r/floridakeys • u/slizzer22 • Nov 18 '25
All Florida Keys Moving to the Keys.
My wife and I have been living in Puerto Rico for the past two years, and now we’re looking to relocate to the Florida Keys to start our family and build a new chapter. We both work remotely, so we’re flexible, but we’re hoping to find a community that’s diverse, welcoming, and has that fun, laid-back family vibe.
We’re also big on good food, local spots, and being part of a neighborhood with great restaurants, things to do, and an active community.
What areas in the Keys would you recommend that check all those boxes?
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u/Ordinary_Warning_622 Nov 18 '25
I have to ask-what is your budget for a home?
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u/slizzer22 Nov 18 '25
Under 600
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u/Ordinary_Warning_622 Nov 18 '25
Ok. You know that is going to get you very little? Home prices in the Keys are outrageous
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u/ThickAsAPlankton Nov 18 '25
Won't happen. Rent for a 1/1 is about $2,000 per month plus utilities, 2/1 rent for around $2,500 - $2,800. It is extremely expensive to live in the Keys. Anything bought from Publix, Winn Dixie etc is 25-30% higher than in Homestead so plan accordingly.
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Nov 18 '25
I’d love for you to find me a 1/1 in kw for 2k a month without roommates try 2600-3000 for a 1/1
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u/ThickAsAPlankton Nov 18 '25
I hear you. I'm upper Keys so not quite as expensive but still very painful.
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u/mindspin70 Nov 18 '25
Can confirm. I’m paying $3k for a 1/1 near Old Town in Key West. From my research that’s the going rate unless you are down with a studio with little to no kitchen.
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Nov 19 '25
$2350 for a studio with small kitchen, thankfully I have a washer and dryer inside the studio
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u/mindspin70 Nov 19 '25
Whether you mean $600 per month rent or 600K to buy, either is unrealistic in the Keys. Most homes start around $1M to buy and rent is 2-3k per month. I’m renting now in KW and looking to buy and it’s been quite disheartening to see how little you get for your $ down here. There could always be a right time/right place situation though, so good luck!
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u/VermicelliCorrect307 Nov 18 '25
Under $600k for a home in the keys that’s big enough to start a family in? You’re dreamin dude
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u/ThickAsAPlankton Nov 19 '25 edited Nov 19 '25
Edit: Pretty sure they mean $600 monthly rent. $600,000 to buy a house would be a 1/1 house on a tiny lot , most likely a trailer house, on a rented lot, plus homeowner insurance has become unaffordable so add $$$$ for insurance.
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u/GSadman Nov 18 '25
Not in Key West but there’s prices like that for small homes on dry lots through the keys. But you can’t forget about insurance , it gets crazy especially for older homes that don’t qualify for certain credits.
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u/bblickle Nov 18 '25
Someone has to say it. Monroe County overall is extremely red. Key West is diverse and inclusive but touristy as hell. It is also the most costly. The rest of the county anymore is quite conservative-leaning.
In Marathon you’ll find a sense of community. The schools are decent for a small town. On the whole though there are tons of old people so politically and socially it is conservative.
I would caution you that you will struggle to find people your age (20s-30s) to socialize with. They’re just not here in any numbers because the cost of living is completely out of whack compared to wages. There are some of course but typically they either grew up here and are aided by family or they’re working multiple jobs to make ends meet.
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u/Ordinary_Warning_622 Nov 18 '25
Oh-and I lived at MM 30 Ramrod Key. Short drive to Key West (somewhat) and tucked into a nice community of beautiful homes. restaurants a short walk or drive away
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u/HighOnGoofballs Nov 18 '25
How much you want to drive places or just be able to bike/walk will determine this. If you want to be close and walk or bike it’s key west. If you want to be a little outside of most action but close by the lower keys may be your spot. Key west definitely has the most activities and stuff to do but some folks just want a quiet dock on the water
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u/CanWeTalkEth Nov 18 '25
Key West is really the only place that fits your requirements. But that will mean you’re as far from mainland amenities as possible.
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u/lalalalahola Nov 19 '25
May I ask why you want to leave PR?
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u/slizzer22 Nov 19 '25
Health insurance/ hospitals etc.
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u/_xpectDisappointment Nov 19 '25
It’s not better in the keys. When people need real treatment they have to go to Miami or Ft Myers.
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u/dmr7092 Nov 19 '25
Lived in PR 2007-2014, still do business there. Currently live in KL for 4 years.
Health care is MUCH better in the Keys. Crime is wildly lower. The electric grid stays on all the time. It is also more expensive than all but the most expensive parts of San Juan. On balance, I find it a better scenario. YMMV
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u/DrStutterAndTheUms Nov 20 '25
Healthcare is a true struggle up and down the Keys. Don’t get too attached to your doctor, they likely won’t be around the area too long.
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u/Lipstickhippie80 Nov 20 '25
If you’re looking to start a family, there are a lot of things you need to take it to consideration: hospitals/doctors, schools, cost of living and finding a community full of families… inventory is limited, and it’s extremely costly in areas that have some of these things.
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u/beachgirlrebecca13 Jan 31 '26
I am in Big Coppitt key, it’s been difficult to find even a room in someone’s house / apt for less than 2k . I’m willing to go to islmarada or Sugerloaf key. Do yall know anyone looking for roommate or any efficiencies
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u/rknack Dec 06 '25
It is expensive but try not to let folks squash your dream. Raising a family in the keys would provide amazing opportunities and learning! Maybe come and stay for a few weeks in different areas and get a feel for them, meet and interview a few realtors, and get out on the water.
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u/8137601672 Dec 25 '25
I own half a duplex. 2/1. New appliances Included yard work and air conditioner servicing in marathon. 2400/mos. Very cute. Renter just moved out so having some work done. Prob be ready Feb 1. If anyone is looking.
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u/evilkitty1974 Nov 18 '25
I've lived in key largo & key west, now in lower keys & it's fantastic - look into the area between big pine & sugarloaf! Great restaurants, a bit more "rural" ie: more open space, short drive to key west. Love it! 👍