Neighborhood Guide
A historic Gulf Coast island community at the end of SR 24, known for seafood, arts, and an authenticity that coastal resort towns have long since lost.
By Jenis Patel, Realtor® · Updated June 2026
Price Range
$190K–$400K
Flood Zone
Predominantly Zone AE/VE (coastal high-hazard); some interior lots in Zone X
Elevation
~3–10 ft
Construction
1900s–1980s Old Florida cracker/cottage-style, mixed with newer elevated stilt construction
To Downtown Gainesville
65–75 min to Downtown Gainesville
Overview
Cedar Key sits on a cluster of islands at the western end of SR 24, about 60 miles southwest of Gainesville and reachable only by one road. That isolation is the point. It is a working fishing village with a genuine arts community, excellent fresh seafood, and a character that coastal resort towns with twenty times its population have spent decades trying to manufacture.
The real estate market here is driven by limited inventory, consistent out-of-state buyer interest, and the simple fact that you cannot build more island. Properties range from small historic cottages to elevated waterfront homes, and the buyer profile skews toward second-home buyers, retirees, and people who specifically chose to be remote.
Flood risk is real in Cedar Key and should be factored into any purchase decision. Elevation certificates, flood insurance, and wind mitigation are all standard parts of the transaction here.
The Honest Take
Pros
Cons
What You Need to Know
Who Should Live Here
Second-home buyers and retirees who want genuine Gulf Coast island living at a price point well below more recognized coastal Florida markets. Also appeals to remote workers who are serious about trading convenience for character.
The Smart Money Angle
Cedar Key's limited land supply and consistent out-of-state buyer demand have supported values over time. Properties here do not track with broader Florida market cycles the way mainland markets do. Elevation and flood zone certification significantly affect both value and insurability.
What to Expect
A small, tight-knit island community with a permanent population of around 800. Limited services, one main commercial street, excellent waterfront access, and an unusually strong sense of place for its size.
What's Nearby
Schools
School zone data for this area is best confirmed directly with the school district, as zones can vary by exact address and change over time.
School zones vary by exact address and can change over time. Contact the Levy County School District directly to confirm the zoned schools for a specific address.
Flood Zone & Elevation
Cedar Key sits at very low elevation and has significant coastal flood exposure. Zone AE designation is common. Flood insurance is mandatory for most mortgaged properties. Verify individual parcel elevation certificates before purchasing.
Internet & Utilities
Electric service in Levy County is primarily provided by Clay Electric Cooperative or Duke Energy depending on the specific area. Water and sewer infrastructure varies widely: larger towns like Chiefland, Williston, and Bronson have some municipal water service, but well and septic systems are common throughout the county.
Internet options are more limited than in the Gainesville area. Spectrum serves the larger towns; rural areas have limited options and many residents rely on satellite internet such as Starlink. Coverage varies significantly by address.
Exact providers and availability vary by address. We recommend confirming services at the specific property before purchasing.
Current Listings
I don't have an active listing in Cedar Key right now, but I can set you up with alerts as soon as something hits the market. In the meantime, browse all current listings.
Market Snapshot
Cedar Key's market is driven by second-home and retirement buyers who specifically seek its remote character. Inventory is consistently low and values have been relatively stable. Out-of-state buyers, particularly from the Southeast and Midwest, are a regular presence in this market.
I can walk you through current listings, recent sales, and whether this neighborhood fits what you're looking for.