Moving To Santa Rosa Beach, Florida Guide

Welcome to the sunny shores of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida! If you're considering a move to this picturesque locale, you're in for a treat. Known for its luxurious beach towns, vibrant community, and stunning coastal views, Santa Rosa Beach offers a unique blend of Southern charm and seaside living. This guide will cover the local lifestyle, housing market, schools, and cost of living, helping you decide if Santa Rosa Beach is the right place for your next home.

Why Santa Rosa Beach?

Santa Rosa Beach is not just a destination; it's a lifestyle. Nestled along the famous 30A route, this area is renowned for its luxury living. Here’s what makes Santa Rosa Beach stand out:

• Luxurious Beach Towns: From Dune Allen to Rosemary Beach, each town offers its own unique flavor of upscale dining, artistic experiences, and pristine white sand beaches.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With numerous family-oriented activities and a community that caters to an affluent crowd, it's a great place to raise children or enjoy a peaceful retirement.
• Vibrant Local Culture: The area boasts a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from Mediterranean-style architecture in Alys Beach to the quirky, beach-hippie vibe of Grayton Beach.

Education and Schools

For families considering a move, education is a crucial factor. Santa Rosa Beach is served by several highly-rated schools:

• Van R. Butler Elementary: Conveniently located near the Dune Allen area, making it a great choice for families living nearby.
• Emerald Coast Middle School: Offers a robust middle school curriculum right in the heart of the community.
• South Walton High School: Known for its strong academic programs and proximity to central areas of Santa Rosa Beach.

For more detailed information on school ratings, visiting niche.com can provide insights, with local schools generally rating from B+ to A-.

Housing Market Insights

Santa Rosa Beach's housing market reflects its luxurious setting. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect:

• Average Rent: The average cost is around $1,605, offering a variety of living options.
• Home Purchase Prices: Buying a home ranges from about $300,000 to upwards of $24 million, with the average price of a single-family home around $1.5 million. This wide range reflects the diverse architectural styles and locations available, from beachfront properties to more inland residences.

Local Politics and Cost of Living

As of 2024, Santa Rosa Beach has a conservative political leaning, typical of the broader Panhandle area. The cost of living is generally higher than the national average:

• Cost of Living Index: Santa Rosa Beach scores around 140 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. This means it's approximately 40% higher than the average across the United States.
• Comparison to Other Cities: If you're moving from a city like New York, you might find the cost of living significantly lower. However, compared to places like Dayton, Ohio, it will be considerably higher.

Exploring the Community and Amenities

Santa Rosa Beach is not only about beautiful beaches and luxury homes; it's also about a vibrant community life and a plethora of activities that cater to both residents and tourists. Here’s what you can expect:

• Outdoor Activities: The area is filled with trails and bike paths, such as the one that stretches to Miramar Beach. It's perfect for those who love to stay active while enjoying the scenic views.
• Dining and Shopping: From boutique shops in Alys Beach to unique dining experiences in areas like Rosemary Beach, there’s no shortage of places to explore.
• Cultural Mix: The community boasts a blend of Southern charm and Florida flair, making it a welcoming place for newcomers from all walks of life.

Why I Chose Santa Rosa Beach

As someone who moved from New York and served 14 years in the military, I found Santa Rosa Beach to be the ideal place to settle down. Here’s why:

• Community Feel: Despite its luxurious facade, Santa Rosa Beach has a tight-knit community vibe. It's a place where neighbors look out for each other, adding to the overall safety and friendliness of the area.
• Access to Amenities: Living here means having easy access to the beach, high-quality amenities, and a lifestyle that many dream of but few attain.

Conclusion

Santa Rosa Beach offers a compelling mix of luxury, community, and natural beauty, making it a top choice for those looking to enjoy a high-quality lifestyle by the sea. Whether you're drawn by the stunning beaches, the vibrant local culture, or the luxurious amenities, Santa Rosa Beach has something to offer everyone.

If you're considering making the move, remember that while the cost of living may be higher than the national average, the quality of life and community atmosphere can be well worth the investment. With its mix of Southern hospitality and beachside charm, Santa Rosa Beach is not just a place to live—it's a place to thrive.

For any further questions or if you need assistance with moving to Santa Rosa Beach, feel free to call/text us at 850-204-4416 or email us at Admin@WhittemoreGroupRE.com. We're here to help make your transition as smooth as possible. Welcome to your new home in Santa Rosa Beach, where the sun shines brighter and the waves welcome you with their soothing sounds.