Welcome to Crestview
Laid-back, affordable living in a rural setting
Crestview is an up-and-coming suburb with privacy, a ton of natural space, a semi-rural feel, and spacious lots. This growing city hits all the high notes for a great quality of living and is a wonderful, affordable place to raise a family. House prices are reasonable without sacrificing charm and amenities, and the cost of living makes Crestview an attractive option for those considering a move to the Florida panhandle.
What to Love
- Lots of family activities
- Convenient shopping and dining
- The perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts
- Low cost of living
- Highly-rated public schools
Local Lifestyle
Crestview is a relaxed, small city with a population of about 27,000 residents. People work hard here, but they play hard, too, with plenty of open space for enjoying nature and outdoor activities. The community rallies around its public schools and school sports teams.
While you'll definitely enjoy being close to Shoal River, a perfect place to immerse yourself in nature, you're only about 30 miles from the Gulf of Mexico.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
The local favorites include everything from hole-in-the-wall eateries to fine dining establishments, but you'll likely return to the following restaurants over and over.
Bamboo Sushi Bar & Hibachi is the place to be for the best sushi and authentic Japanese fare in Crestview; the wait for your freshly-prepared food is absolutely worth it. The Wild Olive is a popular, casual lunch spot with an eclectic menu leaning toward Italian dishes.
Whether you want to dine in or bring some fresh seafood home to prepare yourself in your new home's fully-appointed kitchen, check out Emerald Isle Seafood. The funky and fun Crestview Outdoors is the place to get housewares, lawn and garden supplies, sporting goods, and hardware. You’ll also get to admire some awesome wild game taxidermy.
Crestview also has a vibrant nightlife. Timber Creek Distillery is a popular hotspot for adult beverages, pulled pork, and the annual Laughs on the Go comedy event.
Things to Do
With Crestview having a heavy family atmosphere, it's no wonder that one of its main attractions is the Emerald Coast Zoo. With interactive, educational animal encounters and wildly popular holiday events, there’s something for everyone.
Shoal River is a favorite spot for paddling, fishing, and swimming, and Twin Hills Park is a shade-filled lakeside hangout with athletic fields and a playground.
For some quiet time on the links, consider getting a membership at Blackwater Golf Club, which boasts some of the best greens and most scenic fairways in the area.
Schools
Crestview values academics and has an excellent public school district and opportunities for continuing education. Notable schools include:
- Crestview High School
- Northwest Florida State College
