The Middle Keys extends from Marathon at the western end, to Long Key at the eastern, and includes the City of Key Colony Beach, Grassy Key, and Duck Key (a Census-designated place including Conch Key) in between. 

Marathon is a 10-mile-long family-oriented island community rooted in a heritage of fishing, and reflects the "Old Keys" lifestyle that residents, snowbirds and visitors enjoy so much. Located in "the heart of the Florida Keys" just 50 miles from Key West and approximately two hours driving time from Miami, it's primarily a community of family homes with an estimated 2010 permanent population of 8,297 people. It is incorporated and has a City Council form of government. Don't wait! Contact our real estate agents for the best deals on Keys Florida real estate.

Marathon has all the essential facilities to serve the needs of our residents and tourists alike:

• Fully staffed 58 bed community hospital
• Marathon Commercial Airport
• Public and private schools- high school, middle school and elementary school
• Public library
• Public beaches
• Country club/golf courses
• Yacht club
• Community and national banks
• Local newspapers
• Local radio stations
• Shopping with many national and locally-owned stores

The City of Key Colony Beach with a population of just under 900 people is adjacent. The city, called the "Gem of the Florida Keys," is on an island just south of the Overseas Highway connected via a causeway with a very small bridge. Most residences are on canals with quick access to the Gulf or Atlantic Ocean and many have ocean views making the city ideal for fishing and boating activities.  In addition to the residences,there are many businesses in the city, including restaurants, a charter fishing fleet, marina, boat rentals, clothing store, hair salon, dive and tackle shop, liquor store, gas station, convenience store, hotels. There is also a large recreational park area incorporating fitness and playground equipment, tennis courts and a 9-hole par-3 golf course. 

The island of Duck Key is situated near MM61 and has a largely residential community of under 500 residents. Hawk's Cay Resort is also located there.

The City of Layton is on Long Key which gained fame through Zane Grey's association with it and the Long Key Fishing Camp, and has a population of roughly 200 residents.

The Middle Keys' tropical climate averages 78.50 F year round, with no snow, no frost, but plenty of sunshine! Our primary industry is tourism, followed by fishing.

According to local legend, Marathon got its name early this century when we were the base of operations for the construction of Flagler's Railroad, and the workers referred to the non-stop work schedule as a "marathon". That history is being well preserved by the local Pigeon Key Foundation as well as by the Crane Point Museum and Nature Center, both located in Marathon.

ColdwellBanker.com community pages:
Layton: Visit Us 
Key Colony Beach: Visit Us 
Marathon: Visit Us

Visit our Middle Keys office in Marathon today and discover for yourself the possibilities of Marathon, Key Colony Beach, Duck Key, and Layton! Also, get in touch with our realtors to know more about Keys Florida real estate.