Moving to Cocoa Beach, Florida: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering moving to Cocoa Beach, Florida? This iconic surf town on Florida’s Space Coast offers laid-back beach living, proximity to Kennedy Space Center, and a strong sense of community. With approximately 11,400 residents in 2025, Cocoa Beach combines small-town atmosphere with Atlantic Ocean access and aerospace industry connections.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Cocoa Beach:

Cocoa Beach maintains a population of approximately 11,400 residents within its compact barrier island location in Brevard County. The median age is 58.4 years, reflecting strong appeal to retirees and empty-nesters, alongside aerospace professionals and surf enthusiasts. The community is approximately 90% White with growing Hispanic representation. The city occupies a narrow strip of land along the Atlantic Ocean, with most properties within walking or short driving distance to the beach. Neighborhoods consist primarily of single-family homes, condominiums, and beachfront properties. Cocoa Beach’s identity as a surf town and gateway to Space Coast tourism influences its casual, beach-oriented lifestyle.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Cocoa Beach:

As a desirable beachfront community, Cocoa Beach’s housing costs reflect its Atlantic Ocean location. Median home values typically range from $400,000 to $500,000, with oceanfront properties commanding significant premiums. The median household income is approximately $82,000. Condominiums provide alternatives for those seeking lower-maintenance beach living. Florida’s lack of state income tax benefits residents, though coastal property insurance requires careful budgeting. Overall cost of living is moderate to high for Florida, balanced by the unique lifestyle of living in one of the state’s most iconic surf towns with direct beach access and Space Coast attractions.

Economy and Job Market:

Cocoa Beach’s economy centers on tourism, aerospace, and service industries. The city welcomes millions of visitors annually to attractions including Ron Jon Surf Shop, Cocoa Beach Pier, and numerous surf festivals. Many residents work in the aerospace sector at Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, or contractor facilities including SpaceX and Boeing. The hospitality sector thrives with hotels, restaurants, and beach-related businesses. Retail and professional services support both residents and tourists. The broader Space Coast’s aerospace renaissance has strengthened the local economy, with increased commercial spaceflight activity creating career opportunities for technical professionals and supporting industries.

Education:

Brevard Public Schools serves Cocoa Beach students, with area schools including Roosevelt Elementary and Cape View Elementary. Secondary students typically attend Cocoa Beach Junior/Senior High School, which serves the barrier island communities. Eastern Florida State College offers associate degrees and workforce training across multiple Brevard County campuses. Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne provides engineering and science programs particularly relevant to aerospace careers. The University of Central Florida maintains a regional presence. Many aerospace families prioritize education, and the district offers various choice programs throughout Brevard County to meet diverse student needs.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

Cocoa Beach offers exceptional beach-centered recreation with year-round surfing, fishing, and water sports. The iconic Cocoa Beach Pier extends 800 feet into the Atlantic, providing fishing, dining, and entertainment. Ron Jon Surf Shop operates 24 hours and receives 2 million annual visitors. The city hosts the Easter Surfing Festival, attracting 100,000 spectators, and the Surfing Santas Christmas event. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is minutes away, offering residents pass benefits and rocket launch viewing from the beach. Parks, nature preserves including the Thousand Islands, and the casual surf town atmosphere define daily life. Golf courses and the nearby Port Canaveral cruise terminal provide additional recreation options.

Healthcare and Services:

Cocoa Beach residents access healthcare through Health First facilities including Cape Canaveral Hospital and Holmes Regional Medical Center in Melbourne. Parrish Medical Center in Titusville provides additional services. Numerous medical offices and urgent care centers serve the Space Coast. Orlando’s specialized medical facilities are within an hour when advanced care is needed. The area’s healthcare infrastructure adequately serves the local population and continues expanding with regional growth.

Transportation:

Cocoa Beach is accessed via State Road 520 (Merritt Island Causeway) and State Road A1A along the coast. Orlando International Airport is approximately 45 minutes west via the Beachline Expressway. Space Coast Area Transit provides limited bus service throughout Brevard County. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, with the barrier island’s compact size making navigation straightforward. The city’s layout allows many residents to walk or bike to the beach and local amenities.

Conclusion:

Moving to Cocoa Beach in 2025 offers a unique beach town lifestyle with surf culture, aerospace industry connections, and front-row access to America’s space program. The community’s relaxed atmosphere, Atlantic beaches, and small-town feel make it ideal for those seeking coastal Florida living with character and connection to space exploration history.