Upper Key offers nautical adventures and an Old Florida vibe
Surrounded by azure waters filled with attractions below, Key Largo is known as “The Diving Capital of the World.” Yet that only scratches the surface of this island community’s allure. Key Largo, which is 18 miles from the Florida mainland, is a sunny, fun-filled paradise -- a haven for boaters, anglers and adventure seekers. It radiates with the energy of the Old Florida Bohemian vibe that made the Keys famous. “It’s the first Key, and the best Key, in my opinion,” says Alberto Martinez, a native and Realtor for Keller Williams. “We joke that we’re a drinking town with a fishing problem.”
You can go kayaking at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park while living in North Key Largo, FL.
Have a great day fishing while living in North Key Largo, FL.
Take a walk at Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botan while living in North Key Largo, FL.
Welcome to the beautiful North Key Largo, FL.
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Recreation and tourism drive the Key Largo economy
The island's accessibility — just 60 miles south of Miami — and water-based attractions have made it an increasingly popular destination for "weekend warriors" from the north. "What I've been noticing is that a lot of people from Miami are coming down here after they work in the city Monday through Friday," Martinez says. These visitors are a welcome addition to the island's recreation-tourism industry, the biggest driver of the local economy. That includes fishing charters, snorkeling and diving expeditions, as well as hotels, restaurants and retail.
Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge in North Key Largo is a great place for a visit.
Visit the aquirium at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park while living in North Key Largo, FL.
Pattle board your way through John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
Have a fun beach day at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park while living in North Key Largo.
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Housing costs up post-COVID
Key Largo has a median home price of $875,000 — more than double the Florida median. Housing prices have soared in recent years, primarily due to interest from out-of-town homebuyers. "The market since the pandemic has gone through the roof," Martinez says. "Affordability in Key Largo is really not there. A lot of people from Miami and Coral Gables are coming down here to buy homes. In a way, the Keys is becoming like The Hamptons." As a result, new residents are pricing out the locals, and many properties serve as second homes or rentals. "A lot of people who work here are living in Homestead [about 30 miles north on the mainland]. That's becoming more of a trend," Martinez says.
Single-family homes range from cozy cottages to multimillion-dollar waterfront estates. Private boat docks are a common feature. Condos and contemporary townhouses are also available. Homebuyers should be aware that during hurricane season, they face a severe risk of flooding and wind damage and that their insurance rates will be affected.
Find gorgeous Spanish-revival style homes in Ocean Reef Club in North Key Largo, FL.
Modern condominums are available at Ocean Reef Club in North Key Largo, FL.
Ocean Reef Club community makes up a large part of North Key Largo, FL.
Find your pefect home in Ocean Reef Club community, north of North Key Largo, FL.
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John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for undersea adventures
Key Largo's recreational options revolve mostly around boating, fishing and diving. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park features reefs teeming with marine life, whose vibrant colors and diversity can be experienced through snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours at a unique undersea park. It is also home to the underwater Christ of the Abyss statue and the Jules' Undersea Lodge, the world's only underwater hotel. Additional amenities include beaches, boat ramps and campgrounds.
More traditional parks include Rowell's Waterfront Park, Key Largo Community Park with athletic amenities, and Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park with miles of trails amid lush landscape.
Popular dining and nightlife includes Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill
Many restaurants are set along U.S. Highway 1, aka the Overseas Highway, on the beach or on inlets with dockside dining. "I always recommend Key Largo Fisheries," Martinez says. "It's a market with a nice little café in the back. And now they have a bar. That place is really popular. There's also Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill and The Fish House, which has been around for 40 years or so." The beachfront Caribbean Club, made famous in the movie "Key Largo" starring Humphrey Bogart, is popular among tourists and residents alike. "It's really a late-night spot," Martinez says.
Supermarkets and small businesses are concentrated along the Overseas Highway, including the Tradewinds Shopping Center with a Publix.
Key Largo's signature events include festivals celebrating food and drink, like the Key Largo Seafood Wine, Spirits, & Beer Pairing Festival in March. There's also a 4th of July Parade and in the fall, Reef Fest, with ocean activities.
Enjoy friendly company at Blackwater Siren in North Key Largo, FL.
The Buzzard's Roost in North Key Largo, FL has friendly service and delicious food.
Enjoy a gorgeous waterfront view while enjoy delicious seafood meals at The Buzzard's Roost.
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Coral Shores High School is the top-rated school in Monroe County
Students are served by the Monroe County School District, which earns a B-plus from Niche. Key Largo School is a public K-8 institution rated B-minus by Niche. The A-rated Coral Shores High School in neighboring Tavernier is the top-rated school in the district.
Coral Shores High School in Key Largo is an A- school.
The Overseas Highway connects to the mainland
Bikes are a popular way to get around town. For driving, U.S. Highway 1, known locally as the Overseas Highway, is the sole roadway connecting the Keys to mainland Florida. "Only one way in and one way out," says Martinez. "On a big holiday weekend, the 18-mile stretch between Key Largo and the mainland is bumper-to-bumper traffic." Miami and its international airport are about a 65-mile drive. The Miami-Dade Express Bus and FlixBus offer service between Key Largo and the mainland.
Weather and crime in Key Largo
The Keys experience hot and humid weather much of the year, while winters are short and mild. Hurricanes are a risk.
As a census-designated place and not a city, Key Largo does not have a police department. Its residents are served by the Monroe County Sheriff's Office. The District 7 substation in neighboring Tavernier includes a Road Patrol, Criminal Investigations Unit and a Marine Unit. There are no crime statistics available just for Key Largo.
Written By
Matt Pallister
Photography Contributed By
Yanan Sun
Video By
Grace Kim
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Sandra Spaulding,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Key Largo, FL sell after 129 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Key Largo, FL over the last 12 months is $890,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This home is a testament to coastal charm, seamlessly blended on this canal front with direct ocean access only 5 houses away from open ocean. The home offers a cozy 3 bedroom,3 bath ground level home that sits on just over 7500 SF fenced lot. This home not only offers a cut in boat slip, more dockage, sandy beach area, mesmerizing views from your backyard. The home has been recently updated and
Welcome to The Oasis, a sanctuary of elegance nestled in the most exclusive area in Key Largo, Florida. Gracefully situated along the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, this exquisite villa epitomizes modern sophistication and timeless charm. Spanning an expansive 46,227 sqft of prime real estate with over 86 feet of ocean frontage, it offers breathtaking, uninterrupted ocean views the 75-foot
Beautiful almost new home for you and your family to enjoy. Unique wood beam Spruce ceiling accenting the gorgeous kitchen with wood cabinets and Quartz counter tops. Samsung appliances in the kitchen with pretty blue marble counter tops in the bathrooms. Fully furnished at this three-bedroom roomy home with an open patio for your pleasure. Twenty-thousand-pound boat lift for your large yacht at
Charming Conch House - Affordable Keys Living!Step into this cute and cozy ground-level 3-bedroom, 2-bath conch home, beautifully updated with a modern kitchen and stylish bathrooms. The living room showcases the warmth of original Dade County pine ceilings and walls, blending classic Florida Keys charm with today's comforts.Situated on a lush 60x100 lot, you'll enjoy tropical landscaping that
Design a custom luxury retreat on Lot 70 in prestigious Key Largo Ocean Resort. This prime cleared lot offers space for a multi-level residence with covered parking, just steps from the oceanfront marina with direct access to the Atlantic with no bridges to ocean. Enjoy resort-style amenities: gated entry, clubhouse, pool, gym, courts, pier and private beach. Ideal for elegant island living or
Kawama Corner Townhome - 3-Day Rentals Allowed!Welcome to the private, gated community of Kawama in Key Largo, just off the ocean side at mile marker 100! This beautiful 3-level corner townhome is the perfect getaway, offering the ultimate resort-style living with access to a stunning saltwater swimming lagoon, two pools, tennis courts, a marina, and a long jetty leading into the ocean. Enjoy two
Waterfront rental in sought-after Pirates Cove, Key Largo! This fully furnished 3BD/2BA home offers 55 ft. of dockage with immediate ocean access—bring your boat! Open-concept living and spacious outdoor areas make it ideal for relaxing or entertaining. Enjoy morning coffee on the oversized terrace with bay views. Ample parking for vehicles, trailers, or jet skis. Boat/Rv parking. Optional
Our Apartments in Key Largo, FL Live in a tropical oasis where summers are endless live at Playa Apartments! Nestled in gorgeous buildings with Old Florida Keys architecture and boasting a location in Key Largo, our apartments invite you to enjoy the sweet pleasures of life. Youll dwell close to sun-washed beaches and underwater attractions, where even the major thoroughfare is a landmark in
Beautiful 3/1 located in Key Largo at Mile Marker 101. Ready for immediate move-in! Fully furnished for your convenience, but furniture can be removed upon request. Located near local marinas, diving centers, restaurants, and shopping. Enjoy island living just steps from the best of the Florida Keys!
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