Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Defuniak Springs, FL
Considering a move to Defuniak Springs, FL? With a small-town population of 6,892, this city offers affordable living—median home prices around $218,000 and rents near $930. Enjoy a mild Southern climate with 65% sunny days, low average commute times, and access to both public and private schools. While property crime rates are higher than average, the friendly community, local college center, and reasonable cost of living make Defuniak Springs an inviting option for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Defuniak Springs, FL
Demographics - Defuniak Springs, FL
Defuniak Springs is home to about 6,900 residents with a median age of 43.7, reflecting a balanced mix of families and retirees. The city features a predominantly White population (72.5%), along with a significant Black community (20.1%) and a small percentage of non-English speakers, contributing to its welcoming and diverse atmosphere.
Population:
6,892
Density:
318 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.7
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
72.5%
Black:
20.1%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
6.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Defuniak Springs, FL?
The cost of living in Defuniak Springs is notably affordable, with a median home value around $218,000 and average rent at $930 per month. Residents benefit from a cost of living index below the national average and no state income tax, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$218,000
Gross Rent:
$930
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$2,140
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.7
Grocery:
95.2
Housing:
61.0
Utilities:
98.7
Transportation:
85.1
Health Care:
97.3
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Defuniak Springs, FL a safe place to live?
Defuniak Springs experiences a higher-than-average property crime rate, with a 1 in 43 chance, while the risk of violent crime is lower at 1 in 274. Prospective residents should stay vigilant but can enjoy a generally safe small-town environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
365
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,310
Crime Index:
2,675
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 274
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Defuniak Springs, FL year-round?
The city enjoys a mild Southern climate with warm summers reaching up to 92°F and mild winters with lows around 38°F. With 65% of days being sunny and annual rainfall averaging 61 inches, outdoor activities are pleasant throughout most of the year.

Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
63°F

Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
80°F

Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
92°F

Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
61.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
65%
Neighbors
Residents in Defuniak Springs have a median household income of $41,500 and a relatively low unemployment rate of 3.5%. While the poverty rate is higher than average at 24.7%, the community is known for its neighborly spirit, manageable commutes, and a strong emphasis on high school education.
Median Income:
$27,900
Household Income:
$41,500
Family Income:
$53,400
Per Capita Income:
$23,200
Income Male:
$33,700
Income Female:
$29,400
Poverty Rate:
24.7%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$930
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
22.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
85.2%
Bachelors or More:
16.1%
Education
How are the schools in Defuniak Springs, FL?
Defuniak Springs is served by several public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and a private academy for K-12 education. The city also hosts the Chautauqua Center of Northwest Florida State College, providing local access to higher education opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
West DeFuniak Elementary School
Street:
815 Lincoln Ave
Phone:
850-892-1260
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Walton Middle School
Street:
555 Walton Rd
Phone:
850-892-1280
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Name:
Walton High School
Street:
449 Walton Rd
Phone:
850-892-1270
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.3

Private Schools
Name:
First Christian Academy
Street:
416 Walnut Ave
Phone:
850-892-2722
Students:
130

Colleges
Name:
Northwest Florida State College (Chautauqua Center)
City:
Defuniak Springs
State:
FL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
700
Healthcare
Healthcare in Defuniak Springs is anchored by Healthmark Regional Medical Center, offering both general and emergency services. Most residents (nearly 88%) have health insurance, and the local healthcare index reflects reliable access to essential medical care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Healthmark Regional Medical Center
Address:
4413 US-331, Defuniak Springs, FL 32435
Phone:
(850) 951-4500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.8%
Health Care Index:
66.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Defuniak Springs, FL?
The housing market offers affordable options with a median home price of $218,000 and a strong owner-occupied rate of 62.5%. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% in the past year, making the area appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$218,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$930
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
2.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in town for residents’ licensing and registration needs. The office offers comprehensive resources both in-person and online to simplify vehicle and driver services.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
362 State Highway 83, Defuniak Springs, FL 32433
Phone:
850-892-8121
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.