Moving to Fort Walton Beach - Insider Secrets

So you're moving to the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area and considering Fort Walton Beach? Here's a detailed guide with the top seven insider secrets you need to know from locals, including yours truly. Stick around until the end because number seven might be a game-changer for your decision!

Fort Walton Beach Overview

Fort Walton Beach is centrally located on the Emerald Coast, between Pensacola and Panama City Beach. With a population of about 22,084 (as of 2021), it's known for its beautiful beaches on Okaloosa Island and Eglin Air Force Base, one of the largest in the continental United States. The area is home to many military personnel and contractors, making it a vibrant and diverse community.

1. Traffic

Traffic can be challenging along the Emerald Coast due to waterways and limited routes. Fort Walton Beach, however, offers alternative routes to navigate around choke points, unlike some neighboring areas like Navarre or Destin, which have fewer options. This makes getting around Fort Walton Beach more manageable.

2. Great Location

Fort Walton Beach's central location is one of its best features. Whether you need to head to Crestview, Niceville, or Destin, everything is within a short drive. This central positioning is ideal for military personnel, with easy access to Hurlburt Field to the west, Eglin Air Force Base to the north, and Duke Field just a short drive away.

3. Rentability

The rental market in Fort Walton Beach is robust, thanks to the transient military population. If you're considering buying property as an investment, this area offers excellent opportunities. Rents are high, and there's always a demand for rental properties, making it a great place to build a real estate portfolio.

4. Home Prices

Fort Walton Beach offers a diverse range of homes. Unlike areas with uniform housing developments, you'll find a mix of properties here, from million-dollar waterfront homes to affordable houses and even mobile homes. As of fall 2021, the median home price is around $288,000, with properties ranging from $65,000 to $2.6 million.

5. Amenities

Fort Walton Beach is the hub for amenities in the area. From Sam's Club and Walmart to various shops, restaurants, bars, gyms, and more, you'll find everything you need here. Residents from neighboring towns often travel to Fort Walton Beach for their shopping and entertainment needs.

6. Vacation Condos

If you're looking for vacation condos, Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach offers some of the best options. This area has lower HOA fees and better price points compared to Destin or Miramar Beach, making it an attractive investment for higher returns. The island's location provides easy access to popular destinations while maintaining a unique, relaxed atmosphere.

7. Okaloosa Island

One of the biggest attractions is Okaloosa Island's undeveloped white sand beaches. Due to the proximity to Eglin Air Force Base, the island's development is limited, preserving its natural beauty. You can enjoy approximately six miles of pristine beaches, perfect for a peaceful walk or a relaxing day by the sea. Living in Fort Walton Beach means you're just a short drive away from this stunning natural area.

Conclusion

Moving to Fort Walton Beach offers a mix of beautiful beaches, a central location, excellent rental opportunities, and diverse housing options. If you have any questions or need assistance with your move, feel free to call/text us at 850-204-4416 or email us at Admin@WhittemoreGroupRE.com. We're here to help you make the transition smooth and enjoyable.

Click here to see all available homes for sale in Fort Walton Beach, Florida area.