Hello From

Big Pine Key!

 

 

“Where Nature Comes First in the Florida Keys”

Anna Maria Island

Big Pine Key

 

A Census-Designated Place and Unincorporated Community in Monroe County, Florida, United States, on an Island of the same name in the Florida Keys. 

 

Big Pine Key is a serene, nature-focused island community in the Lower Florida Keys, offering a quiet escape from the busier tourist hubs like Key West. Known for its natural beauty, wildlife refuges, and a laid-back, small-town feel, Big Pine Key attracts nature lovers, divers, and those looking for a peaceful coastal lifestyle surrounded by turquoise waters and protected ecosystems.

Bahia Honda State Park, Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL, USA

Photo by Linda Gillotti on Unsplash

Location & Size

Big Pine Key is located about 30 miles northeast of Key West and is part of Monroe County in Southeast Florida.

It is the largest of the Lower Keys, spanning roughly 10 square miles.

Founded

While Native American tribes and early settlers inhabited the area for centuries, modern development began in the early 20th century, particularly after the completion of Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railway. Big Pine Key grew slowly over the years and remains largely residential and conservation-focused.

BIG PINE KEY WEATHER

Population

 As of 2024, the population is approximately 5,000 residents.

Known For

  • Home to the endangered Key deer and the National Key Deer Refuge

  • Unspoiled nature trails, kayaking, and snorkeling spots

  • Blue Hole – the only freshwater lake in the Keys

  • A quieter, more rural alternative to other Florida Keys destinations

Cost of living

Big Pine Key has a moderate to high cost of living, influenced by its island location and limited housing stock.

  • Median Household Income: $68,000

  • Median Home Price: $550,000

  • Average Rent (1-bedroom): $2,200/month

 

Things to do

  • Visit the National Key Deer Refuge

  • Snorkel or dive at Looe Key Reef

  • Explore Blue Hole and Long Beach

  • Go boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding in the backcountry waters

  • Enjoy stargazing and wildlife watching in a low-light environment

Fun Facts

  • Big Pine Key is one of the few places in the world where you can see the tiny and endangered Key deer roaming freely.

  • The Blue Hole, once a rock quarry, is now a popular freshwater oasis for wildlife and visitors.

  • It serves as a gateway to Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the U.S.

Nearby Cities

Hello From Florida Blog