Florida / Okaloosa County

Moving to Destin, FL

Thinking of making a move to Destin, FL? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Destin, FL

Considering a move to Destin, FL? This welcoming community of 14,377 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $600,000 and average rents near $2,150. Commute times average 20 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (73% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Destin's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Destin, FL

Destin has a population of 14,377 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 43 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 87% White, 2% Black, and 2% Asian residents, and over 10% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
14,377
Density
1,800 per sq mi
Median Age
43.4
Gender Ratio
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
9.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
87.2%
Black
2.0%
Asian
2.1%
Others
8.7%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Destin, FL?

The cost of living in Destin is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 122.0. Median home values are around $600,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $2,150. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$600,000
Gross Rent
$2,150
Monthly Electricity Charges
$160
Auto Insurance
$2,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$2,500
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$950
State Taxes
Low: 0%| High: 0%
Cost Of Living Index
122.0
Grocery
109.0
Housing
154.0
Utilities
102.5
Transportation
101.0
Health Care
101.2
Miscellaneous
100.1

Crime

Is Destin, FL a safe place to live?

Destin is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 188 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 49. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Florida.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
188
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,050
Crime Index
2,238
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 532
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 49

Weather

What is the weather like in Destin, FL year-round?

Destin experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 89°F and cold winters dipping to 46°F. The area receives about 66 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 73% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
46°F
Max
63°F

Summer

Min
75°F
Max
89°F

Spring

Min
58°F
Max
76°F

Fall

Min
60°F
Max
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches
66.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
73%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $84,500 and a low poverty rate of 8.1%. Over 96% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 38% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 20 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$38,400
Household Income
$84,500
Family Income
$99,800
Per Capita Income
$48,600
Income Male
$51,500
Income Female
$36,700
Poverty Rate
8.1%
Non English Speakers
9.5%
Rent
$2,150
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
Public Transport Usage
0.8%
Commute Time
20.3 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
96.3%
Bachelors or More
37.8%

Education

How are the schools in Destin, FL?

Destin offers quality education options, with public schools like Destin Elementary School and Destin Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Northwest Florida State College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Destin Elementary School
Street
630 Kelly St
Phone
850-833-3420
Students
900
Student Teacher Ratio
15.1
Name
Destin Middle School
Street
4608 Legendary Marina Dr
Phone
850-650-1241
Students
700
Student Teacher Ratio
16.8

Private Schools

Name
Destin Christian Academy
Street
201 Beach Dr
Phone
850-837-7247
Students
120

Colleges

Name
Northwest Florida State College
City
Niceville
State
FL
Distance
13 miles
Students
7,500

Healthcare

Destin residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast and Fort Walton Beach Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.4 per 1,000 people and 90.5% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast
Address
7800 US Hwy 98 W, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Phone
(850) 278-3000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes
Name
Fort Walton Beach Medical Center
Address
1000 Mar-Walt Dr, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Phone
(850) 862-1111
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage
90.5%
Health Care Index
77.0

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Destin, FL?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $600,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 55%. The market has seen a 6.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 9.3%. Destin offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$600,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$2,150
Owner Occupied Rate
54.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate
9.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
6.2%
New Construction Rate
2.7%
Foreclosure Rate
0.4%

DMV Information

Residents of Destin handle vehicle services through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Fort Walton Beach. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Florida
Department
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address
310 Racetrack Rd NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Phone
850-651-7300

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.

FAQs About Moving to Destin, FL

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Destin, review the core fields on this page: population 14,377, median home value $600,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $2,150, commute time 20.3 minutes, and sunny days percentage 73%.

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