Greater Fort Walton Beach, Florida Panhandle, FL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
25,269
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$95,124/yr
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
18,191
0.8% year-over-year change

Greater Fort Walton Beach population

How many people live in Greater Fort Walton Beach

Greater Fort Walton Beach is home to 25,269 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.3% of Greater Fort Walton Beach locals are male, and 48.7% are female.

Total population
25,269
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.3%
12,959
Female
48.7%
12,310
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,959 51.3% 0.8%
Female 12,310 48.7% 0.6%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Greater Fort Walton Beach is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.7% are children under 15, then 9.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.8% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.7%
15 to 24
9.8%
25 to 44
27.8%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
20.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,971 15.7% -1.7%
15 to 24 2,469 9.8% 2.5%
25 to 44 7,023 27.8% 2.9%
45 to 64 6,731 26.6% -1.1%
Over 65 5,075 20.1% 1.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Greater Fort Walton Beach, 84.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 76% of locals are Caucasian, 6% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.7% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.8%
Non-citizens
7.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,311 84.3% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,966 7.8% -1.5%
Non-citizens 1,992 7.9% 11.2%
Racial breakdown
White
76%
Black or African American
6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.7%
Two or more races
9.6%
Other
3.8%
Value Percent
White 19,214 76%
Black or African American 1,530 6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 175 0.7%
Asian 777 3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 178 0.7%
Two or more races 2,433 9.6%
Other 963 3.8%

Households in Greater Fort Walton Beach

A peek inside Greater Fort Walton Beach households

Greater Fort Walton Beach has 11,132 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.2% are families, while the remaining 38.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,132
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,324
Family households
6,809
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,324 38.8% -0.9%
Family households 6,809 61.2% 2.3%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Greater Fort Walton Beach

The housing landscape of Greater Fort Walton Beach

Greater Fort Walton Beach's housing consists of 18,191 units, with 44.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
18,191
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,051 44.3%
1 unit, attached 1,079 5.9%
2 units 173 1%
3 or 4 units 892 4.9%
5 to 9 units 1,182 6.5%
10 to 19 units 847 4.7%
20 to 49 units 1,708 9.4%
50 or more units 4,098 22.5%
Mobile home 106 0.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 56 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
291
37.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Greater Fort Walton Beach

In Greater Fort Walton Beach, the median construction year is 1982. About 0.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 32 0.2% -21.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 79 0.4% 6.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 578 3.2% -5.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,216 6.7% -3.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,180 17.5% -0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,988 21.9% 2.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,560 19.6% -3.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,577 19.7% 2.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,691 9.3% 6.0%
Built in 2020 or later 291 1.6% 37.9%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Greater Fort Walton Beach occupancy rates

Out of the 11,132 occupied housing units in Greater Fort Walton Beach, 65.9% are owner-occupied, while 34.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 38.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,132
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,795
Owner occupied
7,338
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,795 34.1% -0.7%
Owner occupied 7,338 65.9% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
38.8%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Greater Fort Walton Beach housing costs

Housing costs in Greater Fort Walton Beach come to a median of $1,652 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,712.

Median housing costs per month
$1,652/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Greater Fort Walton Beach
$1,712/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Greater Fort Walton Beach

Greater Fort Walton Beach education at a glance

About 24.7% of the population in Greater Fort Walton Beach went to high school, while 21.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 26.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 565 2.8% 12.6%
High school diploma 5,048 24.7% 1.6%
College diploma 4,431 21.7% -0.1%
Associate degree 1,877 9.2% -0.7%
Bachelor's degree 5,399 26.4% -1.2%
Graduate degree 3,103 15.2% 4.8%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Greater Fort Walton Beach

How much people earn in Greater Fort Walton Beach

The average annual household income in Greater Fort Walton Beach was $133,909 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $95,124, reflecting a +2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Greater Fort Walton Beach
$133,909/year
6.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Greater Fort Walton Beach
$95,124/year
2.3% year-over-year change

Greater Fort Walton Beach income by age

In Greater Fort Walton Beach, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $95,511. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $108,045 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $70,806, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $68,527 in earnings. Overall, 90.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $70,806 5.7%
25 - 44 $95,511 4.9%
45 - 64 $108,045 7.3%
Over 65 $68,527 7.6%
Above poverty level
22,669
Below poverty level
2,263
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 22,669 90.9% 1.1%
Below poverty level 2,263 9.1% -0.4%

Employment in Greater Fort Walton Beach

Workforce and job types in Greater Fort Walton Beach

82.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 17.9% run their own businesses, 63.9% are employed by private companies, and 13.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
10,360
Blue collar
2,133
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,360 82.9% 0.1%
Blue collar 2,133 17.1% 4.7%
Employer type
Self employees
17.9%
Private companies
63.9%
Governmental workers
13.6%
Not for profit companies
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,238 17.9% 0.6%
Private companies 7,987 63.9% -0.1%
Governmental workers 1,697 13.6% 7.8%
Not for profit companies 571 4.6% -2.7%

Transportation in Greater Fort Walton Beach

How people get around in Greater Fort Walton Beach

Commuting methods vary: 96% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,763 96% 0.1%
Taxicab 40 0.4% -18.4%
Bus or trolleybus 41 0.4% -6.8%
Motorcycle 4 0% 33.3%
Bicycle 85 0.8% -5.6%
Walk 277 2.5% 9.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Greater Fort Walton Beach by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
32579 10,506 4,516 $104,510 $141,713
32541 18,855 8,446 $95,124 $155,090
32548 23,774 10,333 $65,342 $89,053

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FAQs about Greater Fort Walton Beach demographics 

What is the total population of Greater Fort Walton Beach?

Greater Fort Walton Beach has a total population of 25,269 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Greater Fort Walton Beach?

The gender ratio in Greater Fort Walton Beach is as follows:
  • 51.3% males (12,959 residents)
  • 48.7% females (12,310 residents)

What is the median age in Greater Fort Walton Beach?

The median age in Greater Fort Walton Beach is 42.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Greater Fort Walton Beach?

The age distribution in Greater Fort Walton Beach is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.7% (3,971 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.8% (2,469 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.8% (7,023 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (6,731 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.1% (5,075 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Fort Walton Beach?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Fort Walton Beach is as follows:
  • White: 76% (19,214 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6% (1,530 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (175 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (777 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.7% (178 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.6% (2,433 residents)
  • Other: 3.8% (963 residents)

What percentage of the population in Greater Fort Walton Beach are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.3% of the population in Greater Fort Walton Beach.

How many housing units are there in Greater Fort Walton Beach?

There are 18,191 housing units in Greater Fort Walton Beach, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Greater Fort Walton Beach and what is the average household size?

Greater Fort Walton Beach has a total of 11,132 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Greater Fort Walton Beach?

Greater Fort Walton Beach has a median household income of $95,124, representing a +2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Greater Fort Walton Beach?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.9% (10,360 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.1% (2,133 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 17.9% (2,238 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.9% (7,987 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.6% (1,697 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.6% (571 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025