If you’re planning to buy a home in Brevard County, Florida, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is whether a condo or a single-family home is the right choice. Both have distinct advantages—and the right answer depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.

At Ocean To River Properties in Cocoa Beach, we help buyers weigh the pros and cons to make confident real estate decisions. Let’s explore which type of property makes more sense for you in 2025.

1. Market Overview: Brevard County in 2025

Brevard County’s real estate market remains steady, with a median home value of around $341,000 according to recent data. The Space Coast continues to attract professionals from aerospace, tech, and defense industries, fueling demand for both condos and single-family homes.

• Condos: Median prices in Cocoa Beach hover between $350,000–$600,000, depending on ocean views, amenities, and building age.

• Single-Family Homes: Median prices countywide range between $330,000–$500,000, with higher values in beachside and waterfront areas.

The bottom line: both segments remain active, but lifestyle preferences and maintenance responsibilities often guide the final choice.

2. The Case for Buying a Condo

Condos are ideal for those who want low-maintenance coastal living or a vacation-style lifestyle without the upkeep of a standalone property.

Pros:

• Less maintenance: HOA covers exterior upkeep, landscaping, and amenities.

• Great locations: Many condos sit right on the beach or near popular downtown areas like Cocoa Beach or Melbourne.

• Amenities: Pools, gyms, tennis courts, and private beach access are common.

• Security: Gated entries and shared security make condos great for part-time residents or “snowbirds.”

Cons:

• Monthly HOA fees: These can range from $300 to over $1,000 depending on the building.

• Limited control: You’ll need HOA approval for most exterior changes.

• Potential rental restrictions: Some condos limit short-term rentals.

• Less privacy: Shared walls and common areas mean less solitude than single-family homes.

Best For: Retirees, vacation-home buyers, and professionals who value convenience and lifestyle over yard work.

3. The Case for Buying a Single-Family Home

Single-family homes offer freedom, space, and privacy, making them ideal for families or anyone seeking long-term stability.

Pros:

• More privacy and flexibility: No shared walls, more yard space, and complete control over property modifications.

• No HOA (in many areas): You decide what upgrades to make.

• Better for families and pets: Yards, driveways, and storage space make daily living easier.

• Higher resale potential: Detached homes historically appreciate faster in Florida markets.

Cons:

• Maintenance costs: You’re responsible for repairs, landscaping, and insurance.

• Higher upfront price: Larger homes often come with higher property taxes and insurance premiums—especially near the coast.

• Time commitment: Owning a home requires more upkeep, from mowing lawns to hurricane prep.

Best For: Families, full-time residents, and buyers seeking long-term appreciation or investment potential.

4. Lifestyle Considerations on the Space Coast

Your decision may ultimately come down to how you want to live:

The Space Coast’s unique geography—stretching from Cocoa Beach to Melbourne—means you can enjoy either option with incredible ocean or river access.

5. Financial and Insurance Considerations

• Insurance: Coastal condos often have master insurance policies that cover exterior structures, lowering costs for individual owners. Single-family homes near the water, however, can have higher premiums for flood and wind coverage.

• Taxes: Property taxes are similar across both types, but condos’ smaller square footage can mean lower bills.

• Appreciation: Detached homes generally appreciate faster, but well-located condos—especially oceanfront—hold steady value and rent well.

6. How Ocean To River Properties Helps You Choose

At Ocean To River Properties, we specialize in matching lifestyle goals to property types. Whether you’re seeking:

• A Cocoa Beach oceanfront condo,

• A Merritt Island family home, or

• A Melbourne investment property,

our team guides you through local data, HOA rules, insurance estimates, and neighborhood trends to help you make the best decision.

We know Brevard County inside and out—from ocean to river—and can help you find your perfect fit.

7. The Bottom Line

Choosing between a condo and a single-family home in Brevard County depends on what you value most: convenience or control, lifestyle or space, simplicity or flexibility.

Whatever you choose, owning property on the Space Coast means investing in one of Florida’s most desirable—and fastest-growing—regions.