Let the numbers do the talking.
Merritt Island, FL vs Sarasota, FL
Merritt Island, FL vs Sarasota, FL: What the data shows
Merritt Island, FL is in Merritt Island, FL while Sarasota, FL is in Sarasota, FL — both in the same state. WYLT rates Merritt Island, FL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Sarasota, FL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Merritt Island, FL has the stronger safety profile of the two. Merritt Island, FL has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Sarasota, FL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Merritt Island, FL has High flood risk and Sarasota, FL has Low flood risk.
Sarasota, FL is the more walkable neighborhood. Merritt Island, FL scores N/A/100 versus Sarasota, FL's 16/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Merritt Island, FL has the higher school rating — Merritt Island, FL rates 7.4/10 and Sarasota, FL rates N/A.
| Category | Merritt Island, FL | Sarasota, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $340K | N/A |
| Median Rent | $2K | N/A |
| Median Income | $60K | N/A |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 16/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 10/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 54/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 75 min | 74 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.4/10 ✓ Better schools | N/A |
| Best for | FamiliesRemote workersParks enthusiasts | RetireesRemote workersPet owners |
Bottom line
For families and those with kids, Merritt Island might be a slightly better choice due to its slightly higher school rating and more family-friendly atmosphere. However, for retirees or remote workers with cars, Sarasota's lower flood risk and existing retiree community might make it the more suitable option. Ultimately, both areas are worth a closer look, but their differences in commute, school quality, and flood risk may sway the decision for some.
Share this comparison