Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Key West, FL
Considering a move to Key West, FL? This vibrant island city of 26,444 offers a tropical climate with 76% sunny days and warm winters, perfect for outdoor living. While the median home price is a high $790,000 and average rents are $2,650, residents enjoy short 13-minute commutes, a laid-back lifestyle, and unique cultural flair. Crime rates are higher than average, but Key West features a tight-knit community, good schools, and no state income tax, making it a distinctive choice for those seeking sun, sea, and a slower pace.
Demographics - Key West, FL
Demographics - Key West, FL
Key West is home to about 26,444 residents with a relatively high population density and a median age of 44.5, reflecting a balanced mix of working professionals and retirees. The community is diverse, with approximately 25% speaking a language other than English at home, and a majority identifying as White, alongside notable Black and Hispanic populations. This cultural blend adds vibrancy and character to daily life in the city.
Population:
26,444
Density:
4,615 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.5
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
25.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
72.5%
Black:
9.6%
Asian:
1.7%
Others:
16.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Key West, FL?
Living in Key West comes with a premium, as reflected by a median home value of $790,000 and average rents around $2,650. The overall cost of living index is 154.5, driven primarily by high housing costs, although there is no state income tax in Florida. Utilities and groceries are slightly above national averages, so new residents should be prepared for island pricing.
Median House Value:
$790,000
Gross Rent:
$2,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$2,450
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,090
State Taxes:
Low:
0% (no state income tax)
|
High:
0% (no state income tax)
Cost Of Living Index:
154.5
Grocery:
120.4
Housing:
230.8
Utilities:
105.7
Transportation:
112.0
Health Care:
99.2
Miscellaneous:
109.7
Crime
Is Key West, FL a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Key West are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 238 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 26 chance of property crime. While the city maintains a laid-back, close-knit atmosphere, it is important for newcomers to stay aware of their surroundings and take standard safety precautions. Despite these figures, many residents appreciate the strong sense of community and local engagement.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
420
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,850
Crime Index:
4,270
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 238
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 26
Weather
What is the weather like in Key West, FL year-round?
Key West offers a warm, tropical climate year-round, with winter lows rarely dipping below 63°F and summer highs averaging 89°F. The city enjoys about 76% sunny days and receives nearly 40 inches of rainfall annually, making it ideal for those who love outdoor activities and a beachside lifestyle. The weather is a major draw for new residents seeking sunshine and mild winters.
Winter
Min:
63°F
Max:
75°F
Spring
Min:
70°F
Max:
82°F
Summer
Min:
78°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
73°F
Max:
83°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
76%
Neighbors
Residents of Key West typically enjoy a median household income of $72,600 and a low unemployment rate of 2.8%. Most people have short commutes, averaging just over 13 minutes, and nearly 90% have at least a high school education. The area is known for its friendly, diverse population, with a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
Median Income:
$46,700
Household Income:
$72,600
Family Income:
$85,200
Per Capita Income:
$51,400
Income Male:
$48,800
Income Female:
$41,700
Poverty Rate:
13.4%
Non English Speakers:
25.0%
Rent:
$2,650
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
13.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.8%
Bachelors or More:
33.6%
Education
How are the schools in Key West, FL?
Key West provides access to quality public and private schools, including Key West High School and several elementary options. The city is also home to The College of the Florida Keys, offering higher education opportunities just minutes from downtown. With a strong educational foundation and small class sizes, families find a supportive learning environment for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Key West High School
Street:
2100 Flagler Ave
Phone:
305-293-1549
Students:
1,250
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Name:
Gerald Adams Elementary School
Street:
5855 College Rd
Phone:
305-293-1610
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.9
Private Schools
Name:
Grace Lutheran School
Street:
2713 Flagler Ave
Phone:
305-296-8262
Students:
105
Colleges
Name:
The College of the Florida Keys
City:
Key West
State:
FL
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
1,300
Healthcare
Key West is served by the Lower Keys Medical Center, providing general and emergency care to the community. The city has about 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 80% of the population is covered by health insurance. Healthcare services are readily accessible, supporting both families and retirees.
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:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
79.4%
Health Care Index:
73.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Key West, FL?
The Key West housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $790,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $2,650. Just over half of residents own their homes, and the market has seen a 7.2% appreciation rate in the last year. Housing inventory remains limited, making this an attractive yet challenging location for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$790,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Key West residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, located locally at 3304 Peary Court. The office offers a full range of DMV services and can be reached at 850-617-2000. More information and appointment scheduling are available on the Florida DMV website.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
3304 Peary Court, Key West, FL 33040
Phone:
850-617-2000
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.