Moving to Key West, FL

If you enjoy beach living and island vibes, consider moving to Key West, Florida. If the time is now, then this blog post is for you!

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Key West is a small island city in the southernmost part of the Florida Keys, within the continental United States. Once home to pirates and cigar makers, Key West is known for its Cuban heritage, historic sites, charming pastel, conch-style architecture, Duval Street’s lively nightlife, sunset celebrations, annual Ernest Hemingway look-alike contest, and Key Lime Pie.

The Overseas Highway, a scenic route that connects Key West to Cuba and Miami, emphasizes the island’s unique geographical and cultural position. The highway, comprised of 42 bridges, provides one of the most picturesque drives in America.

If that sounds like your idea of a good time, moving to Key West is for you. This guide has everything you need to know about the island before you decide to proceed.

Quick facts before moving to Key West, FL

Where is Key West, FL, Located?

Key West is at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys, a chain of islands off the coast of mainland Florida.

The coordinates for Key West are around 24.565176°N latitude and -81.775794°W longitude.

To find out how far Cuba is from Florida, know that Key West is approximately 100 miles (160 km) from Florida and 106 miles (171 km) north-northeast of Havana, Cuba.

Key West is part of Monroe County, which includes most of the Florida Keys and the Everglades.

Population in Key West, FL

As of 2023, Key West, Florida’s population is estimated to be around 25,816 residents.

The Key West’s population has an annual decline rate of -1.35%.

The median age in Key West is approximately 44.2 years.

Diversity in Key West, FL

Key West is a diverse city with a significant White population, about 55.4% to 58.9% of residents.
The Hispanic or Latino population is the next largest group, accounting for about 14.7% to 25%.
The Black or African American population is about 12.3% to 13.9% of the city’s residents.
Key West’s diversity score is high, with one source scoring 96 out of 100, indicating it is much more diverse than other US cities.
Key West is recognized for its openness and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, internationally known as a top LGBTQ+ vacation spot.

Cost of Living in Key West, FL

The cost of living is critical before moving to Key West, Florida. The cost of living in Key West, Florida, is significantly higher than the national average, with a Cost of Living Index 146, indicating it’s 46% above the national average.

In Key West, the average annual household income is $117,210, and the median is $75,638 annually.
The average cost of living in Key West, FL, is $3443 per month.
To live a comfortable life in Key West, Florida, it’s recommended that a person needs to earn $19.98 per hour for a one-person household or $28.57 per hour for a two-person household. This translates to an annual income of approximately $41,582.40 for a single person (assuming a 40-hour workweek) and $59,426.40 for two people.

The table below indicates Key West’s cost of living index for different categories compared to the cost of living in Florida and the national average.

Index	Key West	Florida	National
Cost of Living	165.2	99	100
Goods & Services	108	99	100
Groceries	106	105	100
Health Care	98	97	100
Housing	303	96	100
Transportation	107	99	100
Utilities	107	101	100

How Is the Housing Market in Key West, FL?

The Key West, FL, housing market could be more competitive, with home prices varying in different parts of the city, but the home and rental prices remain higher than the US average.

Learn the critical housing and rental market stats before moving to Key West, Florida.

The average house price in Key West was reported to be $1.39M.
The median home cost in Key West is $1,048,326.
The homeownership rate in Key West is reported to be either 45.8% or 61.2%, showing that a significant portion of residents own their homes.
The cost to build a house in Florida, Key West, averages $295,000.

Average rental price in Key West, FL

The average rent for an apartment in Key West ranges from $2,500 to $8,000.
The average rent for a studio apartment in Key West is approximately $2,700.
The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Key West is around $2,995.
If you’re looking for a 3-bedroom home in Key West, the average rent is approximately $8,000.
The average rent for a 4-bedroom home in Key West ranges between $2,350 and $20,000.

How is the job market in Key West, FL?

The job market in Key West, Florida, decreased by -7.2% in the last year, but there’s a projected growth of 14.9% over the next decade.

The current unemployment rate in Key West is 3.2%, lower than the national average.
The average salaries for jobs in Key West are $60,055 per year and $20.27 per hour as of 2023.

What are the top employers in Key West, FL

US Armed Services (Including Civilian Support & Contractors)
Monroe County Schools
Monroe County Government
Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
The City of Key West (including police, fire & EMS)
Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority
Keys Energy Service
Florida Keys Electric Cooperative Association
College of the Florida Keys
Ocean Reef Club

What are the most common job titles in Key West, FL

Barista
Bartender
Bartender Server
Cashier
Certified Nursing Assistant
Chef
Cook
Coordinator

Highest paying jobs in Key West, FL

Director, Finance
Manager, Operation
Manager, Communications
Project Manager
Travel Nurse
RN (Registered Nurse)
Nursing
Nurse
CDL Driver
Captain

How safe is it to live in Key West, FL?

Key West, Florida, has a crime rate higher than the national average, making it less safe than other cities in the state and the country. Look at the crime statistics in Key West, FL, and decide if moving to Key West, FL, would be great for you and your family to live!

The overall crime rate in Key West is 20.55 per 1,000 residents, with a 1 in 49 chance of being a victim of either violent or property crime.
The most common crime in Key West, FL, is property crime, with a 1 in 61 chance of being a victim.
The property crime rate in Key West is 16.44 per 1,000, higher than the national average.
The violent crime rate in Key West, FL, is 4.11 per 1,000, also surpassing the national average, with a 1 in 243 chance of being a victim each year.

Top Safest Neighborhoods in Key West, FL

The Meadows / Casa Marina
New Town
Stock Island
New Town East
Big Coppitt Key
Fort Jefferson
Key West Intl Airport
Bahama Village

How Fast Can You Commute in Key West, FL?

The average commute time for Key West, Florida, is 18.6 minutes.

The public transportation available in Key West to get around the city are:

Key West Transit: Key West Transit, run by the City of Key West Department of Transportation, offers public transit across Key West, Stock Island, the Lower Keys, and Marathon, Florida. They operate five routes, starting at 5:40 AM and ending at 10:00 PM, with 20 handicap-accessible buses accommodating 24 or 32 passengers.
Duval Loop: The Duval Loop, a free bus service along Key West’s main street, runs every 20 minutes from 8 am to 10 pm and every 30 minutes during specific morning and evening hours.
Lower Keys Shuttle: Connecting Key West Old Town to Marathon at Mile Marker 53.5, the shuttle offers a convenient way to explore downtown. It provides hassle-free travel with ten daily trips aligning with the Miami Dade Route 301.
Bikes on Buses (BOB): The Bikes On Buses Program allows free bicycle transport on city buses. Users can secure bikes on front racks, with each bus accommodating two or three bicycles. Folding bicycles are permitted on board.

How’s the weather in Key West, FL?

Key West, Florida, has a tropical-maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round, featuring a dry season from December to April and a wet season from June to October.

August is the hottest month in Key West, with an average high of 90°F and a low of 79°F. January is the coldest, with an average low of 65°F and a high of 75°F.
September is the wettest month in Key West, with an average rainfall of 6.71 inches, while April is the driest, with 1.68 inches of precipitation. The annual rainfall averages around 39.83 inches.
The best time to visit Key West Florida is March and May.

How is the Education in Key West, FL?

If you’re considering relocating to Key West, Florida, with your children, check out the following essential stats regarding the education system and schools in the city.

Key West, FL, has good schools, including Key West High School, ranked at #3,579 nationally.
School rankings in Key West are based on state tests, graduation, and college readiness. Around 42% of students are proficient in math and 55% in reading.
Key West High School maintains a student-teacher ratio of 17:1.
Key West has 14 public schools.
Public education in Key West is state-funded and free. The College of the Florida Keys offers in-state residents tuition rates at $82.78 per credit hour for some courses and $91.79 per credit hour for others.
The average annual net price at the College of the Florida Keys is $16,338 after scholarships and grants.
Key West’s robust education system has reasonable test scores and a fair student-teacher ratio. Average test scores are 49% in math and 56% in reading, close to Florida averages.

Best Middle Schools in Key West, FL

Sigsbee Charter School
Monroe Virtual Franchise
May Sands Montessori School

Best Elementary Schools in Key West, FL

Sigsbee Charter School
Poinciana Elementary School

Best High Schools in Key West, FL

Key West High School
Coral Shores High School
Marathon School
Somerset Island Prep
Monroe Virtual Franchise

Best Universities and Colleges in Key West, FL

The College of the Florida Keys
Barry University
University of Miami
University of Florida IFAS Extension

What are the best things to do in Key West, FL?

The The famous attractions and things to see in Key West Florida include:

Enjoy the tropical beauty of Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, home to numerous butterflies and exotic birds.
Dive into the world of literature at The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the famous author once lived alongside six-toed cats.
Discover the remote paradise of Dry Tortugas National Park, accessible by ferry or seaplane, offering coral reefs for snorkeling and the historic Fort Jefferson.
Experience the heart of Key West on Duval Street, renowned for its lively nightlife, diverse shops, restaurants, and bars like the legendary Sloppy Joe’s.
Visit Mallory Square, famous for its nightly Sunset Celebration featuring street performers, food vendors, and artists as the sun sets.
Immerse yourself in history and recreation at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, featuring a Civil War-era fort and a beautiful beach for swimming and snorkeling.
Explore the family-friendly Key West Aquarium, featuring touch tanks and a variety of marine life.
Climb to the top of Key West Lighthouse for panoramic island views.
Take the Conch Tour Train, a hop-on, hop-off trolley tour providing an overview of Key West’s landmarks and history.
Explore the unique epitaphs and diverse cultural heritage at Key West Cemetery.
Indulge in the local delicacy of Key lime pie, a must-try available at various eateries in Key West.
Relax on the sandy shores of Smathers Beach, Higgs Beach, or Fort Zachary Taylor State Park beaches.

Best Neighborhoods in Key West, FL

The best places to live in Key West Florida are:

Old Town
Downtown
Uptown
Heart of Old Town
Bahama Village
Truman Annex
Casa Marina
The Meadows
Historic Seaport
New Town

What are the Pros and Cons of Living in Key West, FL?

Thinking about the pros and cons of living in the Conch Republic can help determine if relocating to Key West Florida is a good idea. We’ve made a list of the good and bad things about living in Key West to give you a better idea of what to expect in the city.

Pros	Cons
Beautiful natural surroundings	High cost of living
Stunning sunsets and sunrises	Expensive housing
The slow pace of life	Isolation
Low-stress	Difficult air travel
Warm weather	Lots of rain
Fun water sports	Hurricanes and tropical storms
Nice dining options	High property crime rates
Sense of community	Lack of shopping
No state income taxes	Lack of nightlife
Reasonable property taxes	Limited non-water-related activities
Quality public schools	Risky road conditions (US1 deadliest road)
Low unemployment

Final thoughts

If you’re moving to Florida, Key West is the place to be. You’ll enjoy stunning scenery, incredible sunsets, and endless outdoor activities. Plus, the slower pace of life is perfect for starting a new chapter.

Of course, there are some downsides to living in Key West. The nightlife scene is limited, there’s not much shopping, and the cost of living is high. But the pros of living in Key West far outweigh the cons.

If you’re ready to make the move, check out our packing list for Florida to ensure you have everything you need.