Merritt Island

A Waterfront Haven with a Strong Community Spirit

Merritt Island is a vibrant coastal community known for its stunning waterways, offering the perfect mix of natural beauty and suburban living. Sandwiched between the Indian and Banana Rivers, the area is a paradise for boaters, anglers, and nature lovers. Residents cherish the peaceful lifestyle, complemented by convenient access to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Kennedy Space Center, which add an unmistakable sense of wonder and adventure.

Merritt Island boasts highly rated schools, diverse shopping options, and a wide range of real estate—from riverfront estates to charming single-family homes. With its warm, welcoming neighborhoods and unparalleled outdoor opportunities, Merritt Island is the perfect place to live, explore, and connect with nature.

Merritt Island

	Average home price	Average home price per sq. ft.
Lowest	$256,770	$214
Median	$425,000	$250
Highest	$3,447,900	$1020

*Based on Realtor.com listings and client provided data

Average home statistics in terms of:
No. of beds	No. of baths	Square feet
3.75	2.4	1,700

WELCOME TO MERRITT ISLAND!

Tucked between the Indian River and the Banana River, Merritt Island offers one of the most distinctive coastal lifestyles on the Space Coast. It’s a place where rocket launches illuminate the night sky, dolphins glide along private docks, and daily life moves to the rhythm of the tide. Here, nature and innovation coexist. Lush mangroves and manatees share the waterways with views of NASA’s launch pad just across the river.

Living here means enjoying an upscale coastal lifestyle with a strong sense of community. From elegant riverfront estates to charming canal-front homes, the island’s neighborhoods provide privacy, serenity, and direct water access unmatched anywhere else in Brevard County.

For those seeking Merritt Island homes for sale, Keith Krodel and the Reef Realty Florida team have long been the trusted professionals. Their knowledge of the waterways, boating routes, and hidden gems ensures you’re not just buying a home—you’re discovering a way of life that only Merritt Island can offer.

MORE ABOUT MERRITT ISLAND: AT THE HEART OF THE SPACE COAST

The lifestyle

Merritt Island blends tranquility with a touch of daily adventure. Mornings often begin on the dock with a quiet coffee, afternoons drift along the Banana River, and evenings glow with fiery sunsets over the Indian River. Boating culture runs deep: neighbors chat at marinas, kayakers explore hidden mangrove coves, and sailors set off toward the Intracoastal.

Around the island, you’ll find a mix of waterfront neighborhoods, established communities, and peaceful residential streets tucked between rivers. Some areas are renowned for their luxurious estates, featuring deep-water docks, tropical landscaping, and architecture designed to capture the breezes and take in the stunning views. Some sections are more relaxed and traditional, with spacious lots and mature trees.

The island is known for its convenience. Spend your morning exploring riverfront parks, stopping by a favorite café along the main road, and still be home well before sunset. The island’s layout makes everyday life practical, connected, and refreshingly simple to navigate.

Merritt Island’s coastal rhythm is peaceful and never hurried—just the right mix of waterfront serenity, neighborhood charm, and modern luxury.

Location and accessibility

Ideally situated between Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral, Merritt Island allows you to enjoy the best of everything the Space Coast has to offer. Those traveling between Florida and other destinations can reach Orlando International Airport in about an hour by driving west.

Major highways like State Road 520 and State Road 528 (Beachline Expressway) make it easy to commute to Melbourne, Orlando, or Titusville. Residents also benefit from convenient access to nearby marinas, golf courses, and causeways that lead straight to the Atlantic.

You’re never too far from nature, either. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, the Banana River Aquatic Preserve, and numerous scenic waterways surround the island, offering endless opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching, and boating.

Why choose Merritt Island over other Space Coast communities

It’s hard to miss Merritt Island when you’re traveling along Florida’s coast. Here’s why many discerning buyers prefer it over nearby areas like Cocoa Beach, Satellite Beach, or Titusville:

• Direct river and canal access for boating, fishing, and paddleboarding.
• Strong property value retention in a market driven by limited waterfront inventory.
• Family-friendly neighborhoods with highly rated schools and safe, walkable streets.
• A sophisticated yet relaxed coastal culture that values privacy and community.
• Eco-preserved areas with upscale homes—a rare combination of nature conservation and modern luxury living.

Merritt Island’s idyllic setting and proximity to world-class technology hubs make it one of the most sought-after addresses on the Space Coast.

MERRITT ISLAND, FLORIDA REAL ESTATE

The Merritt Island real estate market remains one of Brevard County’s most resilient. Demand for waterfront homes in Merritt Island, FL continues to grow as more buyers seek privacy, boating access, and scenic river views. Buyers—from retirees to aerospace professionals and remote workers—are drawn to the island’s rare combination of calm and convenience.

There is also an increasing market for modern properties. Many older homes along the canals and rivers are undergoing renovations with sleek, energy-efficient designs that respect the area’s coastal character. Upscale contemporary designs seamlessly integrate open spaces, glass walls, and sustainable elements into traditional Florida-style homes, striking a balance between airy outdoor living and modern style.

Property types and architectural styles

Houses for sale in Merritt Island include charming mid-century ranch homes and multimillion-dollar waterfront estates. Properties range from 1,500-square-foot canal residences to sprawling 8,000-square-foot riverfront estates with private docks, pools, and guest houses.

Common features include:

• Private boat slips or deepwater docks
• Screened lanais and outdoor kitchens
• Open-concept layouts with river or canal views
• Rich tropical landscaping and mature palms
• Smart-home technology and hurricane-resistant construction

Architecture on Merritt Island reflects its history. Its diverse housing stock boasts coastal cottages, Mediterranean villas, and modern glass-fronted estates. Certain neighborhoods highlight luxury custom homes designed with both elegance and efficiency in mind.

Growing condo market

While single-family homes dominate the housing market, condos have also been rising in the community. Buyers looking for the convenience of a lock and leave lifestyle along with lucrative investment opportunities will find condos for sale in sought-after waterfront developments. Many come with easy water access and stunning views of the Intracoastal, as well as resort style amenities such as swimming pools, tennis and pickleball courts, clubhouses, and more.

Notable communities on Merritt Island

The island is also renowned for its variety of gated and planned neighborhoods, many of which feature amenities such as private marinas, tennis and pickleball courts, and walking trails.

Here are some of the best places to look for waterfront homes in Merritt Island, FL:

• Newfound Harbor: Famous for luxury estates and prime river access.
• River Moorings: A peaceful canal-front community perfect for boaters.
• Villa De Palmas: Family-friendly, with mid-century charm and quick river access.
• Harbor Point: Offers new construction homes and a strong sense of community.
• South Tropical Trail: Home to some of Merritt Island’s most prestigious addresses, showcasing custom estates with expansive riverfront views.

Opportunities for investment

Merritt Island provides steady, long-term value to investors. The area attracts a continuous influx of new residents linked to NASA, SpaceX, and other aerospace companies, ensuring sustained housing demand. Waterfront homes for sale in Merritt Island, FL deliver strong returns, especially as short-term or seasonal rentals for visitors wanting to be near Kennedy Space Center and Cocoa Beach.

Find homes for sale in Merritt Island here.

LIVING IN MERRITT ISLAND

Cost of living

Living on Merritt Island costs slightly more than average—about 12% above the national baseline and roughly 14% higher than the Florida average. Much of this premium comes from housing, while other expenses, such as groceries, healthcare, and transportation, are moderate. The cost of buying or renting here reflects the demand for desirable waterfront and canal-front neighborhoods.

School and education

Merritt Island is served by Brevard Public Schools, known for strong academics and close ties to the Space Coast’s STEM-driven workforce.

Key public schools include:

• Merritt Island High School
• Edgewood Junior/Senior High School
• Robert L. Stevenson Elementary
• Thomas Jefferson Middle School
• Lewis Carroll Elementary
• MILA Elementary

Families interested in private education have several options on Merritt Island, including Merritt Island Christian School and Alpha Learning, Inc.

Outdoor activities and attractions

Merritt Island’s outdoor life is unparalleled. The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge spans over 140,000 acres and serves as a sanctuary for manatees, bald eagles, and migratory birds. It’s also the setting for the Space Coast Birding & Wildlife Festival, one of the largest of its kind in the U.S.

Locals enjoy Black Point Wildlife Drive, a scenic route where you can observe alligators, herons, and spoonbills up close. Kayaking and paddleboarding through the mangrove tunnels of the Banana River are popular activities, offering a serene experience and a front-row seat to nature.

Ecotourism thrives here, seamlessly integrated into everyday life. Residents spend their weekends on the water fishing, sailing, or relaxing on the dock.

Space and science

Few places in the world offer backyard views of rocket launches. Merritt Island’s proximity to the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station keeps the community deeply connected to space exploration. Launch events draw locals and visitors, transforming quiet evenings into memorable celebrations of human achievement.

Beaches and water activities

Just a short drive east, Cocoa Beach welcomes residents with expansive sandy shores, surf shops, and oceanfront dining. Many locals split their time—weekdays on the river and weekends at the beach.

Nearby, riverfront parks like Kelly Park East and Manatee Cove Park are perfect for picnics, fishing, and boat launches. The area also features golf courses, fitness clubs, and numerous walking trails. You can enjoy outdoor activities year-round thanks to the consistent sunshine.

Shopping

Merritt Square Mall remains the town’s primary retail hub, while nearby Cocoa Village and Viera offer a range of boutique shops, art galleries, and local markets. For essentials, the central corridor provides easy access to grocery stores, marine supply shops, and other local businesses that cater to boaters.

Dining

Dockside restaurants and locally owned bistros showcase the area’s relaxed elegance. Local favorites, such as The Island Waterfront Bar & Grill and Mitchell’s Restaurant, offer a variety of dishes, from fresh seafood to upscale American cuisine. Hidden gems along the South Tropical Trail provide intimate settings perfect for sunset dinners or enjoying river views.

FAQS ON MERRITT ISLAND REAL ESTATE Is Merritt Island a good place to live for year-round residents? ✅ Absolutely. It’s ideal for those seeking privacy, waterfront living, and close access to top-tier recreation. Many residents enjoy a peaceful, small-town pace while staying near busy coastal cities and major employers. What types of homes are available on Merritt Island? ✅ Merritt Island offers a wide variety of properties, from cozy single-family homes and canal-front houses to luxurious riverfront estates. Many buyers look for waterfront homes, while others explore charming inland neighborhoods for more traditional or family-oriented lifestyles. How much do homes for sale on Merritt Island typically cost? ✅ Prices vary greatly depending on location, water access, and property size. Entry-level homes may start in the low $300,000s, while premium waterfront properties can cost several million dollars. As of November, 2025, the median home sale price was $425,000. The market shows strong demand for lifestyle and investment opportunities. Why choose Merritt Island, Florida real estate? ✅ On Merritt Island, you’ll enjoy coastal living with easy access to boats and the Space Coast’s amenities. Residents enjoy preserved waterways, family-friendly neighborhoods, and proximity to Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, and Orlando. Are the neighborhoods suitable for families and retirees? ✅ Yes. Merritt Island has communities designed for different lifestyles. Family-oriented areas feature great schools within the Brevard Public Schools district, safe streets, and parks, while retirees often prefer waterfront estates or quiet canals with private docks. Is it easy to buy waterfront property on Merritt Island? ✅ Yes, but the available inventory is limited. Buyers work with experts familiar with canals, river depths, and dock access to find the right property. Realtors in Merritt Island, FL, such as the Reef Realty Florida team, provide in-depth market knowledge and access to exclusive waterfront homes. Which home styles are most popular right now? ✅ There are canal-front estates with private docks that remain highly desirable, as are updated mid-century and coastal-modern homes. Buyers are also interested in energy-efficient, hurricane-rated properties built for durability and peace of mind. What’s the lifestyle and commuting like here? ✅ It’s relaxed and convenient—you’re just minutes from Cocoa Beach, about 20 minutes from Cape Canaveral, and less than an hour from Orlando. Locals enjoy boating, waterfront dining, and community events that showcase true Space Coast charm.

EXPERIENCE THE MERRITT ISLAND LIFESTYLE

Merritt Island continues to shine for its steady demand, tight-knit community, and timeless waterfront appeal. It combines stability with a laid-back lifestyle, allowing you to relax while planning your next move.

When you’re ready to explore the peninsula’s neighborhoods, compare options, or get a feel for homes that fit your lifestyle, Keith Krodel and the Reef Realty Florida team are here to guide you. With their local knowledge, practical advice, and extensive experience in waterfront living, they make the process easier from the start.

Connect with Reef Realty Florida today and take the next step toward calling Merritt Island home. Call 321.465.5000 or send an email here to get started.