Key West is the most popular and highly recognized area in the Florida Keys, meaning it is a good place to live. It is famously called ‘Cayo Hueso’ or Isle of Bones. Key West is home to more than 21,000 residents who chose to settle and found work and life in the area. Among the many cities in the United States, Key West can boast about its uniqueness. It is situated in the southernmost part of Florida. Key West stretched for about 6 kilometers long and 2 kilometers wide with a total land area of 4.2 square miles. It is very close to Cuba, with just 95miles of the distance separating them. With its land area and dimension, you would discover that Key West is more than just a small city. It is blessed with lots of beautiful resources making it more charming and distinct. As an admirable city in the Florida Keys, here are the top vital considerations when choosing to live in Key West. Pros Open and tolerant Even though Key West is a remote area in Florida, the people living here are more open and tolerant. The geography isolated them from the state authority, making the city more relaxed. Most people live by the rule ‘live-and-let-live’ where they can do anything they want. Further, it is one of the earliest cities to welcome the gay community in the United States. It even elected its very first openly gay mayor in the 1980s. Most artists and writers settle in Key West because of its accommodating vibe. Tourist town Going to Key West means spending time and effort reaching the place. Yet, plenty of tourists and visitors would still face the challenge of going to the city. It is because Key West charm people with a warm climate and plenty of outdoor activities. Tourism is, in fact, the primary industry of the town. City of fun Of course, finding something to enjoy would not be a challenge if you choose to live in Key West. Aside from outdoor activities, there are lots of things to do. People celebrate the change of season and take much effort to enjoy Christmas in full swing. Moreover, there are lots of cultural institutions to visit. It includes Tropic Cinema, the Red Barn Theater, Waterfront Playhouse, among others. Key West is not just a remote place in Florida, but fun and exciting, as well. Amazing food scene Like other known cities, Key West also has selections of delectable cuisines. Its food scene alone would make you settle in the area and stay. The island’s local cuisine is a fusion of Cuban and Spanish flavors. Since it is near to Cuba, you can expect Cuban-inspired dishes like picadillo and ropa vieja. Seafood is boundless on the island. Dishes made from shrimp, lobster, stone crab are often the norm in Key West. Cons High cost of living However, as the city offers you a great life ahead, Key West’s real estate and housing rates tend to be expensive. Key West is one of the most expensive cities in Florida. Planning to buy a house or property in the city can be very challenging. It will stretch your financial capacities given the life the city offers. Aside from skyrocketing real estate, property taxes are enormous, as well. A $500,000 home in Key West need to pay $5,000 property tax a year. Occasional threat of a hurricane and tropical storm Key West is geographically located in the path of tropical storms and hurricanes. You will occasionally experience devastating and harsh weather conditions every year. More than that, flooding and strong winds will often greet you annually. It is best to build a house to withstand these natural conditions when choosing to move to Key West. Limited job market Key West is a secluded and small city in the Florida Keys. It is expected that job opportunities are limited, as well. If you chose to settle in the town, you have two primary options, work for the tourism industry or sea. Those who love water activities will get a living involving fishing or even scuba diving. Those who have no interest in working in the ocean can find a job in tourism and hospitality.