Moving to Key West, Florida: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering moving to Key West, Florida? This iconic island city offers historic architecture, vibrant culture, and unique character. As the southernmost city in the continental United States with approximately 26,000 residents in 2025, Key West combines island paradise with artistic community and legendary nightlife.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to Key West:

Key West’s 2025 population is approximately 26,000 residents on this 2×4 mile island at the end of the Florida Keys in Monroe County. The median age is around 46 years, with diverse residents including artists, writers, hospitality workers, military personnel, and retirees. The population is approximately 75% White, 18% Hispanic. Key West features historic Conch houses, Victorian architecture, and diverse neighborhoods from Old Town’s charm to Stock Island’s working waterfront. The city is famous for its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, artistic community, and Hemingway heritage. Key West attracts free spirits, creatives, and those seeking alternative lifestyle. The small island creates a tight-knit community where cars are optional and bicycles are common. The southernmost point marker symbolizes the city’s unique geographic identity.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to Key West:

Key West represents ultra-premium pricing for the Florida Keys. Median home values range from $800,000 to $1.2 million+ in 2025, with historic properties and waterfront estates commanding significantly more. The median household income is approximately $65,000, creating affordability challenges for working residents. Rental properties average $2,500 to $4,500 monthly, with severe housing shortages affecting availability and prices. Florida’s lack of state income tax provides some relief. Overall cost of living is among Florida’s highest, with groceries, gas, and goods more expensive due to island location. Tourism drives housing demand while limiting local workforce affordability. Key West attracts wealthy second-home owners, retirees, and those prioritizing unique lifestyle over housing costs. Many service workers commute from upKeys or live in workforce housing.

Economy and Job Market:

Key West’s economy thrives on tourism, hospitality, military, and arts. Tourism dominates with hotels, restaurants, bars, attractions, and cruise ship industry creating vast employment. Duval Street’s restaurants and bars support extensive hospitality work. Sunset celebration at Mallory Square creates street performer and vendor opportunities. Naval Air Station Key West employs military and civilian workers. Fishing industry includes commercial and charter operations. Arts and galleries support creative professionals. Many residents work multiple jobs or seasonal positions. Real estate and property management sectors serve second-home and vacation rental markets. The economy operates on tourism cycles with peak winter season. Some residents are writers, artists, or retirees. Remote work has enabled some professionals to relocate while maintaining mainland careers.

Education:

Monroe County School District serves Key West students with schools including Key West High School, Horace O’Bryant School, and elementary schools. The small district serves the Keys. Florida Keys Community College provides associate degrees and workforce training. The island environment influences education with unique opportunities for marine science and environmental studies. Some families choose mainland schools or homeschooling. The community’s alternative character creates diverse educational approaches.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

Key West offers legendary lifestyle centered on Duval Street’s bars, restaurants, and nightlife. Mallory Square’s nightly sunset celebration features street performers, artists, and vendors. Historic sites include Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Harry S. Truman Little White House, and Fort Zachary Taylor. Beautiful beaches including Fort Zachary Taylor State Park offer swimming and snorkeling. Residents enjoy water sports, fishing, sailing, and kayaking. The artistic community supports galleries, theaters, and literary events. Fantasy Fest, Hemingway Days, and numerous festivals celebrate island culture. The LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere creates inclusive community. Bicycle and scooter use is common on the small island. Tiki bars, beach bars, and waterfront dining define social life. The community values creativity, individuality, and living in the moment. The tropical climate and “one human family” philosophy create a unique American experience. The lifestyle emphasizes experiences over possessions.

Healthcare and Services:

Key West residents access healthcare through Lower Keys Medical Center providing emergency and hospital services. Additional medical offices and clinics operate throughout the island. Miami’s major hospitals are over three hours away for specialized care. Limited island medical resources require helicopter transport for critical emergencies. The healthcare infrastructure serves the population adequately for routine care, with serious cases requiring mainland facilities.

Transportation:

Key West is accessed via the Overseas Highway (U.S. 1), with a 3.5-hour drive from Miami. Key West International Airport provides flights to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and other cities. Key West Transit operates bus routes around the island. Many residents use bicycles, scooters, or walk, as the island’s compact size makes cars optional for local travel. Taxis, pedicabs, and ride-sharing serve residents and tourists. Parking is limited in Old Town. The island lifestyle encourages alternative transportation. Some residents own boats for recreation and transportation to nearby islands.

Conclusion:

Moving to Key West in 2025 offers unique island living with legendary nightlife, artistic culture, and southernmost location. The city’s combination of historic charm, LGBTQ+ inclusivity, creative community, and tropical paradise makes it ideal for free spirits, artists, and adventurers seeking America’s most distinctive island lifestyle, where eccentricity is celebrated and every day can feel like a vacation.