Gulf Breeze

The cost of living in Gulf Breeze is a bit lower than the national and state averages, providing these benefits:

• POCKET-FRIENDLY HOUSING. Residents benefit from competitive home prices, making it easier for families and individuals to find quality homes within their budgets.

• LOWER LIVING COSTS. Utilities, groceries, and transportation are more affordable, offering residents greater financial flexibility and enabling them to manage their budgets more effectively.

• INCREASED DISPOSABLE INCOME. Reduced living expenses allow residents to allocate more money toward leisure activities, dining out, saving for the future, or personal investments.

• APPEALING TO RETIREES AND FAMILIES. The lower cost of living is ideal for young families and retirees who want to stretch their budgets without sacrificing an idyllic lifestyle.

• ENRICHED LIFESTYLE. Easy access to stunning beaches, picturesque parks, and a variety of outdoor activities boost the residents’ overall quality of life.

• PROXIMITY TO PENSACOLA. Gulf Breeze provides easy access to Pensacola’s urban amenities, such as healthcare, shopping, and cultural events, while maintaining a more affordable suburban environment.

Gulf Breeze is a significant community in Santa Rosa County, which showcases two unique business environments under a cohesive economic development strategy.

The northern part of the county is a rural area that focuses on industrial and agricultural activities, maintaining a robust small business environment. Meanwhile, the southern part, situated closer to beaches, has evolved into vibrant small business hubs highlighting service, tourism, and renowned medical facilities alongside larger technology sectors.

That’s why when you purchase any of the homes for sale in Gulf Breeze, Florida, you’ll be part of a city on the rise, with various opportunities for enriching your career or starting a business, given the thriving economic environment.

Here are some of the city’s major economic components:

• STRATEGIC LOCATION. Santa Rosa County houses the Naval Air Station Whiting Field in Milton and is part of Florida’s aerospace and defense corridor.

• BUSINESS-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT. The county offers validated sites, advanced infrastructure, and a skilled workforce, allowing industries to achieve high returns on investment.

• GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT. With tourism and industry growth, a thriving agricultural sector, strong military connections, and excellent schools, Santa Rosa County has emerged as one of the fastest-growing counties in the country.

The city’s strong public school district (Santa Rosa County District Schools), coupled with a substantial number of college-educated residents, fosters a community supportive of academic excellence. Gulf Breeze benefits from highly-regarded public schools and has several nearby private education options.

ELEMENTARY

• Gulf Breeze Elementary School, a Blue Ribbon School, excels in challenging, student-centered academic programs.
• Oriole Beach Elementary School is a Florida Blue Ribbon, Five Star, and Golden School Award recipient.
• Good Shepherd Lutheran School is a private school that focuses on the child’s physical, mental and spiritual development.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

• Gulf Breeze Middle School, established in 1967, is ranked second among middle schools in the county district.
• Woodlawn Beach Middle School develops adaptable and responsible children, equipping them for a productive future.

HIGH SCHOOL

• Gulf Breeze High School takes the top spot among high schools in the country district.
• Lighthouse Private Christian Academy places a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math, alongside a robust athletic program.

COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

• Pensacola State College is the largest and oldest college in the Florida Panhandle.
• University of West Florida has over 110 undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Pensacola Christian College takes pride in being among Florida’s most affordable Christian universities.

The Gulf Breeze area boasts a range of healthcare facilities that offer high-quality medical services.

• GULF BREEZE HOSPITAL. For nearly 40 years, this establishment has been delivering advanced care with innovative technology and expert specialists, combined with the personal touch of a community hospital. It is the area’s only five-star-rated hospital.

• MEDICAL CENTER CLINIC. This clinic has been providing exceptional medical services to Northwest Florida and South Alabama for over 80 years. It has a reputation as a leading healthcare system with more than 80 providers.

• ASCENSION SACRED HEART PENSACOLA. This hospital offers advanced specialty care as a critical care facility. This full-service, 566-bed hospital provides round-the-clock emergency care and comprehensive medical services.

• WOODLANDS MEDICAL SPECIALISTS. This is a physician-owned, multispecialty clinic deeply rooted in the community. It offers services in hematology, primary care, radiation oncology, accredited diagnostic imaging, breast health, gynecologic oncology, and radiation oncology.

The city offers a unique dining and retail experience with waterfront views and a variety of food spots and shops.

• DELIGHTFUL DINING. For fresh seafood and ocean breezes, visit Crabs on the Beach right on Pensacola Beach. Enjoy generous portions of local favorites like steak and shrimp at Flounder’s Chowder House. Meanwhile, Shaggy’s Pensacola offers comfort eats like fried green tomatoes and Hawaiian tacos.

• BREEZY BARS. Islander Beach Bar offers a wide selection of drinks amid live music and dancing. Meanwhile, THE POINTE is known for its steak and seafood dishes. Patrons also come here for the craft beers and artisanal cocktails. Into elegant drinking spots? Try the Grand Marlin, which boasts exceptional food and an expansive wine list.

• COZY CAFES. For a hearty breakfast, check out Café Bistro, which also offers pastries, smoothies, espresso drinks, and more. Visit Buenos Dias Café for a vibrant setting where you may enjoy Mexican coffee and a Mexican-style breakfast. Native Café aims to serve the best breakfast and coffee in town – the perfect spot to fuel up before a full day on the beach.

• SAVVY SHOPPING. For big-box brands, visit shopping malls such as Cordova Mall and Tiger Point Shopping Center. If you prefer independent local stores, try Pizzaz for children’s clothes, Jen’s Designer Deals and Gibson Girl for women’s apparel, and The Little Shop of Wonders for stones, gems, and jewelry.

One of the appealing aspects of Gulf Breeze is its proximity to the ocean and tidal waters like bays and inlets. This allows visitors and residents to enjoy the views and indulge in outdoor recreation.

• BEAUTIFUL BEACHES. Gulf Islands National Seashore features scenic beaches such as Johnson Beach and Opal Beach, historic forts, trails, and campgrounds across 12 areas. For a relaxing swim or a day of fishing, visit Pensacola Beach for its pristine white sand and clear waters. Another popular options is Perdido Key Beach, a barrier island framed by sand dunes and breathtaking views of the serene Gulf waters.

• WATER SPORTS. Enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in Gulf Breeze’s calm bays and inlets. These activities offer a more intimate way to explore the area’s natural beauty, allowing adventurers to observe local wildlife.

• PARKS AND TRAILS. The area boasts numerous parks, such as Shoreline Park, a waterfront spot that has trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Meanwhile, the Naval Live Oaks Area is famous for its over seven miles of hiking trails and tranquil setting on the Santa Rosa Sound.

• GOLF. The Tiger Point Golf Club offers scenic views and challenging courses. Nearby is the A.C. Read Golf Course in Pensacola, which provides 27 championship holes and an extra 9-hole executive course. For a fun round of mini golf, visit UFO’s Pensacola Beach, which features 18 holes.