Situated between the Indian and Banana Rivers, Merritt Island, which is actually a peninsula, remained secluded until the early 1900s. Today, the community is home to many individuals who enjoy coastal living, seclusion and easy access to everyday essentials. Residents here spend most of their time outdoors, taking advantage of the abundant greenery at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and surfing coastal waves at nearby Cocoa Beach or visiting local monuments like NASA’s John F. Kennedy Space Center. With nearby amenities and the seemingly endless recreational opportunities nearby, Merritt Island locals rarely have to leave the peninsula. “Merritt Island offers residents a nice waterfront community with old Florida charm,” says Rachel Langley, Merritt Island local and Realtor with Blue Marlin Real Estate.
Merritt Island features an abundance of waterfront homes.
There is lush greenery and waterways all throughout Merritt Island.
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Coastal styles and Mediterranean-inspired homes
Merritt Island features a range of housing options from traditional ranch styles and single-story coastal homes to multi-story Mediterranean-influenced styles. Merritt Island boasts a variety of subdivisions from more modern newly developed homes to those neighboring Savannahs Golf Course and waterfront properties on the Indian River. With a median sales price of $470,000, price points here can range from the low $200,000s to upwards of seven figures depending on the age, size and location of the property. For example, a two-bedroom ranch-style costs around $230,000, while a waterfront eight-bedroom Mediterranean-inspired home can go for around $6 Million. Homes neighboring the river and offering direct water access are subject to increased price points. Homes here often feature community pools and playgrounds and are typically fronted by well-manicured lawns with enough room for a few palm trees and vibrant tropical flora. “Merritt Island attracts families and retirees buying into the area, while many residents have called the community home since the 1960s,” says Langley.
Large, often gated, Multi-Story Mediterranean homes can be found on Merritt Island.
You will find large single-story coastal homes on Merritt Island.
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Shopping at Merritt Square Mall
Residents here shop at Merritt Square Mall, which offers a variety of department stores and retailers to choose from, like Dillard’s, JCPenney and Macy’s. While groceries and other everyday essentials are available at nearby stores like Publix, Aldi and CVS. Dining options here include local favorite Margarita Island, which offers a variety of margarita styles, bar bites and Tex-Mex cuisine or head to Oh K-Dog for a Korean-influenced meal and gourmet iterations of the classic corn dog. For a more casual atmosphere, check out Sally O’Brien’s for classic bar snacks and Irish-pub cocktail iterations.
Residents can find a variety of stores to shop from Merritt Square Mall.
Margarita Island is a local favorite on Merritt Island. Serving delicious Mexican cuisine.
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High-marks at Brevard County Schools
Students can attend schools like Robert L. Stevenson Elementary, Thomas Jefferson Middle and Edgewood Junior/Senior High School, which earned ratings of A-minus, B-plus and A-plus from the educational review site, Niche. Robert L. Stevenson Elementary School serves kindergarten through Grade 6 and offers a student-teacher ratio of 16:1, while Thomas Jefferson Middle School offers a Science Research program in addition to core science instruction for further in-depth understanding. Edgewood Junior/Senior High School offers over 25 Advanced Placement (AP) courses for higher education preparation. Private institutions like Merritt Island Christian School and Christian Heritage Academy are also common here.
Robert L. Stevenson Elementary School has an indoor/outdoor style campus.
Edgewood Jr/Sr High School front entrance has a mural.
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Surfing waves at nearby Cocoa Beach
Merritt Island residents are only 9 miles from local favorite Cocoa Beach, which features white-sand beaches for sunbathing and calm, consistent waves for surfing. Nature lovers head to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge for over 140,000 acres of coastal dunes, saltwater marshes, pine flatwoods and hardwood hammocks providing a home to more than 1,500 species of plants and animals. Visitors can explore hiking trails and spectate native animals across the refuge, notably established by an agreement overlay of the John F. Kennedy Space Center. Golf enthusiasts are in luck with The Savannahs Golf Course nearby, offering an 18-hole course navigating through wetlands, water hazards and wildlife sightings. Daily course rates vary and monthly or annual memberships are available.
The Savannahs Golf Course has many homes throughout the grounds.
Walk, hike or bike around Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and take in the sights.
Merritt Island locals enjoy the outdoors at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
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NASA's John F. Kennedy Space Center
Established in 1962, The Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is located on Merritt Island to the North of the town and holds major historical significance within the area. The KSC is NASA’s primary launch center and is notable for managing the Apollo, Skylab and Space Shuttle programs. Space enthusiasts can buy tickets to visit the KSC Visitor Complex for space shuttle displays, interactive simulators and live educational space exhibits. The KSC employs many Merritt Island residents and the community sees many tourists throughout the year, helping to stimulate the local economy.
Merritt Island transportation and flood risk
Merritt Island residents are primarily car-dependent and utilize Florida State Road A1A and the East Merritt Island Causeway with easy access to the mainland and neighboring areas like Port Canaveral and Cocoa Village. Locals use the North Courtenay Parkway when traveling within the peninsula. Residents seeking public transit options can take the Space Coast Area Transit for trips in and around Merritt Island starting at $1.50 for adults one-way. Merritt Island riders can start their ride on bus route 3, which operates along the North Courtenay Parkway and stops throughout the community. For those seeking to travel longer distances, the Melbourne Orlando International Airport is only 30 miles away from Merritt Island. When it comes to hurricanes and flooding, Merritt Island is at a high risk due to its waterfront location. The Brevard County Floodplain Administration recommends protecting homes here and their contents with flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Waterway Park provides a gateway into Merritt Island from the mainland.
The boardwalks at Waterway Park allow you to fish, walk, or take in the sights.
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Written By
Ryan Kohn
Photography Contributed By
Rodrigo Betancor
Video By
Ruo Zheng
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Lisa Ramsey,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Merritt Island, FL sell after 65 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Merritt Island, FL over the last 12 months is $460,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Move In Ready! Updated Family Pool Home in Beautiful Newfound Harbor, Merritt Island!This 3-bedroom, 2-bath pool home has open floor plan with comfort, space, and Florida charm! Sitting on a large .29-acre lot, this home features all-new flooring and plumbing, plus a bonus room that's perfect for a home office, homeschool space, playroom, or guest area. The layout is bright, open, and
Stunning waterfront sanctuary on Merritt Island —whether you’re seeking an ideal forever home, a smart investment, or a short-term rental machine, this property checks every box.Beautifully renovated and offering approximately 2,100 sq ft of living space, this 4-bed, 2-bath home features modern finishes and a thoughtfully designed layout perfect for entertaining and everyday living.Brand
Whether you need a private home office, a comfortable multi-generational suite, or a welcoming space for guests, this nearly-new residence delivers. At the heart of the home, a chef-inspired kitchen awaits-perfect for hosting memorable gatherings. Situated in an intimate neighborhood just minutes from dining and shopping, this home offers the perfect blend of modern luxury and daily convenience.
Just in time for Summer Fun! A boater's paradise.DIRECT SYKES CREEK with quick access to Barge Canal, Atlantic Ocean, Banana & Indian River.Centrally located on the Space Coast! Enjoy a front row seat to rocket launches. Boat Dock with lift. Pool with paver deck and covered lanai. Custom built home with thoughtful layout to maximize views of water from most rooms. Many recent updates
**This house comes with a REDUCED RATE through the seller's preferred lender. This is a lender-paid rate buydown that reduces the buyer's interest rate and monthly payment.** Welcome to 207 2nd Street in the heart of Merritt Island, offering a thoughtfully updated home with 1008 square feet of heated living space. The interior features a bright and functional layout with durable, luxury vinyl
Welcome to this well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath home located in the heart of North Merritt Island on a spacious lot. This split floor plan offers vaulted ceilings and an open living area filled with natural light, thanks to impact-rated windows and hurricane sliders installed in 2017. A convenient wet bar enhances the living space, perfect for entertaining. Step outside to an open-air patio and
Float in the pool and watch rocket launches from this highly sought-after split floor plan pool home filled with natural light from sliders surrounding the pool and creating seamless indoor-outdoor living. This renovated 4-bedroom home sits on an oversized corner lot near North Banana River Dr and features an open layout, updated kitchen with granite counters, and stainless appliances, wood-plank
Welcome to this beautiful Merritt Island pool home offering the perfect blend of comfort, style, and major system upgrades. This well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with a 1-car garage features a light-filled open living and dining area that flows seamlessly to your private outdoor oasis. The kitchen showcases stylish cabinetry, butcher block countertops, and brand-new appliances. The
Experience serene Florida living in this centrally located second-floor condo located in the sought-after Harbor Woods community in Merritt Island. This 2-bedroom, 2-bath unit offers a screened balcony with a tranquil water view, perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Enjoy the convenience of a newly installed impact windows and sliding glass door that fills the living space with
Welcome to this spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath Merritt Island home offering comfort, functionality, and room to live the Florida lifestyle. Inside, you'll find granite countertops, hardwood flooring, ceiling fans throughout, and carpeted bedrooms, plus a versatile den ideal for a home office or bonus living space. Step outside to a large, fully usable backyard with plenty of room to store your boat,
Beautiful 1 bedroom 1 bath unit overlooking all the trees and tennis and basketball court. This unit has and washer/dryer combination. The community has amenities galore with clubhouse, basketball court, and tennis court, barbecue area. The pool is spectacular with hot tube little kitchen area all looking over the river, Come and see this unit.
Stunning canal-front home on wide, deep water with a new seawall (2022) and over $90K in upgrades! This beautifully updated Merritt Island residence offers access to Sykes Creek and the Intracoastal, providing the ultimate in Florida waterfront living. Inside, you'll find a new kitchen with new cabinetry, fixtures, and appliances, NEW panel and wiring, and a 2025 EV charging station. Freshly
Discover one of Brevard County's most unique communities with 1-acre lots and a private 21-slip marina! Nestled between the Banana and Indian Rivers on scenic S. Tropical Trail, this 5,000+ SF home is a boater's paradise, a mechanic's dream, and a movie lover's retreat. It offers 4 beds, 4 baths, an office, theater room, and 4-car garage. Enjoy true island living on 1 acre with an RV pad and an
Luxury coastal living on 1-acre + a boat slip in Merritt Island. This home has it all: 4 beds, 4 full baths, a huge circular driveway, a pool, and an 864 sq ft garage. Soaring 14 & 10 ft ceilings throughout, abundant natural light, and a statement fireplace. A new metal roof (2025), gutters, and solar attic fans are just the first of many updates. Wide plank luxury vinyl flooring, stylish kitchen
Peaceful Living on Nearly 3 Acres in North Merritt Island. Welcome to your private retreat on 2.98 acres of serene Florida beauty! This unique property features two parcels, a 0 .86-acre homesite and an additional 2.12-acre vacant lot . This home offers endless possibilities for expansion, recreation, or future investment. Nestled among lush trees and natural surroundings, this home provides the
This stunning 2-story WATERFRONT rental, located in the exclusive area of South Tropical Trail, features 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and 4,303 square feet of living space. Enjoy 112 feet of direct Indian River water frontage, a 111-foot dock, and plenty of yard space for outdoor activities. The property also includes a large 3-car garage and an attached apartment that can serve as a game room, movie
Welcome to this exceptional 4-bedroom, 31⁄2-bath residence offering the perfect blend of space, comfort, and location in the heart of Merritt Island. Designed for both everyday living and effortless entertaining, this beautifully appointed home delivers the lifestyle you've been searching for. Step inside to a spacious, thoughtfully designed floor plan featuring generous living areas filled with
Your Merritt Island pool paradise is here! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is updated, bright, and move-in ready with a custom walk-in primary closet and a kitchen you'll love featuring butcher block countertops, upgraded cabinetry, and brand-new appliances.The open living and dining space is filled with natural light and opens right up to your serene outdoor retreat, complete with a sparkling
Welcome home to this beautiful 3/2 with a amazing open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, renovated kitchen and baths. Kitchen has tons of cabinets and counter space to make that perfect meal and entertain. Split bedrooms with great closet space and spacious master bath.Entire home has newer metal roof and hot water on demand with tankless water heaters. Property is very secluded and gated for
Private entrance from the outside on the ground floor. Great efficiency with kitchen and full bath. Rent includes water and electric. Open parking, owner to approve, only good credit apply, and NO PETS, NO SMOKING, NO GARAGE. Unit is part of a 6 plex, and close to shopping and US 520. Only a 1 year lease available. Placement only, owner will be managing.
North Island Villas is a dedicated rental community located in Merritt Island, FL featuring newly built 3 bedroom townhomes. Our maintenance-free lifestyle will give you time to enjoy the nearby parks, shopping, and dining. This new community offers modern homes in a great location! Featuring sleek, new finishes and a floor plan, the townhomes at North Island Villas are perfect for those who seek
-1 bedroom/1 bathroom park model home -Black appliances: fridge, microwave, gas stove (propane) -The screened porch is ideal for morning coffee and bird watching! -Does not include furnishings or utilities -Must pass background checks for residency approval, $35 application fee per applicant -Available now for $1,800/month, one-year lease, $1,800 security deposit. -Sorry, no pets -Lots of
The Lenox At Merritt Island is an age qualified community located in Merritt Island, Florida. It offers a variety of amenities and services, including private apartments, luxurious style heated swimming pool, dog walking area and access to other resort-style amenities. Residents can stay as busy or as relaxed as they want, and the community is committed to providing a supportive and enriching
STONEWOOD STANDS ALONE WHEN IT COMES TO LUXURY COCOA BEACH PROPERTIES. AS YOU ENTER YOU WILL BE GREETED BY AN ACTUAL GUARD AT THE GATE. AMENITIES GALORE AT THIS RESORT STYLE COMMUNITY. THE HOME ITSELF OFFERS TASTEFUL UPGRADES AND THE BALCONIES OFF THE MASTER BEDROOM AND OPEN LIVING AREA OFFER OCEAN VIEWS AS WELL AS EXCEPTIONAL ROCKET VIEWS. LUXERY VINYL FLOORING THROUGHOUT LENDS TO THE BEACHY
Close to the Causeway, Addison Cove is central to Florida's glorious beaches and nearby city living! Choose from several uniquely designed floor plans, each offering a slightly different yet cutting edge layout, so you can select your ideal home.Addison Cove has 2 shopping centers within close proximity. Only 0.4 miles, which is about a 7-minute walk! If you have friends and family coming
Executive home has been painted, new luxury vinyl plank in living area, updated lightning, large 1/2 acre lot, no HOA, inviting front porch, screen porch on back of home, two car side entry garage with extra storage, parking for RV or boat, split floor plan, laundry room has built in cabinets, formal dining room, fireplace, attic storage space, hurricane shutters, hardboard siding, 15 foot
Costa Vue is right in the middle of all the great things that make the Merritt Island community so fun and exciting. You're never far away from fun or relaxation - we are at the center of it all! Costa Vue wants you to have the best living experience possible. Despite the name, Merritt Island is not actually an island its part of a peninsula! Merritt Island is a tranquil, coastal
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