"Santa Rosa Beach, Florida - Where Coastal Charm Meets Emerald Waters. Nestled along the renowned Emerald Coast, Santa Rosa Beach beckons with its pristine beaches, outdoor adventures, and vibrant local culture. Discover top attractions, exquisite dining, and cozy accommodations for an unforgettable Gulf Coast escape. Experience the allure of Santa Rosa Beach, your gateway to relaxation and coastal beauty."
22,464 people live in SANTA ROSA BEACH / 30A, where the median age is 51 and the average individual income is $73,523. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
Set along Florida’s Emerald Coast in Walton County, Santa Rosa Beach blends sugar-white sands, rare coastal dune lakes, and laid-back 30A living. The area’s unincorporated status offers a patchwork of distinct beach towns and wooded enclaves, with quick access to US 98 and Scenic Highway 30A for dining, shopping, and outdoor adventure. It’s a perennial favorite for full-time residents, second-home owners, and investors seeking strong lifestyle appeal and resilient demand.
Santa Rosa Beach anchors the western end of 30A, with neighborhoods stretching from the bay at Hogtown Bayou to Gulf-front communities like Dune Allen, Blue Mountain, and Grayton. Residents enjoy everyday convenience on US 98 (Emerald Coast Pkwy) and the scenic 30A corridor, plus immediate access to protected lands like Point Washington State Forest and marquee Gulf-front state parks. Whether you’re after a tucked-away longleaf-pine homesite or a beach-adjacent retreat, the mix of architecture and settings supports a wide range of lifestyle and investment goals.
| Key Facts about Santa Rosa Beach, FL | |
|---|---|
| Area | Approx. 65 sq miles (ZIP 32459 ZCTA land area) |
| County | Walton County |
| Established | 1910 (community developed around Hogtown Bayou) |
| Population (2023 est.) | ~22,100 (ZIP 32459, ACS 5-year estimate) |
| Nearby Parks | Topsail Hill Preserve State Park; Grayton Beach State Park; Point Washington State Forest; Eden Gardens State Park |
| Main Roads | US 98 (Emerald Coast Pkwy); Scenic Hwy 30A (CR 30A); CR 393 & CR 395 |
From paddle-boarding at sunrise to pine-canopy trail systems and Gulf-front parks, Santa Rosa Beach delivers year-round lifestyle value with strong vacation-rental and second-home demand. Its mix of nature, amenities, and ease of access along 98/30A makes it a standout choice for discerning buyers on Florida’s Emerald Coast.
Santa Rosa Beach anchors Florida’s famed 30A corridor on the Emerald Coast. Residents enjoy Gulf-front parks, rare coastal dune lakes, and easy access to everyday conveniences on US 98 and Scenic Hwy 30A. The area blends quiet residential pockets with lively beach towns, making it ideal for full-time living, second homes, and investment properties.
Day-to-day mobility is primarily by car, with popular multi-use paths for biking and walking along 30A. Ride-share apps operate widely; regional airports in Destin–Fort Walton, Panama City Beach, and Pensacola connect the community to major hubs.
| Connectivity & Transportation — Santa Rosa Beach, FL | |
|---|---|
| Location Map & Overview of Santa Rosa Beach | Gulf-side community along Scenic Hwy 30A in Walton County, bordered by state parks, coastal dune lakes, and the Choctawhatchee Bay. Primary access via US 98 with local connectors to beach towns and neighborhoods. |
| Nearby Areas & Communities around Santa Rosa Beach |
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| Attractions & Points of Interest in Santa Rosa Beach |
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| Public Transport in Santa Rosa Beach |
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| Road Access & Main Highways |
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| Parking in Santa Rosa Beach | Public beach-access lots along 30A (e.g., Gulf Place/Ed Walline, Dune Allen, Grayton Beach), state-park lots at Grayton & Topsail. Peak season fills early; observe local pay-to-park and resident permits where posted. |
| Walking & Cycling in Santa Rosa Beach | The Timpoochee Trail (multi-use path paralleling 30A, ~18+ miles) links beach towns, parks, shops, and dining. Neighborhood sidewalks and boardwalks add short-trip connectivity. |
| Taxi & Ride Apps | Uber and Lyft operate widely; local taxis and pre-booked private shuttles are available. Street-legal LSV/golf-cart rentals may be permitted on posted roads—always follow local rules. |
| Airport Access in Santa Rosa Beach |
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Santa Rosa Beach offers a rare mix of Gulf-front living, extensive parklands, and small-town charm—supported by straightforward road access, ride-share coverage, and a beloved bike-and-walk lifestyle along 30A.
Set along Scenic Highway 30A in Walton County, Santa Rosa Beach blends luxury Gulf-area condos, family-friendly neighborhoods, and vacation-rental-ready homes. As of mid-2025, the market shows high price points with softening year-over-year trends and long days on market typical of resort communities. Recent figures indicate a median sale price around $895K–$950K and a median sale price per sq. ft. near $494, while median listing prices hover around $1.2M. Strong seasonal demand continues to support rents, especially for 2–4 bedroom homes near the beach and popular 30A towns.
| Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Sq.Ft (USD) | Average Rent (USD/month) | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR Condo | $512,000 (est.) | $494 | $2,554 | 6.0% (est.) |
| 2BR Townhome | $578,000 (est.) | $494 | $2,848 | 5.9% (est.) |
| 3BR Single-Family Home | $873,000 (est.) | $494 | $3,478 | 4.8% (est.) |
| 4BR Single-Family Home | $1,170,000 (est.) | $494 | $4,895 | 5.0% (est.) |
Methodology & notes: Median sale $ per sq.ft. for Santa Rosa Beach from Redfin was applied to typical floor-area averages for each bedroom/type to estimate median prices; rental figures are current local averages by property type. Actual values vary by proximity to the Gulf, condition, HOA/amenities, and short-term rental policies.
Life in Santa Rosa Beach blends Gulf-front living with the relaxed charm of Florida’s Scenic 30A. Set in Walton County between the Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, the community offers rare coastal dune lakes, miles of beaches, a nearly 19-mile multi-use path, and village centers like Gulf Place and Seaside—while US-98 delivers everyday convenience to Destin, Miramar Beach, and Panama City Beach.
Along Scenic Hwy 30A in Walton County, bordered by Grayton Beach & Topsail Hill Preserve state parks and the Choctawhatchee Bay. Quick access to US-98 connects to Destin (west) and Panama City Beach (east).
Relaxed coastal vibe with walkable nodes like Gulf Place, Blue Mountain, Grayton, WaterColor, and Seaside. HOA-managed neighborhoods range from cottage communities to luxury enclaves with pools, beach access, and trail links.
From beachside cafés to chef-driven spots, favorites cluster around Gulf Place, Blue Mountain, and Seaside/Seagrove—plus broader options at Grand Boulevard (Sandestin) and Destin Commons via US-98.
Served by Walton County School District with public, charter, and private options in the 30A corridor and nearby Miramar Beach. Enrichment programs, preschools, and after-school activities are widely available.
Mix of single-family homes, condos, and select townhomes. Premiums for Gulf-front, lake-view, and new construction; bay-side areas offer larger lots. Short-term rentals are common in designated zones—verify HOA and county rules.
Primary travel by car via US-98 and Scenic 30A with connectors CR-393/395/283. The Timpoochee Trail offers a nearly 19-mile multi-use path for biking and walking. Ride-share operates broadly; limited public transit.
Humid subtropical: warm, sunny springs; hot summers with afternoon sea breezes; mild winters. Hurricane season runs Jun–Nov—many properties use impact-rated features and insurance considerations vary by location.
Everyday needs along US-98 (Publix, Walmart, pharmacies) plus lifestyle centers like Grand Boulevard and 30Avenue. Gulf Place Town Center and Seaside offer boutiques, markets, parks, and community events.
Diverse mix of full-time residents, second-home owners, and seasonal visitors. Strong hospitality, healthcare, construction, and remote-work presence supporting year-round services and amenities.
World-class beaches and parks, bike-friendly 30A corridor, vibrant dining and events, strong lifestyle appeal, and access to multiple regional airports (VPS/ECP/PNS).
Seasonal traffic & parking pressure, tourism density at peak times, HOA and STR permitting to navigate, and flood/wind-insurance considerations near the coast.
Beach days, paddleboarding dune lakes (Western, Oyster, Eastern/Deer), hiking & biking in Point Washington State Forest, fishing in the Gulf & Bay, and family events at town greens and amphitheaters.
Santa Rosa Beach’s lifestyle pairs sugar-white sands and protected parklands with lively town centers and easy regional access—ideal for buyers seeking a coastal home base with everyday convenience and year-round recreation.
Santa Rosa Beach (along Scenic 30A in Walton County) offers everyday essentials and services close to home—from healthcare and groceries to worship centers and pet care. Use the lists below to quickly orient buyers and residents to key amenities around town.
Families in Santa Rosa Beach are served by the Walton County School District plus respected public charters and private options. Popular neighborhood choices include Dune Lakes and Van R. Butler at the elementary level, Emerald Coast Middle, and South Walton High—alongside Seaside School’s tuition-free charter programs and several Montessori early-learning centers.
Area schools emphasize strong academics, arts, and outdoor learning opportunities, with unique dual-enrollment pathways at the South Walton Center of Northwest Florida State College.
| School / Preschool | Type | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dune Lakes Elementary School | Public (K–5) | Within Santa Rosa Beach (US-98) |
Newer Walton County campus serving SRB communities; strong neighborhood engagement and outdoor programs.
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| Van R. Butler Elementary School | Public (K–5) | Blue Mountain / 30A West |
Well-known “Bears” campus along 30A; convenient to Gulf Place and west-30A neighborhoods.
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| Bay Elementary (Bay School) | Public (K–5) | Point Washington |
Historic SRB elementary serving Point Washington and nearby neighborhoods; community-oriented programs.
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| Emerald Coast Middle School | Public (6–8) | US-98 East (SRB) |
“Stingrays” campus; uniform policy; electives include Project Lead The Way and arts.
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| South Walton High School | Public (9–12) | SRB (Greenway Trail) |
“Seahawks” with A-rated performance; broad AP, athletics, and arts; close ties to NWFSC South Walton Center.
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| Seaside Neighborhood School | Public Charter (5–8) | Seaside / 30A |
Small, project-based charter serving 30A; part of Seaside School (tuition-free public charter).
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| Seacoast Collegiate High School | Public Charter (9–12) | South Walton Center (SRB) |
Located at NWFSC South Walton Center; robust dual-enrollment—many graduates earn an AA with diploma.
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| The Tree House Episcopal Montessori School | Private Preschool / K | CR-393 (SRB) |
Faith-based Montessori program with preschool & kindergarten; on Christ the King Episcopal campus.
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| South Walton Montessori Academy | Private (Pre-K–8) | Eden Gardens Rd (SRB) |
Independent Montessori academy offering multi-age classrooms and individualized learning.
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| Ohana Institute (nearby) | Private (PK–12) | Inlet Beach (US-98 East) |
Fully accredited independent school with project-based curriculum and flexible calendar.
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Set along Florida’s Scenic 30A, Santa Rosa Beach blends luxury coastal living with year-round lifestyle demand. Investors see opportunities across buy-and-hold rentals, short-term/vacation rentals (where permitted), and targeted value-add flips. Limited land, park buffers, and walkable beach towns help support pricing through market cycles.
Why Santa Rosa Beach? White-sand beaches, rare coastal dune lakes, strong brand recognition for “30A,” and a business-friendly Florida tax environment (no state income tax) underpin buyer and renter demand. Proximity to Destin, Miramar Beach, and multiple regional airports (VPS/ECP/PNS) boosts accessibility.
2BR Condo: ~$2,300–$2,900 • 3BR SFR: ~$3,200–$3,900 • 4BR SFR: ~$4,300–$5,200+
Whether you’re optimizing an STR, holding a family home for steady cash flow, or renovating an older property, Santa Rosa Beach offers durable, lifestyle-driven demand with strong long-term fundamentals.
Along Florida’s Scenic 30A, Santa Rosa Beach blends white-sand Gulf shores, rare coastal dune lakes, and laid-back village life. You’ll find walkable hubs like Gulf Place, Blue Mountain, Grayton, WaterColor, and Seaside—plus easy access along US-98 to Destin and Panama City Beach.
Housing ranges from single-family homes and cottages to condos and select townhomes. Premiums track with beach access, views, and new construction, while bay-side areas offer larger lots. Many neighborhoods allow short-term rentals—always confirm HOA and Walton County rules when you’re comparing options.
Daily life is all about the outdoors: the 19-mile Timpoochee Trail for biking and strolling, Point Washington State Forest, and parks like Grayton Beach and Topsail Hill. Families appreciate Walton County schools and convenient travel via VPS, ECP, and PNS airports.
Santa Rosa Beach pairs resort-area beauty with everyday convenience—ideal for full-time residents, second-homeowners, and investors seeking durable, lifestyle-driven demand.
SANTA ROSA BEACH / 30A has 9,623 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in SANTA ROSA BEACH / 30A do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 22,464 people call SANTA ROSA BEACH / 30A home. The population density is 1,058.117 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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There's plenty to do around SANTA ROSA BEACH / 30A, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including M&P, Cava and Cakes, and Sub Shack.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 1.47 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 1.75 miles | 18 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Dining | 1.68 miles | 16 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Dining | 1.18 miles | 12 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.49 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.4 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.41 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.96 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.96 miles | 18 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.16 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.67 miles | 12 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.22 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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