A hospitable community where arts and aviation meet
Pensacola is often considered a hidden gem, with surprising contrasts. It’s the westernmost city on the Panhandle, near the Alabama border, and is filled with postcard-worthy scenes. Emerald-green waters and white sands are pleasing to the eye, while further out towards the suburbs there are vast stands of pine trees. Sunny days fill out the calendar year, but frequent rain showers also paint the streets. There are dashes of Spanish history throughout, plus lots of seafood restaurants. Navy jets fly overhead, and murals decorate city walls, adding a modern touch.
The metro area boasts 500,000 citizens, although in the city proper that number is closer to 55,000. The median age is 42, but with Florida’s lack of state income tax, it’s not uncommon to find retirees here. Banking, healthcare, military and energy are top sectors, giving a competitive edge to Pensacola — tourism is not the sole industry. In 2024, a Danish urban planning firm will create a strategic plan for the city, with three areas of focus: developing the waterfront, sustaining the local economy and improving quality of life over the next decade.
With over 220 days of sunshine a year, staying outdoors is part of daily life. The Gulf Islands National Seashore is the largest federally protected seashore in the country. Downtown, fans gather at a minor league baseball stadium to cheer on the Blue Wahoos under blue skies. Indeed, the area is infused with activity: Pensacola International Airport is the state’s second-busiest airport, just behind the airport in Jacksonville. For drivers, the average commute time is 20 minutes.
When thinking of Pensacola, most people think of the sugar white beaches and emerald waters.
The Naval Air Station in Pensacola is home to the beloved Blue Angels.
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Pastel cottages and Craftsman homes in the $200,000s
One of the incentives drawing people to Pensacola over other nearby coastal towns is the cost of living, which is 5% lower than the state average and 4% lower than the national average. The sheer diversity of living arrangements also appeals to homebuyers. One can live in a suburban development, a golf course community or even a slightly rural stretch surrounded by acreage; and still, each of these is never too far removed from the amenities in Pensacola’s core.
Consistency in price, at least around the city proper, is another strength. At the bottom of the market, beachy pastel cottages sell at $150,000. In areas like South Pensacola, bungalows begin to appear around the $200,000 mark, as do ranch homes, offering more rooms, more square footage and midcentury vintage flair. Those in search of townhouses or just less yard maintenance will also find condo units beginning in this range. New construction from the 2020s, like white brick three-bedroom homes with Craftsman stylings, are available in the upper $200,000s. Prices rise for larger homes, as well as homes in prized locations, like Downtown Pensacola and on the water.
To capture those stunning views of the bay, Realtor Levi Fortner recommends a neighborhood called East Hill, located in Southeast Pensacola. Fortner heads up a team of Panhandle experts called The Fortner Team and says this area is enticing because, in addition to views, it speaks to Pensacola’s penchant for hospitable, southern culture. “It’s one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Pensacola just because of the community aspect,” he says.
Condos and beach houses add a beachy laid-back vibe to Pensacola Beach.
The neighborhood of East Hill is a picturesque and quaint area of Pensacola.
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High-performing Escambia County schools
Pensacola is a part of the Escambia County School District, which earns an overall B grade on Niche. Students who attend one of the 40 primary and secondary schools serving Pensacola have access to high-performing institutions. They’re known for producing some of the highest standardized test scores in the state. In 2023, two local seniors earned the highest possible ACT composite score — a rare moment achieved by only 3,000 out of 1.3 million students who took the exam. The city also has a popular magnet school, the West Florida High School of Advanced Technology. On the higher education front, Pensacola State College sits in Ferry Pass, next door to the airport, and it offers over 100 programs. The University of West Florida is just another 6 miles north of there and is attended by both graduate and undergraduate students.
Pensacola High School proudly serves Pensacola Beach.
A. K Sutter Elementary is a great school in Pensacola, FL.
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Pensacola Beach attracts locals and visitors
Pensacola Beach and the nearby Gulf Islands National Seashore draw locals and visitors. Whether it’s biking, snorkeling or collecting seashells, locals find many ways to hang around the white sands and clear waters.
But further inland, public spaces reveal Pensacola’s deep history. Plaza Ferdinand once served as the town’s central gathering spot during the Colonial era. A replica of a fountain from Seville, Spain, stands here. Visitors can also observe a bust of Andrew Jackson, who once served as Territorial Governor. Today, the beautifully shaded plaza is flanked by artistic institutions, like the Pensacola Saenger Theater.
Beyond the city center, residents might choose to go tubing on the Blackwater River or hiking through Big Lagoon State Park.
The sandy beaches on the Gulf and boating on the Pensacola Sound draw people to Pensacola.
Pensacola locals love the outdoors, taking walks, riding bikes, and boating.
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Fresh Gulf of Mexico seafood
Pensacola is known for local restaurants serving fresh Gulf of Mexico seafood. Iconic shops like Joe Patti's downtown have been leading the "ocean to table" movement for nearly 100 years. But the restaurants downtown, concentrated on Palafox Street, offer many options, including upscale steakhouses and casual brunch spots.
Downtown Pensacola's many restaurants sit between local shops. National retailers are concentrated along Highway 90 near Fairfield Drive, and Cordova Mall offers more shopping and dining options.
What an amazing view from the deck at The Fish House near Downtown Pensacola.
Downtown Pensacola is a vibrant shopping and dining district.
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Downtown Pensacola's rich heritage
Local architecture offers eye candy, too, like the Grecian-inspired First National Bank, built near the turn of the 20th century. Downtown certainly has an identity, but a unique feature is that the skyline doesn’t loom over the beach. Most of the buildings are low rises, enhancing the leisurely, walkable southern atmosphere.
Museums are in abundance: The National Naval Aviation Museum, the Lighthouse and Maritime Museum and the Pensacola Museum of Art, to name a few. In fact, despite Pensacola not being a huge metropolis like Orlando or Miami, it has what’s considered the “top 5” in cultural amenities: an opera, ballet, symphony, art museum and theater.
Events are another way that culture stands out in Pensacola. Every fall, people come together at Foo Foo Fest for an astonishing 12 days, to celebrate live music and interactive art. The Pensacola Seafood Fest has a decades-long streak, and the Palafox Market is open every Saturday with over 100 local vendors – interrupted only by the annual Mardi Gras parade.
Residents and visitors can tour the Historic Pensacola Village, where past and present meet.
Meet up with friends at the Palafox Market in Pensacola.
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I-10 connects Pensacola to both coasts
Interstate 110 runs right into the heart of downtown, connecting major thoroughfares like Palafox Street, Cervantes Street and Chase Street—all trafficked by public buses. Chase Street leads to the Pensacola Bay Bridge, a common way to reach the beach. Route 98 runs along the south side of Pensacola, and residents can take this west to reach key destinations like the National Naval Aviation Museum and Big Lagoon State Park. Just north of Pensacola, I-10 connects the city with both the Atlanta and Pacific coasts.
Pensacola International Airport, located northeast of downtown, offers nonstop flights to 9 major U.S. cities. Downtown Pensacola is known for being a highly walkable area.
Environmental factors and Crime Stats
Industrial mills, landfills and sewage plants have been polluting the City of Pensacola for decades. The Main Street Wastewater Treatment Plant was shut down in 2011 after dumping toxins into the soil, the Bay and the city’s main water supply for nearly 90 years. On top of this, Escambia County is home to six superfund sites, three of which are in Pensacola’s city limits. Though these sites center around the downtown district, pollution impacts all of Pensacola. Frequent hurricanes and tropical storms cause flooding, which then distributes toxins to the waterways further inland.
The city reports spending over $33 million on stormwater projects since the mid-2010s. Still, the U.S. Department of Environmental Protection still estimates that about 35 million pounds of toxins are released here each year. Out of 893 metropolitan areas, Pensacola currently ranks as the twelfth most toxic city in the country.
According to year-over-year crime data from the Pensacola Police Department, crime rates declined in 2024. There were 202 violent crimes in 2024, compared to 237 in 2023. Property crimes also decreased, from 1,032 in 2023 to 880 in 2024. It should be noted that both year-over-year crime reports only reflect data from January 1 through September 30. Crimes committed from October 1 to December 31 are unaccounted for by the Pensacola Police Department.
Written By
Ryan Horton
Photography Contributed By
Gabrielle Mazur
Video By
Charlie Lingner
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Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties
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On average, homes in Pensacola, FL sell after 79 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Pensacola, FL over the last 12 months is $289,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautifully crafted 4-bedroom, 3-bath home, full of charm and exceptional spaces for entertaining. Set on over half an acre in one of the city’s most enchanting neighborhoods, this property offers the perfect blend of privacy, comfort, and style. From formal dining to the luxurious family gathering room, and from the spacious outdoor kitchen to the poolside bar, every area is
**BRING OFFER **Welcome to 800 Shadow Ridge Drive — a fully remodeled 6-bedroom, 3-bath home in desirable Northeast Pensacola, where modern comfort meets everyday convenience. From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel the difference. This home has been beautifully transformed with luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout (no carpet!), designer lighting, and a bright, open floor plan that feels both
Newly remodeled with all-new first-floor flooring, fresh interior paint, updated light fixtures, painted kitchen cabinets, and more, this custom-built home offers a true “one size fits all” layout designed to adapt to a variety of lifestyles. Located in the gated community of Innerarity Island, this four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath residence blends comfort, privacy, and coastal charm. The
Exceptional 2024 Duplex – Modern Living & Smart Investment Opportunity! Each unit is 2 bedroom and 2 bath. Each unit 1,733 sq ft. Discover this like-new duplex in the heart of Pensacola, perfectly positioned near the interstate and just minutes from shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences. Built in 2024, this property blends modern design, quality craftsmanship, and endless potential—ideal
Catherine Ellis
Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties
**OPEN HOUSE THURS. 2/5 10AM-6PM** Welcome to 1308 E Cross Street! Priced to sell and ready for new owners! Built in 2021 and meticulously maintained, this stunning 2-story home blends modern convenience with timeless style. Enter through a charming foyer that sets the tone for the home, leading into the bright and spacious open-concept kitchen and living area, perfect for gathering and
Step into timeless charm with this beautifully updated 1940s cottage, located just minutes from downtown Pensacola. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the perfect mix of warmth, character, and functionality. Inside, you’ll find refinished hardwood floors, fresh neutral paint and modern bathrooms. The kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, backslash, and a pantry. The home features three
This move-in ready, all-brick home offers a refined, low-maintenance design with epoxy flooring throughout for durability and a modern finish. The open living space is well-balanced and functional, with tray ceilings in the dining area, living room and primary bedroom adding subtle architectural detail. A 10x15 screened porch provides comfortable outdoor living. Key updates completed include the
Jenifer Suarez
Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties
Great deal on a waterfront home! Here's your chance to enjoy the shores of Perdido Bay at Innerarity Island in a gated community on half an acre! This stunning home features a full 100 feet of waterfront with breathtaking views. You can enjoy these views from almost every single room in the house too! Feel the summer breeze as you relax on your screened in back porch overlooking the pool. Gaze at
Kristen Hintz
Better Homes And Gardens Real Estate Main Street Properties
Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in the heart of Pensacola. Original hardwood flooring carries throughout the main living spaces, offering warmth and timeless character. The home features a newly remodeled kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, and a farmhouse sink, making it both functional and stylish. Both bathrooms have been
Seller offering Buyers Concessions to be used toward closing costs, prepaids, rate buydowns. Year after year, guests come from miles away to stay in this very spot in Perdido Key. Welcome to your own slice of island paradise at the popular Purple Parrot Resort in Perdido Key! This charming fully furnished 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom stand-alone condo is nestled against a lush nature preserve,
Price adjustment AND $5K in seller concessions on this charming 1960 bungalow blends classic character with modern updates in a renovated 3-bedroom, 1-bath layout. With 1,152 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. This home features an open-concept kitchen, dining, and living area—perfect for entertaining or relaxing in comfort. The updated interior boasts a fresh, cohesive flow with
Welcome to this newly updated 2009 brick home in Pensacola, offering a desirable split-floor plan with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The spacious primary suite is a true retreat, featuring two separate closets, a spa-like bathroom with double vanities, a soaking tub, and a separate shower. On the opposite side of the home, two additional bedrooms share a full bathroom, providing privacy and
This one owner custom home has 3 bedrooms and 2 full Bathrooms along with spacious 2 car garage, elevated bricked sunroom, porch and covered patio. Nice low maintenance yard. Very cozy excellent floor plan. Located in a prestigious neighborhood of the WHISPERS AT CORDOVA featuring underground utilities, sidewalks, lamp post, impressive friendly neighborhood entrance and a very well managed HOA.
East Hill Home with Extensive Remodel 2023 - across from park corner lot at 19th Ave. & Yonge St. 3 Bedrooms and 2 Full Baths, 1,557 square feet. New Roof, One Car garage, ALL NEW HIGH END CUSTOM KITCHEN (gutted &rebuilt by custom builder) as well as new lovely bright MASTER BATHROOM, ALL NEW Electrical, NEW Plumbing in accessible areas, NEW WINDOWS, Cast iron pipes replaced in crawl space. ALL
**Charming Fully Remodeled Cottage in the Heart of Pensacola on Corner Lot! Must see this property is like no other in North Hill Highlands** Don't underestimate the location it is super nice and growing Discover the perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort at 1101 W Lloyd St, Pensacola, FL 32501. This beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bath cottage sits gracefully on a corner lot,
Beautiful brick 3-bedroom, 2-bath home located in the Logan Place community off Mobile Highway near Blue Angel Parkway, featuring a 2-car garage and an open, split-bedroom floor plan with the spacious primary bedroom suite privately situated opposite the guest bedrooms. The primary suite offers tray ceilings, a large walk-in closet, and double vanities. Updates completed in January 2026 include
Coming available 2/6, this 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom East Hill cottage combines classic charm with modern updates and energy-efficient features, including a solar system to reduce power costs. The home features a spacious living area with rustic hardwood floors throughout most of the house, except the kitchen and bathroom. The eat-in galley kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, ample counter
Conveniently Located 3 Bedroom / 2 Bathroom Rental Near NAS Pensacola! This well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is ideally located just off Hwy 98, offering easy access to Pensacola NAS, Corry Station, Downtown Pensacola, and PSC Warrington Campus. The home is currently furnished and preferred to be rented furnished, though the owner is open to an unfurnished option if needed. Inside,
Two-story condo in northeast Pensacola featuring a community pool and convenient access to I-10, shopping, schools, and more. The home offers a no-carpet interior with wood-look flooring in the living areas and tile flooring in the kitchen and bathrooms. The first floor includes an open living and dining area and a galley-style kitchen overlooking the living space, equipped with a stove,
This spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath brick home with a 2-car garage is located in the newly developed Lakeshore Preserve neighborhood in Beulah. It features an open floor plan with wood-look flooring throughout the main living areas and carpet in the bedrooms. The kitchen includes white cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a pantry, and a large island with bar seating that opens
READY NOW – 1⁄2 OFF FIRST MONTH’S RENT! This updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment features fresh interior paint, wood-look flooring throughout, and new kitchen appliances—no carpet—and includes a private patio. The functional layout provides easy, low-maintenance living in a convenient Pensacola location near shopping, dining, and local amenities. Pets under 25 lbs may be considered with owner
3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome with a 1-car garage, located off 9 Mile Road in North Pensacola, offers convenient access to shopping, dining, I-10, and more. Situated in the desirable Admiral’s Quarters community, residents enjoy access to a community pool and dog park. The home features luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the main living areas and an open kitchen with stainless steel
Updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath home conveniently located near downtown Pensacola, shopping, and dining. Ready 1/5. This home features wood-look flooring throughout, fresh interior paint, and a fully fenced yard for added privacy. The kitchen is equipped with new appliances, and a washer and dryer are included in as-is condition. Pets are considered with owner approval and a $250 non-refundable pet fee
Updated 3rd-floor condo in the waterfront Bayview Terrace community. This two-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom unit features an open living and dining layout, wood laminate flooring, and a refreshed kitchen with a fridge, stove, and dishwasher. One bedroom offers an attached half bath, and the full bathroom includes a tub/shower combo. A stackable washer and dryer are provided in as-is condition. Enjoy two
Nestled in the desirable Sunset Estates community off Safley Field Rd, this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home blends modern style with everyday comfort. Luxury plank flooring flows throughout the open-concept living and dining areas, complemented by high ceilings and abundant natural light. The chef’s kitchen features stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, a large island with bar seating, and
This updated 2-bedroom apartment in North Pensacola offers comfortable, low-maintenance living in a convenient location near UWF, Pace, and I-10. The home features high ceilings, a decorative fireplace, and stylish wood-look laminate flooring, along with a functional kitchen with modern appliances and ample cabinet space. Rent includes water, sewer, garbage, pest control, lawn care, and basic
Coming Available 2/10 – This 2-bedroom, 1-bath attached home in the desirable Nantucket Place community in northeast Pensacola offers a prime location just minutes from UWF, hospitals, I-10, shopping, and dining. The open-concept layout features a kitchen with a breakfast bar flowing into the living and dining areas, equipped with a refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher. The living room boasts
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