What to know when moving to Palm Bay, FL
Palm Bay at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 43.2% of residents rent and the median household income is $56,671.
- The Major Draw:
- Affordable median gross rent of $1,361, making it accessible for many.
- The Reality Check:
- A poverty rate of 14.1% indicates some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 0.6% use public transit, so car ownership is essential.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,361 in monthly rent to find a suitable place.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Palm Bay is a city where 26.6% of the population holds a bachelor's degree, reflecting a moderately educated community. The median gross rent is $1,361, which is reasonable compared to other areas, though the poverty rate stands at 14.1%. The low public transit usage at 0.6% suggests that most residents rely on cars for commuting.
Probably not your spot if you prefer a high level of public transit accessibility, as the options here are quite limited.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,361, making it affordable compared to many urban areas.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $206,200, which is within reach for many buyers.
- 26.6% of residents hold at least a bachelor's degree, indicating a focus on education in the community.
- The renter percentage stands at 43.2%, suggesting a balanced housing market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Schools & Higher Ed
There are 6 postsecondary institutions within Brevard County, providing accessible higher education options for residents.
- Eastern Florida State College
- Florida Institute of Technology
- Florida Institute of Technology-Online
- Jersey College - Melbourne
- Keiser University-Melbourne
- The Salon Professional Academy-Melbourne
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Palm Bay experiences around 58.5 inches of rain annually, with 141 rainy days each year. This means you might want to invest in some good rain gear. The climate is relatively mild, and there are plenty of outdoor spots to enjoy.
- Wickham Park - Rating: 4.7 (5,825 reviews)
- Hammock Landing - Rating: 4.4 (4,351 reviews)
- James H. Nance Park - Rating: 4.6 (2,556 reviews)
- Ballard Park - Rating: 4.7 (1,606 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Brevard County, the unemployment rate is 4.8% as of December 2025, with a labor force of 305,547. There are approximately 290,781 people employed in the area.
- Unemployment rate: 4.8% (December 2025)
- Employment: 290,781
- Labor force: 305,547
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.