Relocating under military PCS orders can be both exciting and stressful, especially when finding the right home near Eglin Air Force Base. Nestled along Florida’s Emerald Coast, Fort Walton Beach offers a unique blend of southern charm, strong community ties, and access to pristine white sandy beaches—making it one of the most desirable areas for military families and real estate investors alike.
As one of the largest Air Force installations in the country, Eglin AFB fuels a steady demand for quality rentals year-round. This consistent influx of military personnel creates a thriving housing market, supported by nearby communities. Combined with excellent schools, a vibrant local culture, and the area’s natural beauty, it’s easy to see why so many families and investors choose to live near Eglin Air Force Base.
Whether you’re preparing for a PCS move, considering an investment in northwest Florida real estate, or simply exploring the best places to live near Eglin AFB, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about housing, lifestyle, and opportunity in the Fort Walton Beach area.
Key Takeaways
Eglin AFB’s consistent military presence ensures a steady stream of renters, keeping vacancy rates low.
Fort Walton Beach and the surrounding areas offer diverse housing options with close proximity to beaches, schools, and amenities.
Investing in military base properties provides stability, as demand remains high even when other markets fluctuate.
Local attractions like the Air Force Armament Museum and Choctawhatchee Bay add value to the lifestyle experience.
All American Realty and Investment Group helps both landlords and military families find housing solutions that fit their needs.
Eglin Air Force Base: The Heart of the Emerald Coast
Eglin Air Force Base isn’t just a military hub. It’s an anchor for the entire northwest Florida region. Located near Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, and Destin, it employs tens of thousands of military personnel and civilian workers, supporting a dynamic community.
For those undergoing a PCS to Eglin AFB, the base offers convenient base housing. Still, many military families choose to live near Eglin Air Force Base in nearby neighborhoods for more space, privacy, and access to local amenities. Areas like Mary Esther, Ocean City, and Niceville are popular for their family-friendly feel and short commute to the base.
The nearby Hurlburt Field, home to Air Force Special Operations Command, further increases housing demand. Together, these bases contribute to a steady influx of new residents, keeping housing costs and rental prices competitive yet attractive for investors.
Fort Walton Beach: A Great Place to Live, Work, and Invest
Fort Walton Beach is one of the best areas to live near Eglin Air Force Base, blending coastal charm with modern conveniences. The city offers easy access to white sandy beaches, Okaloosa Island, and the scenic Choctawhatchee Bay, making it ideal for families who value both community and recreation.
The Local Housing Market
The local housing market in Fort Walton Beach remains strong, driven by military PCS moves, local culture, and the region’s tourism economy. The median price of a single-family home often trends slightly above the national average, but steady appreciation rates make it a sound investment for both homeowners and property managers.
Investors and landlords benefit from consistent rental occupancy, as Eglin AFB personnel rotate in and out of the area throughout the year. With All American Realty and Investment Group’s expertise in property management and real estate services, property owners can maintain stable income and excellent tenant retention.
Best Places and Areas to Live Near Eglin Air Force Base
Finding the best places to live near Eglin Air Force Base depends on what matters most — commute time, schools, or lifestyle. Here are a few of the best areas to consider:
Fort Walton Beach: Central location, vibrant downtown Fort Walton Beach, and vibrant nightlife options, including bar hopping and local restaurants.
Mary Esther: Quiet community atmosphere, ideal for families seeking proximity to the base and good public schools.
Niceville: A bit farther east but known for its excellent schools, access to Northwest Florida State College, and family-friendly neighborhoods.
Ocean City: Offers a suburban feel with easy access to Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field.
Gulf Breeze and Pensacola: Perfect for those who prefer a larger city feel and want access to the historic Pensacola Lighthouse and Blue Angels air shows.
Each of these popular neighborhoods provides a unique blend of convenience, comfort, and community, making them some of the best places for both renting and owning near Eglin AFB.
Local Attractions and Lifestyle on the Emerald Coast
Living near Eglin Air Force Base means being surrounded by some of Florida’s most beautiful destinations. The Emerald Coast boasts white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and countless outdoor activities.
Spend weekends exploring Eglin Beach Park, kayaking on Choctawhatchee Bay, or visiting the Air Force Armament Museum to connect with local military history. Families can enjoy local events, spring break festivities, and community gatherings that embody true southern hospitality.
For a taste of local culture, explore downtown Fort Walton Beach — filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Okaloosa Island offers breathtaking sunsets, while Pensacola and Panama City make for great day trips just a short drive away.
Investing in Military Base Properties for Steady Rental Demand
One of the major factors fueling the state of the Fort Walton Beach real estate market is the consistency of military PCS moves. Every year, Eglin AFB personnel receive relocation orders, creating a continuous need for quality housing.
This makes investing in military base properties one of the most stable strategies in real estate. Rental homes in Okaloosa County rarely sit vacant for long, and housing costs remain competitive despite higher prices than in other regions due to sustained demand.
With All American Realty and Investment Group, investors gain insight into housing requirements and market analysis, ensuring properties are priced right and marketed effectively to attract long-term tenants.
FAQs About Living Near Eglin Air Force Base
1. What is the average rent near Eglin Air Force Base?
Rent varies depending on the area and property type, but most single-family homes and townhouses near Fort Walton Beach and Mary Esther range from moderately priced to slightly above the national average, reflecting strong demand and desirable locations.
2. Are schools near Eglin AFB good for families?
Yes. The Okaloosa County School District is known for its excellent public schools, from elementary school to middle school levels, making it ideal for military families seeking quality education options.
3. What are closing costs like in this region?
Closing costs in northwest Florida generally range between 2% and 5% of the home’s purchase price. Local lenders and All American Realty can help navigate these costs for both buyers and sellers.
Why the Fort Walton Beach Area Is a Great Place to Call Home
The combination of Eglin Air Force Base, Hurlburt Field, and the broader Emerald Coast region makes Fort Walton Beach one of the most resilient and rewarding real estate markets in the Florida Panhandle. Its mix of military stability, local attractions, and strong community ties makes it a great place for both families and investors.
Whether you’re relocating under PCS orders or exploring property investment opportunities, All American Realty and Investment Group provides expert guidance on finding the right home or managing your property with care and precision. From base housing support to market analysis, our team ensures that you experience the best that northwest Florida has to offer.
Contact us at All American Realty and Investment Group to explore available listings, learn about Eglin AFB housing & information, and discover why so many military families and investors choose the Fort Walton Beach area as their new home base.
