Satellite Beach, located on the Atlantic coast just south of Cocoa Beach and Patrick's Space Force Base, is a close-knit beach town that offers a unique living experience. In this article, we will explore the top five pros and cons of living in Satellite Beach, helping you decide if it's the right beach town for you.
Pros of Living in Satellite Beach
1. Beach Life
Satellite Beach boasts miles and miles of beautiful ocean, making it a paradise for beach lovers and surfers. Whether you enjoy swimming, surfing, or simply lounging on the beach, Satellite Beach has something for everyone. The surf in Satellite Beach is highly rated, attracting surf enthusiasts from all over. With multiple access points from the main road A1A and popular beach parks like Hightower Beach Park and Pelican Beach Park, finding parking and enjoying the beach is convenient no matter where you live in Satellite Beach. You can easily walk, bike, or ride a golf cart to the beach from anywhere in the town.
2. Special Events
Satellite Beach is known for its lively special events, particularly its block parties on holidays. On the 4th of July, you can expect fireworks and block parties throughout the neighborhood. The community comes together to celebrate with live music, food trucks, games, and more. The Halloween block party in South Satellite Beach is also a popular event, with the neighborhood going all out with decorations. Additionally, there are other special events hosted throughout the year, including a farmer's market every Thursday at the DRS Community Center.
3. Close-Knit Community
Satellite Beach may be called a city, but it has the feel of a small town. With a population of around 11,200 residents, many of whom have lived here for generations, Satellite Beach offers a tight-knit community. It's the perfect place to consider if you're looking for a small town living experience where you know your neighbors. Short-term rentals or Airbnb are not allowed in Satellite Beach, except for multi-family properties or properties on the east side of A1A. This restriction helps maintain the close-knit community atmosphere.
4. A-Rated Schools
Satellite Beach is known for its A-rated schools, making it an attractive location for families. The area offers a range of schools, and you can find more information and reviews from parents to help you make an informed decision.
5. Parks and Outdoor Activities
In addition to the beach, Satellite Beach offers a variety of parks and outdoor activities. DeSoto Park, located in South Satellite Beach, is a popular park with a walking trail, outdoor gym equipment, a beautiful fountain, and baseball fields. The park also features a shallow canal where manatees like to hang out in the winter. The Banana River, which lines the west side of Satellite Beach, is perfect for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports.
Cons of Living in Satellite Beach
1. Division of Satellite Beach
Satellite Beach is divided into two parts: the incorporated area (South Satellite Beach) and the unincorporated area (North Satellite Beach). While both areas go to the same schools, there are differences to consider. The incorporated section has higher taxes to fund its own services, such as police officers and city officials. Additionally, there are different rules regarding parking boats, trailers, and campers, depending on which jurisdiction you are in.
2. Older Homes
Satellite Beach has many older homes that were built in the 1950s and 1960s. While there are newer homes, condos, and townhomes available, it's important to note that there are still many older properties. Depending on your preference and willingness to remodel, you may find older homes that are updated or in need of revitalization. However, older homes may come with potential costly repairs, such as cast iron piping and outdated electrical wiring.
3. Coquina Rocks in the Ocean
Satellite Beach has Coquina rocks in the ocean, which can be a concern for some beachgoers. Locals are aware of the areas to avoid, but if you prefer to stay away from rocks altogether, you can explore nearby beaches like Cocoa Beach or Indialantic, where rocks are less prevalent.
4. Limited Shopping and Food Options
While Satellite Beach has everything you need, it is primarily a residential area with limited shopping and food options. There is a Publix, coffee shops, and pharmacies, but if you're looking for a wider variety, you may need to venture out to nearby areas like Melbourne or downtown Cocoa Beach.
5. Cost of Living
Living close to the beach comes at a cost, and Satellite Beach is no exception. The housing costs in Satellite Beach can be higher compared to other areas. The average sales price of a condo is around $580,000 , the average sales price for a single-family home is approximately $715,000, and the average sales price for a townhome is around $415,000. It's important to consider the impact of living on the Barrier Island on your insurance rates as well. Insurance rates can vary depending on factors such as location, age of the home, updates, and the presence of a pool. If cost is a concern, it's recommended to reach out to a real estate agent to explore options within your budget or consider other nearby areas.
Bonus for Patrick Space Force Base Employees and Veterans
For those moving to Satellite Beach to work at Patrick Space Force Base or as a veteran or active duty personnel with access to the base, there are additional perks. Patrick Space Force Base offers amenities such as an RV storage lot, boat rentals and storage, a campground, beach cottages, a golf course, and a marina. These amenities provide added convenience and enjoyment for those living close to Satellite Beach.
Conclusion
Satellite Beach offers a laid-back beach town lifestyle with a strong sense of community. From its beautiful beaches and special events to its top-rated schools and outdoor activities, there are many reasons to consider living in Satellite Beach. However, it's important to be aware of the division of the town, the presence of older homes, the Coquina rocks in the ocean, limited shopping and food options, and the cost of living. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether Satellite Beach is the right place for you.
If you're considering a move to Satellite Beach or anywhere in Brevard County or the Space Coast, reach out to Rachel Langley, a licensed real estate agent specializing in the area. She can assist you with all your real estate needs and help you navigate the process of moving to Satellite Beach.
Thank you for reading. For more information on moving to Satellite Beach, you can contact Rachel Langley via text, call, or email.