Located about an hour from the Kennedy Space Center, Melbourne is a city of about 78,000 people. Located on the Space Coast of Florida, most of Melbourne is on the mainland but a small portion is on an island. The Indian River Lagoon separates the island from the rest of Melbourne, and the lagoon is connected to the mainland by two bridges. The summers in Melbourne are hot and humid with temperatures reaching into the 90s. The winters are quite warm, and highs in the 80s are common. Those moving to Melbourne will find a city that is vibrant and exciting.
Economy:
The median income in Melbourne is slightly less than the state average. The cost of living is quite a bit lower than the national average. Unemployment is at 10.9%. Melbourne has many technology and defense companies located there, including DRS Technologies, the Harris Corporation, Northrop Grumman, Rockwell Collins and General Electric. Live TV has its headquarters there.
History:
Melbourne was settled after the Civil War by freed slaves in 1867. The first known inhabitants were Peter Wright, Balaam Allen and the Wright Brothers. By 1885, the town had 70 occupants and was home to many businesses. The name was chosen in 1880, when the post office was built. It was named in honor of one of the residents, C. J. Hector, who moved there from Melbourne, Australia and became the first postmaster of Melbourne. Fishing was the major industry at that time. Melbourne was the site of a naval air station during World War II, used to train fighter pilots. Due to the space exploration of the 50s and 60s, industry supporting the space program began to take over the industry in Melbourne. In 1969, Melbourne merged with nearby Eau Gallie.
Tourism:
In November, there is the Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival. In April there is the Melbourne Art Festival. The IndiaFest is held in February. In November, there is a Native Rhythms Festival, celebrating Native American culture. There are nine historic buildings in Melbourne, three of which are on the National Registry of Historic Places: The Florida Power and Light Company Ice Plant built in 1927, the William H. Gleason House and the James Rossetter House that was built in the 1860s. The Brevard Zoo in Melbourne has over 480 animals and has year round activities. In June and July, you can go on a turtle walk, held by the Sea Turtle Preservation Society. There are many water-related activities available all year round, and there are several golf courses and a beautiful beach.