Cost of Living in Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, FL
Is it worth moving here?
How far does a $70,000 salary go in Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $7,241 per year — Florida levies no state income tax, so that figure covers federal tax only. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,785/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $41,339, or roughly $3,445 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.
The Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin metro has a cost of living index of 99.2 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin sits close to the national average, meaning everyday expenses are broadly in line with what you'd find across most U.S. cities.
At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin represents approximately 31% of gross income. That exceeds the conventional 30% guideline, meaning housing takes a significant share of the budget at this income level. Florida's zero income tax helps offset the rent burden compared to otherwise similar cities that also levy state income tax.
Annual Breakdown
Cost of Living Index
Living in Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, FL is roughly 1% less expensive than the national average.
Monthly Take-Home
... / mo
Affordability Score
K-12 Schools
See Details →Colleges & Universities
See Details →| Institution | Enrollment | In-State Tuition | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emerald Coast Technical College | 170 | $0 | 67.0% |
| Okaloosa Technical College | 429 | $0 | 56.0% |
| Northwest Florida State College | 5,160 | $2,496 | 43.0% |