Space Coast Area

The Space Coast area, located along Florida's east coast, is a beautiful and inviting region offering a range of opportunities and amenities for 55+ active adults. The area is renowned for its stunning coastline, pleasant weather, and an abundance of outdoor recreational activities. The three largest cities in the vicinity include Melbourne, known for its rich cultural scene and historic downtown; Palm Bay, boasting a variety of parks, golf courses, and natural preserves; and Titusville, home to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, where one can explore the wonders and history of space exploration.

For more information about visiting or moving to the Space Coast area, here are some local resources:

Space Coast Daily: A comprehensive website providing news, events, and information about the Space Coast region, offering insights into local activities and community updates.
Brevard County Government: The official website of Brevard County, offering resources and services for residents and visitors, including information on local government, utilities, and recreational opportunities.
Florida's Space Coast: The official tourism website for Florida's Space Coast, providing a wealth of information on attractions, beaches, dining, and accommodations, allowing visitors to plan their perfect stay in the area.

Affordability and Cost of Living

The Space Coast area offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other popular retirement destinations. Housing costs in the region are generally reasonable, with a variety of options available for different budgets. The median home price in the area is $357,500 which is slightly above the national average but lower than the state average, making it an attractive choice for retirees looking to purchase a home. The cost of living index for the Space Coast overall is 95.6 while the national cost of living index score is 100. The cost of living scores for groceries is 101.4, for healthcare 99.9, for utilities 97.2, and 87.5 for transportation.

Retirees in the Space Coast area have numerous opportunities for low cost recreation and entertainment including parks, beaches, some museums, and more.

Florida has a favorable tax environment for retirees. The state does not impose personal income tax, including social security and other retirement income, allowing residents to keep more of their earnings. Florida also does not have an estate or inheritance tax, ensuring that individuals can pass on their assets without additional taxation. Property taxes in Florida vary by exact location and there are some exemptions for seniors who meet the qualifications. Sales tax also varies by location, the state sales tax in Florida is 7 percent but the tax for a particular area can be more as the total sales tax charged is a combination of state and local taxes.

Climate and Geography

The Space Coast area enjoys a pleasant subtropical climate, making it an appealing destination for retirees seeking warm sunny weather. Winters in the region are mild, with average temperatures ranging from the low 50s to the low 70s. Summers bring warm and humid weather, with average temperatures ranging from the low 70s to the high 90s. Humidity levels can reach around 70-80 percent, creating a tropical atmosphere during the summer months. The area receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 50 inches, with occasional thunderstorms that provide refreshing relief from the heat.

One of the major draws of the Space Coast area is its stunning coastal scenery. The region is blessed with miles of pristine sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. Residents can indulge in beachside relaxation and water activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating. The area is also home to the Indian River Lagoon, one of the most diverse estuaries in North America, offering opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and observing marine wildlife. The Space Coast is renowned for its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center, where people can witness rocket launches and delve into the history and future of space exploration. With its combination of scenic coastline, vibrant estuaries, and awe-inspiring space-related attractions, the geography of the Space Coast area provides 55+ active adults with a diverse and captivating natural environment to enjoy throughout their retirement years.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

The Space Coast has something for you to do no matter if you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, a lover of the arts, or a shopping aficionado, there is something to suit every interest. Here are some of the attractions and activities you can enjoy:

Golf and Racquet Sports

Duran Golf Club in Melbourne
Baytree National Golf Links in Melbourne
Suntree Country Club in Melbourne
Viera East Golf Club in Viera

Hiking, Biking, and Boating

Turkey Creek Sanctuary in Palm Bay
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge in Titusville
Rotary Park at Suntree in Melbourne
Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park in Titusville

Museums and Historical Sites

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Titusville
Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science in Cocoa
Historic Rossetter House Museum and Gardens in Melbourne
Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum in Titusville

Performing Arts

King Center for the Performing Arts in Melbourne
Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse in Cocoa
Maxwell C. King Center Studio Theatre in Melbourne
Titusville Playhouse in Titusville

Shopping

Melbourne Square Mall in Melbourne
The Avenue Viera in Viera
Cocoa Village in Cocoa
The Shops at Viera East in Viera

Parks and Gardens

Lori Wilson Park in Cocoa Beach
Wickham Park in Melbourne
Gleason Park in Indian Harbour Beach
Merritt Island Rotary Park in Merritt Island

Festivals and Fairs

Space Coast State Fair in Melbourne
Grant Seafood Festival in Grant-Valkaria
ArtWorks of Eau Gallie Fine Arts Festival in Melbourne
Titusville Sea Turtle Festival in Titusville

Health and Wellness

The Space Coast area offers a range of health and wellness opportunities for 55+ active adults. The region is well-equipped with major medical centers and healthcare facilities, including Health First Cape Canaveral Hospital in Cocoa Beach, which offers a comprehensive range of medical specialties, and Parrish Medical Center in Titusville, known for its advanced healthcare services and patient-centered care.

The Space Coast area offers numerous options for self-care and maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. There are fitness centers, yoga studios, and wellness centers scattered throughout the region that provide opportunities for exercise, relaxation, and holistic well-being. Residents can also enjoy the many parks, nature trails, and beaches for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, biking, and swimming.

For those interested in fresh and locally sourced produce, there are farmers markets in the Space Coast area which offer a wide variety of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products. The Cocoa Beach Farmers Market is very popular and provides residents with the opportunity to support local farmers and enjoy healthy, farm-to-table food.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Planning a visit to the Space Coast is an excellent way to research whether a 55+ community in this area is a good fit for you. This two-day itinerary will provide a well-rounded experience, allowing you to explore the region's highlights, savor local cuisine, and meet with a local retirement community partner agent.

Day One

Morning:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast or coffee at Cafe Surfinista in Cocoa Beach, offering delightful coffee creations and a healthy breakfast menu.
Explore the Cocoa Beach Pier, taking in the stunning ocean views and enjoying a leisurely stroll along the beach. Be sure to visit Historic Cocoa Village in Cocoa, where you can browse unique shops, galleries, and boutiques.

Afternoon:

Enjoy a waterfront lunch at Dixie Crossroads in Titusville, renowned for its fresh seafood and Southern-style dishes.
Visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Titusville to learn about the rich history of space exploration and witness awe-inspiring exhibits and artifacts.

Evening:

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Ryan's Pizza & Pub in Cocoa, known for its tasty pizzas and craft beers.

Day Two

Morning:

Start your day with breakfast or coffee at Rear View Coffee in Titusville, offering a cozy atmosphere and delectable pastries.
Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to discuss retirement community options, and to tour communities which interest you.

Afternoon:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Dixie Crossroads in Titusville, featuring a diverse seafood menu.
Explore the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, located in Titusville, and take a scenic drive or hike through the beautiful nature trails.

Evening:

Dine at The Mansion in Melbourne, a fine dining establishment known for its elegant ambiance and culinary delights.
Visit Downtown Melbourne, known for its vibrant atmosphere and charming boutiques. Take a walk along the Melbourne Harbor and enjoy the sunset.

Getting to the Space Coast, FL Area

The Space Coast can be easily accessed through various transportation options, catering to visitors from different locations. Here are directions on how visitors can get to the region:

Flying:

The closest major airport to the Space Coast area is Orlando International Airport (MCO), located approximately 45 miles west of the region. Orlando International Airport is served by numerous domestic and international airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways. The airport serves as a major hub for several airlines, offering convenient connections from various cities across the country and around the world.

Driving:

Visitors can reach the Space Coast area by driving on major highways such as Interstate 95 (I-95), which runs north-south along the eastern coast of Florida. If coming from the north, travelers can take I-95 southbound and exit at the appropriate exit based on their desired destination within the Space Coast area. For those driving from the west, State Road 528 (Beachline Expressway) provides a direct route to the region, connecting to various cities within the Space Coast area.

By Train/Bus:

Amtrak train services are available with the closest station located in Sanford, approximately 45 miles west of the Space Coast area. From there, visitors can arrange for ground transportation to their desired destination. Greyhound bus services also operate in the region, with stops in cities such as Melbourne and Titusville.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Climate and Geography