2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Destin, FL vs Fort Walton Beach, FL

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Highlights
Are people in Fort Walton Beach older or younger than people in Destin?
- The Median Age in Fort Walton Beach is 3.8 years younger than in Destin.

Are housing costs cheaper in Fort Walton Beach or Destin?
- Fort Walton Beach housing costs are 46.8% less expensive than Destin housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fort Walton Beach or Destin?
- The average commute for residents of Fort Walton Beach is 2.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Destin.

Things to do in Destin?
Destin, FL is an incorporated city located in Okaloosa County south-west from Cinco Bayou inhabited by close to twelve thousand persons. Destin gives its citizens plenty of venues like the Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park granting people with the perfect opportunity to experience nature through different activities on a stop here! Moreover there are numerous restaurants and stores available making it with something special anytime they visit.

Things to do in Fort Walton Beach?
Fort Walton Beach is a city in Florida that is known for its beautiful beaches and amazing weather. The local attractions include the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, the Indian Temple Mound Museum, and the Air Force Armament Museum. There are also many great restaurants, shops, and activities to enjoy.The area offers wonderful outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, swimming, and beachcombing. Fort Walton Beach boasts a vibrant nightlife with live music, dance clubs, and bars.

 Destin, FLFort Walton Beach, FLUnited States
 Population  Unlock20,805329,725,481
 Median Income$81,827  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$605,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.34  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Destin    14 Reviews

I find it amazing the place is rated one star - Yes the cost of housing is high especially as covid pushed more people to Florida. But living here is easy - three  More

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This tiny town is SO expensive. Unless you want a roach and mold infested place you will have to pay around $1800 or more and the “nice” places have reviews that scare  More

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I moved to Destin in 1987 when there was no development in the eastern part of town, only trees, beaches and a two lane road. I worked as a Sheriff's Deputy for over 30  More

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Reviews for Fort Walton Beach    10 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Ive lived in Fort Walton for atleast 15yrs.Ive seen the good days(early to late 200's)and now the bad.If you move here,youd better make atleast $10,000 a month.These  More

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I would like to know if Fort Walton Beach is a better place to live rather than busy Clearwater FL. We want to re-locate to a quieter city with all the amenities of a  More

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FWB is great for its beautiful beaches and saltwater fishing. It's also easy to move around town except during rush hour (yes, we have a rush hour - but it literally  More

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