An affordable option along Florida’s Treasure Coast
Florida Ridge’s affordability and prime location along the Treasure Coast makes it popular among retirees. Water and beach activities are plentiful and the surrounding conservation areas offer walking trails and other recreation opportunities. The unincorporated area of about 21,000 residents is part of Indian River County. One of its biggest draws, says real estate agent Ben Bryk, is the sense of community. “The people are just the best,” says Bryk, who has lived in the area for 20 years and works for Coldwell Banker Paradise. “Everybody is from somewhere else. We have a very giving community.”
Retirement communities and turnkey condos
Florida Ridge is a mostly residential community just to the south of Vero Beach. The median home price is about $270,000, much lower than the roughly $435,000 median in neighboring Vero Beach. Available properties range from one-bedroom condos selling at around $100,000 to $1.3 million homes with personal boat decks along the canal. Some older, smaller properties selling in “as-is” condition go for around $50,000. Many homes are part of gated retirement or golf communities. Homebuyers can also find turnkey furnished properties.
Snorkeling at Avalon State Park and hiking through the wetlands at Oslo Riverfront
Water activities are popular, both in the Indian River and on the island’s Atlantic coast. Locals can launch their canoes into the Indian River at the Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area or enjoy a walk along the trails through the wetlands and flatwoods. The county hosts a variety of free activities at some of the conservation areas throughout the week, including painting classes, hiking clubs and nature walks. Beaches on North Hutchinson Island have picnic areas and playgrounds for families. Avalon State Park is a good place for swimming, surfing or snorkeling. During the spring and summer, visitors will see sea turtles nesting on the beaches.
Beyond the water
The McKee Botanical Garden is another popular place for a nature walk. It has more than 10,000 plants and is listed on the National Register of Historic Place. Other recreation options include the various programs at the Intergenerational Recreation Center, including yoga and art classes. “Pickleball has taken over,” Bryk says. Vero Beach's Riverside Theatre hosts plays, concerts and an annual lecture series.
Students can attend Indian River public schools or receive scholarships for private schools
Florida Ridge is served by Indian River County School District, which earns an A-minus on Niche. The district has multiple magnet and charter schools. Through Florida’s school choice program, many families are eligible for different scholarships averaging $7,400 per child that can be used at private schools or for certain homeschooling programs.
Shopping in Vero Beach
Though Florida Ridge is a mostly residential area, the outlet mall off Interstate 95 and boutiques and local restaurants on 14th Avenue are just a quick drive away in Vero Beach. The South Vero Square mall off Oslo Road and Route 1 also has numerous shops and restaurants, including antiques and record stores. The center also has a breakfast diner and Vietnamese and Jamaican restaurants. It is anchored by a Publix grocery store.
Weather and crime in Florida Ridge
Enjoying Florida Ridge’s sunny and warm days comes in exchange for dealing with the state’s hurricane risk. Though properties right along the water are at risk of flooding, the area’s relative elevation compared to neighboring cities gives it some protection.According to available FBI data, incidents of violent and property crime in Indian River County dropped sharply from 2022 to 2023.
Healthcare and transportation in Florida Ridge
Multiple hospitals and health centers serve the area, including the 300-bed Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital. Doctors at this facility have expertise in more than 50 medical specialties. The Treasure Coast Community Health system also serves the area and offers medical, dental and mental and behavioral health care.
Interstate 95 connects Florida Ridge with Palm Beach, about 75 miles south, and the Melbourne International Airport, about 50 miles north. Orlando is about 100 miles northwest along the Florida Turnpike.
Thinking of Buying or Selling? Let’s Make it Happen! Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, ready to sell, looking for a 55+ community, relocating, or interested in a new construction home (yes, I know it can feel like a jungle!), I’m here to help. Need more space, looking to downsize, or searching for that perfect vacation home or investment property? I've got you covered every step of the way—from start to finish, and beyond. Let’s chat! Call or text: 772-696-2078 With nearly a decade of experience, I'm here to make your real estate journey smooth and successful.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
