Are the Upper Middle or Lower Keys the Right Fit for You?
Unless you are familiar with the Keys, it may seem like “The Florida Keys” are all the same, and it does not matter on which key you purchase your home. After all, they are all tropical islands right? How different can it be to live on Key Largo versus living in Key West? With more and more people looking to purchase Florida Keys real estate from out of state, and who may be unfamiliar with the area, it is important to familiarize yourself with the practicalities of living in the Florida Keys before you decide where to begin your real estate search. Typically, the main decision when looking at Florida Keys real estate is how far of a drive to the mainland you are willing to make.
Did you know that from north to south the Florida Keys are only about 100 miles? Maybe. But did you know that on an average day those 100 miles can take nearly 3 hours to drive? That’s because there is only one road that connects the Florida Keys - the Overseas Highway. This is not a highway. It is a sometimes two lane road, with stop lights and turnoffs and traffic. If there is an accident, or a holiday, or a hurricane evacuation, these travel times can increase.
Why is this important? Well it depends on what your needs are. Are you buying a weekend retreat? If you live somewhat nearby, like Miami, and are planning on driving in for the weekend, you may want to purchase a home for sale in the Upper Keys. This will cut your commute considerably. If you are looking for a vacation property and you live most of the year out of state, you also may want to live in the Upper Keys, as this is much closer to Miami International Airport.
If you are looking to purchase a luxury home in the Florida Keys as your primary residence, then further down the Keys might be a better choice. Further away from the mainland tends to be less touristy, except Key West of course. The Middle Keys are great for those who like options. Located halfway down the chain, residents of the Middle Florida Keys can reach the mainland in about an hour and a half. Marathon, located in the heart of the Middle Keys, has many dining and entertainment options in its own right, and residents are smack between Key Largo and Key West - each with their own great choices. The Middle Keys offers primary residents the most diverse options within the shortest distance.
The Lower Keys is perfect for permanent residents who just want to enjoy all that the Florida Keys has to offer. With the exception of Key West, the Lower Keys are mostly quiet residential neighborhoods that allow residents to fully immerse themselves in their tranquil surroundings. This is also a great place for those looking to vacation for a whole season, such as snow birds escaping harsh winters elsewhere.
No matter where you choose to purchase your piece of Florida Keys real estate, you cannot go wrong! Each area has its own special attributes, but the one thing they all have in common is that Florida Keys lifestyle and beauty!
