How Brevard County Has Grown Over the Last 30 Years

Brevard County has transformed dramatically.

Areas like Palm Bay once had dirt roads south of Jupiter Boulevard. There was no Heritage Parkway. Viera had cows where neighborhoods now stand. Today, development stretches from Titusville all the way to Sebastian.

Because of SpaceX, NASA, aerospace expansion, and steady migration into Florida, growth continues across the Space Coast.

So where should you focus?

That depends on what matters most to you.

Best Areas for First Time Buyers and Starter Home Budgets

If you are looking for affordability and value, Palm Bay, Titusville, and some parts of Melbourne consistently stand out.

Palm Bay, in particular, offers some of the most house for your dollar in Brevard County. In addition, the southern Palm Bay corridor continues to expand rapidly toward Sebastian.

Why buyers choose Palm Bay:

• Larger lots
• New construction options
• Lower price per square foot
• Expanding retail and grocery development
• Easy beach access within 25 minutes

Meanwhile, Titusville offers strong value as well, especially for buyers who want land and proximity to the Space Center.

However, price alone should never drive the decision. Commute time, schools, lifestyle, and daily routines matter just as much.

Best Areas for Mid Range and Move Up Buyers

If your budget increases into the mid range or higher tier category, your options expand.

Popular areas include:

• West Melbourne
• Viera
• Rockledge
• Certain areas of Melbourne

Viera deserves special attention. Over the last decade, it has grown into one of the most desirable master planned communities in Brevard County.

Why buyers love Viera:

• Top rated schools
• Newer construction
• Shopping and dining within minutes
• Clean, organized neighborhood design

West Melbourne also remains a strong choice because of location and accessibility to major roads, shopping, and employers.

At this stage, the first conversation should center around HOA versus non HOA living. Most buyers already lean one way. If not, exploring both quickly clarifies the preference.

Best Long Term Value in Brevard County

When it comes to long term appreciation and lifestyle value, beachside real estate consistently stands out. Some places to check out would be neighborhoods in areas like Melbourne Beach, Indialantic, Satellite Beach.

Coastal property offers:

• Investment potential
• Lifestyle appeal
• Strong resale demand
• Limited inventory

Because you cannot create more coastline, long term demand remains steady.

However, beachside living is not for everyone. Some buyers love it. Others like to just visit. Knowing your lifestyle preference upfront prevents regret later.

Best Areas for Retirees and Downsizing

For retirees or buyers looking to simplify, these areas often fit best:

• Single story homes in Palm Bay
• Condos in Melbourne
• Barefoot Bay
• 55 plus communities throughout the county

However, downsizing does not always mean smaller. Many retirees move from two story homes into 1,400 to 1,600 square foot single family homes with yards. They want simplicity without sacrificing space.

Best Areas for SpaceX, NASA, and Aerospace Workers

If you work in the space industry, commute becomes a key factor.

Popular areas include:

• Merritt Island
• Rockledge
• Titusville
• Viera
• Palm Bay

Interestingly, some aerospace employees still choose Palm Bay for the more rural feel and value. While the commute increases, some prefer this type of lifestyle.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on how much drive time you are willing to accept.

Where Is Brevard County Growing the Most?

Jodie Bizarro says unequivocally Palm Bay.

Without hesitation, Palm Bay continues expanding southward. Heritage Parkway has connected major corridors. New Publix locations have opened. Builders continue adding communities.

Growth brings opportunity. While some residents resist expansion, development supports infrastructure, jobs, and long term home values.

New Construction vs Existing Homes in Brevard County

Many buyers assume they cannot qualify for new construction.

Often, they are wrong.

New builds in Viera, Palm Bay, and West Melbourne frequently compete closely with older homes once you factor in incentives, upgrades, and financing options.

Pros of new construction:

• Modern kitchens and finishes
• Builder incentives
• Lower maintenance
• Energy efficiency

Pros of existing homes:

• Established neighborhoods
• Larger trees and landscaping
• Potentially lower base price

Instead of assuming, buyers should compare both options before deciding.

So What Is the Best Place to Live in Brevard County?

The best place to live in Brevard County depends on:

• Your budget
• Your commute
• Your lifestyle
• Your long term goals
• Your family needs

Palm Bay offers growth and value.

Viera offers structure and amenities.

Melbourne Beach offers long term coastal appeal.

Titusville offers land and proximity to the Space Center.

West Melbourne offers location convenience.

The key is understanding your priorities first. Then, back into the neighborhood that fits.

Next Steps

If you are thinking about moving to Brevard County or relocating within the Space Coast, we would love to help you navigate the process.

Every area offers something different. The right fit starts with the right conversation.

Reach out to Morgan Financial to discuss your options and explore what makes the most sense for your situation.