Destin is a city located in the northwestern part of the state of Florida, in the United States. It is situated on a peninsula between the Gulf of Mexico to the south and Choctawhatchee Bay to the north, making it a popular tourist destination for its beautiful beaches and water activities.

Destin is known for its emerald green waters and white sandy beaches, which are a result of the nearby Appalachian Mountains’ erosion and the quartz crystal in the sand. Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including swimming, fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Aside from its beaches, Destin offers plenty of other attractions and activities, including shopping, golfing, and dining. The city is home to several golf courses, including the award-winning Kelly Plantation Golf Club, as well as the popular Destin Commons shopping center, which features numerous shops, restaurants, and a movie theater.

Destin is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and music venues offering live entertainment and a lively atmosphere.

 

Population:

• Population (2023): 14,118
• Median age (2023): 43
• Residents under 18 (2023): 18.1%
• Residents over 65 (2023): 18.8%
• Population by sex (2023): Female 47.5%, Male 52.5%
• Married population (2023): 53%
• Population change (2010-2020): Appx. 15% Increase
• Homeowners and renters (2023): Homeowners 66.3%, Renters 33.7%
• Poverty rate compared to the US national average (2022): 8.7% vs average of 11.5%

Demographics (2022):

• White Non Hispanic – 81.8%
• Multiracial Non Hispanic – 5.34%
• White Hispanic – 4.42%
• Black Non Hispanic – 3.63%

*Prices shown are based only on activity for the dates specified

Income:

• Median household income (2022): $86,777
• Avg. per capita Income (2023): $58,082

Tax:

• County property tax rate: .72% of a property’s assessed fair market value (2023)
• Combined state and county sales tax rate: 7% (2023)

Political affiliation based on the 2024 election results ( Okaloosa County ):

• Republican – 70.31%
• Democratic – 28%
• Other – 1.6%

Cost of Living:

• Average cost of living compared to the US national average (2023): Higher
• Cost of housing compared to the Florida average (2023): Higher
• Cost of food compared to the US national average (2023): 5% Lower
• Cost of healthcare compared to the US national average (2023): 6% Lower
• Cost of utilities compared to the US national average (2023): 17% Lower
• Cost of transportation compared to the US national average (2023): 11% Lower

Largest 3 employers: Destin Commons, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, and Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

School ratings: Okaloosa County School District – B rating (2021)

Coastal: Yes

Average low and high temperature: Low 17 °C, High 24 °C

Fun facts: Destin is known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village “.

Location and Amenities:

 

Highways:

• Interstate 10 (I-10) is the closest major highway, running east-west, connecting to various cities and states.

International Airports:

• The closest major international airport to Destin is the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), located in Panama City, Florida. The distance from Destin to ECP is approximately 50-60 miles, which should take around 1-1.5 hours to drive, depending on traffic conditions.

Universities and Colleges:

• University of West Florida (UWF) in Pensacola, Florida, which is about 50-60 miles away.
• Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) in Niceville, Florida, which is approximately 10-15 miles away.

Hospitals:

• Destin has several medical facilities, including the Fort Walton Beach Medical Center and Sacred Heart Hospital Emerald Coast.

Shopping Malls:

• Destin Commons is a popular shopping destination located within Destin itself, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Major Cities:

• Pensacola, Florida, is approximately 50-60 miles to the west.
• Panama City, Florida, is approximately 50-60 miles to the east.
• Tallahassee, Florida, the state capital, is around 150 miles to the east.

Amenities/attractions:

• Henderson Beach State Park, Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park, Destin Harbor Boardwalk, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, and many beaches and water activities.

Short Term Rental Regulations:

** All short term rental operations in Florida must obtain a business license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation ( DBPR ) and a Florida Department of Revenue Certificate of Sales and Use. ** Short term rental regulations can be subject to change and should always be confirmed with city / towns or county departments.

Restrictions:

• Zoning restrictions apply
• Maximum of 24 guests regardless of number of bedrooms of property
• Visit website below for detailed zoning information

For further details visit – cityofdestin.com