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

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Highlights
Are people in Palatka older or younger than people in Fort Walton Beach?
- The Median Age in Palatka is 2.1 years younger than in Fort Walton Beach.

Are housing costs cheaper in Palatka or Fort Walton Beach?
- Palatka housing costs are 46.2% less expensive than Fort Walton Beach housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Palatka or Fort Walton Beach?
- The average commute for residents of Palatka is 1.4 minutes longer than it is for residents of Fort Walton Beach.

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.

Things to do in Palatka?
Palatka is located in Putnam County on the St. Johns River in north-central Florida. This small city of nearly 10 thousand people has plenty of outdoor recreation like fishing and kayaking along the river as well as visiting nearby Heckscher State Park located just 10 miles away from downtown Palatka. There are also several unique eateries, galleries and shops that offer anything you might need – plus a few unexpected surprises!

 Fort Walton Beach, FLPalatka, FLUnited States
 Population  Unlock10,399329,725,481
 Median Income$55,623  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$322,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.13  Unlock26.38
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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Reviews for Palatka    3 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

I have a lovely home on the outskirts of NW Palatka Bannerville area about 15 minutes from publix. Our well water (from the aquafier) is fabulous and the last time I  More

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Would love to hear your views on life in  More

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Over 20 years ago

Palatka is growing and will likely grow more in the near future. Although prices have escalated, housing is still less expensive than St. Augustine. Many people will  More

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