Crestview, FL Real Estate Market Data & Analysis
Market Quick Stats
| Metric | Data (as of February 2026) |
|---|---|
| Population | 30,727 (2026 estimate) |
| Median Home Price | $295,000 - $315,000 |
| Median Days on Market | 73 days |
| Price per Square Foot | $169 - $172 |
| School District Rating | 7/10 (GreatSchools average) |
| Distance to Eglin AFB | 28 miles (30-45 min drive) |
| Distance to Hurlburt Field | Approximately 35 miles (60 min drive) |
| Distance to Duke Field | 5 miles (20 min drive) |
Market Data Summary
Last 30 Days (January 2026 estimate)
| Metric | Data |
|---|---|
| Homes Sold | ~40-50 |
| Median Price | $295,000 |
| Median Days on Market | 73 |
Last 90 Days (Q4 2025 estimate)
| Metric | Data |
|---|---|
| Homes Sold | ~120-140 |
| Median Price | $300,000-$310,000 |
| Median Days on Market | 75-80 |
Year-Over-Year Change (2024 vs 2025)
| Metric | Change |
|---|---|
| Median Price | +6.3% |
| Days on Market | -20.9% (faster sales) |
| Inventory | +9.7% (more selection) |
*Market data sourced from Redfin, Rocket Homes, and MLS listings. Numbers represent approximate ranges based on available data.
What is the current Crestview housing market like?
As of January 2026, Crestview's median home price sits at $295,000 according to Redfin data (September 2025), up 6.3% year-over-year. Homes are selling in an average of 73 days compared to 92 days in 2024. The market shows 645 active listings as of March 2025, representing a 9.7% increase in inventory from February 2025.
Price appreciation in Crestview has been moderate compared to coastal Okaloosa County markets. While Destin and Niceville command $275+ per square foot, Crestview averages $169-$172 per square foot. This price differential makes Crestview the most affordable option for military families stationed at nearby installations.
How far is Crestview from military bases?
Eglin Air Force Base Main Gate: 28 miles, 30-45 minute commute (traffic dependent)
Hurlburt Field: Approximately 35 miles, 60 minute commute
Duke Field (Eglin Auxiliary Field #3): 5 miles, 20 minute commute
Duke Field proximity makes Crestview particularly popular with 7th Special Forces Group families who relocated from Fort Bragg, NC in 2011. Commute times to Eglin AFB main increase during summer tourist season (May-August) when US-98 experiences heavy beach traffic.
Crestview Subdivisions & Neighborhoods
North Crestview Established Subdivisions
Liberty Oaks
Built: 2000s-2010s
Homes: 71 single-family lots on 25.92 acres
Typical Size: 1,600-2,200 sq ft, 3-4 BR, 2-3 BA
Price Range: $280,000-$360,000
HOA: Varies by section
School Zones: Antioch Elementary (8/10), Davidson Middle, Crestview High
Good fit for: Military families seeking established neighborhood feel, buyers wanting newer construction without new-build premium
Silver Oaks
Built: 1990s-2000s
Typical Lot Size: 90' x 200' (high and dry)
Typical Size: 1,800-2,400 sq ft
Price Range: $300,000-$400,000
Features: Mature trees, larger lots, Phase 1 is most established
Good fit for: 50+ downsizers wanting single-story with yard space, families wanting room to expand
Everwood / Rolling Hills Estates / Silver Creek Estates
Built: 2000s-2010s
Combined area represents North Crestview's most sought-after cluster
Typical Size: 1,500-2,200 sq ft
Price Range: $285,000-$370,000
School Zones: Antioch Elementary (8/10), Shoal River Middle (8/10)
Good fit for: Families prioritizing school quality, military families seeking strong resale potential
South Crestview New Construction
Highland (D.R. Horton)
Built: 2023-present
Home Types: Cali and Lakeside floor plans
Typical Size: 1,800-2,200 sq ft
Features: Four-sided brick exterior, quartz countertops, stainless appliances, large lots
Price Range: $310,000-$380,000
Good fit for: Military families wanting new construction with warranty, buyers prioritizing low maintenance exterior
Holley Grove
Built: 2020s
Active Development: Yes
Incentives: Often includes $10K closing cost assistance
Price Range: $295,000-$350,000
Location: Quick commute to southern bases
Good fit for: First-time buyers, E-5/E-6 looking to maximize BAH
Premium Options
Chanan Estates
Type: Gated community
Typical Size: 2,000-2,800 sq ft + bonus rooms
Features: Pool-friendly lots, upscale finishes
Price Range: $380,000-$500,000+
Good fit for: Senior officers, contractors, buyers wanting gated security with room for pool
Military Family Considerations
BAH Compatibility (2025 Rates)
E-5 with dependents: $2,289/month = $274,680 annually
Crestview median ($295,000) requires modest out-of-pocket but remains most BAH-compatible option in Okaloosa County. South Crestview new construction at $310,000-$330,000 fits comfortably within E-5 purchasing power with VA loan (0% down).
E-6 with dependents: $2,517/month = $302,040 annually
E-6 BAH covers Crestview median price with cushion for utilities/maintenance. Established subdivisions like Liberty Oaks and Everwood fall squarely in this range.
O-3 with dependents: $3,030/month = $363,600 annually
O-3 BAH provides access to premium options including Chanan Estates, waterfront properties, and larger homes in Silver Oaks.
VA Loan Considerations
Crestview appraisals generally support contract prices in established subdivisions. New construction in South Crestview occasionally faces appraisal gaps when builders price aggressively. Request comparable sales (comps) before making offer on brand-new builds.
PCS Resale Strength
Based on MLS data from September 2025, Crestview homes sell in 73 days versus 92 days in 2024. This represents a seller's market with improving liquidity. Military-friendly features (single-story, 4 bedrooms, 2-car garage, fenced yard) consistently outperform. Homes priced correctly in North Crestview's established subdivisions average 45-60 days on market.
50+ Downsizer Considerations
Single-Story Home Availability
Approximately 40-45% of Crestview inventory consists of single-story homes, significantly higher than coastal markets where two-story dominates. Subdivisions with highest single-story concentration: Silver Oaks, Liberty Oaks (select sections), and newer South Crestview builds offering ranch-style floor plans.
Low-Maintenance Options
Many Crestview HOAs include basic lawn maintenance ($50-$150/month range). Newer subdivisions in South Crestview feature brick or cement fiber exteriors requiring minimal upkeep. Gated communities like Chanan Estates offer additional services but at premium HOA cost ($200-$400/month).
Healthcare Access
North Okaloosa Medical Center: 8 miles from central Crestview, full-service hospital
Eglin AFB Hospital (military retirees): 28 miles
Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast (Fort Walton Beach): 30 miles
Crestview supports aging-in-place better than isolated rural areas while avoiding Destin's tourist congestion and higher property taxes.
What are Crestview's top-rated schools?
Elementary Schools:
Antioch Elementary: 8/10 (GreatSchools)
Northwood Elementary: 7/10 (GreatSchools)
Riverside Elementary: 5/10 (GreatSchools)
Middle Schools:
Shoal River Middle: 8/10 (GreatSchools)
Davidson Middle: 7/10 (GreatSchools)
High Schools:
Crestview High: 4/10 (GreatSchools), B+ (Niche)
97% graduation rate
Strong Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs
54% math proficiency, 54% reading proficiency
Specialty Schools (out-of-zone admission available):
Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College: A+ rating, 50th in Florida
Students graduate with both high school diploma and Associate's Degree (tuition-free)
Located in Niceville, commute required
Common Questions About Crestview Real Estate
Q: Is Crestview a good investment for military families on 2-3 year tours?
A: Yes. Median days on market dropped from 92 to 73 year-over-year, indicating strong liquidity. Crestview's affordability attracts consistent military buyer pool, and homes priced correctly typically sell within 60-90 days.
Q: How does Crestview compare to Niceville and Fort Walton Beach for pricing?
A: Crestview median ($295K) runs $40K-$80K below Niceville ($334K-$360K) and Fort Walton Beach ($315K-$340K) while offering larger lots and newer construction options. Trade-off is longer commute to Eglin AFB main gate.
Q: What's the property tax rate in Crestview?
A: Okaloosa County effective rate approximately 0.8-0.9% of assessed value. Florida has no state income tax, which increases take-home pay for military families compared to high-tax states.
Q: Are there homes under $250,000 in Crestview?
A: Yes, but limited inventory. Older homes (1970s-1990s builds) occasionally list in $220K-$280K range, typically requiring updates. Townhomes and condos offer sub-$200K options for first-time buyers.
Q: Does Crestview have rental property options for investors?
A: Yes. Three-bedroom homes rent for $1,650-$2,100/month. E-5 and E-6 BAH rates ($2,289-$2,517) support rental demand. Average rental yield 6-7% based on median price and typical rent.
Q: What's different about buying in Crestview versus coastal Okaloosa County?
A: Crestview eliminates beach traffic, tourist congestion, and coastal insurance premiums. Wind/flood insurance runs lower than Fort Walton Beach or Destin. Trade-offs: 30-45 minute drive to beaches, more "country" feel, less walkability.
Q: How much are HOA fees in Crestview subdivisions?
A: Varies widely. Many older subdivisions: $0-$50/month (road maintenance only). Newer developments: $75-$150/month (includes basic lawn care). Gated communities: $200-$400/month (includes gate, amenities, full grounds maintenance).
Q: Which Crestview subdivision has the shortest commute to Duke Field?
A: South Crestview subdivisions (Holley Grove, areas south of I-10) offer 10-15 minute commute to Duke Field. North Crestview adds 5-10 minutes but provides access to higher-rated schools.
Market Data Summary
Last 30 Days (January 2026 estimate)
Homes Sold: ~40-50
Median Price: $295,000
Median Days on Market: 73
Last 90 Days (Q4 2025 estimate)
Homes Sold: ~120-140
Median Price: $300,000-$310,000
Median Days on Market: 75-80
Year-Over-Year Change (2024 vs 2025)
Median Price: +6.3%
Days on Market: -20.9% (faster sales)
Inventory: +9.7% (more selection)
Market data sourced from Redfin, Rocket Homes, and MLS listings. Numbers represent approximate ranges based on available data.
Why Crestview Works for Military Families and Retirees
Crestview delivers the most affordable single-family home ownership in Okaloosa County while maintaining strong schools and military community presence. The city's position at the I-10 corridor provides easy access to Pensacola (60 minutes west) and Panama City (90 minutes east) without sacrificing proximity to Eglin installations.
Military families benefit from: proven BAH compatibility, strong 7th Special Forces Group community, improving resale liquidity, and newer construction options with warranties. Retirees and 50+ buyers benefit from: single-story availability, lower cost of living than coast, manageable property taxes, and proximity to VA healthcare at Eglin.
Crestview remains Okaloosa County's fastest-growing city, with population increasing 4.33% annually. New construction permits and subdivision development indicate continued growth through 2027.
Data Sources: Redfin (September 2025), Rocket Homes (March 2025), GreatSchools.org (2024-2025), US Census Bureau (2026 population estimate), Department of Defense BAH rates (2025), Emerald Coast Association of Realtors MLS data.
Last Updated: February 2026
