70 Reasons You’ll Love (or Hate) Living in Fort Walton Beach

🏖️ 1. Lifestyle & Local Vibes

• Fort Walton is a military town with a small-town beach feel.

• You’ll see people in flip-flops at fancy restaurants — it’s normal.

• It’s casual, dog-friendly, and slower-paced than Destin.

• Don’t expect nightlife like Miami — it’s more about bonfires, beach bars and karaoke.

• It’s a mix of military families, retirees, and locals who grew up here.

• Facebook Events is where we go to find things to do.

🌦️ 2. Weather & Climate Real Talk

• It’s hot and humid — embrace it or you’ll hate it.

• Hurricane season is June–November. Have a prep plan.

• You’ll wear shorts in December… but always have a hoodie nearby.

• Mold, mildew, and bugs love Florida — regular home maintenance is essential.

• You can wear flip flops or Birks with any outfit, but you’ll probably have to buy them online if you have big feet.

🏡 3. Real Estate & Housing Tips

• VA loans are very common here — many buyers are active duty or retired military.

• You can skip out on providing the seller an EMD if you’re a VA buyer and no one will say much about it. (not recommended, but it can be done)

• Homes with good drainage, newer roofs, and updated wiring are a must.

• Waterfront doesn’t always mean water view — know the difference.

• Property insurance is high; and you may get dropped a few times if you purchase a foreclosure.

• It’s not uncommon for a new construction home to be a stone’s throw from a manufactured home.

🛍️ 4. Where Locals Actually Go (vs Tourists)

• Locals go to Mary Esther Cutoff for errands — and Destin Commons for hang outs.

• Skip tourist traps in Destin and head to downtown FWB for karaoke, dancing, and brunch.

• Need groceries? Publix is king, but Winn-Dixie and Walmart are everywhere.

• The FWB Farmers Market on Saturdays is a hidden gem.

• For beach days, locals hit Beasley Park or the hidden beach access points on Okaloosa island. (or someone’s boat at Crab Island)

• Locals  also venture out to McGuire’s on the weekend since it’s the first thing you’ll see when you hit Destin. (short drive)
• Pink Coyote is a new fave hang out spot!

🚗 5. Traffic, Driving & Getting Around

• Summer traffic into Destin is brutal. Locals plan around it.

• Eglin Parkway and 98 get backed up fast — learn the backroads.

• Yes, you’ll need a car. No, public transit won’t cut it.

• School zones are strictly enforced. Don’t risk it.

• You’ll most likely get your first speeding ticket on Highway 98.
• Majority of teens are getting their permits at 15 and driving at 16!

🍽️ 6. Food Scene: Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

• Stewby’s is THE local seafood spot. Don’t sleep on it.

• The Breakfast Place is worth waking up early for.

• Thai, Greek, and Vietnamese food are surprisingly good here.

• Coffee & Small Bites: Maas, Parlor Doughnuts, and Sunset Bowls in the open coffee spot downtown.

• We have a healthy selection of gyms that are 24 hours.

• Everyone thrives on Chic-Fila and Starbucks since we all live near both,

🏫 7. Schools, Kids & Family Life

• Okaloosa County has some strong magnet and charter schools.

• Youth sports, and Arts (dance & theater) are big — especially tennis, soccer, and Mosaic Theater.

• The Emerald Coast Science Center is a hidden treasure for kids.

• Lots of military families = high turnover at schools, so kids are used to making friends fast.

🎯 8. Military & PCS Specifics

• Eglin and Hurlburt Field fuel the housing market.

• PCS season is peak moving season — inventory moves fast.

• Many landlords are former military and offer flexible terms.

• Use a local Realtor who understands VA appraisals and entitlements.

• Hurlburt Field gym and nice when you figure out when you can have the gym to yourself.

💰 9. Cost of Living & Local Services

• Utilities vary, but A/C in the summer can spike your bill.

• Flood insurance is required in certain zones.

• Contractors and handymen book fast — plan ahead.

• You’ll likely pay a premium to live closer to the beach.

• There’s a gas station on every corner, find one you like and start using their rewards program.

🌴 10. The Not-So-Perfect Stuff (But Worth Knowing)

• Tourist season = traffic, jaywalking and staying away from Destin.

• Some areas have older infrastructure — watch for septic tanks in Crestview and Navarre.

• Traffic can double your commute in June, July, August and again in October.

• It’s easy to feel isolated if you don’t make local connections but joining some FB groups can help. But many locals are happy homebodies.

🧭 11. Final Tips From a Local

• Buy scentless insect repellent  2 bottles at a time.

• Invest in hurricane shutters or impact windows.

• Use the sun shield when your car is parked.

• A good Realtor saves you thousands — especially when moving from out of state.

• Don’t judge homes by the outside — go see them in person. (Curb appeal can always be improved)

• You’ll come for the beach but stay for the community.

• Very conservative area with a sprinkle of liberals here and there who typically stay quiet.

• All schools have bullying. Talk to your kids beforehand and try to stay on top of it. It’s easy to find parents on FB if you need to go directly to the source.)

• The private schools try and regulate keeping phones out of the classroom.

• There is a STEM school and a Ballet Academie, both are free with some admission guidelines.

• Many residents earn a living as ride share drivers. Uber rides come relatively fast but peak times are very expensive.

• There are some very reputable car repair shops in town that come highly recommended.

• Heavy rain can be used as an excuse to be late for work – just don’t abuse it.

• We all secretly hope the “hurricane coming” gives us a day off but doesn’t cause any damage.
• Everyone know someone who works at a car dealership, ask for the hookup.

• At Uptown Station, you can grab groceries or get a pedicure, exchange your Cox modem, get a date night outfit at Ross, rent a car, let the kids play in the park, grab some cologne, and let your teenager look around in 5 Below.

Thinking of moving to Fort Walton Beach?
I’m a local real estate agent who helps families, military buyers, and new-to-Florida transplants find the right home — not just the first one they see.
📩 Want a custom relocation guide? Text me at 850-696-7822