Marathon’s namesake dates back to the early 1900s, when railroad workers labored day and night to complete the Florida East Coast Railway. While the pace of life may have been unrelenting back then, today the city stands as a premier destination for island living the heart of the Florida Keys. Over 9,000 residents call Marathon home, and many enjoy exploring the surrounding turquoise water of the Gulf of Mexico, which offers premier sport fishing opportunities. “Marathon has some of the best fishing in the Keys,” says Jennifer O’Marah, a local Realtor with United Realty Group.
Marathon, FL was built in the early 1900s, with laborers working days and night to build the Florida East Coast Railway.
The beauty of the Florida Keys is right within Marathon, FL.
Enjoy the beauty of the Florida Keys while living in Marathon, FL.
Fishing enuthizist love Marathon, FL for its great accessibility to amazing local fish.
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A sport fishing destination with nearby parks to explore
Marathon’s recreation revolves around the ocean. The city is a world-renowned destination for catching mahi mahi, yellow tail, goliath grouper and sailfish. For recreation on dry land, the Marathon Community Park offers multiple athletic facilities including baseball diamonds, basketball courts and soccer fields. Curry Hammock State Park features over 1,000 acres of undeveloped mangrove swamps, winding lagoons and sandy beaches. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the diverse wildlife of the islands at the Florida Key Aquarium Encounters, with over 50 species of tropical fish, rays and much more on display.
The peaceful scene of the sea reflects the beauty of the city of Marathon, FL.
Marathon Community Park has a variety of sports amenities, including a very well-maintained tennis court.
Curry Hammock State Park Trail in Marathon, FL is a beautiful park to explore.
Learn about the creatures of the sea at Aquarium Encounters in Marathon, FL.
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Combination of waterfront estates and midrise condos
Marathon offers a collection of single-family and multifamily housing options, many of which have oceanside views. “Lots of the condos and homes are actually waterfront as there are a lot of canals in Marathon,” O’Marah says. “Most homeowners have their own boat in their backyard.” Ocean front estates and mid-rise condos are popular styles and many sit on stilts to provide flood protection. The median single-family home price is about $1.4 million, significantly above the national average.
While most other keys limit tourists by requiring 28-day-rental periods, Marathon embraces them with a 7-day rental minimum.
Marathon, FL has lots of newly multifamily homes for more of a affordable housing option for residents.
Homes in Marathon, FL are along the ocean with space for boats.
Raised homes in Marathon, FL are built alongside beautiful waterfront views.
Rasied homes in Marathon, FL are perfect for large and growing families.
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Students attend Monroe County Schools
The Monroe County School District serves Marathon and receives a B-plus rating on Niche. Because the district covers most of the Keys, all students in Marathon attend the same schools. Stanley Switlik Elementary receives a B rating while Marathon Middle High School receives a B-plus rating. Marathon Middle High School offers numerous clubs including habitat for humanity and digital journalism. The College of the Florida Keys – Middle Keys Center is located in the city.
Stanley Switlik Elementary School in Marathon, FL has a B- score on Niche.
Marathon Middle School in Marathon, FL has a B+ score on Niche.
Marathon High School in Marathon, FL has a B+ score on Niche.
The College of the Florida Keys - Middle Key in Marathon, FL is a great place to start your early higher education.
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Waterfront dining with sunset views
Marathon’s culinary scene is directly tied to its setting. “There are lots of place you can get to by boat which is a big draw,” O’Marah says. “Marathon has plenty of sunset spots and happy hours everywhere.” Famous seafood eateries include Porky's Bayside and Keys Fisheries. Unlike other islands in the Keys, Marathon has a grocery store, so residents don’t have to drive far for weekly goods.
Enjoy amazing service and foods at Porky's Bayside in Marathon, FL.
Locals and tourists alike flock to Keys Fisheries in Marathon, FL for those amazingly fresh seafood and great spirits.
Winn-Dixie in Marathon, FL is a great place to get everything you need.
Shop at Publix in Marathon, FL for that great Publix sub and amazing grocery deals.
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Transportation
US Route 1, also known as the Overseas Highway, is the main thoroughfare of the Florida Keys, connecting all of the islands to the mainland. Marathon is about 50 miles from Key West and 116 miles from Miami. The Florida Keys Marathon Airport is a public airport that offers on-demand charter flights. Full-service commercial airlines can be found at the Key West International Airport. Monroe County and Miami Dade County service multiple bus stops in Marathon.
Try a fresh catch at the Marathon Seafood Festival
The city’s most famous event is the Marathon Seafood Festival, the second largest event in the Florida Keys, with more than 15,000 annual attendees. The popular gathering takes place across two days every March and features live music, entertainment, and of course, fresh, local seafood. Other significant events include the Marathon Beach Party and Fireworks Show and the annual Sombrero Beach Run.
Enjoy delicious fresh Keys seafood at the Marathon Seafood Festival.
Marathon Seafood Festival offers visitors over 200 local vendors from all over Florida.
Let your kids have fun at the Kids Zone at the Marathon Seafood Festival.
Enjoy great live entertainment while at the Marathon Seafood Festival.
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Crime and Environment
The Monroe County Police Department serves Marathon. While the county may have a violent crime rate slightly above the state average, violent crime decreased by around 27% from 2022 to 2023, according to data from The Florida Department of Health.
Flooding is a large concern in Marathon as nearly all of the city lies in FEMA-designated flood zones. Hurricane season typically runs from June through November with Hurricane Irma being the most recent storm to directly strike the area. Monroe County participates in the National Flood Insurance Programs and homeowners are highly encouraged to review available policies. The city normally experiences mild, sunny winters with hot and humid summers.
Written By
Beck Connelley
Photography Contributed By
Yanan Sun
Video By
Hunter Severtson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Shane Wilson,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Marathon, FL sell after 137 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Marathon, FL over the last 12 months is $955,000, down 16% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Seller Financing Available -- Prime Corner Lot with water views, in MarathonThis vacant, cleared corner lot sits in one of Marathon's most convenient and high-visibility locations. Directly across from Racetrac, the public library, Marathon High School, Fishermen's Hospital, Starbucks, mini golf, City Marina, the boat ramp, and the events park, this property offers unbeatable access to the
Welcome to your private island retreat on prestigious Plantation Island in Duck Key, where resort-inspired outdoor living and the relaxed elegance of the Florida Keys come together.Designed to embrace the island lifestyle, this exceptional residence is centered around a spectacular resort-style pool featuring a beach entry, cascading waterfalls, lush tropical landscaping, and inviting spaces
A rare opportunity to own a fully renovated waterfront home that delivers both the Florida Keys lifestyle and exceptional investment potential.Offering five legal bedrooms, three legal bathrooms, and seven-day vacation rentals, this turnkey property presents projected rental income of up to $170,000 annually (per pro forma), making it equally appealing as a primary residence, second home,
Discover an extraordinary waterfront oasis in the heart of the Florida Keys. Located just moments from the pristine sands of Sombrero Beach, this elegant estate blends modern sophistication with the relaxed charm of coastal living. Designed for the discerning buyer, every detail of this property reflects luxury, comfort, and an unparalleled boating lifestyle. Elevated foundation - permitted for
This tropical Sombrero Beach 2-Home Compound is set on a spacious 17,600 sq ft fenced lot with Pool, 2 Tikis and located just 2 properties in from the ocean. Fantastic deep water boating access from the 97' dock with 2 Boat Lifts, 15,000 lbs and 3,000 lbs. . The main house features 2,540 sq. ft. with 3 Bedrooms, 3 Full Baths and a spacious living room with direct Pool views, cathedral
Have your cake and eat it too! 60+ feet of Protected Seawall with boatlift, PLUS a gorgeous open water Gulf View. Elevated home with three bedrooms and two baths opens on to a wonderful deck to enjoy the sun. You can also get shade while enjoying the Gulf breezes in the screened patio off the Kitchen. As we head downstairs you can lounge around the pool and enjoy the views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Build your dream oceanfront home in the prestigious gated community of Sunrise Isle, a coastal island of just 20 properties located next to beautiful Sombrero Beach in the heart of Marathon. Build anytime you like as the property comes with a deeded City of Marathon Transferrable Building Right subject to the conditions of the City of Marathon. Generous 40,249 sq. ft. ocean and canal front lot (a
Looking to find an inexpensive way to enjoy the relaxed, Florida Keys living? Take a look at this well-maintained 2004 Skyline 39' trailer located on a leased lot in a quiet 55+ community in Marathon, Florida. This cozy home offers two bedrooms and one bathroom with a shower, making it ideal for full-time living or a seasonal retreat. The interior features a functional floor plan with comfortable
Experience the ultimate Florida Keys waterfront lifestyle with this rare oversized boat slip located in the highly sought-after Coco Plum Beach neighborhood of Marathon. Situated in the exclusive Coco Plum Beach Yacht Club. Boasting an impressive 22-foot x 80-foot slip with a 65 foot dock, this slip is perfectly suited for accommodating larger vessels with ease.Positioned on the oceanside,
Set along the Gulf on 2 lots within the sought-after gated Stirrup Key community, this beautifully appointed CBS residence captures panoramic open-water views, unforgettable sunsets, and a rare sense of privacy. Electronic gated entry and tropical surroundings create an immediate sense of arrival while extensive upgrades reflect elevated living and effortless enjoyment. Contemporary design and
Discover a rare opportunity to own an oversized boat slip with live-aboard approval in the desirable Cocoplum neighborhood of Marathon. Offering an impressive 22' width, 80' length, and 6' draft, this slip easily accommodates larger vessels, and a recently removed piling maximizes your available space. Nestled on the ocean side, you'll enjoy direct, fast, no-bridge access to the open water,
Experience the best of the Florida Keys in this beautifully appointed 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath waterfront townhome in the desirable Bonefish Townhomes community. Offering panoramic Atlantic Ocean and canal views, this property is designed for those who love life on the water.A 62-foot deeded boat slip with a lift is located just outside your back door, making it effortless to head offshore or
Seawatch Condominium offers an exceptional opportunity to enjoy resort-style living in a private, gated waterfront community in the Florida Keys. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath that has been recently remodeled, featuring an updated kitchen with modern appliances and cabinetry, wood flooring, tile, and beautifully updated baths. The unit is sold fully furnished making it move-in ready for immediate
This 7,500 sq ft residential lot on Duck Key Island offers 75 ft of canal frontage and 100 ft of deep-water canal depth on the ocean side with crystal-clear waters. This property is yacht accessible. The ROGO permit is already grandfathered in, so it's ready to build with no waiting in the ROGO line and you can start construction today. Fully approved dock plans are included. A three-story home
City of Marathon Market Rate Transferable Building Right (TBR). No Real Estate conveyed. TBR must be used with the limits of the City Of Marathon, and any transfer must be approved by the City of Marathon. Receiver site must conform to City of Marathon TBR ordinance requirements. Buyer to pay City of Marathon Transfer Fee of $40K. Buyer to pay all costs associated with this transfer except for
Call Today to Book Your Appointment, we are eager to connect with you in Person!Tarpon Harbour is located in Monroe County, the 33050 ZIP Code, and the Monroe attendance zone.
Property Id: 1581244 Enjoy comfortable Florida Keys living in this spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath single-family home with approximately 1,918 sq. ft. of living space in Marathon. This elevated home offers the privacy and space of a single-family residence, with plenty of room both inside and out. Enjoy a spacious partially fenced yard, screened outdoor living space, large covered area
The advertised rate of $9,797/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of September 19, 2026. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can
The advertised rate of $4,527/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of September 28, 2026. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can
Escape to year-round paradise in this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom canal-front half duplex in Marathon, Florida Keys! Offering tranquil waterfront views and a private 24-foot dock, this cozy retreat is perfect for boating enthusiasts, anglers, or anyone seeking a relaxed tropical lifestyle.Property Features:Bedrooms: 2 | Bathrooms: 1 | Sleeps: 6Waterfront Living: Screened-in
The advertised rate of $19,354/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of September 20, 2026. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can
The advertised rate of $9,693/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of October 10, 2026. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Welcome to your dream rental in the beautiful tropical paradise of Marathon, Florida Keys! This brand new, stunning 1 bedroom, 1 1/2 bathroom condo is located in a gated community for added security and peace of mind. The condo comes fully furnished with everything you need for a comfortable and convenient living experience. With a total of 850 square feet spread out over two floors, you'll have
4/2 renovated furnished home steps from Sombrero Beach. features pool with new heater/chiller, a private boat dock with new Power Pedestal, a fish cleaning station with water & accommodates up to 50 ft vessels. With only minutes from the Atlantic and steps to the Beach, this is an ideal location. The Light & bright kitchen has been completely remodeled and boasts new state of the art Cafe
1 MONTH FREE! 3 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths in great central location in Marathon. All major kitchen appliances included and washer/dryer inside the unit. Wood flooring and tile throughout. Impact proof windows and doors.
Experience the laid-back luxury of Duck Key in this beautifully appointed waterfront residence. Designed for both comfort and entertaining, the home features a chef’s kitchen with premium appliances, generous counter space, and custom cabinetry that will delight any culinary enthusiast.Rich Brazilian wood floors add warmth and elegance throughout the living spaces, while the spacious primary
Jen ReyesKeller Williams Realty Premier Properties
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