$586,809Average Value$249Average Price per Sq Ft63Homes For Sale
Florida's friendly waterfront city
Niceville is perched between the Boggy and Rocky bayous, hugging the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay. It’s near Florida’s Emerald Coast beaches, about 15 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Named by the postmaster’s daughter in 1910, Niceville lives up to its name by having frequent charity events and fundraisers. “It’s not only about the beach and the water,” says Debbie Lewis, a Realtor with ERA American Real Estate who’s lived and sold homes here for 30 years. “It’s phenomenal how our community supports its residents.” John Sims Parkway bisects Niceville’s suburban neighborhoods; the north side has the city’s schools, retail shopping and government offices, and the south is predominantly residential. “We’re a huge military area,” Lewis says. Eglin Air Force Base is 8 miles away, and Niceville’s population of 16,600 grows by one percent each year as many military families stay here after retirement. “For a lot of people, once they get to Niceville, that’s it,” Lewis says. “They’re here to stay.” The city and county’s workforce is mostly Military, but additional employers in Okaloosa County include the Okaloosa County School District and the HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital.
Rocky Bayou Estates is a cozy neighborhood in the town of Niceville.
Eglin AFB is located minutes from Rocky Bayou Estates.
Rocky Bayou Estates lays just along the Choctawhatchee Bay great for boaters.
Okaloosa County Schools provide learning opportunities for students throughout Niceville.
HCA Twin Cities Hospital is the healthcare and emergency care provider for Niceville.
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Weekends at Crab Island
With the bayous, Bay and Gulf so close, it's no surprise that Niceville's residents love being on the water. The 20-acre Turkey Creek Nature Trail Park is popular for swimming, kayaking, and tubing; it also features a 1-mile raised boardwalk that winds through a floodplain forest. The city plans to build an aquatics center for competitive swimmers, and Destin and Okaloosa Island beaches are popular day trips.
Crab Island, a sandbar located in the harbor near Destin, is a local favorite. "You boat in and park in this gorgeous teal water that's only waist-deep," Lewis says. "There's a floating stage with live music and a restaurant where you can get a burger. It can be hard to navigate through the water because the boats are so thick." Everyone goes to Crab Island at the end of the week. "Everyone goes on a Saturday or Sunday to meet up with their friends or neighbors," says local Pat Williams, Realtor with ERA American Real Estate, who has sold homes across the region for 40 years. "It's the party place during the summer. Back in the day, you couldn't even get a boat in there if you wanted to."
Though operated by the base, Eglin Golf Course is open to the public. This Audubon Society golf course ranks as one of the military's best. The Rocky Bayou Country Club offers 18 holes on 115 acres, plus a restaurant for lunch.
Residents of Rocky Bayou Estates love a good game of golf.
Rocky Bayou Estates residents can visit Turkey Creek and trails for scenic adventures.
Rocky Bayou Estates residents can also bathe in the fresh waters of Turkey Creek.
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Boggy Bayou Fireworks Show and a developing downtown area
Niceville’s waterfront restaurants offer coastal favorites like fresh mahi and Gulf shrimp, plus staples like cheeseburgers and chicken wings. These restaurants are especially popular during the Boggy Bayou Fireworks Show, an annual Fourth of July celebration where the city launches fireworks from boats in the center of the bayou. Live performances are popular at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center, home to the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra. While Niceville doesn’t have a central downtown, an area between John Sims Parkway and Bayshore Avenue is in its early stages of development and offers a walkable stretch of restaurants, shops and event space with water views. Big-box retailers like Walmart and Publix sit along John Sims Parkway.
The Mattie Kelly performing Arts Theater is a local favorite performance venue in Niceville.
The Mattie Kelly Arts Amphitheater hosts live performances in Niceville.
Publix is a local favorite for fresh produce and a large meat selection in Niceville.
Walmart is one of the many favorite shopping options in Niceville.
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Waterfront homes and 1980s bungalows
Most homes in Niceville are bungalows and ranch-style homes built after 1980. The median home price is $484,000, just above the national median. “We are pricey,” Lewis says. “It’s rare to find anything under $300,000.” Most of the city’s usable land is built up, so older homes are being demolished for new builds. Prices for a New Traditional home built in 2023 range from $383,000 for a three-bedroom to $1.4 million for a four-bedroom with private water access. Homes along the water are custom and sit on spacious lots full of towering pines and royal palms. Some midcentury homes are available just west of Cedar Avenue, and these range in price from $190,000 for a two-bedroom bungalow to $685,000 for a four-bedroom waterfront ranch-style home. Some condos are also available.
Custom homes on the water will sell quickly in Niceville.
Niceville has a variety of ranch style homes that are affordable and spacious.
Townhomes are plentiful and an affordable housing option in Niceville.
Many variations of Ranch style homes are found in Rocky Bayou Estates.
This Neoclassical style home sits on a spacious lot in Rocky Bayou Estates.
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Niceville High’s has robust music programs
The Okaloosa County School District scores an overall A-minus on Niche, which ranks it seventh best in Florida. Niceville High has a popular music program; the Eagle Pride Marching Band performed in the 2024 Tournament of Roses Parade at the Rose Bowl, and the concert and jazz bands consistently receive superior ratings at state-level performance assessments. Tenth through twelfth-grade students can attend the Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College. In this public charter school, students can earn an associate degree in arts or sciences with their high school diploma. Northwest Florida State College enrolls over 8,000 students and offers degrees in fields like nursing and project management.
Northwest Florida State College provide excellent education and employment opportunities.
Collegiate High School is located on the campus of Northwest Florida State College.
Niceville High School has an A grade on Niche and supports grades 9-12.
The Okaloosa County School District Complex is located in Niceville.
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Crime rates are lower than national and state averages
According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, violent crime rates in Niceville trend significantly lower than national and state rates. In October 2023, the violent crime rate for Niceville was zero. Property crime rates also trend much lower than Florida and United States averages.
Traffic on John Sims Parkway
Niceville is largely car-dependent, and the main road through the city is East John Sims Parkway. “Traffic can be bad,” Lewis says, “especially when the schools get out.” The Emerald Coast Rider bus makes a few stops in Niceville on its way to Fort Walton Beach, 13 miles away. Interstate 10 is 17 miles north, and Destin is a 17-mile trip south. The Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport has domestic commercial flights 5 miles away.
Flooding risks along Bayshore Drive
Niceville’s location near the Gulf Coast puts it at risk for hurricanes. Niceville is protected by the Choctawhatchee Bay, which puts some distance between it and the Gulf Coast beaches that endure the worst hurricane damage. The last time a hurricane caused significant damage in Niceville was in 2020 when Hurricane Sally caused flooding and downed power lines. Homes near Bayshore Drive in the city’s south have the most flooding risk, and 27% of the homes here are in a Special Flood Hazard Area. Homeowners here must purchase flood insurance and receive special permits for new construction. Winters here are mild, and summers are hot, with temperatures typically falling between 70 and 92 degrees.
Written By
Brennen Martin
Photography Contributed By
Kevin Willis
Video By
Nathan Allen
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On average, homes in Niceville, FL sell after 54 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Niceville, FL over the last 12 months is $534,900, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautiful one-story brick home in Deer Moss Creek, one of Niceville's most desirable master-planned communities. Built in 2019 by one of the area's premier builders, Huff Homes, this home blends modern comfort with thoughtful design, all just minutes from Eglin AFB, Duke Field, 7th Special Forces, and Destin's stunning beaches. Step inside to an inviting open floor plan featuring
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4 bedroom, 3 bath brick home in the highly sought after Rocky Bayou Country Club Estates. Built by respected local builder Mike Parish, this property blends timeless craftsmanship with thoughtful modern updates throughout.Set on a private .43 acre lot backing to wooded land with a retention area on one side, the home offers exceptional privacy and serene
Well-located 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in Niceville, just off the Mid-Bay Bridge overpass and minutes from Bluewater Bay, shopping, highway access, and military bases — with NO HOA. Situated on a large 1⁄2-acre lot, this move-in ready home features major system upgrades including a new roof, new HVAC, and new hot water heater. The flexible floor plan offers two separate living areas, with a
'Under contract with 72 hour kick out clause' Southern charm meets modern elegance in this beautifully designed 4 bedroom, 3 bath home in the coveted Deer Moss Creek community of Niceville. Located at 405 Sweetgrass Lane, this 2,546 square foot residence offers refined interiors, thoughtful details, and timeless curb appeal.Oversized double glass doors open into a spacious, light-filled floor
This 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo in The Florida Club blends comfort, convenience, and resort-style amenities. The open-concept living area and split-bedroom layout offer both space and privacy, while the private screened balcony is perfect for relaxing after a day in the sun. Enjoy a well-appointed kitchen, generous storage, and a primary suite with an en-suite bath. Community perks include a
Welcome to this beautiful one-story brick home in Deer Moss Creek, one of Niceville's most desirable master-planned communities. Built in 2019 by one of the area's premier builders, Huff Homes, this home blends modern comfort with thoughtful design, all just minutes from Eglin AFB, Duke Field, 7th Special Forces, and Destin's stunning beaches. Step inside to an inviting open floor plan featuring
Welcome to this spacious and inviting split-level home in the heart of Niceville! With 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, this property offers generous living spaces and flexible layout options perfect for a variety of lifestyles. The main floor features a warm, welcoming living room complete with a wood-burning fireplace, ideal for cozy evenings at home. A large kitchen with abundant cabinetry
BRING OFFERS!!!! Wonderful location across the street from Northwest FL State College. 20 minutes from the beach. Easy commute to Eglin!! Wonderfully priced 2 bedroom unit to allow you to stop paying rent!! Large living area, wonderfully appointed kitchen and a washer/dryer!! You will also have a wonderful pool area!! Second floor prevents upstairs neighbor noise!! Unit was rented, and the
Nestled in the desirable Rocks Cove community of Bluewater Bay, this remarkable 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 3,182 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space on a quiet cul-de-sac just minutes from the sparkling waters of Choctawhatchee Bay and convenient public boat ramp access. This spacious three-story residence welcomes you with an open floor plan, soaring ceilings, and a warm,
Great location in the heart of Niceville! This brand-new 3BR/2.5BA home offers modern style and quality construction with impact windows and doors, vinyl plank flooring throughout the main level, and a fenced backyard for added privacy. The open-concept floor plan features spacious living and dining areas flowing into a beautifully appointed kitchen with Samsung stainless appliances, quartz
Welcome to Oaks Condominiums Unit 100 in the heart of Niceville, FL! This well-located ground-floor unit offers easy living with convenient access and a functional layout perfect for full-time residents, second-home owners, or investors. Enjoy a bright interior, comfortable living spaces, and proximity to shopping, dining, schools, and Eglin Air Force Base. The Oaks Condominiums community
Welcome home to Bluewater Bay! A beautiful home tucked away in a quiet Niceville neighborhood known for its convenience and community feel. This inviting property offers a functional layout with comfortable living spaces, perfect for everyday living and entertaining alike. Enjoy a bright, open feel with natural light throughout, a spacious kitchen with ample storage, and generously sized
Home Sweet Garden Home! New laminate flooring in foyer, kitchen & baths and freshly painted. Located in Niceville's sought-after Cedar Ridge with underground utilities and sidewalks, but no HOA, this two-bedroom, two full-bath, two-car garage home offers comfort and style; a place to truly feel at home. Spacious living room with a cathedral ceiling features a beautiful brick fireplace with wood
UNBELIEVEABLE PRICE!!! Priced to sell. VA REO Property. Ready Love being near the water? Now's your chance to live just steps from Choctawhatchee Bay! Enjoy easy access to the Bluewater Bay marina and a nearby restaurant, perfect for waterfront dining and coastal living. This well-maintained multi level townhome offers 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and stylish upgrades throughout, including: New HVAC
Charming two-story home located in the highly desirable Bluewater Bay community. This updated property features a renovated kitchen, fresh paint throughout, and tile and wood laminate flooring, offering both style and durability. The layout provides comfortable living with plenty of natural light and functional space. Enjoy the privacy of a fully fenced yard, perfect for relaxing or entertaining.
At The Enclave at Deer Moss Creek, you wont have to choose between design and functionality - you can have it all. Our brand-new one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in Niceville, Florida, feature open floor plans that maximize space and embody luxury. They feature modern appliances, beautiful granite countertops, spacious closets, and a host of other enviable features and amenities
Updated 2 Bedroom/1 Bath condo features vinyl plank flooring throughout living room and bedrooms. The kitchen has updated wood cabinets, new dishwasher, large pantry and space for dine-in area. The unit is located on the end of the 2nd floor, with no units above. Complex amenities include community pool, laundry facilities, assigned parking space and BBQ/picnic area. No smoking permitted. Water,
Great 3 bedroom, 2 bath home that still has a 1 car attached garage! The living room is open to the large eat-in kitchen. Step out back and enjoy the back patio and the huge back yard! No carpeting at all! Tile and faux wood throughout! Pets are allowed with restrictions.
Great townhome in perfect location...Behind White Wilson Medical Center, close to EOD School, Eglin AFB, Duke Field and NWFL College...This unit has been repainted and updated with new appliances in kitchen. New range, microwave, and dishwasher. Original Washer and dryer in pantry area. Upstairs carpet has been replaced. New ceiling fans in bedrooms. Living room has Cherry Laminate floors. Tile
Welcome to Emerald Cove East, a pet-friendly community in Niceville, Florida featuring spacious one bedroom apartments and two bedroom townhomes! Several homes have been upgraded with modern finishes, including updated flooring and refreshed kitchen and bathroom features—bringing a fresh, stylish feel to your living space!
A short trip to Eglin. This is a Ground floor unit. This lovely 2 bedroom one bath unit is located just a few short feet from the laundry facility, pool area, and picnic tables. New stove and refrigerator. LVP through out the condo. Newly painted. This lovely home is waiting for you. Community pool just a short walk away. Water, trash and pest control included.
This stunning 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom unit features two master suites; one downstairs with ample walk-in closet space & a spacious double vanity bathroom with shower. Upstairs you will find a great loft space perfect for an office, nursery, or sitting area right off the second master suite! The upstairs master offers lot of natural light, a large walk-in closet & large master bath which boasts a
Property Id: 41931 Well kept first floor 2 bedroom apartment with 740 square feet within 20 unit complex. The unit was completely renovated in 2019 with all new kitchen, bath, flooring, doors, closet doors, and exterior doors. Kitchen features stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops. The unit also has laundry hookups in the laundry room adjacent to the kitchen. The floors are
Charming 3-Bedroom Townhome in a Prime Location Ideally located with easy access to military bases, beautiful beaches, schools, and popular shopping destinations, this well-maintained townhome offers the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and interior laundry hookups, this home is thoughtfully designed for easy, everyday living. The
About 20 minutes from Eglin Airforce Base, Rocky Bayou Country Club Estates is a haven for golfers, outdoor enthusiasts, and the area's many current and former military personnel. Mature oak trees preside over all-brick homes and winding roads that wend their way through the titular Rocky Bayou Country Club. “I absolutely love it here,” says Tracy Wood, vice president of the homeowners association and a Realtor with NextHome Cornerstone Realty. “I love that it’s centrally located to everything. We’re in close proximity to the beaches and Choctawhatchee Bay, and we’re surrounded by three military bases. You can get to the gulf in less than 15 minutes, and we’re 45 minutes from 30A and all the little beach towns along there.”
Rocky Bayou Country Club is the heart of the neighborhood. The 18-hole championship course unfurls across 115 acres of rolling hills, spring-fed lakes and towering trees, creating a challenging yet satisfying level of play. “My husband and I are huge golfers, so we can drive golf carts and play golf every day,” says Vicky Leos, a resident and Realtor with Keller Williams Emerald Coast. “People walk and jog there in the early morning or evening, whenever the golfers aren’t there.” Nearby Choctawhatchee Bay is abundant with fish and wildlife, and it’s hard to make a trip without spotting at least one pod of dolphins. The neighborhood is about 13 miles north of Destin and U.S. Route 98, giving residents access to the pristine beaches of the Emerald Coast and the bouquet of coastal communities along Scenic Highway 30A. “We do staycations there in April and October when the tourists are gone,” Wood says.
Spacious lots, traditional masonry and tall trees are the hallmarks of Rocky Bayou. Several smaller subdivisions located within the estates, and most homes were built in the late 1980s and ’90s. Bigger is better in Rocky Bayou: Homes here are at least 2,000 square feet, sitting on lots of at least a quarter acre. Traditional and ranch-style homes often feature red brick exteriors, two-car garages and native plants. A four-bedroom all-brick home can range from $600,000 to $800,000, while similar homes with a pool or waterfront views can range from $650,000 to about $1 million. Most homeowners choose to participate in the homeowners association, which has a $150 annual fee.
Aside from the golf course, Rocky Bayou Country Club Estates is primarily residential, so residents hop on bordering roadways like College Boulevard, Forest Road and Rocky Bayou Drive to venture out. Rocky Bayou Drive connects to Interstate 20, which is a roughly 9-mile drive to Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport. Importantly, the estates are close to several military bases, including Eglin Airforce Base. “Most people are associated one way or another to the base, whether that’s former military members, civilians who work at the bases or active-duty personnel,” Leos says. “Probably 80% of Niceville residents are connected to the base.”
Kids can attend James E. Plew Elementary School before heading to C.W. Ruckel Middle School, both graded A-minus by Niche. Teens can graduate from Niceville Senior High School, graded A by Niche. The high school has been rated an A school by the Florida Department of Education and received numerous awards and designations, including the Five Star School Award and recognition as a Blue Ribbon National School of Excellence. High schoolers can earn national industry certifications through the career and technical education curriculum. The high school offers nine career and technical education programs, including culinary arts, information technology and practical nursing.
The neighborhood’s central location places residents within a stone’s throw of shopping and dining. Groceries are available at Publix just 2 miles away, while 3rd Planet Brewing serves up craft brews less than 3 miles away. “TradeWinds Italian is unbelievable,” Wood says. “They have the best Italian food, hands down.” Waterfront dining along Choctawhatchee Bay is a favorite among residents. Boats of all sizes dock at The Wharf 850 for fresh seafood and steaks. The Locals Eatery is an aptly named restaurant overlooking Boggy Bayou known for its welcoming atmosphere and American fare, while Doc’s Oyster Bar is a beloved dive bar and restaurant serving up fresh raw oysters in a lively atmosphere.
Florida is subject to the winds and rain of hurricanes and tropical storms. However, Leos says the community often escapes the worst of it. “The last few hurricanes have hit farther west toward Pensacola. We don’t get hit hard,” she says. “We have a lot of trees nearby, and trees can act like a barrier against strong winds.”
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
