If you’re considering a move to Melbourne, FL, and you value a close-knit community vibe with the perks of suburban life, Wickham Forest deserves a spot on your shortlist. Tucked away just east of North Wickham Road and bordered by Post Road, this established neighborhood is a favorite among families and professionals alike. Here’s what it’s truly like to live in Wickham Forest, straight from a neighbor’s perspective.
A Community That Feels Like Home
One of the first things you’ll notice in Wickham Forest is the sense of community. Drive down Forest Run Drive, the main artery running through the neighborhood, and you’ll spot people out walking their dogs, chatting with neighbors, or waving hello. The Wickham Forest Homeowners Association organizes regular events — from neighborhood garage sales to festive holiday decorating contests — fostering a genuine sense of belonging. Many families have lived here for a decade or more, and new residents are often welcomed just as warmly.
- There’s an active neighborhood Facebook group where residents share everything from lost pet alerts to recommendations for local services.
- Community streets like Sweetwood Drive and Cedarwood Drive are lined with mature oaks and punctuated by friendly front-porch conversations.
Variety in Housing: Space to Grow
Wickham Forest is known for its spacious, single-family homes, each with its own unique character. Built primarily in the late 1980s and 1990s, homes here tend to have larger lots compared to newer developments in the area, giving residents plenty of room to play, garden, or just enjoy a bit of extra privacy. Many homes feature:
- 3-4 bedrooms
- Generously sized yards (often fenced, perfect for pets or kids)
- Two-car garages and driveways that easily handle multiple vehicles
- Attractive landscaping and established trees
A mix of architectural styles, from ranches to contemporary Florida designs, adds to the neighborhood’s charm. Neatly tended lawns and pride of ownership are evident throughout.
Walkability and Everyday Convenience
Wickham Forest scores well for walkability within the neighborhood itself. Sidewalks line the main streets, making it safe and pleasant for afternoon strolls, jogging, or bike rides with the family. Kids can often be seen riding their bikes to visit friends on Oak Park Trail or Blanchard Court. While walkability to shops is moderate, the neighborhood’s location is very convenient:
- Less than a mile to Publix and Walmart on Wickham Road for groceries and essentials
- Minutes to the shopping and dining options at Post Commons and Lake Washington Square
There’s easy access to main thoroughfares, making commutes or weekend adventures a breeze.
Excellent Schools and Family-Friendly Appeal
Families are drawn to Wickham Forest for its proximity to some of Melbourne’s top-rated public schools:
- Sherwood Elementary (just a short drive or bike ride via Longwood Blvd)
- DeLaura Middle School and Eau Gallie High School
- Several private and charter school options within a 10-minute range
The neighborhood’s safe streets, low traffic, and friendly neighbors make this a great place for kids to grow up. During Halloween and holiday times, the neighborhood comes alive with festive decorations and trick-or-treaters.
Parks, Nature, and Outdoor Life
While Wickham Forest doesn’t have an internal park or playground, the area is surrounded by excellent green spaces. Just around the corner, the sprawling Wickham Park offers:
- Miles of nature trails
- A dog park
- Disc golf
- Equestrian facilities
- Playgrounds and picnic pavilions
Residents also make frequent use of the quiet, shaded sidewalks throughout the community. The nearby Brevard Zoo — less than a 15-minute drive — is another family favorite for weekend excursions.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a top priority for Wickham Forest residents. The neighborhood enjoys a reputation as a quiet, low-crime area where neighbors look out for each other. Regular patrols, neighborhood watch groups, and a proactive Homeowners Association help maintain peace and order.
- Streets are well-lit at night, and it’s not uncommon to see neighbors out after sunset walking their dogs.
- Many homes have security systems and the community is attentive to local advisories.
Close to Work, Play, and Downtown Melbourne
Wickham Forest’s central location means most major employers and attractions are within easy reach:
- Less than 20 minutes to downtown Melbourne, historic Eau Gallie Arts District, and the Indian River Lagoon
- Short commutes to Harris, Northrop Grumman, Embraer, and Health First
- Only 15 minutes from the beaches, making weekend surf or sand trips easy
The convenience of being close to both work and play is a top reason many residents say they “never want to leave” the neighborhood.
What Residents Love Most
Ask a dozen Wickham Forest residents what they love about the neighborhood, and you’ll get a dozen variations on the same theme:
- The sense of community — people know their neighbors and help each other out.
- Neighborhood traditions, from seasonal decorations to block parties and sunrise walks.
- Spacious, well-kept homes with lots of character and room for everyone.
- Quick access to everything: top schools, shopping, beaches, parks, and major highways.
In many ways, Wickham Forest offers the best of both worlds: the peace and privacy of a suburban retreat with the warmth and vibrancy of a true neighborhood. If you’re searching for a place in Melbourne, FL where you’ll feel welcome and settled for years to come, Wickham Forest just might be the community you’ve been looking for.