Cities and Towns in Walton County, Florida

Founded in 1824, Walton County is one of 67 counties in the state of Florida. Historically, Walton County was formed from Escambia and Jackson. The city of DeFuniak Springs is the county seat. With FIPS code of 131, Walton County has a population of 80,069 and area of 1,058 square miles (2,740 km²).

List of all cities in Walton County, FL alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Alys Beach, FL 32461 850
Argyle, FL 32422 850
Bruce, FL 32455 850
Defuniak Springs, FL 32433 850
32435 850
Destin, FL 32550 850
Freeport, FL 32439 850
Miramar Beach, FL 32550 850
Mossy Head, FL 32434 850
Panama City, FL 32461 850
Paxton, FL 32538 850
Point Washington, FL 32459 850
Ponce de Leon, FL 32455 850
Red Bay, FL 32455 850
Rosemary Beach, FL 32461 850
Sandestin, FL 32550 850
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 850
Watersound, FL 32461 850

Major Cities and Towns in Walton County, Florida

DeFuniak Springs

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

  • Area: 14.2 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 6,686 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 32433, 32435
  • Latitude and Longitude: 30.7235° N, 86.1158° W

Location and History

DeFuniak Springs is the county seat of Walton County, located in the Florida Panhandle. The city was founded in the late 19th century as a resort community for the officers of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. Named after Frederick R. De Funiak, a prominent railroad executive, the city quickly became known for its picturesque lake, Lake DeFuniak, one of only two perfectly round natural lakes in the world. DeFuniak Springs developed into a center for education and culture in the region, attracting visitors and residents with its Chautauqua Assembly, a cultural and educational movement that brought renowned speakers, musicians, and artists to the city. Today, DeFuniak Springs retains much of its historic charm, with many buildings and homes dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Major Schools and Landmarks

DeFuniak Springs is served by the Walton County School District, with Walton High School and Maude Saunders Elementary School being key educational institutions. The city is also home to the Walton County Public Library, one of the oldest libraries in the state. Major landmarks in DeFuniak Springs include the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood, a historic building that served as the center of cultural activities during the Chautauqua era, and Lake DeFuniak, which remains a popular spot for walking, fishing, and picnicking. The city’s historic district features a variety of well-preserved Victorian homes, and the annual Florida Chautauqua Assembly continues to celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Freeport

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

  • Area: 12.7 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 5,861 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 32439
  • Latitude and Longitude: 30.5016° N, 86.1363° W

Location and History

Freeport is a growing city located in the southern part of Walton County, near the Choctawhatchee Bay. The city was established in the early 19th century and was originally known as Genoa. It later became known as Freeport due to its status as a port where no duties were charged on goods, making it a popular location for trade and commerce. Freeport’s economy historically relied on timber and fishing, with the nearby bay and river providing access to abundant natural resources. In recent years, Freeport has experienced significant growth due to its proximity to the beaches of South Walton and the expanding residential development in the area. Despite its growth, Freeport has managed to maintain its small-town atmosphere and connection to the natural environment.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Freeport is served by the Walton County School District, with Freeport High School and Freeport Elementary School being the primary educational institutions. The city is also home to the Freeport Regional Sports Complex, which provides recreational facilities for residents. Major landmarks in Freeport include the Four Mile Creek Park, a popular spot for boating and fishing, and the nearby E. O. Wilson Biophilia Center, which offers environmental education programs and promotes the conservation of Florida’s natural habitats. The city’s location along the Choctawhatchee Bay also makes it a gateway to exploring the region’s waterways and enjoying outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching.

Paxton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

  • Area: 1.4 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 644 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 32538
  • Latitude and Longitude: 30.9794° N, 86.3063° W

Location and History

Paxton is a small town located in the northern part of Walton County, near the Alabama state line. The town was established in the early 20th century as a stop on the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, which played a crucial role in the development of the area. Paxton’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, with cotton, peanuts, and timber being the primary products. The town is known for its rural charm and tight-knit community, with many families having lived in the area for generations. Paxton is the highest town in Florida, sitting at an elevation of 318 feet above sea level, which gives it a unique climate and landscape compared to the surrounding areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Paxton is served by the Walton County School District, with Paxton School, a K-12 institution, being the primary educational facility in the town. The school plays a central role in the community, offering not only education but also serving as a hub for local events and activities. Major landmarks in Paxton include Lake Jackson, a natural lake that straddles the Florida-Alabama border, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The town’s rural setting provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of the Florida Panhandle. Paxton’s annual Heritage Festival celebrates the town’s history and agricultural heritage, bringing the community together for a day of festivities and fun.

Map of Cities in Walton County, FL

Map of Cities in Walton County, FL