Cities and Towns in Okaloosa County, Florida
Founded in 1915, Okaloosa County is one of 67 counties in the state of Florida. Historically, Okaloosa County was formed from Santa Rosa and Walton. The city of Crestview is the county seat. With FIPS code of 91, Okaloosa County has a population of 213,255 and area of 936 square miles (2,424 km²).
List of all cities in Okaloosa County, FL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Baker, FL | 32531 | 850 |
| Choctaw Beach, FL | 32578 | 850 |
| Crestview, FL | 32531 | 850 |
| 32536 | 850 | |
| 32539 | 850 | |
| Destin, FL | 32540 | 850 |
| 32541 | 850 | |
| Duke Field AFS, FL | 32542 | 850 |
| Eglin, FL | 32542 | 850 |
| Fort Walton Beach, FL | 32547 | 850 |
| 32548 | 850 | |
| 32549 | 850 | |
| Holt, FL | 32564 | 850 |
| Hurlburt Field, FL | 32544 | 850 |
| Laurel Hill, FL | 32567 | 850 |
| Mary Esther, FL | 32569 | 850 |
| Milligan, FL | 32537 | 850 |
| Niceville, FL | 32578 | 850 |
| Niceville, FL | 32588 | 850 |
| Okaloosa Island, FL | 32548 | 850 |
| Shalimar, FL | 32579 | 850 |
| Valparaiso, FL | 32580 | 850 |
| West Destin, FL | 32548 | 850 |
Major Cities and Towns in Okaloosa County, Florida
Crestview
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 16.15 square miles
- Population: Approximately 27,759 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 32536, 32539
- Latitude: 30.7542° N
- Longitude: 86.5728° W
Location and History
Crestview is the county seat of Okaloosa County, located in the northern part of the Florida Panhandle. The city is known as the “Hub City” due to its location at the intersection of major highways, including U.S. Route 90 and State Road 85. Crestview was founded in the late 19th century and became the county seat in 1917, thanks to its strategic location and growth as a transportation center. The city’s name reflects its elevated position, as it sits on a ridge between the Yellow and Shoal Rivers. Over the years, Crestview has developed into a bustling community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Its proximity to Eglin Air Force Base has also contributed to its growth, attracting military personnel and their families to the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Crestview is served by the Okaloosa County School District, with notable schools including Crestview High School and Shoal River Middle School. Major landmarks in Crestview include the Crestview Historic District, which features a collection of well-preserved buildings from the early 20th century, and the Baker Block Museum, which offers exhibits on the history of Okaloosa County. The city’s annual events, such as the Crestview Fall Festival and the Christmas Parade, celebrate the community’s history and culture. The nearby Blackwater River State Forest provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and camping. Crestview’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and natural beauty makes it the central city in Okaloosa County.
Fort Walton Beach
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 8.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 20,922 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 32547, 32548, 32549
- Latitude: 30.4201° N
- Longitude: 86.6170° W
Location and History
Fort Walton Beach is a coastal city located in the southwestern part of Okaloosa County, along the Emerald Coast of Florida. The city’s history dates back to the prehistoric era, with evidence of Native American settlements in the area. The modern city was founded in 1937 and quickly grew as a tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches and warm climate. Fort Walton Beach played a significant role during World War II as a training ground for military personnel, and its proximity to Eglin Air Force Base has continued to influence its development. Today, Fort Walton Beach is known for its vibrant tourism industry, military presence, and family-friendly attractions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fort Walton Beach is served by the Okaloosa County School District, with notable schools including Fort Walton Beach High School and Bruner Middle School. Major landmarks in Fort Walton Beach include the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, one of the oldest marine parks in the country, offering dolphin shows and exhibits on marine life, and the Indian Temple Mound Museum, which preserves the history and artifacts of the area’s Native American inhabitants. The city’s downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including the Emerald Coast Science Center and the Fort Walton Beach Landing Park. The nearby Okaloosa Island is a popular destination for beachgoers, offering pristine beaches and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Fort Walton Beach’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and coastal attractions makes it a key city in Okaloosa County.
Niceville
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 11.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 16,208 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 32578, 32588
- Latitude: 30.5169° N
- Longitude: 86.4820° W
Location and History
Niceville is a city located in the central part of Okaloosa County, near the northern shores of Choctawhatchee Bay. The city was originally known as Boggy Bayou and was a small fishing and timber community. In 1910, the town was renamed Niceville in an effort to attract more residents and visitors. Niceville has grown steadily over the years, particularly with the development of Eglin Air Force Base, which is located nearby. The city is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and access to outdoor recreational activities. Niceville’s location along the bay and its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico make it a desirable place to live and visit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Niceville is served by the Okaloosa County School District, with notable schools including Niceville High School, which is known for its strong academic and athletic programs, and Ruckel Middle School. Major landmarks in Niceville include the Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park, offering hiking trails, camping, and water activities on the bayou, and the Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival, an annual event that celebrates the city’s fishing heritage with live music, food, and family-friendly activities. The Mattie Kelly Arts Center, located on the campus of Northwest Florida State College, hosts a variety of cultural events, including theater performances, concerts, and art exhibitions. Niceville’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and natural beauty makes it an important city in Okaloosa County.
Destin
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 8.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 14,247 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 32540, 32541
- Latitude: 30.3935° N
- Longitude: 86.4958° W
Location and History
Destin is a coastal city located on a peninsula in the southwestern part of Okaloosa County, known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” The city was founded in the mid-19th century by Captain Leonard Destin, a fisherman who recognized the area’s abundant marine resources. Destin grew slowly until the mid-20th century when it began to develop as a tourist destination, attracting visitors with its white sandy beaches and emerald-green waters. The construction of the Destin Harbor and the Mid-Bay Bridge further spurred the city’s growth, making it a popular vacation spot for families and fishing enthusiasts. Today, Destin is known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and thriving tourism industry.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Destin is served by the Okaloosa County School District, with notable schools including Destin Elementary School and Destin Middle School. Major landmarks in Destin include the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, a lively area filled with restaurants, shops, and opportunities for water sports, and the Destin History & Fishing Museum, which preserves the city’s maritime heritage. Henderson Beach State Park is another popular destination, offering a protected stretch of beach, nature trails, and picnic areas. The city’s annual events, such as the Destin Seafood Festival and the Destin Fishing Rodeo, celebrate the local culture and draw visitors from across the country. Destin’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and coastal attractions makes it a key city in Okaloosa County.
Mary Esther
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 3.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,197 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 32569
- Latitude: 30.4099° N
- Longitude: 86.6611° W
Location and History
Mary Esther is a small city located in the southwestern part of Okaloosa County, along the Santa Rosa Sound. The city was founded in the late 19th century and named after the daughters of one of the area’s early settlers, John Newton. Mary Esther developed as a quiet residential community, with its location along U.S. Route 98 providing easy access to nearby Fort Walton Beach and the Gulf of Mexico. The city’s proximity to Hurlburt Field, a major U.S. Air Force installation, has influenced its growth, attracting military families and retirees. Despite its small size, Mary Esther has maintained a strong sense of community and a focus on preserving its natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mary Esther is served by the Okaloosa County School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby Fort Walton Beach. Major landmarks in Mary Esther include the Santa Rosa Mall, a regional shopping center that serves as a hub for retail and dining in the area, and the nearby Gulf Islands National Seashore, which offers pristine beaches, nature trails, and opportunities for birdwatching and water sports. The city’s annual events, such as the Mary Esther Day Celebration, reflect its small-town charm and community spirit. The surrounding natural areas, including the Santa Rosa Sound and the Gulf of Mexico, provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Mary Esther’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and coastal charm makes it an important community in Okaloosa County.
Map of Cities in Okaloosa County, FL
