What to know when moving to Fort Walton Beach, FL
TL;DR: Fort Walton Beach at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 27.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 43% are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $67,822, providing a solid earning base.
- The Reality Check:
- Poverty rate is 12.9%, indicating some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 0.3% of residents use public transit, suggesting a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,421/month in rent if you're planning to move here.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Fort Walton Beach is characterized by a mix of homeowners and renters, with 43% of the population renting their homes. The median gross rent is $1,421, which might be a consideration for those budgeting their housing costs. The local community also shows a notable education level, with 27.8% of residents holding a bachelor's degree, contributing to a more educated workforce.
Probably not your spot if: you rely on public transportation, as only 0.3% of residents commute via public transit.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median household income is $67,822, which supports a decent standard of living.
- Median gross rent is $1,421, making it a manageable option for renters.
- Homeowners can expect a median home value of $299,400, which reflects the local real estate market.
- Education level is relatively high with 27.8% holding a bachelor's degree, while the poverty rate is at 12.9%.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Schools & Higher Ed
Fort Walton Beach has access to educational institutions within the region.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 2
- Institutions with College Scorecard data: 2
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations (NCES) + College Scorecard (ED).
Weather & Getting Outside
Okaloosa County experiences an annual precipitation average of 44.5 inches, with about 101 rainy days each year. This may warrant keeping an umbrella handy during the wetter months.
- Henderson Beach State Park - 4.8 stars, 8,779 reviews
- Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park - 4.4 stars, 9,111 reviews
- Air Force Armament Museum - 4.8 stars, 6,966 reviews
- John Beasley Park - 4.7 stars, 3,089 reviews
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Okaloosa County, the unemployment rate stands at 4.5% as of December 2025, indicating a relatively stable job market.
- Unemployment rate: 4.5%
- Employed: 95,558
- Labor force: 100,065
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.