Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Big Torch Key, FL
Considering a move to Big Torch Key, FL? With a tiny population around 100, this peaceful island offers stunning natural beauty, a warm subtropical climate, and a relaxed lifestyle. Home prices average $785,000, with rents near $2,700, reflecting its sought-after Keys location. Crime rates are low, commutes are easy, and while schooling options are on neighboring Keys, residents enjoy abundant sunshine (72% of days) and easy access to boating, fishing, and the tranquil outdoors.
Demographics - Big Torch Key, FL
Demographics - Big Torch Key, FL
Big Torch Key is a small island community with around 100 residents, characterized by a mature median age of 55 and a slightly higher proportion of males. The population is predominantly White, with a modest presence of other ethnic groups and about 9% non-English speakers. Its low population density ensures a quiet, laid-back atmosphere ideal for those seeking privacy and tranquility.
Population:
100
Density:
10 per sq mi
Median Age:
55.0
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
87.0%
Black:
2.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
10.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Big Torch Key, FL?
Living in Big Torch Key comes with a high cost of living, as reflected by a median home value of $785,000 and average rents around $2,700. The area’s cost of living index is 42% higher than the national average, primarily due to housing and everyday expenses, but Florida’s lack of state income tax offers some financial relief.
Median House Value:
$785,000
Gross Rent:
$2,700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$2,600
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,300
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$950
State Taxes:
Low:
0.0%
|
High:
0.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
142.0
Grocery:
120.0
Housing:
185.0
Utilities:
110.0
Transportation:
125.0
Health Care:
105.0
Miscellaneous:
112.0
Crime
Is Big Torch Key, FL a safe place to live?
Safety is a highlight in Big Torch Key, with a very low violent crime rate of 180 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime risk of about 1 in 80. The overall crime index suggests a peaceful, secure environment, adding to the island’s appeal for residents seeking tranquility.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,250
Crime Index:
1,430
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 80
Weather
What is the weather like in Big Torch Key, FL year-round?
Big Torch Key enjoys a warm subtropical climate, with mild winters averaging 65–75°F and hot summers reaching up to 90°F. The island gets about 40 inches of rainfall annually and boasts sunny weather 72% of the year, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Winter
Min:
65°F
Max:
75°F

Spring
Min:
70°F
Max:
82°F

Summer
Min:
78°F
Max:
90°F

Fall
Min:
73°F
Max:
85°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
40.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
72%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $71,000 and a relatively low unemployment rate of 3.8%, with 11% of residents living below the poverty line. Most adults are well-educated, and the average commute is about 28 minutes, reflecting the island’s remote, residential nature.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$71,000
Family Income:
$85,000
Per Capita Income:
$41,000
Income Male:
$46,000
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
11.0%
Non English Speakers:
9.0%
Rent:
$2,700
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
28.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.2%
Bachelors or More:
31.5%
Education
How are the schools in Big Torch Key, FL?
While Big Torch Key itself does not have schools, families have access to well-rated public and private schools on neighboring islands, such as Sugarloaf School and Grace Lutheran School. Higher education is also accessible, with the College of the Florida Keys located about 28 miles away in Key West.

Public Schools
Name:
Sugarloaf School
Street:
255 Crane Blvd, Sugarloaf Key, FL 33042
Phone:
305-745-3282
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.0

Private Schools
Name:
Grace Lutheran School
Street:
2713 Flagler Ave, Key West, FL 33040
Phone:
305-296-8262
Students:
90

Colleges
Name:
Florida Keys Community College (The College of the Florida Keys)
City:
Key West
State:
FL
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
1,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare with the nearby Lower Keys Medical Center in Key West, and there are 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people. Most locals are insured, with 86% coverage, ensuring reliable medical care within a reasonable distance.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Lower Keys Medical Center
Address:
5900 College Rd, Key West, FL 33040
Phone:
(305) 294-5531
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.0%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Big Torch Key, FL?
Big Torch Key’s housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $785,000 and most residents owning their homes. The area sees steady appreciation, a low foreclosure rate of 0.7%, and a moderate rental vacancy rate, reflecting consistent demand for property in this scenic island locale.
Median Home Price:
$785,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,700
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, located in nearby Key West. The DMV offers a full range of services both in-person and online, making it convenient for islanders to manage their driving requirements.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
3304 Peary Court, Key West, FL 33040
Phone:
(305) 293-6338
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.