Area Stats
Zip Codes: 32578, 32588
School District: Okaloosa County School District
School Rating: 9/10
Median Home Value: $425,000
Niceville sits along the shores of Boggy Bayou, offering a family-friendly community with highly rated schools and a strong military presence from nearby Eglin Air Force Base. The area features tree-lined neighborhoods, waterfront properties, and easy access to Choctawhatchee Bay. Residents enjoy local parks, the Turkey Creek Nature Trail, and a growing downtown with local shops and restaurants. The real estate market includes established subdivisions, new construction, and homes with bay views. Niceville combines small-town character with the amenities of a growing city, making it a solid choice for families and professionals.
Best Places To Eat
Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival Grounds (Seasonal): Annual event featuring fried mullet and local vendors, a community tradition.
Fat Clemenza's: Italian-American restaurant known for generous portions of pasta, pizza, and family-style dining.
Caffe Italia: Authentic Italian cuisine with homemade pasta and a cozy atmosphere.
Pier 98: Waterfront dining on Boggy Bayou with seafood, steaks, and beautiful views.
Burrito Del Sol: Popular spot for fresh Mexican food, breakfast burritos, and casual lunch options.
Must Visit
Turkey Creek Nature Trail
Turkey Creek Nature Trail offers a peaceful escape into Old Florida landscapes right in the middle of Niceville. This boardwalk trail winds through cypress swamps, hardwood forests, and along crystal-clear spring-fed creeks. The easy half-mile loop makes it accessible for all ages and fitness levels. You'll see native wildlife, towering trees, and natural springs that have been here for centuries. Local families use this trail regularly, and it's a favorite spot for morning walks and nature photography. The trail showcases why Niceville residents value their natural surroundings and small-town quality of life. It's a reminder that you don't need to be on the beach to enjoy Florida's beauty.
Did You Know?
Niceville earned its name through a democratic vote in 1910. The settlement was originally called Boggy, named after the Boggy Bayou that runs through the area. Residents decided the name didn't reflect the community's pleasant character and held a town meeting to choose something better. After much debate, they settled on "Niceville" because it was simply a nice place to live. The straightforward name stuck, and the town has lived up to it ever since. During World War II, Niceville's population grew significantly when Eglin Field (now Eglin Air Force Base) expanded nearby. The military presence shaped the community into the family-friendly town it remains today.
