Big Pine Key is an island located in the lower Florida Keys, about 30 miles east of Key West. It is the largest of the Lower Keys, spanning about 10 square miles, and is home to approximately 5,000 residents.

The island is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. The National Key Deer Refuge is located on Big Pine Key, which is home to the endangered Key deer, a subspecies of the white-tailed deer that is only found in the Florida Keys. Visitors can see these deer up close and learn about conservation efforts to protect them.

Big Pine Key also has several beaches and parks, including Bahia Honda State Park, which is located on nearby Bahia Honda Key and is considered one of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. The park features crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and abundant marine life, making it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing.

In addition to its natural attractions, Big Pine Key has a small commercial district with restaurants, shops, and art galleries. The island has a relaxed, laid-back vibe that appeals to residents and visitors seeking a more tranquil lifestyle and experience.

Population:

• Population (2022): 4,500
• Median age (2022): 53
• Residents under 18 (2023): 17.5%
• Residents over 65 (2023): 23.4%
• Population by sex (2023): female (47%), male (53%)
• Homeowners and renters (2022): homeowners (83%), renters (17%)
• Married population (2021): 54.9%
• Population change (2010-2020): Appx. 20% Increase
• Poverty rate compared to the US national average (2022): 13.9% vs the average of 11.6%

Demographics (2022):

• White Non Hispanic – 80%,
• White Hispanic – 15%

*Prices shown are based only on activity for the dates specified

Income:

• Median household income (2022): $74,375
• Avg. per capita income (2022): N/A

Tax:

• County property tax rate: 0.69% of a property’s assessed fair market value (2023)
• Combined state and county sales tax rate: 7.5% (2021)

Cost of Living:

• Average cost of living compared to the US national average (2023): Higher
• Cost of housing compared to the Florida average (2023): Higher
• Cost of food compared to the US national average (2023): 4% Higher
• Cost of healthcare compared to the US national average (2023): 4% Lower
• Cost of utilities compared to the US national average (2023): 3% Higher
• Cost of transportation compared to the US national average (2023): 3% Higher

Political affiliation based on the 2020 election results: predominantly Republican

Largest 3 employers by name: unknown

School ratings: unknown

Coastal: Yes

Average low and high temperature: Low 23.3 degrees celsius, High 28.3 degrees celsius

Fun facts: Big Pine Key is home to the endangered Key deer, which is the smallest subspecies of the North American white-tailed deer.

Location and Amenities:

 

Highways:

• The Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1) runs through the Florida Keys, including Big Pine Key. As Big Pine Key is a part of the Keys, you will have easy access to this major highway.

International Airports:

• Key West International Airport (EYW):
• Distance: Approximately 33 miles (53 kilometers) northeast of Big Pine Key. Travel Time is Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.
• Miami International Airport (MIA): Distance: Approximately 130 miles (209 kilometers) northeast of Big Pine Key. Travel Time is Approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.

Universities and Colleges: While there aren’t any universities or colleges directly on Big Pine Key, there are several options within a reasonable driving distance. Here are a few examples:

• Florida Keys Community College:
  Distance: Approximately 31 miles (50 kilometers) northeast of Big Pine Key in Key West. Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.

Hospitals:

• Lower Keys Medical Center:
  Distance: Approximately 32 miles (51 kilometers) northeast of Big Pine Key in Key

Shopping Malls:

• Big Pine Key itself is a smaller community with limited shopping options. For larger shopping malls, you would need to travel to Key West or other nearby cities.

Major Cities:

• Key West is appx. 40 – 45 minutes south
• Miami is appx. 3 hours north by car

Amenities:

• Bahia Honda State Park, Blue Hole, No Name Key, National Key Deer Refuge, Big Pine Kayak Adventures

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. ** Short term rental regulations can be subject to change and should always be confirmed with city / towns or county departments.

Restrictions:

• Not all areas in Monroe County allow short term rentals. Zoning restrictions apply. For details about zoning please visit website below
• Rental periods for 28 days or less and more than 3 times per calendar year are considered short term rentals in Monroe County

For more information visit: monroecounty-fl.gov