Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Merritt Island, FL
Thinking about moving to Merritt Island, FL? With a population of 34,690, this sun-drenched community offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle, affordable housing (median home price $374,000; rent around $1,590), and a moderate cost of living. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 25 minutes, low violent crime rates (215 per 100K), and access to solid local schools and healthcare. With a warm climate, 70% sunny days, and easy access to beaches, Merritt Island is a great spot for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Merritt Island, FL
Demographics - Merritt Island, FL
Merritt Island is home to approximately 34,690 residents, with a median age of 49.4, reflecting a mature and well-established community. The population is predominantly White, with modest diversity, and about 8% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density provides a suburban feel ideal for both families and retirees.
Population:
34,690
Density:
1,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
49.4
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.3%

Ethnic Composition
White:
84.5%
Black:
6.8%
Asian:
2.3%
Others:
6.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Merritt Island, FL?
The cost of living in Merritt Island is just above the national average, with a cost of living index of 104.8. Housing is a major factor, with a median home value of $374,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom around $1,590. Florida’s lack of state income tax also helps residents stretch their dollars further.
Median House Value:
$374,000
Gross Rent:
$1,590
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$2,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,920
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.8
Grocery:
103.2
Housing:
109.5
Utilities:
98.6
Transportation:
102.4
Health Care:
97.8
Miscellaneous:
100.1
Crime
Is Merritt Island, FL a safe place to live?
Merritt Island boasts relatively low crime rates, with just 215 violent crimes per 100,000 people and a 1 in 465 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime is more common but still moderate, making this coastal town a safe option for families and retirees. The overall crime index suggests a generally secure and welcoming atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
215
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,580
Crime Index:
1,795
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 465
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 63
Weather
What is the weather like in Merritt Island, FL year-round?
Residents enjoy a warm, subtropical climate with mild winters averaging 51°F to 72°F and hot summers reaching up to 91°F. The area receives about 54 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine on about 70% of days. This weather makes Merritt Island ideal for those who love outdoor activities and beach living.

Winter
Min:
51°F
Max:
72°F

Spring
Min:
62°F
Max:
82°F

Summer
Min:
74°F
Max:
91°F

Fall
Min:
65°F
Max:
83°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
53.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
70%
Neighbors
The community has a median household income of $71,800, with about 9% of residents living below the poverty line. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 30% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. With an average commute of 25 minutes and low public transit use, the area is car-friendly and family-oriented.
Median Income:
$38,850
Household Income:
$71,800
Family Income:
$85,100
Per Capita Income:
$38,850
Income Male:
$47,500
Income Female:
$36,400
Poverty Rate:
9.2%
Non English Speakers:
8.3%
Rent:
$1,590
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
25.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.2%
Bachelors or More:
29.7%
Education
How are the schools in Merritt Island, FL?
Merritt Island features well-regarded public and private schools, including Merritt Island High School and Mila Elementary, as well as access to higher education at Eastern Florida State College just 6 miles away. Student-to-teacher ratios are reasonable, supporting a quality learning environment. The area’s educational resources make it an attractive place for families with school-aged children.

Public Schools
Name:
Merritt Island High School
Street:
100 Mustang Way
Phone:
321-454-1000
Students:
1,500
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.1
Name:
Mila Elementary School
Street:
288 W Merritt Ave
Phone:
321-454-1070
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4

Private Schools
Name:
Divine Mercy Catholic Academy
Street:
1940 N Courtenay Pkwy
Phone:
321-452-0263
Students:
350

Colleges
Name:
Eastern Florida State College
City:
Cocoa
State:
FL
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
13,800
Name:
Florida Institute of Technology
City:
Melbourne
State:
FL
Distance:
25 miles
Students:
6,400
Healthcare
Merritt Island offers quality healthcare access with two major hospitals nearby and about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents. Nearly 90% of the population has health insurance coverage, contributing to a strong sense of well-being in the community. Emergency and general medical services are readily available.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Cape Canaveral Hospital
Address:
701 W Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Phone:
(321) 799-7111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Parrish Medical Center
Address:
951 N Washington Ave, Titusville, FL 32796
Phone:
(321) 268-6111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.9%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Merritt Island, FL?
The housing market features a median home price of $374,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of 78%. Average rent for a two-bedroom is $1,590, and home values have appreciated by nearly 7% over the past year. Both buyers and renters will find a stable market with low vacancy and foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$374,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,590
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing are handled by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, with resources available online and through statewide offices. New residents can easily access DMV services for driver’s licenses, title transfers, and other motor vehicle needs. The main office is located in Tallahassee, but many services are accessible locally and online.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
2900 Apalachee Pkwy, Tallahassee, FL 32399
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.