Nearby Eglin Air Force Base rounds out the economic picture, and Crestview, 15 miles inland, supports this installation and is located along I-10, the major east-west transportation corridor. Fort Walton Beach is one of the strongest Florida areas in job growth terms. The area took a fairly hard hit from Hurricane Ivan in 2004, and though most modern buildings survived intact, it did some damage to residential areas and tourist attractions. Downsides include the lack of cultural amenities, air service and the steady flow of tourists and some ugly infrastructure set up to cater to their needs.

Sandy coastal areas rise slightly inland, where forests of pine and live oak begin, but the area is mostly open and level. The Gulf of Mexico moderates winter cold and creates cool, refreshing daytime breezes in summer. Summer temperatures are in the 80’s and 90’s; temperatures may rise if sea breezes diminish. Winter highs are usually in the 50’s. There may be freezing temperatures, but extended cold waves are infrequent. Although distributed year-round, most rainfall occurs in July and August. Gulf hurricanes are a risk from early July to mid-October.