Your ideal location depends on your daily worksite.
- NASA, Blue Origin, SpaceX, and Boeing are primarily located at the north end of Merritt Island and Cape Canaveral.
- L3Harris, Northrop Grumman, and Collins Aerospace have significant operations further south in Melbourne and Palm Bay.
ZONE 1: The Northern Hub
Best for employees of: NASA KSC, Blue Origin, SpaceX, Boeing.
If you work at Launch Complex 39 or Exploration Park, living centrally or to the north helps avoid rush-hour congestion on southern causeways.
1. Merritt Island: The Strategic Center
Merritt Island is a preferred choice for KSC employees due to its proximity to the Space Center.
- The Commute: Many residents enjoy a 10–20 minute drive to the KSC gates, avoiding mainland traffic.
- The Vibe: Merritt Island combines rural tranquility with suburban convenience. Housing options range from modest mid-century ranch homes to waterfront estates with deep-water docks along the Banana or Indian Rivers. The area is quieter than the beachside and has a strong sense of community.
- Why Engineers Appreciate It: Proximity saves time, and the many navigable canals appeal to those seeking the "Ocean to River" lifestyle, with boating access and close proximity to launch sites.
2. Titusville: The Gateway to Space
Located on the mainland across from KSC, Titusville is experiencing rapid revitalization alongside the commercial space industry’s growth.
- The Commute: Excellent. Access via the NASA Causeway or Beachline Expressway makes for an easy, consistent drive to the north Merritt Island facilities.
- The Vibe: Titusville offers more affordable housing than areas further south. It features a revitalized historic downtown and immediate access to natural attractions, including Playalinda Beach within the Canaveral National Seashore.
- Why Engineers Appreciate It: Titusville provides strong value, outdoor access, and proximity to major employers, along with excellent kayaking and fishing opportunities.
ZONE 2: The Southern Hub
Best for employees of: L3Harris, Northrop Grumman, Embraer.
If you work at the L3Harris headquarters near Melbourne Orlando International Airport, living too far north can result in a lengthy commute on I-95.
1. Viera: The Master-Planned Magnet
Viera is among the fastest-growing communities in the country. Centrally located along I-95, it serves as a convenient midpoint.
- The Commute: Viera is ideal for L3Harris employees, with a 15-20 minute drive south. It also works well for households with commutes to both Melbourne and KSC, with approximately 30-40 minutes north to KSC.
- The Vibe: Viera is a suburban community featuring A-rated schools, newer construction, manicured landscaping, and extensive walking trails that connect to The Avenues, an outdoor shopping and dining destination.
- Why Engineers Appreciate It: Viera offers predictability and efficiency, with new infrastructure, top-tier schools, and centralized amenities. It provides a turnkey lifestyle suitable for busy families.
2. West Melbourne & Near-Airport Neighborhoods
For those seeking to minimize travel time to L3Harris campuses, neighborhoods near Melbourne airport offer both convenience and variety.
- The Commute: Commute times are minimal, with some neighborhoods within biking distance of major engineering offices.
- The Vibe: This area features a diverse mix of housing, from established neighborhoods with mature trees to new apartment complexes and townhomes. Residents are close to the dining options in historic Downtown Melbourne and the Eau Gallie Arts District.
- Why Engineers Appreciate It: The area offers practical benefits, including short commutes and easy access to Melbourne’s cultural scene and nearby beaches.
THE HYBRID OPTION: Beachside Living
Best for: Engineers who prioritize lifestyle and are willing to accept a longer commute.
If you are considering a move to Florida, beachside living may be appealing. The barrier islands, including Satellite Beach, Cocoa Beach, and Indialantic, offer a high quality of life but require crossing causeways for commuting.
- For KSC or Blue Origin employees: Consider Cocoa Beach or Cape Canaveral. The commute is manageable via A1A and the 520 or 528 causeways, offering a coastal lifestyle while remaining close to launch facilities.
- For L3Harris: Look at For L3Harris employees: Consider Satellite Beach or Indian Harbour Beach. These communities are known for excellent schools, a close-knit atmosphere, and direct ocean access. The commute requires crossing the Eau Gallie or Pineda causeways to the mainland.u Are Missing: A Local Expert
You can analyze Zillow listings and Google Maps traffic data all day, but nuances make the market. Knowing which neighborhoods have the best drainage during summer storms, which causeway backs up the worst at 5:00 PM, or where the hidden waterfront gems are located requires local insight.
At Ocean to River Properties, we specialize in the Space Coast lifestyle. Whether you need a deep-water dock for your boat or a low-maintenance condo near the L3Harris campus, we can help you find the ideal home.
Ready to begin your Space Coast journey? Contact Ocean to River Properties today for a consultation tailored to your specific commute requirements.