countyscore
52.3
County Score
Safety 89Income & Jobs 82.7Property Tax 74.6

County Report Card

About Okaloosa County, Florida

Okaloosa surpasses national livability standards

Okaloosa County's composite score of 52.3 exceeds the national median of 50.0 by 2.3 points, placing it at the 53rd percentile nationally. This above-average positioning reflects balanced strength across safety, taxes, and quality of life.

Among Florida's top-performing counties

Okaloosa scores 52.3 against Florida's state average of 45.1—a notable 7.2-point advantage—ranking in the top third of the state's 67 counties. This strong standing indicates Okaloosa is one of Florida's most livable places overall.

Outstanding safety and favorable taxes

Okaloosa's safety score of 89.0 is exceptional—among the highest in Florida—and its tax score of 74.6 reflects a low effective rate of 0.600%. These dual strengths create secure, fiscally prudent communities.

Housing costs and education need boosting

Okaloosa's cost score of just 9.0 reflects median homes at $324,800 and rents at $1,475/month, limiting first-time buyers. School score of 36.3 suggests education funding hasn't kept pace with the county's other improvements.

Best for safety-conscious families seeking value

Okaloosa suits middle to upper-middle-income families ($79k median) prioritizing personal safety, strong military/stable employment, and fiscal responsibility. This is Florida's sweet spot for families unwilling to sacrifice security for affordability.

2040608010074.69895636.382.77.571.335.7Tax74.6Cost9Safety89Health56Schools36.3Income82.7Risk7.5Water71.3Weather35.752.3/100
This county
National avg
4 above average4 below average

Okaloosa County DNA

Foverall

How Okaloosa County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Okaloosa County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (89/100) but notably weak in Disaster Risk (7.5/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
74.6+22.599999999999994
Cost
9-39
Safety
89+34
Health
56
Schools
36.3-17.700000000000003
Income
82.7+31.700000000000003
Risk
7.5-39.5
Water
71.3+13.299999999999997
Weather
35.7-20.299999999999997
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$324,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,475/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$324,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$59,000/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum4.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $79,097/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

25.2

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

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Nearby counties

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48
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Covington County
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55.7
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Escambia County
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Deep Dives

Okaloosa County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Okaloosa County

via TaxByCounty

Okaloosa offers tax relief vs national average

Okaloosa County's effective tax rate of 0.600% ranks among the lowest in the nation, providing substantial tax relief to homeowners compared to the national median. The county's median property tax of $1,948 falls well below the national median of $2,690, making it an attractive location for tax-conscious homeowners.

Okaloosa ranks among Florida's lowest-taxed

Okaloosa County's 0.600% effective rate is significantly below Florida's state average of 0.731%, placing it in the lower tier of the state's 67 counties. The median tax of $1,948 is just 3% above the state median despite higher-than-average property values, reflecting this county's favorable tax treatment.

Okaloosa outpaces regional tax burden

Okaloosa County's 0.600% rate is substantially lower than Orange County (0.780%), Marion County (0.751%), and all South Florida neighbors, making it one of Florida's most tax-friendly locations. Despite moderate property values of $324,800, residents here enjoy some of the state's lowest annual tax bills.

What Okaloosa homeowners actually pay

A homeowner with Okaloosa's median home value of $324,800 pays approximately $1,948 in annual property taxes at the county's 0.600% effective rate. With a mortgage, that bill rises to about $2,049 when accounting for escrow and related charges.

Verify your Okaloosa assessment carefully

Even in low-tax counties like Okaloosa, overassessments occur and create unnecessary tax bills over time. Review your property's assessed value against current market comparables and file a free appeal with the county property appraiser if you believe it's overstated.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Okaloosa County

via CostByCounty

Okaloosa County matches national affordability

Okaloosa County renters spend 22.4% of their income on housing, virtually identical to the national average and well below the economist-flagged 30% threshold. With a median household income of $79,097—above the national median of $74,755—residents enjoy reasonable rent affordability across this Panhandle county.

Okaloosa sits right at Florida's affordability center

At 22.4% of income spent on rent, Okaloosa County performs nearly identically to Florida's state average of 22.5%, ranking it squarely in the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. The median rent of $1,475 and strong household income of $79,097 create stable, predictable housing costs.

Okaloosa balances costs against regional peers

Okaloosa's median rent of $1,475 falls between Marion ($1,174) and Orange County ($1,675), while its household income of $79,097 exceeds most regional competitors except Nassau. This balance yields a 22.4% ratio that outperforms Marion (24.1%) and Orange (26.1%) despite similar or higher absolute rent costs.

Okaloosa rents claim roughly a quarter of income

A typical Okaloosa renter earning $79,097 annually pays $1,475 monthly—22.4% of gross income, positioning housing as manageable. Homeowners face steeper percentages at $1,404 monthly (21.3% of income), with median home values of $324,800 requiring significant down payments.

Okaloosa offers Panhandle balance and stability

If you're relocating to Florida's Panhandle and value both affordability and income-to-rent ratios, Okaloosa delivers near-perfect state averages. Test this county against Miami-Dade's crisis-level 30.2% ratio or Nassau's superior 18.0% rate to find your personal affordability sweet spot.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Okaloosa County

via IncomeByCounty

Okaloosa exceeds national income standard

Okaloosa County's median household income of $79,097 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by $4,342, positioning the county firmly above the national average. The presence of Eglin Air Force Base significantly supports the county's economic stability.

Strong performer in Florida

At $79,097, Okaloosa's median household income ranks well above Florida's state average of $65,468 by $13,629. The county consistently ranks in the upper half of Florida counties for household earnings.

Competitive with regional peers

Okaloosa's $79,097 places it close to Martin County ($80,701) and Orange County ($77,011), reflecting northwest Florida's solid economic foundation. The region's military presence and tourism industry create stable, diversified employment.

Housing costs remain manageable

Okaloosa's rent-to-income ratio of 22.4% sits comfortably below the 28% threshold, meaning housing costs consume roughly one-fifth of earnings. With a median home value of $324,800, homeownership is achievable for typical households.

Build on stable foundations

Okaloosa residents enjoy above-average incomes paired with reasonable housing costs, creating room for consistent savings and investment. Take advantage of employer retirement plans, especially if employed by the military or related sectors, and consider working with a financial advisor on long-term wealth strategies.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Okaloosa County

via CrimeByCounty

Okaloosa County Sets the National Safety Bar

Okaloosa County achieves a nearly perfect safety score of 99.6. Its total crime rate of 230.2 per 100K is a tiny fraction of the national average of 2,385.5. This makes the county one of the safest jurisdictions in the entire United States.

Top-Tier Safety Performance in Florida

The county's crime rate of 230.2 is dramatically lower than the Florida state average of 1027.9. With a safety score of 99.6, Okaloosa far exceeds the state average of 98.4. Thirteen reporting agencies provide comprehensive coverage to keep the Panhandle safe.

The Safest Profile in the Panhandle

Okaloosa (230.2) reports much lower crime rates than Nassau (879.4) and Marion (1411.8). It stands as a beacon of safety for its neighbors and the wider Florida region. The county's low incident frequency is a major draw for families and retirees.

Remarkably Low Property and Violent Crime

Violent crime is nearly non-existent at a rate of 38.2 per 100K, while property crime is also minimal at 192.0. These rates are significantly lower than both the national and state averages across all categories. Public safety is a defining characteristic of life in Okaloosa.

Preserving Your Okaloosa Peace of Mind

While the risk of crime is minimal, modern home monitoring can help preserve this tranquil environment. Using smart home technology to monitor deliveries and entry points is a wise, proactive step. Shared vigilance keeps these record-low numbers in place.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Okaloosa County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse Infrastructure for 32,000 Students

Okaloosa County operates 52 public schools, serving a total of 32,733 students. The system includes 21 elementary, 8 middle, and 14 high schools across the county.

Solid Performance and Competitive Spending

With a 90.0% graduation rate, Okaloosa outperforms the national average of 87.0%. The county spends $6,308 per pupil, placing it slightly above the Florida state average of $6,118.

One District with Specialized School Options

The Okaloosa School District manages all 52 schools, including four charter institutions. The district also maintains 8 alternative schools and 3 special education schools to serve various student needs.

Suburban Appeal with Large High Schools

Schools are found across suburb, city, and town locales, with an average size of 655 students. Crestview High School is the largest campus with 2,315 students, while Niceville Senior High follows with 2,039.

Excellent Education in the Panhandle

Okaloosa County's reputation for strong schools is a primary draw for military and civilian families alike. Exploring homes near Niceville or Fort Walton Beach provides access to some of the county's largest campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Okaloosa County

via RiskByCounty

Okaloosa faces relatively moderate risk

Okaloosa County scores 92.46 on composite disaster risk, earning a relatively moderate rating well above the national average. The score reflects significant exposure concentrated in tornados and hurricanes rather than broadly distributed hazards. Okaloosa residents face substantially greater overall risk than the typical American county.

Well above Florida's average

Okaloosa's 92.46 score exceeds Florida's state average of 75.74 by nearly 17 points, ranking it in the upper tier of Florida's 67 counties. The county's risk profile is driven heavily by tornado exposure (94.21) and hurricane exposure (98.08). Its panhandle location makes it a hotspot for severe weather compared to the state norm.

Tornado risk distinguishes it

Okaloosa County's 92.46 score aligns with other panhandle counties like Escambia (90+) and Santa Rosa, but stands out for extreme tornado risk at 94.21. While hurricane risk of 98.08 is shared with coastal neighbors, Okaloosa's tornado exposure is higher than most coastal Florida counties. The county's position makes it a regional tornado hotspot.

Tornadoes and hurricanes lead threats

Okaloosa County faces extreme tornado risk at 94.21—well above the state average—and near-maximum hurricane risk at 98.08 from its panhandle coastal position. Wildfire risk of 75.73 is moderate for Florida, while flood risk of 80.38 rounds out the hazard profile. The combination of tornadoes and hurricanes makes severe weather response expertise essential.

Windstorm and tornado protection matter

With tornado risk at 94.21 and hurricane risk at 98.08, Okaloosa County residents should carry comprehensive homeowners insurance with windstorm coverage and consider a safe room or basement for tornado protection. Flood insurance is recommended for properties near coastal areas or low-lying zones. Maintain property-hardening measures including storm shutters and reinforced entry points.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Okaloosa County

via WaterByCounty

Okaloosa Achieves Top-Tier Drinking Water Grade

Okaloosa County earns an A grade for drinking water compliance with just one health violation in five years. This results in an exceptionally low violation rate of 0.4 per 100,000 residents, far below the Florida average of 43.4. Local utilities provide some of the most reliable water service in the state based on SDWIS data.

Watershed Impairment Near the State Average

The 2022 ATTAINS data shows that 36.8% of Okaloosa's 475 assessed water bodies are impaired. This is slightly better than the Florida average of 38.8% for the same period. Top causes for these impairments include fecal coliform, mercury in fish tissue, and low dissolved oxygen.

Intensive Monitoring for Pesticides and Organics

A network of 278 monitoring sites has generated 85,463 measurements over the past five years. Beyond nutrients, the monitoring footprint emphasizes organics and pesticides, ensuring a close watch on potential chemical runoff. This active surveillance supports the county's high drinking water compliance grade.

Yellow River Flows Above Long-Term Mean

The Yellow River at Milligan is currently flowing at 1,240 cubic feet per second. This is 109% of the typical flow for this time of year, indicating healthy hydrologic conditions. Steady river flow helps maintain dissolved oxygen levels and flush pollutants through the system.

Excellent Compliance Supported by Healthy Flow

Your drinking water is among the highest-rated in Florida, and current river flows are healthy. However, fecal coliform remains a concern in over one-third of assessed water bodies, so avoid swimming in stagnant surface waters after heavy rains. The presence of pesticides in monitoring records makes regular maintenance of carbon water filters a smart practice.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Okaloosa County

via WeatherByCounty

A wet and warm Panhandle climate

Okaloosa's average temperature of 67.7°F is well above the U.S. median. However, it is the 64.1 inches of annual precipitation that truly distinguishes it from most of the country.

One of Florida's coolest and wettest counties

Okaloosa averages nearly 4 degrees cooler than the state mean of 71.1°F. It receives 64.1 inches of rain annually, making it significantly wetter than the Florida average of 54.8 inches.

Cooler than the Atlantic coast

The county's 67.7°F average is lower than northern Atlantic neighbors like Nassau. While it is cooler overall, it still faces 67 days of extreme heat, which is more than many coastal areas.

Cold winters and heavy summer rain

Winter is notably crisp for Florida, with a December-February average of 53.3°F. Summer features a July average of 82.1°F accompanied by frequent, heavy rainfall.

Invest in rain gear and heating

With 64.1 inches of rain, robust drainage and high-quality rain gear are essential for residents. You will also need home heating for January, when temperatures average a chilly 51.5°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Okaloosa County

via SoilByCounty

Panhandle Sandy Entisols

These Entisols have an average pH of 5.07, which is more alkaline than the Florida average of 4.88 but still more acidic than the national 6.5 median. The dominant texture is sand, typical for the panhandle region.

Silty Sand Mix

The mix includes 80.6% sand, 10.7% silt, and 6.2% clay. While sand dominates, the 10.7% silt content is higher than many other Florida counties, providing a slight boost to soil structure.

Lower Organic Levels

Organic matter is relatively low at 2.65%, falling far below the Florida state average of 8.03%. The available water capacity of 0.088 in/in is also below the state average, meaning crops may need more frequent watering.

Rapidly Draining Ground

This soil is classified as excessively drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group A. Water moves through the profile very quickly, making it excellent for avoiding root rot but challenging for moisture-loving plants.

Thriving in Zone 9a

Located in zone 9a, Okaloosa is ideal for heat-tolerant vegetables and citrus with proper irrigation. Focus on adding compost to improve the low organic matter and help the sandy soil retain moisture.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Okaloosa County

via LawnByCounty

Okaloosa's Panhandle Lawn Conditions

Okaloosa County has a lawn difficulty score of 18.1, placing it just below the Florida state average. Located in Zone 9a, this area experiences more defined seasons than the peninsula, impacting how you care for your turf.

High Rainfall and Rapid Drainage

Okaloosa receives 64.1 inches of rain annually, nearly 10 inches more than the state average. While this provides plenty of water, the 6,707 growing degree days mean your lawn will be active for much of the year.

Managing Excessively Drained Sand

The soil is 80.6% sand and is classified as excessively drained, meaning water and nutrients disappear quickly. The acidic pH of 5.07 requires regular amendments to prevent your grass from becoming yellow and nutrient-deficient.

Surviving Severe Panhandle Droughts

Over 92% of Okaloosa is currently in severe drought, and the county has weathered 27 weeks of drought in the last year. Because the sandy soil drains so fast, you must monitor your lawn closely for wilting during these dry spells.

Spring Timing for Panhandle Success

Centipede and Bermuda grass are the best fit for the sandy soils of Zone 9a. Aim to plant after the last spring frost on March 12 to ensure your new lawn has the full growing season to mature before the November 19 frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Okaloosa County's county score?
Okaloosa County, Florida has a composite county score of 52.3 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Okaloosa County rank among counties in Florida?
Okaloosa County ranks #18 among all counties in Florida on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Okaloosa County, Florida?
The median annual property tax in Okaloosa County is $1,948, with an effective tax rate of 0.60%. This earns Okaloosa County a tax score of 74.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Okaloosa County?
The median household income in Okaloosa County, Florida is $79,097 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Okaloosa County earns an income score of 82.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Okaloosa County, Florida a good place to live?
Okaloosa County scores 52.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #18 in Florida. The best way to evaluate Okaloosa County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Okaloosa County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.