In about 2 months I'll be moving down to the Space Coast to start my first full time job at Cape Canaveral. I have been down to the area a few times in the past but not since I accepted the position and realized I'll actually be living there. My question is, where, along the Space Coast, does the younger generation tend to live? As I understand, Merritt Island tends to be older while Melbourne is younger and more newly developed with nicer shopping centers and upscale restaurants (that's about all I have heard).

For reference, I am a 22 year old female and as I'll be working at the base, I'd prefer the commute to be less than 40 minutes (hence why downtown Melbourne is a bit of a stretch). It would be nice to have a town center or fun bars nearby rather than the touristy scene that is parts of Cocoa Beach. Thanks for any insights you can provide!

Depending on how long you will be there, I saw a nice condo on Banana River Blvd. (1050 sq ft) with tile floors. It has a boat slip available. Cocoa Beach is not all touristy.

You may want to get a temporary roomshare or stay in Airbnb’s for a few weeks until you get a feel for the area. Although I honestly think liking your place is more important than basing choice on the age of your neighbors.

for one thing, consider that you are a young professional- my 22 year old neighbors are college students and party animals. Possibly not a crowd you want to hang out with. And of the other 22 year olds I know, a lot of them can’t afford to live centrally and have super long commutes.

Stay mainland. Downtown Melbourne is where most young locals go out. There is a mall strip of bars and restaurants along with street festivals there.