Emerald Coast Utilities & Services Guide
Setting up utilities on the Emerald Coast can vary depending on the city, subdivision, or county where the property is located. In many cases, neighboring communities may use completely different utility providers.
This guide is designed to help new residents, second-home owners, and investors quickly identify common utility providers throughout Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Crestview, and surrounding areas.
Note: Utility providers, fees, deposits, and setup requirements can change over time. Contact providers directly for the most current information.
Electric Providers
Florida Power & Light (FPL)
Service Areas: Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Mary Esther, Okaloosa Island, Shalimar, Navarre, Crestview, and many surrounding areas.
Phone: 800-225-5797
Notes:
- Formerly Gulf Power
- Most accounts can now be established online
- Fees and deposits may vary
CHELCO (Choctawhatchee Electric Cooperative)
Service Areas: Santa Rosa Beach, Freeport, and portions of Walton County.
Phone: 850-892-2111
Notes:
- Co-op electric provider serving many South Walton communities
- Some areas near Mack Bayou may fall under FPL instead
- Application requirements may vary
Water & Sewer Providers
South Walton Utility Company
Service Areas: Miramar Beach, Sandestin, portions of South Walton County
Phone: 850-837-2988
Notes:
- Separate applications may be required for Sandestin properties
- Online account management may be available
Regional Utilities
Service Areas: Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach, Freeport, portions of 30A
Phone: 850-231-5114
Okaloosa County Water & Sewer
Service Areas: Portions of Fort Walton Beach, Mary Esther, Niceville, Crestview, and unincorporated Okaloosa County.
Phone: 850-651-7171
Natural Gas
Okaloosa Gas District
Service Areas: Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Shalimar, Crestview, Valparaiso, and surrounding areas.
Phone: 850-729-4700
Internet & Cable Providers
Cox Communications
Service Areas: Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Crestview, and many surrounding communities.
LiveOak Fiber
Services: Fiber Internet Service
Phone: 888-396-1243
Notes:
- Fiber internet provider expanding service throughout portions of the Emerald Coast
- Availability varies by neighborhood and subdivision
- High-speed fiber can be especially valuable for remote workers, streaming, and smart-home systems
CenturyLink / Quantum Fiber
Services: Internet, Fiber, and Phone Service
Phone: 833-250-6306
Notes:
- Fiber availability varies greatly by neighborhood
- Buyers working remotely should verify internet speeds before purchasing
Helpful Tips for New Owners
- Some utility providers require service to be transferred before closing.
- Vacation rental properties may require upgraded internet service for guest usage.
- Internet and utility availability can vary significantly even between nearby neighborhoods.
- Buyers purchasing in unincorporated areas should verify utility providers during the inspection period.
- Some newer communities may offer fiber internet, while older neighborhoods may have limited provider options.
DiscoverEmeraldCoast.com Insight
One of the most common surprises for relocating buyers is how fragmented utility coverage can be across the Emerald Coast. Two homes located only minutes apart may use completely different providers for electric, water, sewer, internet, and gas service.
That’s why we always recommend verifying utility providers, internet availability, and service options early during the home buying process — especially for remote workers, second-home owners, and vacation rental investors.
Additional Emerald Coast Resources
- Area Guide to the Emerald Coast
- Emerald Coast Local Dictionary
- Emerald Coast Shopping Guide
- Destin Restaurant Guide
- Destin Golf Courses
- Emerald Coast Schools Guide
- Establish Florida Residency
- Real Estate Glossary
- Pros & Cons of Living on the Emerald Coast
- Emerald Coast Lawn Care Guide
© Ed and Terri Smith. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or duplication prohibited.