Merritt Island vs Viera vs Melbourne: Space Coast Neighborhood Comparison Guide

The three most popular questions I get from aerospace professionals relocating to the Space Coast: "Should I live in Merritt Island, Viera, or Melbourne?" Here's an honest comparison to help you decide.

Quick Comparison Table

Merritt Island: Best for KSC Commuters & Waterfront Living

Who it's perfect for: Aerospace workers who want the shortest commute, boaters, families who prioritize outdoor lifestyle over nightlife.

The good:

• Closest residential area to Kennedy Space Center (15-25 min commute)
• Abundant waterfront properties on Indian River and Banana River
• Direct views of rocket launches from many homes
• Quick access to Cocoa Beach (10 minutes)
• Lower prices than equivalent beachside properties
• Kayaking, fishing, boating lifestyle

The not-so-good:

• Limited new construction—mostly established neighborhoods from 1970s-90s
• Fewer restaurants and shopping options
• Some areas have older infrastructure
• Schools are good but not as highly rated as Viera
• Can feel isolated if you want urban amenities

Best neighborhoods: Suntree (actually straddles Merritt Island/Melbourne line), Sykes Creek area, Merritt Island proper near the causeway

Price range: $350K-$500K for nice non-waterfront; $500K-$900K for canal/river waterfront

Viera: Best for Families & New Construction

Who it's perfect for: Families with school-age children, people who want new homes with modern amenities, those who value community amenities over beach proximity.

The good:

• Top-rated schools in Brevard County (Viera High consistently ranks among best)
• Master-planned community with pools, parks, walking trails
• Abundant new construction with builder incentives
• The Avenue Viera - excellent shopping, dining, entertainment
• USSSA Space Coast Complex (sports)
• Low crime, well-maintained neighborhoods

The not-so-good:

• Longest commute to KSC (35-45 minutes)
• No waterfront properties
• 25-30 minute drive to the beach
• Can feel "suburban" and cookie-cutter
• HOA required in most neighborhoods
• Premium prices for the area

Best neighborhoods: Addison Village, Trasona Cove, Bella Villino (luxury), Viera East Golf Community

Price range: $400K-$550K for most single-family homes; $550K-$800K for larger/luxury homes

Melbourne: Best for Urban Lifestyle & Variety

Who it's perfect for: People who want dining, nightlife, and cultural options; those who work in south Brevard; buyers who want variety in housing styles and price points.

The good:

• Downtown Melbourne - walkable with restaurants, bars, live music
• Melbourne Beach access (15-20 min)
• Florida Tech nearby - college town energy
• Most diverse housing options: historic homes, new builds, condos, waterfront
• Best restaurant scene on the Space Coast
• Generally lower prices than Viera or beachside

The not-so-good:

• Longer commute to KSC (40-50 minutes)
• School quality varies significantly by neighborhood
• Some areas have higher crime than Viera
• Traffic on US-192 and Eau Gallie Blvd can be heavy
• More urban feel - not for everyone

Best neighborhoods: Eau Gallie Arts District (EGAD), Melbourne Village, Indian River Colony Club (55+), West Melbourne (newer development)

Price range: $300K-$450K for most areas; $500K-$800K for waterfront or premium locations

My Recommendation by Buyer Type

SpaceX/Blue Origin engineer, single or couple, no kids:
Merritt Island for short commute + waterfront lifestyle, OR downtown Melbourne for nightlife and dining

Family with school-age children:
Viera if schools are top priority and commute is acceptable. Suntree/Viera East as a compromise (slightly shorter commute, still good schools)

Working at L3Harris or south Brevard employer:
Melbourne or West Melbourne—no reason to commute north

Boater or water sports enthusiast:
Merritt Island—access to both rivers, 10 min to ocean via Port Canaveral

First-time buyer on a budget:
Palm Bay (not covered here but worth considering—30-40% cheaper than these three areas)

Still Not Sure?

The best way to decide is to visit. I offer relocation tours where we spend a day driving through these neighborhoods, grabbing lunch, and getting a real feel for each area. Schedule your tour and I'll show you the Space Coast like a local.

Alyssa Mills-Berry specializes in helping aerospace professionals find the right Space Coast neighborhood for their lifestyle and budget.