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
Jennifer Deal,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Merritt Island, FL sell after 67 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Merritt Island, FL over the last 12 months is $460,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
*Rare Riverfront Sanctuary | 100' Frontage | No HOA | 1⁄2 Acre Private Lot, The Ultimate Florida Lifestyle* Tucked away on a secluded street of only ten homes, this extraordinaryriverfront retreat offers nearly 100 feet of direct water frontage and unobstructed views. Situated on a lush half-acre lot and far from the noise of main roads, this property represents a rare opportunity for true
JUST IN TIME FOR SUMMER FUN! Direct Sykes Creek overlooking Conservation area. Amazing Sunrises, Rocket Launches, Boaters, Dolphins, Abundant Wildlife. Centrally located on the Space Coast! Boat Dock w/lift. Pool w/ paver deck & covered lanai. Well maintained Custom built home with thoughtful layout to maximize view of water. Triple pocketing sliders from living room & family room, Ready for new
APPRAISAL IN HAND! The coastal lifestyle you've been dreaming of in this beautifully updated waterfront home at 1592 Coral Street in Merritt Island. Blending modern upgrades with relaxed Florida charm, this exceptional property offers direct water access, inviting living spaces, and endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Inside, you'll find a stunning chef's kitchen where no expense was
Welcome to this well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath pool home in highly desirable Hilltop Manor on South Merritt Island. Situated on over half an acre at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this property offers privacy, space, and no HOA. Inside, enjoy a cozy living room with a brick wood-burning fireplace and sliding glass doors leading to a large screened-in pool--perfect for indoor-outdoor living and
*Rare Riverfront Sanctuary | 100' Frontage | No HOA | 1⁄2 Acre Private Lot, The Ultimate Florida Lifestyle* Tucked away on a secluded street of only ten homes, this extraordinaryriverfront retreat offers nearly 100 feet of direct water frontage and unobstructed views. Situated on a lush half-acre lot and far from the noise of main roads, this property represents a rare opportunity for true
Beautiful 2 bedroom, 1 bath unit on the 1st floor. Features tiled throughout and has been totally remodeled. The kitchen overlooks the living room, open floor concept. The community offers laundry facilities, onsite management, a heated pool, a tiki hut and access to the canal. Just minutes from the beach, port Canaveral and restaurants galore. Easy hope to 528 to beaches or Orlando. Great deal
Beautiful studio unit overlooking the pool and river. The view is spectacular when you wake up. Sit and have coffee out on the patio in the evening for a stunning sunset. This community is loaded with amenities galore with clubhouse, basketball, tennis, barbeque area. The pool is wonderful with a hot tub looking over the river. This unit is a MUST SEE!!!! MOTIVATED SELLER!!!
Welcome to Island Village, a sought-after 55+ community in the heart of Merritt Island. This bright and luminous second-floor condo features an open-concept layout with beautiful water views and a private balcony--perfect for unwinding and enjoying the scenery. The spacious primary bedroom offers an ensuite bath and a walk-in closet with built-in shelving. Two additional bedrooms and a second
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
Experience the pinnacle of coastal luxury at Marina Bay Estates, Merritt Island's exclusive marina-front enclave. Perfectly positioned on a premier homesite, this exceptional new construction model residence offers an unparalleled blend of sophisticated design, resort-style amenities, and breathtaking views of the marina, Banana River, and iconic Space Coast rocket launches. Designed for elevated
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, ATV, or other
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
Just listed a direct Banana River front condo. Bring your boat, boat lift included in this sale. This luxury condo is in a gated community with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths. Features 2 car parking places under the building including a private storage closet. Large marina dock along side the community pool. This unit has crown molding, maple kitchen cabinets tile floors and large covered balcony along with
🌴 Just Listed in Merritt Island! 🌴Welcome to 240 Spring Dr -- a beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2 bath first-floor condo offering comfort, style, and a peaceful pond view right outside your back door.Step inside to find luxury vinyl flooring throughout and a fully renovated kitchen featuring brand-new cabinetry, sleek countertops, and all new stainless-steel
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
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
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
Small quiet Complex with 15 units off Courtenay Pky, mostly long-term tenants and owners. All Tile, Small patio in the back of unit, Master bedroom good size. Plenty of closet space, 2-bedroom 2 bath. Hook up for washer and dryer in unit.
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
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
Marina Isle is just a short distance from a host of beautiful Atlantic Coast beaches and vibrant beach towns like Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral. Residents enjoy the peace of a predominantly residential area along with the convenience of numerous suburban shopping centers. Life is always better at Marina Isle! Marina Isle residents will have quick access to local schools, hospitals,
Take pride in where you live with our newly remodeled apartments at Marella Bay! Aside from our beautiful homes, residents will also love our ideal location. We are just minutes away from peaceful parks and urban living! Conveniently located on Courtenay Parkway, Marella Bay is a short drive to a multitude of shopping and dining options. Wanting to take in the sunshine? Residents enjoy
The advertised rate of $6,808/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of September 11, 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 $3,093/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of August 2, 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
The advertised rate of $3,802/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of July 31, 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
The advertised rate of $2,944/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of August 8, 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
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now, Move-In is available on or after the listed date. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $50 per adult. Security Deposit: one month?s rent. Pet fees: $250 + $40/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
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