Cities and Towns in Santa Rosa County, Florida
Founded in 1842, Santa Rosa County is one of 67 counties in the state of Florida. Historically, Santa Rosa County was formed from Escambia. The city of Milton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 113, Santa Rosa County has a population of 193,998 and area of 1,016 square miles (2,631 km²).
List of all cities in Santa Rosa County, FL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bagdad, FL | 32530 | 850 |
| Gulf Breeze, FL | 32561 | 850 |
| 32562 | 850 | |
| 32563 | 850 | |
| 32566 | 850 | |
| Jay, FL | 32565 | 850 |
| Milton, FL | 32570 | 850 |
| 32571 | 850 | |
| 32572 | 850 | |
| 32583 | 850 | |
| Navarre, FL | 32566 | 850 |
| Pace, FL | 32571 | 850 |
| Pensacola Beach, FL | 32561 | 850 |
Major Cities and Towns in Santa Rosa County, Florida
Milton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 5.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 10,197 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 32570, 32571, 32583
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.6328° N, 87.0397° W
Location and History
Milton, the county seat of Santa Rosa County, is located in the western part of Florida’s Panhandle, near the banks of the Blackwater River. Founded in 1844, Milton has a long history tied to the lumber and shipbuilding industries. The city played a significant role during the Civil War, providing timber and other resources for the Confederacy. Over the years, Milton developed into a hub for manufacturing and transportation, thanks to its strategic location along the river and the railroad. Today, Milton is known for its historical charm, with many preserved buildings from the 19th century, as well as its connection to nearby military installations like Naval Air Station Whiting Field.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Milton is home to a number of excellent schools, including Milton High School and Hobbs Middle School, both of which are part of the Santa Rosa County School District. Major landmarks in the city include the Blackwater Heritage State Trail, a popular spot for walking, biking, and horseback riding that runs along an old railroad corridor. Additionally, historic sites like the Imogene Theatre and the West Florida Railroad Museum offer insights into the city’s past. The Blackwater River provides numerous recreational opportunities, including kayaking and canoeing, and is a central part of Milton’s identity as a scenic and historical city.
Gulf Breeze
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 23.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,466 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 32561, 32563, 32566
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.3571° N, 87.1639° W
Location and History
Gulf Breeze is a coastal city located on the Fairpoint Peninsula, just across Pensacola Bay from the city of Pensacola. Incorporated in 1961, Gulf Breeze is relatively young compared to other cities in the region, but it has quickly developed into a desirable residential area known for its picturesque waterfront views and proximity to the Gulf Islands National Seashore. The city’s history is closely tied to its coastal location, and it has long been a popular spot for fishing, boating, and beachgoing. Over the years, Gulf Breeze has become a family-friendly community with excellent schools, parks, and recreational amenities, making it a highly sought-after place to live in the Pensacola area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gulf Breeze boasts some of the top-rated schools in the region, including Gulf Breeze High School and Gulf Breeze Middle School, which are part of the Santa Rosa County School District. Landmarks in the area include the Gulf Islands National Seashore, which offers pristine beaches and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. The city is also home to Shoreline Park, a popular spot for picnicking, sports, and waterfront activities. The Gulf Breeze Zoo, located just east of the city, is a major attraction for families and visitors, offering a range of wildlife experiences in a scenic setting.
Navarre
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 29.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 44,876 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 32566
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.4011° N, 86.8636° W
Location and History
Navarre is a rapidly growing community in the southern part of Santa Rosa County, located along the Gulf of Mexico and bordered by Navarre Beach. The area was first developed in the 1940s but remained relatively quiet until the latter half of the 20th century, when it experienced a surge in population and development due to its desirable coastal location and proximity to Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field. Today, Navarre is known as one of the fastest-growing communities in the Florida Panhandle, attracting families, military personnel, and retirees who are drawn to its beautiful beaches, relaxed lifestyle, and access to outdoor activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Navarre is home to several well-regarded schools, including Navarre High School, which is part of the Santa Rosa County School District. The area is also known for its beautiful natural landmarks, including Navarre Beach, which is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. This pristine barrier island offers visitors opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the stunning coastal views. The Navarre Beach Pier, one of the longest fishing piers in the Gulf of Mexico, is a popular spot for both anglers and sightseers. Additionally, the Navarre Beach Marine Science Station provides educational programs focused on marine conservation and ecology.
Jay
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 533 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 32565
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.9516° N, 87.1525° W
Location and History
Jay is a small, rural town located in the northern part of Santa Rosa County, near the Alabama border. Established in the early 1900s, Jay has long been an agricultural community, known for its peanut farming, cotton, and cattle ranching. The town’s economy received a boost in the mid-20th century when oil was discovered in the area, leading to the development of the Jay Oil Field, one of the most productive in Florida. Despite its small size, Jay has maintained a strong sense of community and rural charm, with its economy still largely centered on agriculture and oil production.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Jay is served by Jay Elementary School and Jay High School, both of which are part of the Santa Rosa County School District and are known for their close-knit educational environment. The town’s landmarks include the annual Jay Peanut Festival, which celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage and draws visitors from across the region. The nearby Blackwater River State Forest offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing in a scenic natural environment. The small-town atmosphere, combined with the area’s agricultural and oil production history, gives Jay a unique identity within Santa Rosa County.
Pace
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 9.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 34,235 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 32571
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.5982° N, 87.1692° W
Location and History
Pace is a suburban community located just west of Milton and north of Pensacola, along U.S. Route 90. Initially a small agricultural town, Pace has experienced rapid growth in recent decades due to its convenient location and family-friendly environment. The area was primarily known for its timber and farming industries, but as Pensacola expanded, Pace transformed into a suburban residential area. Today, it is one of the fastest-growing communities in Santa Rosa County, known for its high-quality schools, shopping centers, and proximity to both natural attractions and urban amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pace is home to several of the best schools in the county, including Pace High School and S.S. Dixon Primary School, which are highly rated for their academic programs. Major landmarks in the area include the Pace Area Chamber of Commerce, which supports the local business community, and the Benny Russell Park, a popular destination for families with its playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails. The nearby Escambia River provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying Florida’s natural beauty. Additionally, Pace’s growing commercial sector, including restaurants and shopping centers, has made it a vibrant suburban community within Santa Rosa County.
Map of Cities in Santa Rosa County, FL
