Why Move To Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach is not only home to some of Florida’s (and the country’s) Best Beaches, it is a great place to live, work, raise a family, or retire. Panama City Beach has undergone recent growth and development, so it’s worth another look when considering relocating for long-time visitors.

Affordable Living in Panama City Beach

One of the main attractions of Panama City Beach is its affordability. According to salary.com, the cost of living in Panama City is about 13.3% lower than the national average. Another important factor is that Florida does not have state income taxes. This means more money on your paycheck and in your pocket. A statewide 6% sales tax applies to most items, but groceries, medical supplies, and a few others are exempt from sales tax. Municipalities may have additional sales taxes, but the 2022 tax rate for Panama City Beach stays low at only an extra 1%.

The minimum wage in Florida is $11 an hour — $3.75 above the national minimum wage of $7.25. This helps contribute to the median household income in Panama City being above the national average.

Community Features of Panama City Beach

Parents can feel good about their decision to move to Panama City Beach with Bay District Schools. The district currently enrolls more than 26,000 students across 42 schools — 18 elementary schools, six middle schools, five high schools, two multi-grade schools, three special purpose schools, six charter schools, one adult/technical school, and one virtual school. The current graduation rate sits above 80% and received an overall “B” rating for the 2021- 2022 school year.

Panama City Beach has several great parks after a break from the beach. Frank Brown Park is the largest, with nine softball/baseball fields, three soccer fields, three tennis courts, an indoor gym, a playground, a youth fishing pond, and more. The Panama City Beach Public Library is a great place to beat the summer heat. Be sure to check their events page to learn about all of the activities available.

All of the Perks of Beachside Living

With over 27 miles of beachfront access, we know it’s the main attraction. The entire family will enjoy building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, bodysurfing, and more in the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. One of the many perks of living near the water is the availability of fresh Gulf seafood. You can get even closer to the water and enjoy the gorgeous views at one of the several beachfront restaurants. And the best part is you’re only a few minutes away from home!

What’s New in Panama City Beach

Longtime Panama City Beachgoers have probably visited Gulf World Marine Park over the years, but in 2015 the Park sold to Dolphin Discovery, “one of the best dolphinarium companies in the world.” And with new babies being born at the Park all the time, you’ll want to plan a family visit to see the cutest new additions.

Aaron Bessant Park is one of Panama City’s newest parks and attractions. The accompanying amphitheater plays host to several great events:

• Oktoberfest
• Seabreeze Jazz Festival
• Beach Home for the Holidays
• Concerts

The famous Firefly Restaurant has recently undergone a renovation — expanding to include a new sushi bar and a private dining space. Make your reservations today!

Counts Real Estate Makes Your Panama City Beach Move Possible

If you’re ready to trade land for water, Counts Real Estate is here to help make your move as easy as possible. Whether it’s a waterfront condo, fixer-upper, or townhome, you are in great hands with the experts at Counts Real Estate.

View current homes for sale in Panama City Beach, find an agent, and learn even more about the area. We can’t wait to welcome you to Panama City Beach, Florida!