Melbourne, FL

Positioned centrally on Florida's Space Coast, Melbourne presents an attractive balance of stable community life and a resilient local economy for prospective homebuyers. With a population around 88,000, the city draws a diverse mix of residents, from families and young professionals to retirees seeking a mild climate year-round. The local economy is a significant draw, anchored by a strong technology and aerospace sector that includes major employers like Harris Corporation and Northrop Grumman, supported by the nearby Kennedy Space Center, which fuels innovation and job growth. The housing market has recently shifted into a favorable position for buyers. As of early 2026, the median sale price is approximately $405,000, and homes are staying on the market longer, giving buyers more time and negotiating power. This cooling trend, combined with an unemployment rate lower than the national average, creates a stable environment for a long-term investment.

Life in Melbourne is defined by its relaxed coastal atmosphere and an abundance of accessible amenities. Residents enjoy over 230 sunny days a year, which can be spent on miles of uncrowded beaches or exploring over 70 parks and nature preserves like the Turkey Creek Sanctuary. The city offers more than just natural beauty; it has a vibrant cultural scene centered on the historic downtown and Eau Gallie Arts District, featuring local galleries, unique restaurants, and community events. For families, the city is particularly appealing, boasting high-quality public schools and numerous family-friendly attractions such as the interactive Brevard Zoo and the thrilling Andretti Thrill Park. While the area faces the universal Florida considerations of hurricane season and humid summers, its strong sense of community, affordable cost of living compared to larger Florida metros, and high quality of life make it an exceptional place to call home.

Cost of Living & Housing Affordability

Melbourne, FL offers homebuyers a notably affordable entry point to Florida's Space Coast, with median home values ranging from $291,500 to $349,935, which are below both the national median and the statewide average. While the market has cooled, with recent data showing some year-over-year price decreases, this provides a better value proposition, especially when compared to the national market, which continues to see price increases. For a household earning the local median income of approximately $69,036, homeownership in Melbourne represents a more attainable financial goal compared to many other similarly sized U.S. cities.

Job Market & Economic Opportunities

Melbourne, FL enjoys a robust and diverse job market, anchored by its identity as a premier hub for aerospace, defense, and technology on Florida's Space Coast. Major corporations like L3Harris, Northrop Grumman, and Embraer provide a stable base of high-paying engineering and managerial jobs, with occupations such as Architectural and Engineering Managers and Computer and Information Systems Managers commanding median wages well above $150,000. The broader healthcare, retail trade, and professional services sectors are also major employers, contributing to a strong regional employment base where the mean annual wage is $61,860 and unemployment is below the national average at 3.8%.

Quality of Schools and Education Systems

Melbourne, Florida, is served by Brevard Public Schools, a district that is achieving high marks with a record-setting graduation rate of 92.7% for the 2024-2025 school year, surpassing the state average. The city boasts one of the highest concentrations of top-ranked public schools in Florida, where students generally outperform state averages in both math (58% proficiency) and reading (61% proficiency). A key highlight is West Shore Jr./Sr. High School, a "School of Excellence" that achieved a perfect 100% graduation rate and is ranked 5th among all high schools in Florida. The district offers a wide variety of high-quality elementary and middle school options, including top-rated schools like Manatee Elementary School and W. Melbourne Elementary School for Science, both recognized as state "Schools of Excellence". Melbourne also provides excellent public charter school alternatives, such as Viera Charter School and Pineapple Cove Classical Academy.

Lifestyle & Amenities

Melbourne offers a lifestyle defined by year-round outdoor activity and a unique blend of cultural vibrancy and small-town coastal charm. The city boasts access to over 230 sunny days each year and a variety of beautiful beaches such as Melbourne Beach and Indialantic Beach, along with expansive parks like 391-acre Wickham Park. Residents enjoy a rich cultural scene centered around Historic Downtown Melbourne and the Eau Gallie Arts District (EGAD), featuring art galleries, boutiques, and live performances at venues like the Henegar Center for the Arts. Family amenities are robust, with top attractions like the Brevard Zoo and Andretti Thrill Park, supported by a community-focused environment that hosts regular festivals and local events.

Top Restaurants

The Mansion Restaurant: An award-winning, historic fine-dining destination in the Eau Gallie Arts District, known for its elegant New American cuisine, extensive wine list, and romantic ambiance in a beautifully restored 1914 home.

Backwater: A modern, lively American restaurant on the Indian River Lagoon, celebrated for its creative menu, craft cocktails, and stunning waterfront patio views—a top pick for a special night out.

Mustard’s Last Stand: A beloved, no-frills local institution famous for its iconic Chicago-style hot dogs, charbroiled burgers, and old-school diner charm in Eau Gallie.

Favorite Bars & Lounges

Mainstreet Pub: The heart of Downtown Melbourne’s social scene. This spacious, multi-level pub offers a huge beer selection, pub grub, and live music, drawing a lively crowd every night.

Hell ‘n Blazes Brewing Company: A Downtown staple located in a historic building, featuring its own craft beers brewed on-site, a full menu, and a vibrant, industrial-chic atmosphere.

The Cottage Irish Pub: An intimate, authentic pub in Historic Downtown Melbourne, known for its imported Irish beers, whiskeys, and cozy, friendly vibe perfect for conversation.

Local Gyms & Fitness

EōS Fitness: A large, modern, and popular gym offering extensive cardio and strength areas, a wide variety of group fitness classes, and amenities like a sauna and hydromassage.

Orange Theory Fitness Melbourne: The premier studio for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with heart-rate monitored, coach-led workouts that are highly effective and community-driven.

Florida Elite Fitness: A well-established local gym known for its serious weightlifting and strength training facilities, supportive environment, and knowledgeable staff.

Dog Parks & Pet-Friendly Spots

Canova Beach Park Dog Beach: The only designated, leash-free dog beach in Brevard County, where dogs can run, swim, and play in the surf to their heart's content.

Wickham Park Community Dog Park: A massive, popular off-leash park with separate large and small dog areas, agility equipment, shaded pavilions, and plenty of room to run.

Front Street Park: A beautiful, leashed-dog-friendly park in Downtown Melbourne along the Indian River, perfect for scenic strolls and watching boat traffic.