$588,107Average Value$248Average 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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Elizabeth Bell,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Niceville, FL sell after 54 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Niceville, FL over the last 12 months is $535,000, up 1% 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
The seller to contribute $5k towards closing cost.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
Freshly painted 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhome-style condo in a convenient location just minutes from the Mid-Bay Bridge, shopping, dining, and military bases. The main level features an open living area that flows easily into the kitchen, creating a comfortable space for everyday living or entertaining. A laundry area is located just off the kitchen for added convenience. Upstairs, you'll find two
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 401 Sweetgrass Lane in Niceville, Florida, a beautifully designed 2023-built home located in the highly sought-after Deer Moss Creek community. This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home with a dedicated office offers the perfect blend of modern design, functionality, and everyday comfort.Situated on a desirable corner lot, this home features a rare 3 car garage with a professionally coated
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 beautifully updated home nestled on a serene .52 acre lot in Rocky Bayou Country Club Estates. Perfectly positioned along the 15th green of the Rocky Bayou Golf Course, this property offers exceptional privacy, peaceful views, and a lifestyle that blends comfort with elegance.Property Highlights: 4 spacious bedrooms + dedicated office + large bonus room. Ideal for working from
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
NOW LISTED BELOW APPRAISAL VALUE!!!! Completely transformed from the sheetrock out in 2025/2026, this showstopper fully renovated brick home blends timeless character with fresh, modern design. Tucked away on a cul-de-sac, the property offers a peaceful setting while remaining just minutes from shopping, dining, a nearby park, and easy access to the beaches across the bridge. Step inside to a
Welcome to your private oasis in the heart of Niceville! Nestled in the desirable Bluewater Bay community, this beautifully renovated home shines with joy and charm and provides direct access to the Bay golf course on hole #5. Lush, manicured landscaping creates stunning curb appeal and a serene outdoor retreat. Inside, enjoy a fully updated kitchen featuring modern finishes, perfect for
The seller to contribute $5k towards closing cost.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
Welcome to this beautifully crafted 2022 home in the quiet Villa Tasso neighborhood of Niceville. This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom residence offers 1,838 sqft of thoughtfully designed living space with a side-entry 2-car garage and durable metal roof. Inside, enjoy modern finishes including quartz countertops with butcher block accents, premium vinyl flooring throughout, and tile in all bathrooms. The
Welcome home to this delightful 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom end unit nestled in a fantastic location! The property features a tasteful blend of laminate and carpet on the main floor, providing both style and comfort. As you enter, you'll appreciate the thoughtfully designed space, offering a cozy ambiance throughout. The convenience of washer/dryer hookups on the main floor adds to the practicality
Now is your chance to build your dream waterfront home in the heart of Niceville! Perfectly situated on a cul-de-sac with waterfront, Rocky Bayou, access. This lot is approx. .37 acres.Niceville is a friendly town located along the shores of the Choctawhatchee Bay. This charming city has many recent accolades to include Florida's Safest City 2022 according to Safewise. There are several parks
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
Welcome home to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom residence in desirable Raintree Estates! Designed with an ideal floor plan, this home offers generous living space, including a dedicated home office, formal dining room, and a versatile Florida Room. Step inside to find tile and engineered hardwood flooring throughout the main areas. The spacious living room is highlighted by vaulted ceilings
Welcome to this well-maintained home centrally located in the heart of Niceville, built in 2017 and thoughtfully designed for comfortable modern living. Featuring tile flooring throughout and an open floor plan, this home offers a bright and spacious layout that is perfect for both everyday living and entertaining family and friends. The inviting living room flows seamlessly into the kitchen,
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!
Cute home in Parkwood Circle. Close to everything, including walk from elementary school. Front yard lawncare provided by HOA. New AC small privae backyard. Each bedroom has its own bathroom. Open floor plan. Located in a cul de sac, 10 minutes to the beaches of Destin!
Well-appointed home in The Crossings At Bluewater Bay, conveniently located near bases, beaches, and schools! This charming property offers 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, along with a fully fenced backyard--perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The spacious primary bedroom is filled with natural light, creating a bright and comfortable retreat. The living room boasts a vaulted ceiling and flows
Property Id: 1569276Welcome to your new home at 1401 Beaver Run Rd in Niceville, FL! This single unit property offers modern amenities such as a dishwasher, oven, and microwave. With a spacious garage and washer/dryer hookups, this $1900/month rental won't last long. No pets allowed. Don't miss out on this opportunity!
Welcome to this beautiful, spacious brick home which features an open floor plan and a bright and welcoming space perfect for entertaining or relaxing. The kitchen is complete with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, plenty of cabinet space for storage, and a formal dining area. It flows seamlessly into the living room, making it ideal for gatherings and everyday living. Off of the
The advertised rate of $3,174/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of October 25, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Welcome to your dream rental! This beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom pool home offers comfort, style, and convenience, perfectly located in the heart of Niceville. Whether you're seeking a furnished or unfurnished option, this home is available to suit your needs, and pool care is included in the rent for added ease. Inside, you'll find a bright and spacious layout featuring neutral tones
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.
