Truly a tourist’s favorite, Pensacola will have you dreaming of sugar-white sands between your toes and bright blue water begging you to take a dip.
The city has that beach vibe in spades with unique architecture. But there’s way more to this northwestern Florida city.
With the presence of the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, commerce in the area attracts different businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
Although Pensacola in itself is fantastic, you may crave the suburban lifestyle of the places surrounding it while having easy access to the city.
Depending on where you choose to live, you might find a charming historic district, a vibrant arts scene, or a tight-knit community feel.
Let’s take a closer look at the best areas to live near Pensacola, FL.
Quick Overview
- Brent, FL — Most Affordable Housing Units
- Ferry Pass, FL — Most Family-friendly Area
- Gulf Breeze, FL — Lowest Cost of Living
- Tiger Point, FL — Best Blend of City and Rural Life
- Oriole Beach, FL — Most Suitable for Holidays
- Ensley, FL — Best Natural Beauty
1. Brent, FL
If you’re looking for an affordable yet super convenient suburb in the Pensacola area, Brent is calling your name.
The cost of living here is approximately 14% lower than the Florida average and 11% less than the national average. Located south of Tampa, FL, and with Pensacola just a hop away, the economy of the big cities seeps into Brent.
Here, even the movers in Pensacola have helped people move into the city to take up employment opportunities in construction, retail, professional, and technical services. Although the median household income is less than the national median, living here does not break the bank.
Safety-wise, Brent has a moderate crime rate. Its violent and property crime rates are slightly higher than the national average. But there are plenty of community initiatives to keep things secure.
- Population: 23,447
- Distance From Pensacola: 4.3 miles
- Average Rent: $1,316
- Median Home Value: $185,000
- Median Household Income: $44,053
- Best For Families and those looking for an inexpensive weekend getaway
2. Ferry Pass, FL
Another one of the towns near Pensacola, FL, offering a sweet spot for students who want to be close to educational institutions while enjoying a chill suburban vibe is Ferry Pass.
The city makes a convincing appeal for families of all kinds with its unique job opportunities in sectors like healthcare and education—courtesy of the University of West Florida.
On average, living here is pretty reasonable on the pocket. With real estate valuation crossing over a quarter of a million, about 55% of residents opt to rent rather than own. On the bright side, housing options are diverse, ranging from apartments and condos to single-family homes.
When it comes to safety, Ferry Pass has high numbers that are above the national average. But in the last decade, the rate of crime has been on a decline.
- Population: 29,921
- Distance From Pensacola: 7.9 miles
- Average Rent: $1,455
- Median Home Value: $317,800
- Median Household Income: $62,420
- Best For: Students, young professionals and families
3. Gulf Breeze, FL
It’s a dream come true for beach lovers, retirees, and families seeking top-notch schools and a serene environment in Gulf Breeze.
Although the cost of living here is 5% lower than the national average, real estate is relatively pricey. Yet, 77% of residents here own their homes. Understandably, the quality of life and stunning surroundings make it totally worth it.
The local economy thrives on tourism and healthcare, allowing entrepreneurs to also enjoy a bustling business scene, especially with Pensacola Beach right next door.
Safety? Gulf Breeze is one of the safest communities among the best areas to live near Pensacola, FL. There is a 1 in 1,110 chance of being a victim of a violent crime, and the property crime rate is 10.94 (per 1,000 residents), lower than the national median.
- Population: 6,302
- Distance From Pensacola: 7.3 miles
- Average Rent: $1,289
- Median Home Value: $445,000
- Median Household Income: $107,202
- Best For: Retirees and tourists
4. Tiger Point, FL
Consider it a small, but impressive rural suburb in Santa Rosa County.
The peaceful atmosphere here in Tiger Point is hard to beat. Even though it’s a small area, there are a lot of things to do. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the Tiger Point Golf Club, while retirees will cherish the area as a slice of paradise.
Its local economy benefits from tourism, retail, and the service industry. However, many of the residents commute to nearby Gulf Breeze and Pensacola for work, which is partly due to more abundant opportunities.
Living costs in the city strike a good balance between affordability and the right quality of life, making Tiger Point one of the best places to live near Pensacola, FL. Housing options range from luxurious golf course homes to more modest single-family residences.
Thankfully, the crime rate is way lower than the national average, and you don’t have to worry about your property.
- Population: 3,511
- Distance From Pensacola: 15 miles
- Average Rent: $1,722
- Median Home Value: $537,000
- Median Household Income: $116,711
- Best For Retirees
5. Oriole Beach, FL
Still in Santa Rosa County, on the Emerald Coast of Florida, Oriole Beach is the small beach community that’s the go-to for nature lovers looking for a quiet, scenic spot to call home.
It has a laid-back feel to it while allowing the locals easy access to job markets in Gulf Breeze and Pensacola. With an unemployment rate of 4%, those who decide to work within the area tend to easily find gainful employment.
Oriole Beach is the perfect blend of convenience and tranquility. The cost of living is reasonable, about 3.2% lower than the Florida average.
More good news from Oriole Beach shows some pretty impressive safety numbers. The violent crime rate is a cool 17.8, way below the national average of 22.7. When it comes to property crime, the area is cruising at 34, beating the national average of 35.4.
- Population: 1,731
- Distance From Pensacola: 12 miles
- Average Rent: $1,722
- Median Home Value: $455,000
- Median Household Income: $71,080
- Best For: Nature enthusiasts and creatives
6. Ensley, FL
As one of the top areas near Pensacola, FL, to live in, Ensley, FL makes the list.
Located in Escambia County, this sparsely populated suburb is ideal for anyone looking for an affordable suburban lifestyle with easy access to city amenities. About 58% of residents own their homes, reflecting the general affordability of the area.
The economy here is diverse, with a future job market expected to grow by almost 42%. Job opportunities are in retail, manufacturing, and finance. Moreover, living cost is attractively low, making it perfect for budget-conscious individuals and families.
With crime rife in the city, violent and property indices are higher than the national averages. Luckily, as a parent here, there are safe neighborhoods lurking around to allow you to enjoy the benefits of the many top-rated schools in Ensley, that are perfect for your kids.
- Population: 23,817
- Distance From Pensacola: 9.4 miles
- Average Rent: $1,516
- Median Home Value: $245,000
- Median Household Income: $57,232
- Best For: First-time homebuyers
Key Takeaway—Best Areas To Live Near Pensacola, FL
Craving a vibrant community near Pensacola?
Each of the best areas to live near Pensacola, FL, has its own thing going on. From epic beaches to schools that impress and a top-notch quality of life, there’s a community that fits the bill.
Just have these facts about the cities near Pensacola:
- On a budget? Check out Brent.
- Need space for the family? Ferry Pass is your jam.
- Want gorgeous beaches and schools that rock? Gulf Breeze offers this.
- If you dig the quiet and luxury lifestyle, Tiger Point has got your back.
- Nature lovers? Stop by at Oriole Beach.
- Love to experience the untapped opportunities in a city’s job market, Ensley is the spot.
Good luck!
