What are the Lower Keys?

The Lower Keys are the stretch of islands in the Florida Keys chain beginning southwest of the Seven Mile Bridge and extending toward Key West. The Lower Keys have a distinctly different character from the Upper Keys - more rural, less commercial, and generally more affordable while still offering the waterfront access and natural environment that define the Florida Keys.

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Quick answer

  • Location: southwest of the Seven Mile Bridge from approximately Mile Marker 40 down to Mile Marker 9
  • Key communities: Big Pine Key, Summerland Key, Cudjoe Key, Sugarloaf Key, and Ramrod Key among others
  • Character: more rural and natural than the Upper Keys with lower commercial density
  • Wildlife: the Lower Keys are home to the endangered Key deer found primarily on Big Pine Key and No Name Key
  • Affordability: generally the most affordable waterfront market in the Florida Keys outside of Key West condos
  • Proximity to Key West: the Lower Keys sit between Marathon and Key West making them accessible to Key West amenities

Lower Keys communities

  • Big Pine Key - the largest community in the Lower Keys and home to the National Key Deer Refuge; mix of residential neighborhoods and limited commercial services
  • No Name Key - a small, largely undeveloped island accessible from Big Pine Key with a strong off-the-grid appeal
  • Summerland Key - residential community with canalfront homes and a small airstrip
  • Cudjoe Key - mix of residential and some commercial with canalfront and waterfront properties
  • Sugarloaf Key - known for its lodge and residential neighborhoods with Gulf and oceanside access
  • Ramrod Key - smaller residential community with waterfront access
  • Torch Keys - Little Torch, Middle Torch, and Big Torch Keys offer waterfront residential properties

Lower Keys real estate characteristics

  • Generally more affordable than Upper Keys markets with more non-waterfront inventory available
  • Canalfront homes are common throughout Lower Keys communities
  • Development restrictions related to the Key Deer Refuge affect buildable land on Big Pine Key and surrounding areas
  • The rural character and limited commercial amenities appeal to buyers seeking privacy and natural surroundings
  • Insurance and ownership costs are comparable to other Florida Keys markets despite lower purchase prices

More Florida Keys real estate questions

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