Bay County
One County that Fits All
Equally attuned to those disposed to city life and quaint town living, Bay County puts quality of life in your hands. Aerospace companies prevail in Bay County, with multiple military bases bolstering demand for talented professionals. Several colleges and incubators are growing entrepreneurs in Panama City. The region also has a well-established manufacturing sector, with Eastern Shipbuilding Group building of the next generation of U.S. Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Cutters.
Whether you choose to live in Panama City or the picturesque and serene City of Lynn Haven, opportunities in Bay County are boundless. The county is also well-connected with highways that link Northwest Florida to the rest of the U.S., while Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport in Panama City makes it easy for friends and family to visit whenever they’d like.
- Affordability
- Location
- Military
Quality Living that Costs Less
Besides having no state income tax, Bay County area residents enjoy costs that are 8% below the national average. Sales tax is also relatively low in most areas within the county, which means you can get what you need without breaking the bank. Average housing costs are also way below the typical U.S. home or rental rate, so whether you choose to live in Callaway, Lynn Haven or Panama City, you can be sure you’ll be resting easy.
Everything Within an Hour’s Drive
With so much sunshine and perpetually pleasant temperatures, there’s always an excuse to get outside in Bay County. From state and county parks ideal for hiking and picnicking to the active arts community and cultural events in Panama City like the Seafood & Music Festival, there’s a lot more to Bay County than the white sandy beaches.
Honorable Opportunities to Serve
Two military bases are in Bay County — Naval Support Activity on Panama City (NSA PC) and Tyndall Air Force Base near Mexico Beach. Along St. Andrew Bay, NSA PC provides research and development for amphibious warfare. These military operations provide the optimal environment for aerospace suppliers like ACMT and ARA as well as nearly 60 nationally recognized defense contractors within Bay County.
Tools & Resources
Cost of Living
With no state income tax and overall costs typically less than Florida and U.S. averages, Northwest Florida loves to keep your pocketbook in its happy place.
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