Availability

Seasonal factors greatly affect demand in the local housing market because the as a result of the area’s tourist population. Although the area’s metro population is only approximately 163,984 – the beaches encounter almost 6 million visitors each calendar year. In addition, there is typically an influx of Canadian visitors during the winter months who escape the harsh winters up north for more mild winters. Although, it is difficult to find furnished units during the summer, as a rule, there is a fair selection of long term, unfurnished dwellings available in the civilian community. The average rental rates for a 3 bedroom, 2 bath single dwelling (a nice, middle-class home) is approximately $900 - $1250 per month. You can expect to pay less in apartment units, duplexes, etc.

Geographical Bachelor Housing

Depending on permission given by the servicemember’s command, and space available at Navy Gateway Inns and Suites (barracks), Geographical Bachelor Housing may, or may not be available. A Geographical Bachelor must complete the required documentation and it will then be submitted to a board. Rooms will be granted if there is availability or the applicant may be placed on a waiting list. Geographical Bachelor Housing is eligible only for those on permanent change of station (PCS) orders; Students and TDY servicemembers are not eligible for geographical bachelor housing. To speak to the Unaccompanied Housing Department call 850-230-7299 Mon - Fri from 0800 a.m. - 1600 p.m.

Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) Housing

If you have an Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) family member, pre-notification to Family Housing is encouraged. Prior to notifying housing of your family member's EFMP you will need to know the category/classification the family member has been placed in by medical personnel.

Pets

Typically, it is difficult to find vacancies for individuals who own pets. Unfortunately, many previous pet owners have allowed their pets to become nuisances, and property management personnel are reluctant to rent to individuals with pets. All personnel should be prepared to pay a non-refundable pet fee ranging from $150-$300 per pet in addition to a security deposit.

Rental and Purchase Options

The average cost of renting an apartment or home in the area varies upon your location with the average 2/3 bedroom rental ranges from $1000-$1500 per month while the median home price is currently at $193,000 for Bay County. The average monthly utility costs are from $150-$250 per month.

Mobile Homes

Since you are living on the Gulf Coast it is not advisable to reside in a Mobile Home. Hurricanes heavily damage or destroy Mobile Homes at a Category 1 Hurricane, therefore you will have to evacuate in the event of a hurricane. However, there are a number of Mobile Home Parks in the area. There is not a mobile home park on the installation. Incoming personnel desiring information on Mobile Home Parks within the area can contact the Relocation Office for more information at 850-235-5611 (DSN 436). You may also contact the Housing Welcome Office upon your arrival at Building 304, 101 Vernon Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407; 850-234-4248.