About Northwest Florida


About Santa Rosa County

Santa Rosa County, with its spectacular sunsets across unspoiled shores and woodlands, would be the golden topaz in our area’s treasury. Each day, at sunset, residents enjoy golden waves on miles of public beaches as gulf breezes whisper through sun-drenched pines.

Two Worlds in One

Like its neighbors, Okaloosa and Walton counties, Santa Rosa County is almost two worlds in one when comparing the northern section to the southern coastline section of the county. This central portion of the county is the area north of Pensacola Bay and East Bay and south of extensive forests that separate it from the northern section of the county. In this central portion the I-10 corridor grows to its widest and takes in an area historically known as “The Old Spanish Trail”. Here you will find communities rich in history in an area that can boast being Florida’s oldest commercial center.

Santa Rosa County Highlights

    • Agriculture accounts for nearly $60 million in annual revenue in Santa Rosa County. Moreover, it has the potential to be even larger. Santa Rosa County has some of the finest soil and growers in Northwest Florida and throughout the State.
    • Due to its extraordinary variety of inland rivers, Santa Rosa County holds the title of “Canoe Capital of Florida”.
    • Eight of 12 miles of “squeaky-clean” shoreline, are part of the federally protected, undeveloped Gulf Islands National Seashore.

A Big Part of Florida History

The Old Spanish Trail originally ran from St. Augustine on the Atlantic Ocean to New Orleans and west. Today Highway 90 closely parallels this old trail. The county seat, Milton, sits on the spot where the trail crossed the Black Water River. Established in 1825 as a trading post Milton’s rich history is matched only by its small-town charm. Among the oldest cities in Florida, Milton’s name is likely a derivative of “milltown” representing the leading role the city played in the lumber industry’s early days.

Business. Redefined here.

“The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases.” – Carl Jung
A visit to the Santa Rosa Economic Development Council’s website reveals an easy, open attitude towards commerce and growth. “Santa Rosa County understands and celebrates the unique fact that everyone experiences, interprets and approaches life – AND BUSINESS – differently.” They are committed to creating an environment that supports an entrepreneurial approach to business.