Local legend has it that Freeport got its name when during the Civil War when some unclaimed wine cases were found near the shipping docks. The townsfolk were invited to enjoy some “free port.” While chances are more likely that the panhandle community got its name from being a free place to dock, the story seems to match the city’s vibe.
Set along the shores of LaGrange Bayou and the Choctawhatchee Bay, Freeport is a community where local roots go back to the 1830 settlement of boaters, fishermen and farmers. Retail trade and construction are the leading industries today, but fishing, boating and farming remain pillars of the community. The once-small town is home to a fast-growing population of roughly 20,000. Freeport’s warm spirit, bayou beauty and increasing number of new developments make it a standout in south Walton County.
Freeport offers endless nature escapes, boating adventures, and fishing spots for locals.
Freeport hosts monthly movie nights for residents to relax and enjoy community fun.
Freeport’s marina serves as a hub for locals to connect and enjoy waterfront views.
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New construction is all over Freeport
“Freeport is the fastest growing city in our area, and it’s high up there in the whole state, too,” says Sabine Robertson, a broker for Sea Haus Realty. The median price here is around $391,000, lower the national median. Developers have descended upon the ample stretches of vacant land, plotting out new subdivisions of New Traditional and classic ranch-style houses surrounded by dense pine forests, lakes and waterways. The 3,000-acre, master-planned Hammock Bay community is at the forefront of this push; its bayfront homes are popular for their private docks. “I think more people live in Hammock Bay than the rest of Freeport,” Robertson says.
Freeport’s rapid growth includes new subdivisions filled with traditional-style homes.
Freeport’s mix of architectural styles makes it ideal for buyers seeking distinctive homes.
Traditional architecture shines in Freeport’s Brighton Cove community of homes.
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The Walton County School District
The Walton County School District is No. 9 on Niche’s list of Florida’s best school districts. Niche grades the district an overall A-minus and ranks Freeport Senior High — also graded A-minus — as the best high school in the county. Students at Freeport High enjoy small classes. Those interested in a future in manufacturing can enroll in the school’s advanced manufacturing program. In December 2024, the brand-new Freeport Middle opened its doors. The county spent $81 million on the development to keep up with Freeport’s growing population.
Freeport Senior High School celebrates student potential and individual achievements.
Freeport Middle School builds strong foundations for tomorrow’s future leaders.
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A boater’s paradise and Freeport Bayfest
Freeport is full of places to escape into nature, get a boat on the water and cast a line. Marse Landing at Four Mile Creek is the heart of the boating and fishing scene, featuring many boat slips. Outside the city, locals can hunt, hike and bike around the Lafayette Creek Wildlife Management Area, which spans over 3,000 acres. The Freeport Sports Complex has more traditional park amenities, from barbecue grills and picnic pavilions to ballfields, walking trails and athletic courts. The park hosts the annual Freeport Bayfest, bringing food trucks, craft vendors, a cooking competition, live music and more into town.
Boating in Freeport is a favorite pastime thanks to its accessible and scenic waters.
Marse Landing at Four Mile Creek anchors Freeport’s boating and fishing community.
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New developments on Main Street and fast-food joints on U.S. 331
Freeport doesn’t have a traditional downtown, but more shopping and dining options are cropping up with each new development – such as Hammock Bay’s General Store. “Ten years ago, there wasn’t even a Publix,” Robertson says with a laugh. Folks can run errands in town on U.S. Route 331, a growing commercial corridor with fast-food chains and other conveniences. As for local mainstays, The Oar House Pub & Oyster Bar opened in 2020. The family-owned and -operated spot quickly became a favorite among boaters thanks to its location in Marina Village — the city’s public marina.
Since 2020, The Oar House Pub & Oyster Bar has been a go-to dining spot in Freeport.
Freeport’s U.S. Route 331 corridor offers shops and services for convenient errands.
Freeport locals shop at the General Store in Hammock Bay for essentials and community charm.
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U.S. 331 and Florida 20
Freeport has one park-and-ride location on Main Street. U.S. 331 and Florida Road 20 are the main thoroughfares. Access to Interstate 10 is about 15 miles north. The closest hospital is in Defuniak Springs, the county seat, 15 miles north of Freeport.
Crime
Freeport’s crime rates are not readily available, but Niche gives the city a B grade for crime.
Written By
Micaela Willoughby
Photography Contributed By
Paul Ayala
Video By
Adam Barkley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Amanda Gaskin,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Freeport, FL sell after 66 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Freeport, FL over the last 12 months is $406,150, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautifully maintained and thoughtfully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home (with Bedroom 3 currently used as an office) located in the highly desirable Schooner Landing neighborhood of Hammock Bay. With $23,750 in recent upgrades, this home blends modern comfort, style, and function—truly move-in ready. Charming curb appeal welcomes you with manicured landscaping and an extended
Welcome to 60 W Farm Owl Drive, a new move in ready home at Owls Head Farms in Freeport Florida. Step into the bright entry with EVP flooring leading through the expansive foyer that opens to a spacious open concept floor plan. As you enter the open living area you will find yourself at the heart of the home where the kitchen impresses with quartz countertops, matte black plumbing fixtures, tile
Pamela HawkinsDR Horton Realty of Emerald Coast LLC
Welcome to 155 Eunola Lane, a new home in Phase III at Ashton Park in Freeport, Florida. This home is ready for move in. Entering this home, you will find EVP through the foyer which opens to a bright and airy space, with two secondary bedrooms and a full bathroom tucked off to one side. These rooms are perfectly sized with each offering plenty of closet space and easy access to the shared bath.
Pamela HawkinsDR Horton Realty of Emerald Coast LLC
Investors what an opportunity ...Frontage on US HWY 331 with public water and sewer available in Freeport, one of the fastest growing areas in Florida. Current Rural Village zoning allows for many commercial business ventures including: Professional offices, restaurants, retail stores, medical offices, lodging, and several more options we can share with you. General Commercial zoning is an option
Welcome to 33 Caymus Cove, a truly standout Randy Wise Homes custom residence located in the gated Vineyards of Hammock Bay, where thoughtful design upgrades elevate every space. From the moment you enter, curated details set this home apart—custom trim walls and designer wallpaper in the front bedroom, beautifully updated wallpaper and paint in the second bedroom, and a stunning, color-drenched
Stellar Hammock Bay home in pristine, move-in-ready condition, offering a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and timeless design! From the moment you enter the grand foyer, you're welcomed by tray ceilings, designer lighting, and an open, airy layout that exudes sophistication. The open-concept design flows seamlessly across contiguous, low-maintenance tile flooring, creating an elegant backdrop
Introducing an exceptional opportunity to own a prime piece of real estate in the rapidly growing city of Freeport, Florida. This expansive 11.44-acre property, consisting of two combined parcels, is ideally situated along US Highway 331 and is zoned R-3 for multi-family use. The property comes with a Development Order (D.O.) approved for 128 apartment units, along with building plans and surveys
Welcome to this charming custom-built home in the highly sought-after Hammock Bay community of Freeport, where resort-style amenities and a true neighborhood lifestyle await. Step inside to a formal foyer and formal dining room, leading to an open living area filled with natural light and hardwood floors. The spacious great room opens to a covered patio and an expansive custom deck overlooking a
Step into your own private backyard oasis in this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bath home located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly sought-after Windswept Estates. The heated and cooled in-ground gunite ozone pool is surrounded by a brick paver patio, screened-in back porch, and a paver walkway along the side of the home leading directly to the pool. The fully fenced backyard underwent a $20,000
FREE 3 year Home Warranty...! Quality & Affordability in South Walton, only minutes to the white sand beaches of the Emerald Coast! This Vista Floor plan is 3BR / 2.5 BA with 1336 sq.ft. Open floor plan has luxury finishes including QUARTZ Counter-tops throughout, Stainless Steel Appliances and Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring and carpet. Blinds and Refrigerator included.
Welcome to 392 N Sand Palm Rd...a beautifully appointed end-unit townhome nestled in the desirable Verandas of Freeport. Built in 2021 and meticulously maintained, this residence blends style, comfort, and convenience in one exceptional package. Step inside to discover a bright, open-concept floor plan thoughtfully designed for modern living. Luxury finishes include quartz countertops, sleek
INVESTORS/BUILDERS - Zoned R3-High Density Residential-the value is in the land. Development by Lennar & another major builder are steps from this .84 acres located in the city of Freeport. Minimum lot size is 5000 SF.Potential to generate rental income with the multiple residences currently on the property will defray costs while permitting. 2 homes on site currently. One home has 3 beds, 2
Are you seeking to construct your own personalized residence on a spacious property within a remarkable gated community centered around a golf course? Your search ends here, as this parcel is conveniently positioned in a cul-de-sac on a generous .66-acre lot, adjacent to the 14th green and the 15th tee box. Windswept Estates, a 750-acre meticulously designed residential community, offers an
3.5% assumable mortgage available! Welcome to 440 Gentle Wind Court—an exceptional 2,641 sq. ft. home custom-built by Windswept Dream Homes, offering timeless craftsmanship and modern comfort. Situated on a beautifully landscaped .64-acre lot in the gated Windswept Estates, this residence combines high-quality construction, stylish finishes, and expansive outdoor space for a truly elevated living
Welcome to the Cypress floorplan, where we invite you on a virtual tour of your future home. Step inside and be greeted by a world of possibilities. When you enter, you’ll discover a versatile space that can serve as a formal living room or be transformed into an optional fourth bedroom, catering to your unique preferences. Continuing further into your new abode, you’ll enter a spacious dining
Welcome to this beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in Freeports newest neighborhood Riverwalk!This home has a den that may be used as a 4th bedroom, office, school room, formal dining room, etc! Master bedroom features a walk in closet and spacious bathroom with double vanity. Home is complete with stainless appliances, granite countertops, laminate and carpeted flooring and a nice sliding
ntroducing this spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom house located on a corner lot with large, fenced, back yard. This home offers upgrades throughout: granite countertops, LVP flooring, quiet close cabinetry, window treatments, security system and includes a washer and dryer! The open floor plan allows for plenty of natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. With ample space for
ONE MONTH FREE RENT WITH A 13 MONTH SIGNED LEASE! ASK FOR FURTHER DETAILS. *** Offer Expires 1/31/26 Townhome in The Verandas - Freeport, FL This Vista floor plan offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and 1,336 sq.ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. The open floor plan with kitchen island includes luxury finishes such as quartz countertops throughout, stainless steel appliances, soft-closing
ONE MONTH FREE RENT WITH A 13 MONTH SIGNED LEASE! ASK FOR FURTHER DETAILS. *** Offer Expires 1/31/26 Townhome in The Verandas - Freeport, FL This Vista floor plan offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and 1,336 sq.ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. The open floor plan with kitchen island includes luxury finishes such as quartz countertops throughout, stainless steel appliances, soft-closing
ONE MONTH FREE RENT WITH A 13 MONTH SIGNED LEASE! ASK FOR FURTHER DETAILS. *** Offer Expires 1/31/26 Townhome in The Verandas - Freeport, FLThis Vista floor plan offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and 1,336 sq.ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. The open floor plan with kitchen island includes luxury finishes such as quartz countertops throughout, stainless steel appliances, soft-closing
NEWLY REMODELED- Fresh paint and LVP Floors throughout! 120 Brandywine is located in Lafayette Creek Landing just behind the Publix shopping center in Freeport. This desired location is only 20 minutes to the beaches of South Walton and a 15 minute trip north to interstate 10. Built in 2018, this 4 bedroom, 3 bath home has a 2 car garage. Corner lot offers ample space in the back and side yard.
Welcome to this completely renovated unit A under the beautiful oaks! 2bd, 1 bath tile and LVP floors throughout. Washer and Dryer included as well as landscaping and pest control. This neighborhood is just before Hammock Bay with an easy location to get to Freeport shopping and restaurants, Niceville and under 30 minutes to the beaches of 30A. Freeport was recently awarded A ratings for schools.
Welcome to this completely renovated unit C under the beautiful oaks! 2bd, 1 bath tile and LVP floors throughout. Washer and Dryer included as well as landscaping and pest control. This neighborhood is just before Hammock Bay with an easy location to get to Freeport shopping and restaurants, Niceville and under 30 minutes to the beaches of 30A. Freeport was recently awarded A ratings for schools.
This is a 4bd/2ba in Riverwalk, Freeport! LVP flooring and granite countertops throughout. This home has all the stainless appliances you need to cook and entertain in the large and spacious kitchen with a separate breakfast nook away from the dining room. Separate master with tray ceiling, large walk in closet. Master bathroom has double vanity.Landscaping is included. Distance to
ONE MONTH FREE RENT WITH A 13 MONTH SIGNED LEASE! *** Offer Expires 1/31/26 BEAUTIFUL Single-Story Home in the Cross Creek Freeport Community! The desirable Covington Plan boasts an open design encompassing the Living, Dining, and Kitchen spaces. The Kitchen features gorgeous cabinets, granite countertops, and Stainless-Steel Kitchen (Appliances include Refrigerator, Range with hood, and
Townhome in The Verandas - Freeport, FLThis Horizon floor plan end unit offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and 1,512 sq.ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. This end unit was enhanced by the builder to include additional square footage—creating a more spacious primary bedroom, larger closets, and a beautifully upgraded double-vanity bathroom. Being an end unit, it also features additional
215 Speckled Trout Lane is a 3bd, 2ba home in Freeport's newest community Riverwalk! 9' ceilings throughout bedrooms and bathrooms. Vaulted ceiling in kitchen/living room with natural light make for a great space for your family and guests. Stainless appliances (refrigerator will be included), granite countertops, LVP throughout and window treatments included. The Riverwalk community has a
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