What is the average salary in Fort Walton Beach, FL?
Job seekers in Fort Walton Beach, FL, can expect a competitive average yearly salary of $54,530. Salaries vary across different sectors. The highest-paying jobs include technical and professional roles, with salaries starting at $101,807 per year. Meanwhile, those in administrative support roles can expect salaries starting from around $28,000 annually.
Key industries in Fort Walton Beach offer diverse salary opportunities. Top sectors include healthcare, hospitality, and education. Within these sectors, roles in healthcare management and IT command higher salaries. Opportunities for advancement are available, often leading to significant salary growth. Job seekers should consider these factors when exploring career options in Fort Walton Beach.
What are the best paying jobs in Fort Walton Beach, FL?

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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $91,189
This role works with clients to improve communication skills. Paths work in hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Some local employers include health systems and care facilities.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $75,150
This job focuses on helping customers find what they need. Work in stores selling a variety of goods. Many local employers offer good benefits and flexible hours.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $73,939
Registered Nurses provide care to patients. Work in hospitals and clinics. They often work in teams with other healthcare professionals.
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Automotive Technician
Average Salary: $64,004
This role involves fixing and maintaining vehicles. Work in auto repair shops. Technicians diagnose problems and make repairs. Some employers offer training and advancement opportunities.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $56,516
Licensed Practical Nurses assist in patient care. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Some employers provide job training and career growth.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $56,509
This position oversees daily operations of a business. Managers lead teams and ensure smooth operations. Common employers include restaurants and retail stores.
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Electrician
Average Salary: $56,425
Electricians install and maintain electrical systems. They work in residential and commercial settings. Some local employers offer competitive wages and benefits.
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Technician
Average Salary: $55,990
Technicians specialize in specific fields like IT or medical equipment. They support and troubleshoot systems. Some local employers offer training and career advancement.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $43,230
Maintenance Technicians ensure equipment and facilities run smoothly. They handle repairs and preventative maintenance. Common employers include industrial and commercial properties.
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Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $39,579
Delivery Drivers transport goods to customers. They work for local businesses and companies. Some offer flexible schedules and mileage reimbursement.
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What are the best paying jobs in Fort Walton Beach, FL without a degree?

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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $42,636
Meat cutters prepare cuts of meat for customers. They work at local grocery stores and butcher shops. Daily tasks include slicing meat and trimming fat.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $36,683
Groundskeepers maintain parks and recreational areas. They often work for the city, ensuring areas are clean and well-kept. Duties involve mowing lawns, planting flowers, and keeping pathways clear.
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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $35,833
Lawn care technicians service private properties. They provide a variety of services, such as mowing, trimming, and applying fertilizers. Companies often include small local landscaping firms.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $33,438
Line cooks prepare ingredients and cook meals in restaurants. They work in fast-paced environments and follow recipes to ensure quality. Many restaurants hire line cooks to help with dinner service.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $32,290
Housekeeping staff clean rooms in hotels and resorts. They ensure guest rooms are tidy and comfortable. Duties include making beds, cleaning bathrooms, and replacing supplies.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $31,338
Dishwashers clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. They work in busy restaurants and cafes. Daily tasks include washing dishes, loading dishwashers, and stocking clean items.
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Floor Tech
Average Salary: $30,909
Floor techs maintain the cleanliness of floors. They often work for hotels and office buildings. Tasks include sweeping, mopping, and applying polish to floors.
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Barista
Average Salary: $30,783
Baristas prepare coffee and other beverages. They work in coffee shops and cafes. Duties include taking orders, brewing coffee, and ensuring a friendly atmosphere.
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Server
Average Salary: $30,599
Servers take orders and serve food and drinks in restaurants. They often work in a fast-paced setting. Duties include greeting guests, taking orders, and providing table service.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $29,333
Server assistants help servers with their duties. They work in busy restaurants. Tasks include setting up tables, clearing dishes, and refilling supplies.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Fort Walton Beach, FL?

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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $105,253
BAE Systems USA is a leading defense contractor. They focus on aerospace and defense technologies. Many employees have advanced degrees. They offer a competitive salary and benefits.
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KBR
Average Salary: $81,958
KBR is a major engineering and construction company. They work in the government and commercial sectors. Employees enjoy a wide range of job opportunities. They offer robust benefits and professional growth options.
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Fort Walton Rehabilitation Center
Average Salary: $57,678
Fort Walton Rehabilitation Center provides healthcare services. They focus on rehabilitation and care for patients. The team includes doctors, nurses, and therapists. They offer a supportive work environment.
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Okaloosa County
Average Salary: $48,185
Okaloosa County offers a range of public services. They work in education, public safety, and community development. Employees serve the local community. They provide a stable job with good benefits.
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Sam's Club
Average Salary: $46,396
Sam's Club is a retail giant. They offer a variety of products at wholesale prices. Employees work in sales, management, and logistics. They provide a positive work environment and opportunities for advancement.
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City of Fort Walton Beach
Average Salary: $44,735
The City of Fort Walton Beach manages local government services. They focus on public safety, parks, and community events. Employees contribute to making the city a great place to live. They offer a stable job and good benefits.
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Eglin Federal Credit Union
Average Salary: $42,790
Eglin Federal Credit Union provides banking services. They focus on serving military personnel and their families. Employees work in customer service, loan processing, and banking. They offer a supportive work environment.
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Army & Airforce Exchange Service
Average Salary: $40,918
The Army & Airforce Exchange Service runs retail stores. They provide goods and services to military personnel and their families. Employees enjoy a diverse work environment. They offer opportunities for professional growth.
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Domino's
Average Salary: $39,302
Domino's is a well-known pizza chain. They offer delivery and carry-out services. Employees work in restaurants, kitchens, and management. They provide a fun and fast-paced work environment.
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CEFCO Convenience Stores
Average Salary: $38,254
CEFCO Convenience Stores operate local retail outlets. They sell a range of products, including food and drinks. Employees work in sales, management, and stocking. They offer a supportive work environment.
How does the cost of living in Fort Walton Beach, FL compare to the national average?

Fort Walton Beach, Florida, offers an attractive cost of living when compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. The housing costs in Fort Walton Beach stand at 107, meaning they are 7% higher than the national average. This slight increase might reflect the area's growing popularity and demand for living spaces. However, groceries cost 95, which is 5% less than the average. Utilities also come in at 95, matching the lower grocery prices.
Fort Walton Beach presents a balanced cost structure when considering other expenses. Transportation costs are equal to the national average at 100. Healthcare costs are slightly lower at 98, making them 2% cheaper. Miscellaneous expenses are just 2% higher at 102. Overall, Fort Walton Beach provides a cost of living that is close to the nationwide average, with some areas offering savings and others slightly more expensive. This makes it a competitive option for those looking to relocate or settle down.



