Let the numbers do the talking.
Merritt Island, FL vs Orange Park, FL
Merritt Island, FL vs Orange Park, FL: What the data shows
Merritt Island, FL is in Merritt Island, FL while Orange Park, FL is in Orange Park, FL — both in the same state. On home prices, Orange Park, FL is the more affordable option at $320,000 median — $20,000 less than Merritt Island, FL's $340,000. WYLT rates Merritt Island, FL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Orange Park, FL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Merritt Island, FL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Merritt Island, FL has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Orange Park, FL has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Merritt Island, FL has High flood risk and Orange Park, FL has Low flood risk.
Orange Park, FL is the more walkable neighborhood. Merritt Island, FL scores N/A/100 versus Orange Park, FL's 22/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Orange Park, FL has the higher school rating — Merritt Island, FL rates 7.4/10 and Orange Park, FL rates 8.6/10.
| Category | Merritt Island, FL | Orange Park, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $340K | $320K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $60K | $75K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 22/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 8/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 24/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 75 min | 34 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.4/10 | 8.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesRemote workersParks enthusiasts | Families with childrenHomebuyers looking for affordable optionsThose seeking a quiet, suburban atmosphere |
Bottom line
Merritt Island is a better choice for remote workers and those prioritizing parks and water activities, although it comes with higher housing costs and potential flooding risks. Orange Park, with its excellent schools, low flood risk, and relatively affordable housing, is more suitable for families with children and those seeking a quiet suburban lifestyle.
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