Best Place to Live in Fort Walton Beach, Florida

Living in Fort Walton Beach, offers a mix of advantages and challenges. While the area is known for its beautiful coastline and strong sense of community, it also faces issues like flooding during hurricane season, hot and humid summers and short-term rental rules might be a hurdle for homeowners.

In January 2025, Fort Walton Beach’s median home price was $339,983, down 3.9% from last year. It’s a buyer’s market with 461 homes for sale and an average listing time of 102 days. Despite longer sales times, 37% of homes are equity rich, showing market stability.

Where Should You Call Home? Let's Find Out!

Choosing your ideal location depends on your lifestyle and priorities. Perhaps you're:

• A young professional seeking a career hub with an energetic nightlife.

• A growing family in search of safe neighborhoods with excellent schools.

• A retiree looking for warm climates, low taxes, and outstanding healthcare.

• A remote worker who desires affordability without sacrificing quality of life.

Balancing these priorities can be challenging. High salaries may come with steep rents, while low-tax areas might lack job opportunities. This guide breaks down key considerations across multiple categories.

Fort Walton Beach offers a variety of neighborhoods, each catering to different lifestyles, budgets, and priorities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly community, a vibrant area for young professionals, or a serene coastal retreat, there's a perfect neighborhood for you.

🏡 Median Home Price: ~$320,000

• Top-rated schools in the Okaloosa County School District.

• Quiet, tree-lined streets with well-maintained homes.

• Convenient access to parks, playgrounds, and shopping centers.

• A strong sense of community and safety.

Kenwood is an excellent choice for families looking for spacious homes, great schools, and a friendly, suburban feel.

🏡 Median Home Price: ~$350,000

• Close to downtown and the waterfront.

• Features charming historic homes and modern renovations.

• A short drive to Okaloosa Island and the Gulf Coast beaches.

• Walkable area with local shops and cafes.

Elliott Point is perfect for those who want to enjoy the coastal lifestyle while being close to the city's main attractions.

🏡 Median Home Price: ~$310,000

• Affordable home prices compared to other neighborhoods.

• A mix of single-family homes and townhouses.

• Easy access to major highways and Eglin Air Force Base.

• A diverse community with a mix of families, professionals, and retirees.

Overbrook is an ideal neighborhood for first-time homebuyers or those looking for a budget-friendly option with long-term growth potential.

🏡 Median Home Price: ~$375,000

• Larger lot sizes with modern, upscale homes.

• Well-maintained neighborhood with a suburban feel.

• Proximity to top-rated schools and shopping centers.

• A quiet, family-oriented atmosphere.

Northgate Estates is perfect for growing families or professionals looking for a spacious, high-quality home in a peaceful environment.

🏡 Median Home Price: ~$450,000

• Direct water access with stunning bay views.

• Great for boating, fishing, and outdoor enthusiasts.

• A mix of luxury homes and charming coastal cottages.

• A laid-back, vacation-style atmosphere year-round.

Garnier Beach is ideal for retirees or professionals looking for a waterfront escape with access to nature and outdoor recreation.

🏡 Median Home Price: ~$300,000

• Affordable housing options with modern apartments and townhomes.

• Proximity to downtown and nightlife.

• A vibrant, walkable community with local restaurants and entertainment.

• Easy access to public parks and recreational areas.

Cinco Bayou is a great choice for young professionals or those looking for a lively, convenient location close to everything.

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✅ For families: Kenwood, Northgate Estates

✅ For affordability: Overbrook, Cinco Bayou

✅ For luxury & space: Northgate Estates, Elliott Point

✅ For waterfront living: Garnier Beach

✅ For young professionals: Cinco Bayou, Elliott Point

No matter your budget or lifestyle, Fort Walton Beach has a neighborhood that fits your needs!

Housing is typically the largest expense when deciding where to live. From purchase prices to property taxes and mortgage rates, understanding the cost of living is essential whether you’re renting or buying.

When buying a home, consider these key financial factors:

• Home Purchase Price: Varies by neighborhood, with the median home value around $321,158 (as of early 2025).

• Down Payment: Usually 10-20% (some loans offer as low as 3%).

• Mortgage Payment (PITI): Principal, interest, taxes, and insurance costs vary depending on loan terms.

• Closing Costs: Typically 2-5% of the home price.

• Maintenance & Repairs: Homeowners should budget 1-3% of their home’s value annually for upkeep.

• You need flexibility (job relocation or uncertain plans).

• A 20% down payment and closing costs are prohibitive.

• You prefer avoiding maintenance responsibilities.

• You plan to stay in Fort Walton Beach for 5+ years.

• You can comfortably cover mortgage, taxes, and maintenance.

• Building equity is a priority over paying rent.

• 1-Bedroom Apartment: ~$1,450/month

• 2-Bedroom Apartment: ~$1,800/month

• Single-Family Home: ~$2,400/month

Compared to nearby cities like Destin and Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach offers more affordable rental options while still providing coastal amenities.

Beyond housing, Fort Walton Beach’s cost of living includes:

• Groceries: Slightly below the national average.

• Utilities: In line with the national median.

• Healthcare: 5-10% lower than the national average, with quality medical facilities nearby.

• Transportation: Gas prices are affordable, and public transit options are limited but improving.

Florida is one of the few states with no state income tax, allowing residents to keep more of their earnings. Property taxes in Fort Walton Beach are reasonable compared to other Florida cities, making it an attractive place to buy a home.

Beyond affordability, Fort Walton Beach offers a high quality of life, blending coastal beauty with small-town charm.

• The city provides a mix of affordable suburban neighborhoods and high-end waterfront homes.

• The median home price is lower than Florida’s statewide median, making it a great option for buyers seeking value.

• Fort Walton Beach Medical Center and several specialized clinics provide high-quality healthcare.

• Nearby Pensacola and Destin offer additional top-tier hospitals and specialty care.

• The Okaloosa County School District is highly rated, with strong public school options.

• Several private schools provide alternative education choices.

• Higher education opportunities are available through Northwest Florida State College and nearby universities.

• The average commute time in Fort Walton Beach is 20-25 minutes, shorter than many metro areas.

• Public transit options are limited, but walkability in certain neighborhoods is improving.

• Major employers include Eglin Air Force Base, the tourism sector, and healthcare providers.

• The job market is stable and growing, with opportunities in hospitality, defense, healthcare, and tech.

• The unemployment rate is lower than the national average, reflecting a strong local economy.

• Fort Walton Beach enjoys a mild, warm climate with over 230 sunny days per year.

• Winters are short and mild, while summers are hot and humid.

• Coastal storms and hurricanes are a consideration, so flood insurance may be necessary in some areas.

• The city offers a tight-knit, friendly community with regular local events, markets, and festivals.

• A strong military presence fosters a sense of security and camaraderie among residents.

• There’s a growing arts and entertainment scene, with theaters, museums, and beachfront venues.

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The real estate market in Fort Walton Beach has experienced moderate price fluctuations over the past year.

• Median Home Price (2025): $339,983 (3.9% decrease from last year).

• Price per Square Foot: $224.

• Number of Homes Sold: 11 homes in January 2025, compared to 24 homes in January 2024.

• Time on Market: 99 days (compared to 68 days last year), indicating a slight market slowdown.

• Rising mortgage rates (6-7%) have slightly cooled demand, increasing inventory levels.

• More homes are staying on the market longer, meaning buyers have more negotiating power.

• Sellers must price competitively to attract interest.

• Home appreciation rates may stabilize, making this a good time to buy before prices rise again.

• Interest rates could impact affordability, but local job growth and economic stability should sustain demand.

• Waterfront properties and homes near military bases remain highly desirable for long-term investment.

Choosing where to live is a personal decision based on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.

✔ Affordable housing compared to other Florida cities.

✔ A strong job market with opportunities in tourism, defense, and healthcare.

✔ Beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and a high quality of life.

✔ A tight-knit, family-friendly community with excellent schools.

❌ Hurricane risk and potential need for flood insurance.

❌ Limited public transportation options.

❌ A competitive housing market with fluctuating prices.

If coastal living, affordability, and a balanced lifestyle sound appealing, Fort Walton Beach might be the perfect place for you!

Still unsure about where to live in Fort Walton Beach? Whether you're buying your first home, renting an apartment, or considering relocation, the key is research.

• Explore different neighborhoods.

• Compare housing costs and amenities.

• Talk to locals or visit the area to get a feel for the community.

🔹 Looking for expert advice? Contact a local real estate professional today to start your home search!

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