With 13 miles of coastline, Panama City Beach is widely recognized as a vacation destination where its permanent residents moved to enjoy the sun and surf year-round. “It’s paradise,” says Debbie Ingram, Panama City Beach’s Director of Communications, who’s lived here for nine years. “We have the most gorgeous sunsets and sunrises, and the sand here is so fine that it squeaks when you walk on it.” The city is a narrow strip of land along the Gulf of Mexico, with St. Andrews Bay to the northeast.
Russell-Fields City Pier and Pier Park are in the city’s center, with residential neighborhoods, beachfront condos and hotels spreading to the northwest and southeast. “People come to visit and then try to find a way to live here,” Ingram says. The city’s population of over 19,000 people increases steadily each year, and the city is meeting the growing demands by improving roads, essential services and parks. New residential communities like the Latitude Margaritaville 55-plus community are also going in. The city is part of Bay County, where tourism generates billions of dollars and is the number one industry. The county also has a large military presence, home to the Tyndall Air Force Base.
Paradise by the Sea offers a private beach for residents of Panama City Beach to enjoy to themselves.
Kayak on Lake Powell in Camp Helen State Park, Panama City Beach.
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Emerald beaches and sports games at Frank Brown Park
Public beaches are within walking distance for most residents, and City and County Piers are popular with anglers. The city also maintains six parks, including the 2,900-acre Conservation Park, which has over 24 miles of trails through wetlands and pine forests. Frank Brown Park is the city’s recreational hub with 200 acres of sports facilities, an aquatic center and a community center. The city keeps residents busy between the 20-acre festival park at Frank Brown Park and the amphitheater at Aaron Bessant Park. “We have an event every weekend from March through October,” Ingram says. Popular events include the free Summer Concert Series and the UNwineD food and wine festival.
The white sand beaches of Panama City Beach attract people from all over the world.
Camp Helen State Park was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2012.
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Pier Park shopping and nightlife
Pier Park is a palm-tree-lined outdoor shopping mall full of pastel restaurants, bars, nightclubs and shops that offer a mix of national retailers and local boutiques. Pier Park also has tourist attractions like miniature golf and the SkyWheel, a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel. This area becomes crowded during spring break and the summer, and residents will typically head to the city’s east side for local shopping and dining along Thomas Drive. Family-owned Captain Anderson’s Restaurant has been serving fresh Gulf seafood on the city’s east side since 1967. Grocery options include Publix, Winn-Dixie, Fresh Market and Walmart.
Many shops along Peddlers Pavilion offer beachwear and surf attire.
Sip artisanal coffee and shop unique finds at Fonville Press Market+Café in Alys Beach.
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Beachfront condos and established bungalows
The median housing price in Panama City Beach is $450,000, lower than the national figure of $406,100, and homes sell after an average of 97 days on the market. Most single-family homes here are late 20th to 21st-century bungalows, coastal cottages or multi-story American Vernacular beach houses with stacked porches. Single-family beachfront homes are rare and can cost up to $4.5 million for a six-bedroom, while a three-bedroom bungalow less than a mile from the beach can start at $250,000. Beachfront condos are typically in 21st-century high-rise buildings with one or two bedrooms; prices range from $125,000 for a studio condo to $1.4 million for a three-bedroom. Many residents live here year-round, but the city is also a popular second-home destination. Townhomes also dot the city.
Enjoy the serene beauty of single-family homes in Alys Beach's exclusive community.
Alys Beach boasts stunning single-family homes perfect for serene beachside living.
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Enrolling at the Rising Leaders Academy
Bay District Schools scores an overall B-plus on Niche and serves 27,000-plus students. J.R. Arnold High School has an A-minus on Niche and a vibrant theater program that stages performances in the school’s 1,000-seat auditorium. Students can also enter the lottery for admission into one of several charter schools, including the Rising Leaders Academy in Panama City. This school enrolls pre-kindergarten through twelfth-grade students, and Niche ranks it as the best charter school in America.
Emerald Coast Middle School serves students in 6-8 grades.
South Walton High School is located in Santa Rosa Beach.
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Hopping on the BayWay or biking the Gayle's Trails
Bay County Transportation Services offers the BayWay bus – originally called the Bay Town Trolley. The bus stops throughout the city, connecting locals with Panama City 10 miles away. U.S. Route 98, the city’s primary thoroughfare, runs through the heart of Panama City Beach. Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is a 19-mile trip. The Gayle’s Trails system connects most of the city through bike lanes and multi-use paths. “We want to take people out of cars and make it more pedestrian and bicycle friendly,” Ingram says. The city is also building two new fire stations, a police substation, a wastewater treatment plant and a teaching hospital.
Seacrest residents and guests can enjoy biking and walking on the Timpoochee Trail.
Peddlers Pavilion can be found on Highway 30A with bike rentals for all.
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Homes are in Special Flood Hazard Areas
Panama City Beach is at risk for hurricanes. “It’s a price that residents are willing to pay because the quality of life is so good here,” Ingram says. The last major hurricane to affect Panama City Beach was Hurricane Michael in 2018. “It created a lot of debris, but we didn’t get the brunt of it,” Ingram says. Flooding is the biggest concern with hurricanes, and around half of the homes in Panama City Beach are in a Special Flood Hazard Area; homebuyers here must purchase flood insurance and receive special permits for construction projects. Ingram says that flooding is uncommon, and the city’s ongoing infrastructure projects are working to improve occasional flooding along roadways.
Heightened crime during spring break
Panama City Beach has higher crime rates during the summer and spring break. However, the city reported decreased violent crime rates in early 2024. Police are cracking down on spring breakers by implementing tighter rules during March, like limiting alcohol on the beach.
Written By
Brennen Martin
Photography Contributed By
Daniele Giuseppe Del Gaudio
Video By
Kyle Keyes
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Heather Fox,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Panama City Beach, FL sell after 79 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Panama City Beach, FL over the last 12 months is $469,000, down 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
*NEW PRICE* Welcome to Magnolia Bay Club, a gated bayfront community offering the perfect balance of peaceful full-time living and luxury. This 3-bedroom, 3-bath condo (with an additional flex space) combines elegant design, modern updates, and stunning amenities — all without the hustle and bustle of short-term rentals. Inside, you'll find an open-concept layout filled with natural light and
Wake up to breathtaking Gulf-front views and the soothing sound of waves from your private beachfront balcony at this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo in Emerald Isle, located on the highly desirable west end of Panama City Beach. Fully furnished and completely turnkey, this coastal retreat is designed for effortless beach living. Just bring your suitcase and start enjoying the Florida
Welcome to 325 Robinson Bluff Road, a new home at Colonial East in Panama City Beach Florida. This home is ready for move in and features a grand entry with stairs leading to the second level bedrooms and a hall leading to the spacious downstairs living area. The foyer offers a coat closet and garage access just off the entry and a powder room. As you enter the open living area you will find an
Pamela HawkinsDR Horton Realty of Emerald Coast, LLC
The Camden floorplan by Fischer Homes is designed for modern living at its finest. The central Family Room and Kitchen with a sprawling island set the stage for gatherings, while the Included Covered Outdoor Living space offers a seamless transition to outdoor relaxation. Flexibility abounds with options for a Study, Bedroom 3, or formal dining area. Retreat to the Owner's Suite, complete with an
The Amelia by Fischer Homes offers a spacious and versatile design, featuring an extra-large family room that opens to the kitchen for seamless living. Customize your home with options for a basement or loft, a private study, or a third bedroom. Enhance your living space with an optional sunroom, expanded patio, or deck. The owners suite includes the option for direct access to the laundry room
The Wilmington by Fischer Homes offers a spacious and flexible design with a large dining area seamlessly integrated into the kitchen. Enjoy included outdoor living space, with options to add a basement or loft for additional flexibility. Customize the layout with an optional study or a third bedroom to suit your needs. The private entry to the owners suite leads to an extra-large walk-in closet,
Step into luxury and coastal elegance with this stunning Trinidad model in Phase 4 of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound, where every detail has been thoughtfully designed to create a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. Imagine your life in this expansive Island Collection home featuring a 3 car garage and breathtaking views of a serene nature preserve, all just a quick golf cart ride from the
Brand New NEVIS villa. 2 Bonus Rooms/Den/Hobby! Welcome to your slice of paradise in the Jimmy Buffett-inspired 55+ community of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound! This beautifully appointed 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom villa comes with an impressive $94,000 in premium upgrades that transform this space into something truly special. Step inside and you'll immediately notice the attention to detail
Stunning Coastal Retreat Steps from Golf & Beach in PCB!Welcome to your ultimate Panama City Beach escape! This exceptional 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom residence, spanning 3019 square feet, offers a perfect blend of modern elegance and an unbeatable location. Enjoy easy access, just moments from the pristine Panama City Beach sands and a premier golf course. This is ideal for those seeking a
**JUST REDUCED. Sellers Emergency Move out of state. Their misfortune is your deal!**. Welcome to your dream coastal retreat! This exquisitely designed Beach Collection Parrot Model in Phase 3 of the highly desirable Latitude Margaritaville Watersound community is a true gem, offering a RARE PRESERVE VIEW FROM BOTH THE LANAI AND THE FRONT OF THE HOME. This beautifully upgraded 2-bedroom, 2-bath
Solid Rental... 2023=$27,892 then a design refresh 2024=$32,145 and fall 2023 was a refresh with new LVP floors, appliances, and decor. 2025=$21,767.25 and 2026 is already booking. 2020 was updated water heater as well. Ready for you to enjoy this beautiful vacation spot for your family and guests. Welcome to your coastal retreat! This beautiful 1-bedroom, 2-bath condo offers more than just a
Discover tranquility in Rivercamps, a coveted gated community offering an unparalleled coastal lifestyle. This vacant lot awaits your vision, nestled within a haven of natural beauty and waterways. Enjoy exclusive access to West Bay and Crooked Creek, along with amenities like a boat ramp, community pool, a waterside campsite with tents, a bathhouse, a fire pit, and more than seven miles of
Welcome to this stunning Seaside model 2023 Truland built home located in the highly desirable Breakfast Point Community, known for its convenient access to great schools, shopping, dining, and Panama City Beach's white sand shores. This beautifully designed 3 bedroom, 3 full bath residence offers an open floor plan with EVP flooring throughout the main living areas, creating a seamless flow and
Discover the epitome of upscale living at the Townhomes at the Courts, a new construction opportunity nestled within the prestigious and private community of Wild Heron. The expertly planned three-bedroom floorplans redefine modern elegance with luxurious finishes and thoughtfully designed spaces totaling up to 2,600 square feet of living area and attached two-car garages. Step inside and
Nestled in the sought-after RiverCamps on Crooked Creek community, this meticulously crafted Romair construction sits on a 1.1-acre lot with stunning views of West Bay. RiverCamps has a boat launch with direct water access to Crooked Creek, West Bay, and ultimately the Gulf of Mexico-offering unmatched access to some of the area's most scenic waterways. Boat to Uncle Ernie's Restaurant and Shell
This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers comfortable and convenient long-term living in one of Panama City Beach's most sought-after neighborhoods. Thoughtfully furnished and fully move-in ready, this property is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, coastal lifestyle with all the essentials already in place. Inside, you'll find a spacious and open-concept living and dining
Live the coveted 55+ community of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound right now! Home available SEPTEMBER 2026 for over 6 mo to a year. Relax on the covered screened porch with a pond view. It just doesn't get any better! This Hammock single family features 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, fireplace and a 2 car garage. All utilities paid by Landlord. (gas, electric, water/sewer capped at $300/month)
Lease-to-Own at $3,500 per month plus utilities offered furnished 7 months minimum. Providing a flexible and unique opportunity to enjoy beachfront living while working toward ownership. Wake up to breathtaking Gulf-front views and the soothing sound of waves from your private beachfront balcony at this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo in Emerald Isle, located on the highly desirable
Live the coveted 55+ community of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound right now! Home available July 1, 2026 for over 6 months to a year. Relax on the screened in lanai with a pond view and stunning sunsets. It just doesn't get any better! Close to all the amenities! This Tortola Villa features 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, den and a 2 car garage. Unfurnished and all appliances included (refrigerator,
Live the coveted 55+ community of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound right now! Home available April 5, 2026 for 6 to12 months. It just doesn't get any better! Just bring your suitcase. This Furnished, move in ready Camelia Cottage located in the newer Phase 6BC features 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, den and a 2 car garage. All appliances included (refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave, washer and
Live the coveted 55+ community of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound right now! Home available March 1, 2026 for over 6 months to 12 months. Come live a fun, vibrant and active lifestyle in this nicely upgraded cottage at this incredible 55 or better community. Located on a corner lot, this Fully Furnished Aloha cottage floorplan with 2 Bedrooms, 2 full Baths and a 2 car Garage... Inside you'll
Live the coveted 55+ community of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound right now! Home available April 1, 2026 for 6 months +1 day to 12 months. Come live a fun, vibrant and active lifestyle in this nicely upgraded cottage at this incredible 55 or better community. This unfurnished Camellia cottage floorplan with 2 Bedrooms, 2 full Baths and a 2 car Garage... Inside you'll find quartz counters
Live the coveted 55+ community of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound right now! Home available JUNE 1, 226 for OVER 6 months to 12 months. Come live a fun, vibrant and active lifestyle in this nicely upgraded cottage at this incredible 55 or better community. This Fully Furnished Hula cottage floorplan with 2 Bedrooms, 2 full Baths, den with doors, and a 2 car Garage... Inside you'll find granite
Live the coveted 55+ community of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound right now! Home available APRIL 1, 2026 for over 6 mo to a year. Start date approx. 10/1/25. ALL utilities included, except wifi. Relax on your private screened porch of this gorgeous Camelia Cottage with a preserve view. Fully Furnished/Turnkey and all appliances included (refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave, washer and
Live the coveted 55+ community of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound right now! Home available for over 6 months only starting May 1, 2026 and all utilities included. Relax on the screened in lanai with a pond view. It just doesn't get any better! Close to all the amenities! This Jamaica Villa features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, den and a 2 car garage. Fully FURNISHED and all appliances included
DREAMSICLE AVAILABLE AS EARLY AS JULY 2026! $2950 per month. All utilities paid! Available July 1, 2026. Live the coveted 55+ community of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound right now! Relax on your private porch of this gorgeous Dreamsicle Cottage. Fully furnished/turnkey and all appliances included (refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave, washer and dryer). Just bring your toothbrush and
Available now with all utilities included! Welcome to your ideal coastal retreat at 712 Landing Circle—a spacious and thoughtfully designed 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home perfectly suited for comfortable long-term living near the beach.Located just minutes from the sugar-white sands of the Gulf of Mexico, this home offers the best of both relaxation and convenience. The nearest public beach access
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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.
