Living in Pace, Florida: Suburban Life Just North of Pensacola

If you're looking for a little more space, top-rated schools, and a strong sense of community — without giving up access to beaches and city life — Pace, Florida might be the perfect place to call home.

Located just north of Pensacola, this growing Santa Rosa County town has become a hot spot for families, military personnel, and anyone looking to stretch out without heading too far off the grid. As a local Realtor who works all over Northwest Florida, I can confidently say: Pace is one of the best-kept secrets in the Gulf Coast area.

Why People Are Moving to Pace

Let's start with what makes Pace so appealing:

• Top-rated public schools that consistently rank among the best in Florida

• Affordable homes with more space — inside and out

• A family-friendly feel with parks, sidewalks, and sports leagues galore

• Big-name conveniences like Target, Publix, Panera, and HomeGoods

• A short drive to Pensacola, NAS Whiting Field, and even the beach

It's everything people love about suburbia — with just enough of a small-town vibe to feel charming.

Who Lives in Pace?

The population here has boomed in recent years. Most residents are:

• Young families drawn to the schools and safety

• Military families stationed at NAS Whiting Field or commuting from NAS Pensacola

• Remote workers who want a quiet place to live while working from home

• Retirees looking to downsize without sacrificing quality of life

And yes, many people move here from Pensacola itself — because they want more house, more yard, and fewer traffic lights.

What Homes Look Like in Pace

You won't find high-rises or historic bungalows here. Instead, expect:

• Newer construction homes in neighborhoods with sidewalks, playgrounds, and community ponds

• Single-story brick ranch homes on ¼ to ½ acre lots

• Custom builds and estates with acreage for RVs, pools, or even chickens

• A few townhome communities for those who want low-maintenance living

The vibe is clean, practical, and designed for everyday comfort — perfect for families and homeowners who value space and function.

What It Costs to Live in Pace

The cost of living in Pace is still lower than coastal Pensacola, making it ideal for value-focused buyers. As of 2025:

• ? Starter homes typically range from the mid-$200Ks to $300Ks

• ? New construction homes with upgrades are $325K–$450K

• ? Larger or custom homes can go $500K and up, especially with land

Bottom line: You'll likely get more home for your money in Pace than in Gulf Breeze or Downtown Pensacola.

Schools in Pace: One of the Top Reasons People Move Here

Pace is located in Santa Rosa County, which is home to some of the highest-rated schools in the region. Families often move here specifically to get into these school zones.

Notable schools include:

• Pace High School – with a strong academic and athletics reputation

• S.S. Dixon Intermediate and Primary

• Sims Middle School

• Private and charter schools are also available nearby in Milton and Pensacola

What Is There to Do in Pace?

While it's quieter than downtown Pensacola, there's plenty to keep you busy:

• Spencer Field for baseball and community events

• Lions Park and local splash pads for younger kids

• Restaurants locals love:

  • The Cutting Board (great for steak)

  • Grover T's BBQ

  • Burrito del Sol

  • The Hangar American Grill

• Shopping at Target, Publix, Lowe's, TJ Maxx, and more

• Nearby breweries, coffee shops, and even axe-throwing spots popping up

And of course, you're only 20 minutes from the beach, 15 minutes from Downtown Pensacola, and right around the corner from the Blackwater River State Forest for hiking and kayaking.

Commute Times & Location Perks

Pace is convenient without being crowded. Here's how far it is from the major spots:

• ? 20–25 minutes to Downtown Pensacola

• ? 30 minutes to NAS Pensacola

• ? 15 minutes to NAS Whiting Field

• ? 35–40 minutes to Pensacola Beach

• ? Minutes from I-10, Hwy 90, and Avalon Blvd

If you're commuting to Milton, Pensacola, or the base — this is a super strategic spot to land.

Is Pace Right for You?

✅ You want more space, modern homes, and great schools
✅ You're okay with driving 15–20 minutes for downtown nightlife or beach days
✅ You're raising a family, working from home, or looking to retire with some elbow room

? You're dreaming of walkable cafes, historic homes, or beach views? You may want to check out East Hill, Downtown Pensacola, or Gulf Breeze instead.

Let's Find You a Home in Pace

I'm Christina Leavenworth, a real estate agent serving Pace, Milton, Pensacola, and the surrounding Gulf Coast. If you're ready to explore homes in Pace — or you're just curious whether this area fits your lifestyle — I'd love to help.

? Call, text, or email anytime and let's find the right home, in the right school zone, with the right amount of backyard for your dogs, kids, or dreams of a garden.