Rural charm and recreation on the Apalachicola River
The small yet resilient Blountstown community began rebuilding after Hurricane Michael caused widespread devastation in 2018. The Category 5 storm damaged many buildings, including the local elementary school, which was completely destroyed. However, the area has maintained itself as a quiet agricultural community off the Apalachicola River. The surrounding landscape is dotted with farmlands and pine forests. Locals are drawn to the area's waterways and rustic character. "Blountstown is a town with a lot of natural bodies of water, but mainly the river. It's similar to [nearby] Marianna, but smaller. It's rural and the seat of Calhoun County," says Lauren Lyons, the broker and owner of Chipola Realty. The riverside community includes the unincorporated communities of McNeal and Pine Island.
Enjoying water access, parks and coastal day trips
Magnolia Square lies in the heart of Blountsville, featuring a gazebo and paved paths leading to a decorative fountain. Locals gather here in April for the Wild Flower Festival. The city offers several access points to local waterways. Neal Landing has a boat ramp on the Apalachicola River, while Jehue Landing provides a sandy path to the Chipola River. Locals often catch bass, redfish and oysters in the waterways. The Greenway Trail, beginning at the M&B Railroad Museum, spans over 3 miles, connecting Neal Landing to a city park off Silas Green Street. Sam Atkins Park includes a dog park and a piece of local history. The on-site Panhandle Pioneer Settlement Museum site displays 18 restored buildings and exhibits dating from the 1820s to the 1940s. "[The area is also] an hour to an hour and a half from the coast and a lot of different beaches like St. George Island, Mexico Beach, and Panama City," Lyons says.
Ranch-style homes and older houses are available
Most Blountstown residences are single-story ranch styles, Minimal Traditional houses and manufactured homes dating to the 20th century. Brick and concrete block exteriors are the norm, while contemporary farmhouses are on the city's outer edges. Many of Blountstown's oldest homes cluster near downtown. Lot sizes vary from approximately one-quarter acre to four acres; some larger properties often include workshops or storage sheds. Dwellings under 2,500 square feet typically range from around $90,000 to $300,000. Larger residences generally fall between $350,000 and $475,000. Homes needing major renovations can sell for $50,000 or less.
Attending the new Blountstown Elementary
Blountstown Elementary School opened its new facility in 2024, consolidating students from several public county schools after the previous building was damaged during Hurricane Michael. The elementary has a B rating from Niche. The A-minus-rated Blountstown High accepts students in grades six to twelve. The school offers after-school clubs such as Future Farmers of America, Future Business Leaders of America and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Thrift stores and a local grocery store serve locals
Most Blountstown storefronts line State Route 20 and Main Street. The community includes thrift stores owned by residents, as well as businesses such as Tatum's Hardware & Supply and the neighborhood grocery store, Richard Ramsey. Big Bend Sporting Goods supports the area's active outdoor lifestyle. Dining options include El Jalisco Mexican Restaurant and Apalachee Restaurant. Parramore Too and Fiddler's Steamhouse & Oyster Bar specialize in local seafood.
Traveling on SR 20 & SR 70
Blountstown is a car-dependent community. Downtown stands at the crossroads of State Routes 20 and 70. Medical Center of Blountstown has limited hours during the week; Calhoun Liberty Hospital provides 24-hour emergency room services. The nearest Interstate 10 interchange is roughly 15 miles to the north. Drivers head east to reach downtown Tallahassee in about 50 miles.
Impacts of tropical storms and hurricanes
The region has a history of severe weather, especially tropical storms and hurricanes. Calhoun County experienced significant damage from Hurricane Michael in 2018. There is also a risk of flooding.
Written By
Ashley Kennedy
