Fast-growing city 30 miles from Florida’s Emerald Coast
Okaloosa County is known for its beaches and military bases, but about 30 miles north of Fort Walton Beach is the fastest-growing city in the county, Crestview. The city grew up around the railroad lines first built at the end of the 19th century. Today, Crestview's affordability and proximity to Eglin Air Force Base are the biggest draws. Crestview is also the county seat. As more new housing developments pop up around the city's edges, Crestview is expanding to meet the population growth without becoming as densely packed as cities like Destin or as expensive as cities like Fort Walton Beach. Large shopping plazas and a Main Street business district full of locally owned shops sit along State Road 85, while residential areas branch east and west along Interstate 10 and U.S. Route 90. Though traffic in and out of the city is a problem for commuters, including those who work at military bases on the coast, the county is addressing this concern by building a new Crestview Bypass, which will be completed by 2026.
Okaloosa County is known for its beaches and military bases, Crestview is close to both.
Many Crestview residents commute to Duke Field for work.
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Homes in Crestview sell below the national average
Affordable housing is one of Crestview's main draws. In December 2024, the median sale price was $315,000, about 10% below the national median. Though prices have been trending up over the last 10 years, "compared to every other area around here, you really do get more house for your money," says local Realtor and owner of NextHome Heroes Choice Realty, Tina Maples. These trends hold true for suburbs like Countryview Estates and Adams Powell East, where buyers can find New Traditional and ranch-style homes. Recently built townhomes in Eagles Landing cost closer to $250,000. Newly built homes in gated communities like Chanan Estates are the city's most expensive listings, with most ranging from $450,000 to $650,000.
Affordable housing is one of Crestview's main draws, it's the fastest growing city in the county.
New construction townhomes and single family home are going up all over Crestview.
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Crestview High operates 16 career programs
Crestview is part of the Okaloosa County School District, which has an A-minus on Niche. The district's 39 schools serve about 29,500 students. Crestview is zoned for five elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school, all of which have high grades on Niche. Crestview High operates 16 specialized career programs, more than any other school in Okaloosa County.
Riverside Elementary in Crestview comes with high scores on NIche.
Richbourg Elementary students flourish in Crestview.
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Spanish Trail Park hosts community events
Twin Hills and Spanish Trail Parks are Crestview's two main rec spaces. Youth sports leagues practice at Twin Hills, where facilities include football and soccer fields and an indoor basketball gym. In 2024, a state-of-the-art children's playscape and splash pad replaced the park's old playground. Spanish Trail Park has an adult softball complex and senior center right up the road. It also hosts community events throughout the year, from Saturday farmers markets to food truck festivals. The Yellow River has a designated paddling trail with two access points immediately west of Crestview. For more fun on the water, folks head about 35 miles south to Destin.
A state-of-the-art children's playscape replaced the park's old in Crestview.
Spanish Trail Park has an adult softball complex righ next to the Crestview Police Station.
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A 'revamped downtown' and new restaurants on Ferdon Boulevard
Antique shops, clothing boutiques and a few hometown restaurants are behind brick and stucco storefronts along Main Street. "We've actually just revamped downtown," Maples says. "They created a large parking area, and now they're working on ways to make it more walkable." Though most local businesses are downtown, hot spots like Emerald Isle Seafood hide between big box stores on Ferdon Boulevard. "There's been quite a bit of commercial development on that road," Maples says. "Chilis, Chipotle and Texas Roadhouse are the newest additions." For more national retailers and restaurants, folks drive about 30 miles south to Destin Commons.
Infrastructure projects underway in 'Hub City'
Crestview is also known as "Hub City," with U.S. Highway 90, State Road 85 and Interstate 10 all running through it. "Traffic can get bad around three to five o'clock because everyone at the bases is getting off work at the same time, and there's only one way into Crestview from the south end." Okaloosa County is building a bypass to SR 85 and a new on-ramp to I-10, both expected to be complete by 2026. "Sometimes construction clogs up the roads, but it's for the best," says Crestview resident and local business owner David Hunt. SR 85 passes by North Okaloosa Medical Center at the city's south end. From here, Destin-Fort Walton Beach is fewer than 20 miles away. While most folks are car-dependent, the Emerald Coast Rider has a fixed-route bus that links Crestview to Fort Walton Beach.
Flooding is rare, but tornadoes are common in Crestview
Crestview is the rainiest part of Florida, receiving around 65 inches of annual rainfall. Still, Maples says, "Flooding isn't a problem here because of our higher elevation." The city is about 235 feet above sea level, one of Florida's highest elevations. While this higher elevation mitigates hurricane damage, it also makes Crestview more susceptible to tornadoes. In May 2024, a tornado swept through the city's north side, tearing down trees and damaging many homes.
Crime
Crime statistics for Crestview are limited. According to the Crestview Police Department’s most recent annual report, there were 22 violent crimes and 140 property crimes in 2021. However, this is a partial report, accounting for only 89 days of the year.
Written By
Ryan Horton
Photography Contributed By
Gabrielle Mazur
Video By
Michael Voyack
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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On average, homes in Crestview, FL sell after 60 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Crestview, FL over the last 12 months is $317,950, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Short Sale Opportunity- PRICED BELOW MARKET! Step into a place that instantly feels like home. This beautiful Sandbar loop gem welcomes you with warmth, comfort, and inviting spaces made for everyday living and lasting memories. From cozy evenings in the living room to gatherings filled with laughter, every corner of this home feels special. Located in South Crestview, this home offers the
FATHER'S DAY SPECIAL 🎉 FREE 36' BLACKSTONE GRILL to the buyer who goes under contract before Father's Day!! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath all-brick beauty has everything you've been looking for. With 1,600 square feet of warm, open living space, it's the kind of home that wraps you in comfort the moment you walk through the door. Immaculately clean and beautifully maintained, the home
Complete by 6/5. Introducing the 2026 Emerald Coast Scholarship Dream Home, a stunning 2,388 sq ft residence thoughtfully designed for comfort and style. Situated on a spacious .68-acre lot within a gated community, this 4-bedroom, 3-bath home blends luxury with everyday functionality. The open layout features LVP flooring throughout, 10-foot tray ceilings in both the family room and owner's
Big Price IMPROVEMENT! Like New 2024 built home. Shoal River Landing with a community pool & cabana. This Cali model, one of the most popular models has a fabulous open design for relaxed living. 4 beds, 2 baths, covered & screened patio, 2 car garage & the 'Smart Home Connect' System has a variety of convenient Smart Hm. Devices. Well-designed kitchen features stainless appliances, gorgeous
TWO BONUS SPACES + SECURITY SYSTEM INCLUDED! VA Assumable Loan available at 5.25%. This spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers exceptional flexibility with a lower-level bonus room and an additional 12x12 flex space upstairs--perfect for a home office, gym, playroom, or hobby space. The open-concept kitchen and great room create a bright, inviting living area that flows seamlessly to the
Affordable opportunity with a 3.99% VA assumable interest rate! Move right into this newly built (2024) 4-bedroom, 2-bath home featuring an open-concept layout, covered patio, and spacious 2-car garage. The popular Cali floor plan includes a Smart Home Connect system with a suite of convenient smart devices. Prepare meals in a stylish kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances, elegant
Newly built home on a spacious corner lot with NO HOA! Only minutes from schools and shopping and a short commute to local military bases! The modern kitchen features shaker-style cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, under-cabinet lighting, and a breakfast bar overlooking the main living area. The master suite has 2 walk-in closets and primary bath includes a customized
Charming updated 3-bed, 2-bath ranch home on 1.02 acres! This 2,080 sq. ft. brick and vinyl home features a new roof, HVAC, electrical panel, and water heater for peace of mind. The spacious kitchen boasts brand-new appliances, and both bathrooms have been fully updated. A large bonus room offers versatile space for a family room, gym, or office. The fully fenced property includes a shed,
LOW ASSUMPTION PAY OFF ON THIS VA LOAN! Fenced Yard and Fire pit! Wonderful neighborhood pool & pavilion. FABULOUS OPEN DESIGN. The Destin floor plan is perfect for anyone seeking lots of space! 4 large bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 3 car garage! Interior finishes include trey ceilings, granite counter tops, luxury vinyl flooring throughout with carpet in the bedrooms. The Kitchen has plenty of
Beautiful 4BR/2BA contemporary home in NE Crestview with pride of ownership throughout! Open living area with separate dining room offers great flow for entertaining. Spacious primary suite features separate shower and private water closet. Fully fenced backyard includes large storage building--perfect for tools and equipment, keeping the garage clutter-free. Convenient north-end location near
Traditional ranch style home 3/2 with a den and a small office. The .69 acre of property is adorned with many ornamental plants and mature trees. This home is ready for a makeover to add your personal touches. It is a great location to have a small office for your home business. Let your imagination flow!Home is being sold as AS-IS. The Roof & Water Heater are aged. HVAC is 2 yrs old and
Charming and move-in ready, this Crestview home offers comfort and convenience. Step inside to find a welcoming layout with spacious living areas, abundant natural light, and functional living spaces perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen offers ample cabinet and counter space, while the bedrooms provide comfortable retreats at the end of the day. Enjoy a large backyard with
BRAND NEW home ready for you to make it yours! Centrally located to all things Crestview -this large flat property is ideal for you! 2 living spaces, beautiful master bathroom with tile shower and walk-in closet in the Master Bedroom, 3 additional bedrooms split off the of second family room! The kitchen island adds style and who doesn't love the window over the kitchen sink! Plenty of space for
Located in the highly desirable Lee Farms neighborhood of Crestview, this beautiful all-brick home sits on one of the largest lots in Phase I, offering approximately ⅓ of an acre, a fully fenced backyard, and a spacious covered patio (40' x 14')—perfect for outdoor living and entertaining. This 3,000 sq ft home features a spacious open floor plan with 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, filled
This charming brick home offers 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a spacious open split floor plan. The living room features vaulted ceilings and chair railing, creating an open and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen includes a breakfast bar, tiled backsplash, and wood laminate flooring, with durable flooring continuing throughout the main living areas. Additional features include an attached 2-car
Welcome to The Exchange at Crestview, a modernapartment and townhome community for everyone who values comfort, convenience, and an active lifestyle. Locatedalong Old Bethel Road in the heart of Crestview, FL, our pet-friendly communityoffers spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments and townhomes withhigh-end finishes and resort-style amenities.Step outside your door and
Welcome to this well-maintained brick home in the desirable Wildwood Gables subdivision. Offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,522 square feet of comfortable living space, this home provides a functional layout that's perfect for everyday living. The open living and dining areas flow seamlessly into the kitchen, creating a welcoming space for relaxing or entertaining. The primary bedroom
Welcome to Retreat at Redstone, Crestview’s newest luxury apartment community at 2500 E Redstone Ave. Now leasing modern 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom homes designed for comfort, style, and convenience. Choose from open floor plans featuring stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, central air, wood-style flooring, and balconies or patios. Step outside your door and enjoy resort-style living with
Conveniently located just minutes from Duke Field, Eglin AFB, and the 7th Special Forces Group, this home is ideal for military personnel and commuters alike. Shopping, dining, schools, and everyday conveniences are only 10-15 minutes away, making this South Crestview location one of the area's most sought-after areas. This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is situated on a spacious corner lot in
Find your perfect retreat at Bel Aire Terrace in Crestview, FL. Our spacious 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartment homes blend timeless charm with modern comfort. Surrounded by peaceful nature and warm community spirit, Bel Aire Terrace is where every day feels a little more like home.
LIKE-NEW PELOTON BIKE AND ELLIPTICAL ARE INCLUDED WITH THE RENT. PET FRIENDLY!!! This beautiful two-story home offers 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and approximately 3,030 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Built with durable four-sided brick construction, the home also includes a 10-year Bonded Builders warranty for added peace of mind. Inside, you'll find luxury vinyl plank
Welcome to Riverwood Apartments! Nestled among lush, rolling hills on over seven sprawling acres, Riverwood is the ideal place to call home in Crestview, Florida. Select your one- or two-bedroom apartment and create a living space that is uniquely you! All apartment interiors have been recently updated with all new kitchens, bath vanities, and fixtures, adding to the already impressive features
Beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home located in the desirable Shoal River Landing community! Offering approximately 1,700+ sq ft of living space, this home features a functional open-concept floor plan ideal for both everyday living and entertaining.The kitchen overlooks the main living area, creating a seamless flow, while the split-bedroom layout provides added privacy for the primary
Welcome to Valora Cottages at Crestview, a new community of 1, 2, and 3 bedroom cottage style rental homes in Crestview, Florida, known as "Hub City." Set in a convenient location, Valora blends the privacy of single family living with the ease of maintenance free comfort. Enjoy a private front porch, resort style pool, welcoming clubhouse, and well kept outdoor spaces. Valora offers a warm
Experience a new standard of excellence in apartment living at The Waters at Crestview. Along with our nationally awarded team, our community amenities and interior features offer a harmonious blend of upscale comfort and convenience that ensures your apartment will be nothing short of a home. Residents will enjoy a 24-hour fitness center, Baja shelf pool, dog park, 24-hour game room, easy access
With easy access to the best of Crestview but still hidden from the stir of the city, The Waters at Redstone offers a new way of effortless living. Our nationally recognized team ensures your stay with us is nothing short of exceptional, and your apartment is nothing short of a home. Our interiors and amenities combine beauty with sensibility; every detail is made with you in mind. Residents will
Welcome home to Spring Creek Apartments! Our apartments in Crestview allow you to reside in comfort and sophistication while exploring the unique and dynamic culture of Downtown Crestview. Superior amenities, desirable services, and a well-connected address allow you to indulge in all the urban conveniences you want without giving up on the peace and quiet you deserve.
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