Make Destin your full-time home.
With a robust economy, A+ rated schools, and a picturesque setting from the Gulf of Mexico to the Choctawhatchee Bay, Destin is a wonderful place to make your full-time home. Once a sleepy fishing village, this coastal city has grown to include nearly 14,000 residents and businesses of all types. Destin offers a family-friendly lifestyle with a brand-new library, an active community center, sports leagues for all ages and a thriving arts community.
What to Know Before You Move.
- Location – Nestled on a peninsula between the Gulf of Mexico and the Choctawhatchee Bay, Destin offers a range of housing options from beachfront condos to bay side homes. Depending on your individual situation, you may prefer to live in a community with no vacation rentals allowed, that has families with children or that offers private amenities such as golf or tennis. Our experienced – and local – agents can help you find your perfect location based on traffic patterns, proximity to hospitals or grocery stores, and your personal style.
- Schools – Located in Okaloosa County, Destin is home to both Destin Elementary School and Destin Middle School, both part of the Okaloosa County School District which is a Florida A+ high performing district. Both schools are highly rated on their own accord. Most Destin students attend either Fort Walton Beach High School or Niceville High School, both schools also in the Okaloosa County School District. Three state colleges have campuses nearby, Northwest Florida State College, The University of West Florida, and Troy University.
- Culture – Destin is home to the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, Northwest Florida’s premier cultural arts organization. Through customized outreach programs, MKAF facilitates meaningful and engaging cultural experiences in K-12 schools and community organizations in Okaloosa and Walton counties. You will also find a variety of art galleries, artist studios, live music events, and local festivals. There are several local churches of varied denominations along with volunteer and non-profit organizations catered to specific special interests and missions.
- Recreation – With a mild climate year-round, Destin offers the ability to enjoy outdoor recreation of all kinds. The Parks and Recreation Department maintains and operates 30 properties including three sports complexes, two indoor facilities, 1 boat launch (5 ramps), rental pavilions, and three public beach parks and eight beach trails. Enjoy biking and hiking trails, kayak or paddleboard launches, boat launches, fishing, and camping.
Ready to begin your home search?