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
Gay Landreth,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Freeport, FL sell after 58 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Freeport, FL over the last 12 months is $393,175, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to your private resort-style retreat in the highly sought-after Buxton's Mill neighborhood of Hammock Bay. Perfectly positioned at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers 2,367 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space and an outdoor oasis that is truly second to none. The backyard is the showpiece of this exceptional property, featuring a heated
Turning Go Big or Go Home into an address Is what 49 Harmony Way does. This is the kind of home that stops you mid-scroll- bold in size, this 3,750-square-foot residence delivers a combination of polished design, functional space, and outdoor living that includes a new saltwater pool-all within one of Hammock Bay's most intimate and charming neighborhoods. Harmony way is a quaint 19-home
Welcome home to this spacious 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, a dedicated home office, and a formal dining room. This thoughtfully designed home provides plenty of room to gather, work, and create lasting memories. nestled in the heart of the highly sought-after Hammock Bay community. From the moment you step inside, you'll be greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere where comfort, style, and
*$10,000 credit to buyer to use for flex cash or rate buy down with acceptable offer PLUS a 1 year 'Shield Complete' home warranty plan through American Home Shield* Welcome to 179 Windchime Way, a beautifully maintained waterfront home located in the highly sought-after Whispers neighborhood of Hammock Bay. Offering a perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and recent upgrades, this spacious
Some properties are built. Others are discovered. Hidden beneath the sweeping canopy of century-old live oaks where sunlight filters through draping branches and water views peek through the trees, this extraordinary 1.34-acre waterfront estate offers an experience that feels increasingly impossible to find along the Emerald Coast. Spanning nearly 6,000 square feet across three levels, this
New roof at closing!!!! Custom-built solid brick home on nearly 5 acres--designed for space, comfort, and future potential. Enjoy high ceilings, granite countertops, and an outdoor kitchen and hot tub! Also includes a large chicken hotel and a large room upstairs that would make a great bedroom, bonus room, or office! It has a large barn to store your toys, and a second driveway to hold an RV,
Welcome to your private resort-style retreat in the highly sought-after Buxton's Mill neighborhood of Hammock Bay. Perfectly positioned at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers 2,367 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space and an outdoor oasis that is truly second to none. The backyard is the showpiece of this exceptional property, featuring a heated
Seller now offering $10,000 towards closing costs or rate buy-down! Live the Florida lifestyle in Windswept Estates! This custom 4BR/2BA home sits on a .64-acre lot and offers a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, a large quartz island, and a new refrigerator & microwave (2025). Spa-inspired primary suite with an oversized tiled shower and a huge walk-in closet that
Welcome to Bear Creek, Freeport's premier gated community and the only gated neighborhood located less than a 2 miles from Choctawhatchee Bay. Offering unmatched convenience, Bear Creek provides easy access to the beaches of South Walton without the hassle of fighting traffic through Freeport on Hwy 331, making every trip to and from the coast more enjoyable. Built in 2021, this beautifully
Built in 2024, this like-new home offers modern construction with thoughtful upgrades already in place. Cozy front and rear porches create the perfect setting for relaxing or entertaining, complemented by a privacy-fenced backyard, sprinkler system, and beautifully enhanced landscaping. Inside, the open-concept floor plan is highlighted by raised ceilings, recessed lighting, and LVP flooring
*Under contract with kickout clause - accepting backup offers* Welcome to luxury lakefront living in The Meadows at Hammock Bay, where this exceptional Randy Wise built home offers the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and resort-style outdoor living. Perfectly positioned overlooking a pristine lake, this property delivers breathtaking water views and a true backyard retreat designed for both
Welcome to 158 Whispering Way in the highly desirable Hammock Bay community of Freeport, Florida. Situated on an oversized 0.41-acre homesite backing to protected preserve land, this beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers the perfect combination of privacy, comfort, and resort-style living. With 2,824 square feet of thoughtfully designed space, this home was built for both everyday
Owner Builder, Custom Built - Waterfront Florida Cottage on Alaqua Creek. Qualifies for 100% USDA Financing!This MUST SEE one-of-a-kind, custom waterfront home, designed by Designs by Vision, showcases exceptional craftsmanship and innovation. It features the patented Ty-Rite System, a revolutionary piling installation method where no wood touches the ground, ensuring superior durability and
HUGE PRICE IMPROVEMENT! Welcome to 133 Sky Way in Hammock Bay, Freeport - a home where space truly opens up your life. Built in 2022 and offering nearly 3,000 sq ft, this brick home gives you room to breathe, room to grow, and room to live the way you've always imagined.From the moment you step inside, the sense of openness is unmistakable. Four bedrooms plus a big dedicated office offer
Turning Go Big or Go Home into an address Is what 49 Harmony Way does. This is the kind of home that stops you mid-scroll- bold in size, this 3,750-square-foot residence delivers a combination of polished design, functional space, and outdoor living that includes a new saltwater pool-all within one of Hammock Bay's most intimate and charming neighborhoods. Harmony way is a quaint 19-home
511 Whispering Creek is located 30 min to Emerald Coast beaches (Fort Walton, Destin, and Panama City). Conveniently situated between Pensacola and Tallahassee. 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms on a large corner sized lot with fenced in back yard. LVP flooring and carpet, stainless appliances and granite countertops. A Rental Application Fee of $70 for each applicant will be collected to initiate a
Just beyond the beaten path and convenient to where you want to be, The Madison at Owl’s Head is Northwest Florida’s newest amenity-rich community with 1, 2 and 3-bedroom residences. Situated 25 minutes from the beaches of South Walton, it’s removed from coastal congestion, yet accessible to working, playing and living well. The property blends modern living and luxe amenities within a natural
Come check out this meticulously cared for corner unit Townhome in the Palms of Freeport. The unit features granite counter tops, tall ceilings, solid wood custom cabinets, stainless appliances, 18 inch tile, lvl flooring throughout, travertine counters in bathrooms, New Orleans style paver entry ways, upgraded lighting package, wooden decks on the back of each unit, wooden vinyl blinds, plenty
Welcome to Exchange at Owl's Head in Freeport, FLContemporary apartment living inside a thoughtfully planned community in Freeport, Florida. The community sits at 585 Claudia Circle, Freeport, Florida 32439. You live in a setting shaped by nature, smart growth, and everyday convenience. Scenic Highway 30A and its white-sand beaches sit only 20 minutes away.Exchange at Owl's Head
Available Now - Waterfront Living at 486 Beatrice Point Road, FreeportExperience some of the most beautiful waterfront views in Freeport from this unique bayfront home located on highly desirable Beatrice Point Road. Perfectly positioned between Choctawhatchee Bay and LaGrange Bayou, you'll enjoy stunning water views from both the front and back of the property, along with breathtaking sunset
Welcome to The Waters at Freeport – where modern living meets effortless convenience, nestled in the growing community of Freeport, Florida. Our thoughtfully designed one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments offer a fresh perspective on elevated living. With a vibrant aesthetic that fuses contemporary style and mid-century charm, our brand-new community deliversmodern comforts and inspired
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 The Crossings at Riverwalk – Where Luxury Meets Coastal Charm!Nestled in the heart of Walton County, The Crossings at Riverwalk offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and the timeless charm of Old Florida living. Designed with lifestyle in mind, our community combines luxury finishes, resort-style amenities, and personalized service in a peaceful Freeport setting — just
Available July 15th. Showings start July 1st. WELCOME HOME to Owl's Head East! Right of Hwy 331 and just 20 minutes to the beach. Home is one year old. Spacious 4BR/2BA open floor plan with large bedrooms, living, dining and outdoor covered patio space for grilling and relaxing awaits you! Upgrades include LVP flooring, garden soaker tub, walk in shower, double sinks in primary bathroom, large
Kick back, relax, and enjoy the carefree lifestyle you deserve at Infinity Hammock Bay. Located just minutes from the beautiful white-sand beaches of Florida's Emerald Coast, our stylish one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in Freeport feature smart home technology and island kitchens with stainless steel appliances. Nearby, you'll find swimming pools, hiking trails, pickleball courts, and so
Available July 15th, showings begin July 1st.WELCOME HOME to Owl's Head East! Right of Hwy 331 and just 20 minutes to the beach. Home is one year old. Cary Plan 2039 sqf SF spacious 4BR/3BA - 2 story open floor plan (2 rooms downstairs/2 rooms upstairs) with large bedrooms, living, dining and outdoor covered patio space for grilling and relaxing awaits you! Upgrades include LVP flooring, (no
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