Fort Walton Beach, FL, USA
Fort Walton Beach
A vibrant coastal community offering military access, waterfront living, and everyday convenience.
Fort Walton Beach sits about five miles from the Hurlburt Field gate and a short run from Eglin, and it is the most common landing spot for E-4 through E-7 families in Okaloosa County. It is in BAH area FL056, which for 2026 pays an E-5 with dependents $2,433 a month against $1,863 in Pensacola's FL064 — a $570 monthly difference that changes what you can carry here.
You are on the higher BAH
About five miles to the Hurlburt gate and an easy run to Eglin, which is why it is the most popular choice for E-4 through E-7 households in the county.
A-rated schools, district Purple Star
Okaloosa County School District is A-rated and holds a district-level Purple Star designation. The Eglin School Liaison Officer is Elaine LaJeunesse on 850-882-4319; Hurlburt's is Dr. Mackinley Cross on 850-884-6938.
You are on the higher BAH
Okaloosa County is BAH area FL056. For 2026 that is $2,433 a month for an E-5 with dependents and $2,841 for an E-7, against $1,863 and $2,256 in Pensacola's FL064.
Budget for the insurance
Okaloosa County averages $3,889 a year including wind — the highest of the three counties in this market. Get a quote on the specific address before you commit, not a county average.
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