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
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On average, homes in Crestview, FL sell after 61 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Crestview, FL over the last 12 months is $319,025, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Take advantage of a rare assumable VA loan opportunity with an incredibly low 2.375% interest rate! This adorable 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home sits on a generous lot in a quaint and quiet location with no HOA and offers the perfect blend of character and updates! Step inside to vaulted ceilings in the living room, centered around a cozy brick fireplace that adds warmth and personality to the space!
South Crestview!! Easy drive to Eglin, beautiful beaches, shopping. SOUGHT After SOUTH CRESTVIEW!This beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and functionality. The updates that have been made are just perfect to create the warm and inviting place that you will want to call Home! Step inside to discover fresh interior paint, gorgeous new flooring,
Convenient to the new bypass with easy access to all bases and Pensacola! Welcome to this beautifully well maintained 4 bedroom, 2 bath home featuring a spacious open floor plan, perfect for everyday living and entertaining. With the new bypass nearby you are just minutes away from all military bases and I-10. The large eat-in kitchen comes fully equipped with all appliances, including a wine
EXCELLENT LOCATION at the first red light in SOUTH Crestview! Whether you're PCS'ing to the area, buying your first home, or simply looking for more space in a convenient location, this home is one you'll want to see! Ideally situated with an easy commute to Eglin AFB, Duke Field, and 7th Special Forces Group, this home offers the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. Inside, the
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
Welcome to 531 Gallant Fox Lane -a well-kept brick home tucked at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, offering privacy and NO HOA! Situated on a large .6 acre lot, this 3 bed + Bonus Rm., 2 bath, 2134 sq.ft home includes an open split bedroom layout. French doors open to a bonus room or office. The great room has beautiful cathedral ceilings; gas fireplace and lovely French doors that lead to a deck
Welcome to 809 Otto Way in Crestview, FL — where newer construction meets easy Florida living in the ever-popular Cali floorplan (built in 2023 and still feeling brand new!). This thoughtfully designed 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers that open-concept layout everyone loves — with a spacious kitchen that flows seamlessly into the dining and living areas, making it perfect for entertaining, game
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
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
Hometown Heroes could be a great option for a home like this***Buyer must qualify with their lender, but if eligible, this program may help with down payment and closing cost assistance. ,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
Fresh, Fun, and Move-In Ready in Antioch Estates. This 4-bedroom, 2-bath home has been thoughtfully refreshed. Luxury vinyl plank flooring flows throughout, complemented by updated light fixtures and faucets for a clean, modern feel. The bright kitchen features crisp white cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Inside, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home has been thoughtfully
Assumable VA loan at 4.99% for qualified buyers!!! Built in 2023 and move-in ready, this South Crestview home checks all the boxes! Situated on a privacy-fenced corner lot, it features a desirable split-bedroom plan and a bright, open living space. The standout? A spacious primary suite with a walk-in closet that connects directly to the laundry room--designed for everyday ease. Enjoy a quiet
Welcome home to comfort and style in the heart of Crestview! Ideally located just minutes from shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences, this beautifully designed home also offers easy access to Riverside Elementary and Shoal River Middle School.Step inside to an inviting open-concept layout where the kitchen truly serves as the heart of the home. Featuring granite countertops, undermount
PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP! Like New 2024 built home. Reason for selling is the seller got orders abroad. 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
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 820 Mayo Trail! This beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 1-bath home offers approximately 1,100 square feet of comfortable living space with a fresh, modern feel throughout. Updates include new flooring, fresh paint, updated electrical and plumbing, and a newer HVAC system.The home features a spacious living room, separate dining area, and a well-equipped kitchen with sleek
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
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 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
Welcome to 3151 Forrest Avenue! This move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,303 square feet of comfortable living space for $1,650 per month. The bright, open living area flows easily into the kitchen, creating a functional layout for everyday living and entertaining. With no carpet except inside the closets, the home is easy to maintain and filled with natural light. Additional highlights
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
Private Pool • In-Law Suite • Two Bonus Rooms • 5 Bedrooms • 3.5 BathroomsWelcome to 5522 Frontier Drive, an exceptional Crestview rental offering an impressive amount of living space, a flexible floor plan, and your own resort-style backyard.This beautiful brick home features five bedrooms, three-and-a-half bathrooms, and two large bonus rooms. Inside, you'll find wood-look tile
?? Celebrate the Holiday with Big Savings!For a limited time, enjoy waived application and holding fees when you apply for your new home! Welcome to Princeton Grove, a beautiful affordable senior community offering thoughtfully designed one- and two-bedroom apartment homes in a convenient location approximately one hour east of Pensacola, Florida. Apartment homes are available for
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
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.
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