Fort Walton Beach, FL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
21,025
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,538/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,901
0.1% year-over-year change

Fort Walton Beach population

How many people live in Fort Walton Beach

Fort Walton Beach is home to 21,025 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Fort Walton Beach locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
21,025
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
10,468
Female
50.2%
10,557
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,468 49.8% -0.1%
Female 10,557 50.2% 0.8%
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 Fort Walton Beach is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.9% are children under 15, then 10.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.9% of the population, while another 20.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.9%
15 to 24
10.7%
25 to 44
29.9%
45 to 64
20.8%
Over 65
19.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,978 18.9% -0.7%
15 to 24 2,245 10.7% -2.1%
25 to 44 6,280 29.9% 6.3%
45 to 64 4,370 20.8% -8.6%
Over 65 4,152 19.8% 4.7%
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 Fort Walton Beach, 85.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 66.2% of locals are Caucasian, 11.9% are African American and 4% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.8% are Pacific Islanders, while 6.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
85.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.1%
Non-citizens
5.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,995 85.6% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,917 9.1% 9.5%
Non-citizens 1,113 5.3% 0.9%
Racial breakdown
White
66.2%
Black or African American
11.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.8%
Two or more races
10.3%
Other
6.7%
Value Percent
White 13,924 66.2%
Black or African American 2,494 11.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 39 0.2%
Asian 832 4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 166 0.8%
Two or more races 2,163 10.3%
Other 1,407 6.7%

Households in Fort Walton Beach

A peek inside Fort Walton Beach households

Fort Walton Beach has 8,817 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.6% are families, while the remaining 40.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,817
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,564
Family households
5,253
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,564 40.4% -3.9%
Family households 5,253 59.6% 4.5%
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 Fort Walton Beach

The housing landscape of Fort Walton Beach

Fort Walton Beach's housing consists of 9,901 units, with 67% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.3% 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 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,901
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,634 67%
1 unit, attached 620 6.3%
2 units 123 1.2%
3 or 4 units 577 5.8%
5 to 9 units 734 7.4%
10 to 19 units 405 4.1%
20 to 49 units 252 2.6%
50 or more units 481 4.9%
Mobile home 9 0.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 66 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
27
145.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fort Walton Beach

In Fort Walton Beach, the median construction year is 1972. About 0.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 61 0.6% -3.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 255 2.6% 4.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,673 16.9% -1.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,568 25.9% -0.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,857 18.8% -1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,497 15.1% 6.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 508 5.1% -13.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 742 7.5% 1.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 713 7.2% 3.9%
Built in 2020 or later 27 0.3% 145.4%
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.

Fort Walton Beach occupancy rates

Out of the 8,817 occupied housing units in Fort Walton Beach, 61.8% are owner-occupied, while 38.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,817
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,366
Owner occupied
5,451
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,366 38.2% -4.4%
Owner occupied 5,451 61.8% 4.5%
Unoccupied housing units
10.9%
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.

Fort Walton Beach housing costs

Housing costs in Fort Walton Beach come to a median of $1,285 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,307.

Median housing costs per month
$1,285/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 Fort Walton Beach
$1,307/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 Fort Walton Beach

Fort Walton Beach education at a glance

About 33.9% of the population in Fort Walton Beach went to high school, while 24.2% pursued college studies. Another 10.7% earned an associate degree and 19.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 525 3.2% 47.9%
High school diploma 5,549 33.9% -5.8%
College diploma 3,973 24.2% 1.8%
Associate degree 1,758 10.7% 2.0%
Bachelor's degree 3,219 19.6% 5.4%
Graduate degree 1,362 8.3% -0.1%
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 Fort Walton Beach

How much people earn in Fort Walton Beach

The average annual household income in Fort Walton Beach was $89,319 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,538, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fort Walton Beach
$89,319/year
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fort Walton Beach
$68,538/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Fort Walton Beach income by age

In 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 $67,147. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,051 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,100, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $69,031 in earnings. Overall, 86.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,100 7.4%
25 - 44 $67,147 1.8%
45 - 64 $71,051 2.8%
Over 65 $69,031 7.2%
Above poverty level
17,722
Below poverty level
2,733
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,722 86.6% 0.9%
Below poverty level 2,733 13.4% -3.2%

Average renter income in Fort Walton Beach

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fort Walton Beach, their median household income was $44,862 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$44,862
Rent-to-income ratio
35%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Fort Walton Beach

Workforce and job types in Fort Walton Beach

The job market in Fort Walton Beach is powered by 9,936 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.9% run their own businesses, 68.8% are employed by private companies, and 12.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,936
-2.2% year-over-year change
White collar
7,962
Blue collar
1,974
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,962 80.1% -2.3%
Blue collar 1,974 19.9% -1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
14.9%
Private companies
68.8%
Governmental workers
12.4%
Not for profit companies
3.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,480 14.9% 0.6%
Private companies 6,838 68.8% -4.0%
Governmental workers 1,228 12.4% 2.2%
Not for profit companies 390 3.9% 7.4%
Unemployment rate
3.5%
-12.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fort Walton Beach stands at 3.5%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Fort Walton Beach

How people get around in Fort Walton Beach

In Fort Walton Beach, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
23 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,232 87.1% -0.4%
Taxicab 12 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 41 0.4% 7.9%
Motorcycle 13 0.1% 18.2%
Bicycle 18 0.2% -91.4%
Walk 179 1.7% -8.2%
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 Fort Walton Beach by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
32569 12,063 5,030 $77,718 $98,669
32547 35,527 14,391 $70,711 $91,554
32548 23,774 10,333 $65,342 $89,053

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FAQs about Fort Walton Beach demographics 

What is the total population of Fort Walton Beach?

Fort Walton Beach has a total population of 21,025 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fort Walton Beach?

The gender ratio in Fort Walton Beach is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (10,468 residents)
  • 50.2% females (10,557 residents)

What is the median age in Fort Walton Beach?

The median age in Fort Walton Beach is 39.1.

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

The age distribution in Fort Walton Beach is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.9% (3,978 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.7% (2,245 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.9% (6,280 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.8% (4,370 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.8% (4,152 residents)

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

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fort Walton Beach is as follows:
  • White: 66.2% (13,924 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11.9% (2,494 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (39 residents)
  • Asian: 4% (832 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.8% (166 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.3% (2,163 residents)
  • Other: 6.7% (1,407 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 85.6% of the population in Fort Walton Beach.

How many housing units are there in Fort Walton Beach?

There are 9,901 housing units in Fort Walton Beach, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fort Walton Beach has a total of 8,817 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fort Walton Beach?

Fort Walton Beach has a median household income of $68,538, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Fort Walton Beach?

The employment rate is 96.5% in Fort Walton Beach, with a workforce of 9,936 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.1% (7,962 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.9% (1,974 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.9% (1,480 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.8% (6,838 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.4% (1,228 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.9% (390 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