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
Paul Domenech,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Freeport, FL sell after 55 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Freeport, FL over the last 12 months is $391,875, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
SPECIAL RATES AVAILABLE ON THIS HOME. CONTACT LISTING AGENT FOR DETAILS. Welcome to 33 Caymus Cove -- a truly exceptional Randy Wise Homes custom residence located inside the gated Vineyards of Hammock Bay. Offering 4 bedrooms PLUS a dedicated office and situated on one of the largest fenced lots in The Vineyards, this home delivers a rare combination of luxury finishes, functional space, and
Charming 3-Bedroom Home in Hammock Bay - Freeport, FL | Just Adjusted to $419,000 Welcome to 41 Dickens Drive, a beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home built in 2013 in the sought-after planned community of Hammock Bay in Freeport, Florida. Now priced at $419,000, this move-in-ready home combines comfortable living with modern design and small-town charm -- just a short drive from the
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
*Under contract with a kickout clause in place.* 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 4-bedroom, 2-bath home is designed for both everyday living and effortless entertaining. The thoughtfully designed
Imagine waking up each morning to the peaceful ambiance of LaGrange Landing, one of Freeport's most charming and amenity-rich communities. This beautifully maintained 2016 built home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an attached sun porch where you can sip your morning coffee and soak in the Florida air without a care in the world. Hardwood flooring flows through the main living area and
SPECIAL RATES AVAILABLE ON THIS HOME. CONTACT LISTING AGENT FOR DETAILS. Welcome to 33 Caymus Cove -- a truly exceptional Randy Wise Homes custom residence located inside the gated Vineyards of Hammock Bay. Offering 4 bedrooms PLUS a dedicated office and situated on one of the largest fenced lots in The Vineyards, this home delivers a rare combination of luxury finishes, functional space, and
$5,000 SELLER CREDIT OFFERED AT CLOSING WITH ACCEPTABLE OFFER. 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
***$3,000 ANY WAY BUYER INCENTIVE*** 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,
Charming 3-Bedroom Home in Hammock Bay - Freeport, FL | Just Adjusted to $419,000 Welcome to 41 Dickens Drive, a beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home built in 2013 in the sought-after planned community of Hammock Bay in Freeport, Florida. Now priced at $419,000, this move-in-ready home combines comfortable living with modern design and small-town charm -- just a short drive from the
MOVE-IN READY BEFORE SCHOOL STARTS! Move-in ready before school starts! Built in 2023, this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath Craftsman-style home in Ashton Park offers exceptional value. Featuring approximately 1,568 sq. ft., the open-concept floor plan includes a spacious great room, luxury vinyl plank flooring in the main living areas, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances,
Welcome to this beautifully maintained lakefront home in the highly sought-after Hammock Bay community! Offering 5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and with a versatile bonus room, home office, or flex space, this home perfectly blends comfort, style, and functionality. Designed with an open-concept floor plan, the spacious living, dining, and kitchen areas create an inviting space for entertaining
**UNDER CONTRACT WITH A 72 HOUR KICK OUT CLAUSE** Welcome to this stunning home with a gorgeous heated pool w/ spa in The Trails at Hammock Bay! This beautifully designed two-story home offers 5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, a dedicated office, a spacious game room, and an open-concept floor plan ideal for both entertaining and everyday living.Interior upgrades include luxury wood-look tile
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
Your Florida Dream Begins Here -- Wrapped in Upgrades, Warmth, and a $120K Backyard Paradise!!! Some homes invite you in. This one welcomes you home! From its sunny corner lot in the Starburst neighborhood of Hammock Bay, this 2025 residence stands apart--not because it's new, but because it's complete. While most new construction homes offer the basics and leave the rest to your imagination (and
HUGE PRICE IMPROVEMENT-SAME WATER VIEWS!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
For Rent - 81 Date Palm Lane, Freeport, FL Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome offering 1,484 square feet of comfortable living space and a one-car garage. Owner-occupied since new, this home has been meticulously cared for and will be move-in ready. Enjoy peaceful views from the screened-in back patio, overlooking a tranquil pond and protected green space
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
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
Townhome in The Verandas - Freeport, FL This Savannah floor plan with garage offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and 1,485 sq.ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. Highlights include a primary suite with a large walk-in closet and a private bathroom featuring dual sinks and a linen closet. The open floor plan with kitchen island includes luxury finishes such as quartz countertops throughout,
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
5-Bedroom Home in Riverwalk, a truly rare find in Walton County! This spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home in the desirable Riverwalk community offers the perfect blend of modern living and convenience. Built in 2024 and owner-occupied only, this home is in excellent condition and feels like new. With 2,593 square feet, there's plenty of room for everyone.Inside, you'll find durable LVP
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
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 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
This Horizon floor plan end unit offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and 1,396 sq.ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. Being an end unit, it features additional windows on the first floor that bring in extra natural light. The open floor plan with kitchen island includes luxury finishes such as quartz countertops throughout, stainless steel appliances, soft-closing cabinets, luxury vinyl plank
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