Walton County Public RecordsFlorida

As of 2024, Walton County, FL has around 60,000 registered voters: 45% Republican, 23% Democrat, and 32% others. The county holds municipal, primary, and general elections. In the 2022 general election, Republican candidates secured over 70% of local votes. Polling locations include 19 precincts across public buildings. Key local issues are growth management and beach access. Elections are administered by the Walton County Supervisor of Elections. Major parties are the GOP and Democrats, with the GOP dominating countywide offices and voter turnout often exceeding 65% in general elections.

Walton County, FL, generally maintains a lower crime rate compared to state and national averages. As of 2023, the county reported a total crime rate of approximately 1,200 incidents per 100,000 residents, with violent crime accounting for about 120 per 100,000. Property crimes, such as burglary and theft, are more prevalent but have shown a downward trend in recent years. The Walton County Sheriff's Office encourages active crime reporting, contributing to transparent and efficient law enforcement. Overall, Walton County is considered a relatively safe place to live and visit.

As of 2023, Walton County, FL has an estimated population of approximately 84,000. The median age is about 44.5 years, with 50.5% female and 49.5% male residents. Racially, the county is 84% White, 7% Black or African American, 5% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Asian, and 3% identifying as two or more races or other ethnicities. The population has grown steadily in recent years due to in-migration and economic development.

Walton County, FL serves over 10,000 K-12 students across 22 public schools, including 4 high schools, with an average graduation rate of 90%. Approximately 28% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district scores a B+ (Niche 2024) for academics and boasts robust career and technical education programs. School safety initiatives include campus resource officers and secure entry protocols. Adult education is available through Emerald Coast Technical College, offering GED and workforce training.

As of 2023, Walton County, FL, had an unemployment rate of around 2.6%. The leading employment sectors include accommodation and food services (24%), retail trade (13%), and construction (12%). The most common occupations are in sales (23%), office/administrative support (15%), and food preparation (14%). About 80% of workers drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 28 minutes. Approximately 34% of the workforce commutes outside the county, with many employed in neighboring Okaloosa and Bay counties.

Walton County, FL, boasts a homeownership rate around 77%, with median home values near $500,000 as of early 2024. The median monthly rent is approximately $1,800. The area features a mix of single-family homes, condos, and beachfront properties, notably in neighborhoods like Santa Rosa Beach, Miramar Beach, and Freeport. Property values have risen over 10% year-over-year due to strong demand. Property tax rates average 0.67% of assessed home value. Attractive coastal living and investment potential drive both primary residence and vacation home markets in the county.