Dreaming of living by the beach without paying sky-high Florida prices? Fort Walton Beach might be the perfect blend of coastal charm, affordability, and everyday convenience. Nestled in Florida’s Emerald Coast, this small yet vibrant city offers beautiful white-sand beaches, a friendly community, and a relatively moderate cost of living compared to neighboring coastal cities like Destin or Pensacola.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the cost of living in Fort Walton Beach, covering housing, utilities, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more—so you’ll know exactly what to expect before making the move.
Overview: Why Fort Walton Beach?
Fort Walton Beach is part of Okaloosa County and sits on the Gulf of Mexico. While it’s a popular tourist destination in the summer, it maintains a laid-back, family-oriented vibe year-round. Residents enjoy proximity to Eglin Air Force Base, local shops, excellent schools, and easy access to nearby attractions like Destin and the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
What makes it truly attractive is its balance between affordability and lifestyle quality. You get the perks of a beach town-fresh seafood, water sports, and beautiful sunsets-without paying the premium price tags seen in South Florida.
Housing Costs in Fort Walton Beach
Housing is often the biggest factor when comparing living costs, and Fort Walton Beach offers relatively affordable options for coastal Florida living.
- Median Home Price: Around $350,000 (as of 2025), making it significantly cheaper than nearby Destin, where homes often exceed $500,000.
- Average Rent: A one-bedroom apartment averages $1,400–$1,600 per month, depending on location and amenities.
- Two-Bedroom Apartments: Typically range between $1,700 and $2,200 per month.
- Condos & Beachfront Homes: Prices rise sharply closer to the water or for properties with Gulf views, often starting at $600,000+ for prime locations.
If you’re open to living a few miles inland—in areas like Mary Esther, Shalimar, or Wright-you can find more affordable homes and rentals while still being a short drive from the beach.
Property Taxes
Florida’s property tax rate averages around 0.83% of a home’s assessed value. For a $350,000 home, expect to pay roughly $2,900 annually in property taxes—lower than in many other U.S. coastal states.
Homeowner and Renter Tips
- Buyers benefit from Florida’s Homestead Exemption, which can reduce taxable home value and protect against steep property tax hikes.
- Renters should plan for utility costs, pet deposits, and renter’s insurance, which typically costs around $150–$250 per year.
Utilities and Internet Costs
Utilities in Fort Walton Beach are fairly average for the region, but summer heat can drive electricity bills up due to air conditioning use.
- Electricity: $120–$180 per month for a mid-sized home or apartment.
- Water, Sewer, and Trash: Around $50–$80 per month.
- Natural Gas: $25–$40 monthly (for homes using gas appliances).
- Internet: Spectrum and Cox are the main providers, offering plans between
- $60–$100 per month for high-speed connections.
- Cable or Streaming: Many residents are switching to streaming bundles ($50–$70/month) to cut costs.
Energy-saving tip: Use ceiling fans, close blinds during peak hours, and maintain your AC filters—these small steps can trim your summer electricity bill by 10–15%.
Groceries and Dining Out
Food costs in Fort Walton Beach are moderate, with options ranging from budget-friendly grocery stores to fresh local seafood restaurants. Grocery prices are slightly above the national average but still affordable for most households.
| Item |
Average Price |
|---|---|
| Loaf of bread | $3.00 |
| Gallon of milk | $4.50 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.50 |
| Chicken breast (per lb) | $4.99 |
| Apples (per lb) | $2.50 |
| Rice (5 lb bag) | $5.00 |
Popular Grocery Stores
- Publix: Known for quality and excellent customer service but slightly pricier.
- Walmart & ALDI: Best for budget-conscious shoppers.
- Fresh Market & Whole Foods (Destin): For organic or specialty items.
Dining Scene
Eating out is part of the coastal lifestyle. Fort Walton Beach offers everything from casual taco shacks to upscale waterfront dining.
- Casual dining (burger, fries, and drink): Around $10–$15.
- Mid-range restaurant (two-person dinner): $50–$70.
- Seafood dinner near the beach: $25–$35 per entrée.
- Coffee shops: $4–$6 for a latte.
Dining here is generally cheaper than in Miami or Tampa but pricier than in smaller inland Florida towns. Local favorites like Stewby’s Seafood Shanty or The Shack offer great food without the tourist markups.
Transportation Costs
Getting around Fort Walton Beach is straightforward. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, as public transit is limited.
- Gasoline: Around $3.40–$3.70 per gallon (2025 average).
- Car Insurance: Slightly above the U.S. average, at about $1,800–$2,200 annually, depending on your driving record and coverage.
- Maintenance & Registration: Expect about $700–$900 annually for upkeep, oil changes, and fees.
The area is easy to navigate, and traffic is moderate—except during tourist season. For residents who work at Eglin Air Force Base or nearby offices, commute times average around 20–25 minutes.
Healthcare and Insurance
Healthcare access in Fort Walton Beach is good, with several hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers serving the community.
- Average Health Insurance Premiums: Around $450–$600/month for individuals without employer coverage.
- Doctor’s Visit: $125–$175 without insurance.
- Dental Cleaning: Roughly $100–$150.
Many residents are covered through employers, TRICARE (for military families), or Affordable Care Act plans. Always compare insurance providers, as healthcare costs can vary widely across Florida.
Taxes and Insurance
Florida’s lack of a state income tax is one of its biggest financial perks, saving residents thousands annually compared to states like California or New York. However, other costs—especially insurance—can offset those savings if not managed carefully.
Home Insurance
Due to hurricane risks, home insurance in coastal areas has risen substantially. In Fort Walton Beach, annual premiums range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on location, age of home, and coverage. Homes built to updated storm standards usually receive lower premiums.
Flood Insurance
Homes near the coast or in FEMA flood zones may require flood insurance, adding $400–$1,000 annually, depending on risk level.
Car Insurance
Rates are above the national average but can be reduced with clean driving records, bundled coverage, or defensive driving discounts.
Bottom line: The absence of state income tax is a major financial win, but make sure to budget realistically for insurance costs.
Entertainment, Fitness, and Recreation
Living in Fort Walton Beach means you’ll never run out of things to do. The city’s natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle make recreation affordable and accessible.
- Gym memberships: $30–$60/month.
- Movie tickets: $12–$15 each.
- Beach access: Free at public beaches like Okaloosa Island.
- Kayak or paddleboard rental: $25–$40 per hour.
- Annual pass to local state parks: Around $60.
From fishing and boating to live music and farmers’ markets, there’s always something to enjoy—often without spending much.
Education and Childcare Costs
Families will find several public and private school options within the Okaloosa County School District, known for strong academics and community involvement.
- Public schools: Free, though some supply and activity fees apply.
- Private school tuition: $7,000–$10,000 per year on average.
- Daycare: $800–$1,200/month, depending on the child’s age and program.
For higher education, Northwest Florida State College and nearby universities in Pensacola and Tallahassee are accessible for continuing education or advanced degrees.
Overall Lifestyle and Cost Summary
| Category | Average Monthly Cost (for 1 adult) |
|---|---|
| Housing (rent) | $1,500 |
| Utilities | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 |
| Transportation | $300 |
| Healthcare | $500 |
| Entertainment & Dining | $250 |
| Total (approx.) | $3,150/month |
A single adult can live comfortably in Fort Walton Beach on about $50,000–$55,000 per year, while a family of four might need $80,000–$90,000 annually for a comfortable lifestyle.
FAQs
Is Fort Walton Beach cheaper than Destin?
Yes. Housing, dining, and general expenses are more affordable in Fort Walton Beach. Destin’s higher tourism levels drive up prices, while Fort Walton Beach maintains a more local-friendly economy.
Can you live in Fort Walton Beach on a budget?
Absolutely. Renting inland, shopping at ALDI or Walmart, and cooking at home can help you save significantly. Many residents enjoy the coastal lifestyle without overspending.
How much do I need to make to live comfortably?
A single professional earning around $50,000–$55,000 per year can live comfortably, covering rent, transportation, and leisure. Families may need closer to $80,000–$90,000, depending on housing and childcare.
Is it a good place to retire?
Yes. The area’s mild winters, lack of state income tax, and community-focused atmosphere make it a popular retirement destination. However, retirees should factor in potential increases in insurance and medical costs.
What are the downsides of living here?
While affordable compared to nearby beach towns, insurance costs, hurricane risks, and seasonal tourism traffic can be challenges for some residents.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Fort Walton Beach strikes a satisfying balance between affordability and the perks of coastal living. While it’s not the cheapest spot in Florida, it’s far more attainable than luxury destinations like Miami or Destin. With manageable housing prices, reasonable everyday expenses, and no state income tax, it offers strong value for those seeking sun, sand, and stability.
Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or simply craving a slower-paced beach lifestyle, Fort Walton Beach delivers an appealing mix of comfort and coastal charm—without breaking the bank.