I may end up moving to a different job in the near future and wanted to know what the area is like.
The area and beaches are nice (if you like that type of thing). Lot's to do throughout the year. Simply put, it's a nice place/area.
You will probably like the area and should be able to find something that you are looking for, short and long term. With the new administrations different view on NASA and DOD, you may even see an uptick on the economy there and timing could be right for you. Good luck.
I'd wager you're probably referring to Northrop. They are aggressively expanding in that area. I still technically live in Melbourne, although I'm working up here. I had no trouble renting out my house. The local market is exploding, which might make it hard for someone in your position to find a place easily.
Most of what has been said is true. Suntree and the north side of Melbourne are nicer areas. Palm Bay and Rockledge are hit and miss. The riverfront area is typical nice, as is beachside as well. Going north or south further starts to get pretty rural, which means cheaper housing but longer commuting.
Aside from the beaches, there's not all that much to do there. Mel-boring was a common in-joke for the locals.
Just remember better (cheaper) prices don't really mean it's still a nice area. They are cheaper for more house for a reason