Living in Destin Florida: A Comprehensive Guide (2022)

Destin, Florida is a beautiful beach town located on the Emerald Coast. It’s known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush green vegetation. The climate is warm and sunny year-round, making it a perfect place to live or vacation.

Why You Should Move to Destin, Florida?

If you’re considering a move to Destin, here are the top reasons you should do it:

1. The Weather is Perfect

Destin enjoys beautiful weather year-round. The average temperature is a comfortable 74 degrees F. And with over 200 days of sunshine each year, you’ll be able to enjoy the outdoors all year long. This makes it a great place to live if you want to avoid the cold winters up north.

2. The Beaches are Stunning

This is the number one reason people move to Destin – the beaches are simply stunning. The water is a beautiful turquoise color. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, and more.

Destin’s beaches are world-renowned for their sugar-white sand and emerald green waters. In fact, the sand is so soft that it actually squeaks when you walk on it! And with over 30 miles of coastline, there’s plenty of beach to enjoy.

3. There’s a Variety of Things to Do

Destin is a great place for both active and relaxed lifestyles. If you’re the outdoorsy type, there’s plenty of fishing, kayaking, and hiking to be had. Or, if you prefer a more low-key vacation, you can simply relax on the beach or by the pool. And don’t forget about all the great shopping and dining options in Destin!

4. The People are Friendly

One of the best things about living in Destin is the people. Southern hospitality is alive and well here, and you’ll quickly feel like part of the community.

5. The Cost of Living is Affordable

Destin is a great place to live if you’re looking for an affordable lifestyle. The cost of living is lower than the national average, and there are plenty of affordable housing options.

6. The Education System is Good

If you have school-aged children, you’ll be happy to know that the education system in Destin is top-notch. There are several excellent public and private schools to choose from.

7. The Healthcare is Good

Destin offers quality healthcare with several hospitals and clinics in the area. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that you and your family will be well taken care of.

8. The Crime Rate is Low

Destin is a safe place to live, with a crime rate that’s lower than the national average. You can feel confident that your family will be safe here.

9. It’s a Great Place to Retire

If you’re looking for a great place to retire, Destin should be at the top of your list. The weather is perfect, the beaches are beautiful, and there’s plenty to do. Not to mention, the cost of living is affordable and the healthcare is excellent.

10. The Golfing

Destin is a golfer’s paradise, with over 20 championship golf courses located within a short drive. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pro, you’ll find a course that suits your skill level. And, if you get tired of golfing, you can always enjoy the other outdoor activities that Destin has to offer.

11. The Dining Scene

If you enjoy good food, then you’ll love the dining scene in Destin. There are countless restaurants to choose from, serving everything from fresh seafood to Italian cuisine. You’ll also find a variety of bars and clubs, perfect for a night out on the town.

12. The Quality of Life

Destin is a great place to raise a family. It’s safe and welcoming, with plenty of amenities and activities to keep you busy. And, it’s located close to other major cities like Orlando and Tampa, so you’re never too far from the action.

13. It’s Simply Beautiful

Last but not least, Destin is just a beautiful place to live. From the stunning beaches to the lush vegetation, there’s no denying that Destin is a special place.

The Cons of Living in Destin

1. Rent and home prices are high

The cost of living in Destin is quite high, especially when it comes to rent and home prices. If you're not used to paying a lot for housing, you may find yourself struggling to keep up with the expenses.

2. Traffic can be a nightmare

Destin is a popular tourist destination, which means that the traffic can be absolutely insane during peak season. If you're not a fan of dealing with bumper-to-bumper traffic, you may want to consider living somewhere else.

3. It can be difficult to find a job

While there are plenty of job opportunities in Destin, it can be tough to find one that's a good fit. With so many people vying for positions, you may have to settle for something that's not your dream job.

4. It can be touristy

Since Destin is such a popular tourist destination, it can feel a bit like living in a fishbowl at times. If you prefer a more low-key lifestyle, you may find the constant influx of tourists to be a bit overwhelming.

Getting Around Destin

There are plenty of ways to get around Destin, whether you're looking to stick to the main roads or venture off the beaten path. Here's a detailed guide on how to get around Destin:

If you're sticking to the main roads:

Destin is a relatively small city, so getting around by car is really the best option. However, if you're not renting a car, there are a few other options.

The SunTran bus system runs throughout Destin and provides transportation to all of the major attractions and beaches. A pass can be purchased on the SunTran website or at any of the bus stops.

If you're looking for a more unique way to get around, you can always rent a golf cart! Golf carts can be rented by the day or hour and are a great way to explore all that Destin has to offer.

If you're venturing off the beaten path:

Destin is surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so it's no surprise that many people come here to enjoy them. However, getting to these beaches can sometimes be a challenge.

There are a few companies that offer beach shuttle services that will take you to and from your hotel or condo. These shuttles typically run on a schedule, so it's important to check the schedule in advance.

Another option is to rent a bike or beach cruiser. This is a great way to explore the beaches at your own pace and get some exercise in at the same time!

Finally, if you're feeling adventurous, you can always try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking. Both of these activities are great ways to see the beaches from a different perspective.

Need Any Assistance?

Thank you for reading our comprehensive guide to living in Destin Florida. Whether you are a first time homebuyer, seller, or just interested in the local market, we hope that this article has been helpful. Our team of real estate professionals is here 24/7 to assist you with all of your needs and would be happy to answer any questions that you may have. Don't hesitate to contact us for more information about the Destin area or about our services. We look forward to helping you find your dream home!