Get to Know Okaloosa County’s Standout Communities

Davista Photography

These standout communities make Okaloosa County, Florida, the ideal place to live.

Crestview

Population: 29,300

Average Home Value: $297,000 

Crestview is unique, largely because it has a huge military community composed of active-duty families and retired military members, many of whom are starting their second careers. 

“Our location is really amazing,” says Sandra Wilson, president and CEO of the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce. “We’re located on Interstate 10, so you can literally go anywhere from here. Plus, you still have that rural feel if you don’t want to live in a big city – it’s suburban life with easy beach access.” 

There are many beautiful parks and green areas around, such as Twin Hills Park, which offers not only football, basketball, soccer, volleyball and tennis courts, but also a lake, picnic tables, a playground and a splash pad. 

Entertainment is also easy to find in Crestview, from petting the animals at the Emerald Coast Zoo to sipping on craft beverages at Timber Creek Distillery to listening to live music at the Panhandle Opry. 

It’s a tight-knit community in Crestview, which is especially evident at its annual events throughout the year. From the Triple B Barbecue Competition to the Fall Festival to the Christmas tree lighting on Main Street, the whole community shows up and comes together in a special way. 

Emerald Coast Zoo

Valparaiso

Population: 5,029

Average Home Value: $337,000 

Valparaiso translates to “paradise valley” in Spanish – a name that’s not surprising, as this coastal city sits on some of the bluest, most beautiful water around. It feels like a little slice of paradise and doesn’t have the overwhelming tourist presence you’d find in a much bigger city. The views can be enjoyed from many vantage points, including Florida Park, which houses a playground, shower, picnic area and 24-hour boat ramp. 

Speaking of boats, you must check out The Boathouse Landing, a casual bayou-front restaurant offering fresh seafood, steak, drinks and more as well as indoor and outdoor seating that makes you feel like you’re literally right on the water. Plus, the restaurant has live music on the weekends, so you can enjoy delicious eats with foot-tappin’ tunes. 

Another Valparaiso staple is the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida, which is committed to preserving the rich heritage of the Florida panhandle. With a very affordable entrance fee and plenty of kid-friendly programming, it’s a wonderful educational activity for all ages. 

The Boathouse Landing

Niceville

Population: 16,490

Average Home Value: $440,000 

As you probably surmised from its name, Niceville is quite nice indeed. Nestled along the northern shoreline of Choctawhatchee Bay, Niceville boasts an enticingly beautiful outdoor setting, particularly enjoyable at Turkey Creek Nature Trail, a 20-acre park with a nature trail, 1-mile boardwalk and viewing platforms that showcase stunning scenery. Golfers will also enjoy Eglin AFB Golf Course, with its rolling hills and surrounding trees. Picturesque doesn’t even come close to describing it. 

Residents can also enjoy nature’s bounty at the Niceville Florida Community Farmers Market at Palm Plaza, which is held on Saturday mornings year-round. 

The city is also home to Northwest Florida State College. On campus, you’ll find the Mattie Kelly Arts Center, a one-of-a-kind facility in the area due to the caliber of shows it attracts. 

“We bring in national Broadway tours that usually play in much bigger cities, and we’re able to do that because of the facility we have,” says Jeanette Shires, the center’s director. 

“It’s got a huge backstage area with all the amenities,” Shires adds. “It seats 1,650 patrons and the acoustics are amazing. We’re one of the few on the Emerald Coast that can bring in shows of this magnitude.” 

Besides national touring acts, the center also welcomes symphony orchestras, dancers, speakers, comedians and other performers to the stage, making it a go-to destination for exciting year-round entertainment in Okaloosa County.