%
• White Hispanic: 4.3%
• Multiracial Non Hispanic: 4%
• Asian: 3%
• Black Non Hispanic: 2.45%

( Prices reflect dates specified only )

Taxes

• Property Tax (2023): .87% of a property’s assessed fair market value
• Combined County and Sales Tax Rate (2023): 7%

Cost of Living

• Cost of Living vs the National Avg. (2022): Higher
• Cost of Housing compared to Florida Average (2023): Slightly Higher
• Cost of Food compared to US national average (2023): Approximately the same
• Cost of Healthcare compared to US national average (2023): 8% Lower
• Cost of Utilities compared to US national average (2023): 10% Lower
• Cost of Transportation compared to US national average (2023): 5% Lower

Political Affiliation Based on the 2024 Election Results ( Brevard County ):

• Republican: 59.9%
• Democratic: 39.1%
• Other: 1%

Largest Industry:

• Retail Trade / Health Care and Social Assistance

Schools:

• There are 18 public schools rated Good or higher as per GreatSchools. For more info, visit greatschools.org

Coastal: Yes

Temperature:

• Average High 80.15°F
• Average Low 65.12°F

Fun Facts:

Merritt Island owes its name to the King of Spain. The island was a land grant given by the King to a nobleman named Merritt.

Locations and Amenities:

• Average commute time to work: 26.4 min compared to the US national average time of 26.9 min
• I-95: 25 min (15.2 miles)
• Orlando International Airport: 50 min (48 miles)
• Melbourne Orlando International Airport: 38 min (26.7 miles)
• Cape Canaveral Hospital (Cocoa Beach): 10 min (5.7 miles)
• University of Central Florida (Orlando): 52 min (43.6 miles)
• Orlando: 58 min (54.3 miles)
• Disney World (Orlando): 1 hr 2 min (61.9 miles)
• Port Canaveral: 17 min (9.9 miles)
• Merritt Square Mall: Shopping mall
• Kennedy Space Station
• Cape Canaveral Air Force Station: Rocket launch facility
• Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: A 140,000-acre nature sanctuary
• Savannahs Golf Course: An 18-hole golf course for all levels of golfers
• Banana River Aquatic Reserve: Row or paddle through waters among dolphins and manatees

 

Short Term Rental Regulations:

**All short term rental operations in Florida must obtain a business license from the
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation ( DBPR ) and a Florida
Department of Revenue Certificate of Sales and Use.

Restrictions:

 

• As of 2022, Merritt Island does not allow short-term rentals in residential single-family homes. (Short-term rentals in Brevard County are described as any rental period that is less than 90 days). However, this may be subject to change.
• As of 2022, there might be a development to regulations allowing short-term rentals in multi-unit dwellings (e.g., condos).

 

For more information and updates, visit brevardflstr.com.