Eglin AFB Zip Code 32542

Introduction to Eglin AFB and its Surroundings

Eglin Air Force Base, located in Okaloosa County, Florida, is a United States Air Force base that has been a significant part of the local community since its establishment in 1935. With the zip code 32542, Eglin AFB is situated near the city of Valparaiso and the town of Niceville, providing a unique blend of military and civilian life. The base is known for its role in the development and testing of various aircraft and weaponry systems, making it a crucial component of the US military’s operations.

History of Eglin AFB

The history of Eglin AFB dates back to the 1930s, when the US Army Air Corps began constructing the base as a bombing and gunnery range. Over the years, the base has undergone significant transformations, with various units and commands being established and disbanded. Today, Eglin AFB is home to the 96th Test Wing, which is responsible for the development, testing, and evaluation of new aircraft and weaponry systems. The base has also played a significant role in the development of the US space program, with several notable astronauts having trained at Eglin AFB.

Demographics and Economy

The area surrounding Eglin AFB, including the cities of Valparaiso and Niceville, has a population of around 20,000 people. The local economy is driven primarily by the military, with many residents employed at the base or in related industries. However, the area is also home to a growing number of retirees and families, who are attracted by the region’s natural beauty, mild climate, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The median household income in the area is around 50,000, with a median home price of around 200,000.

Education and Healthcare

The area surrounding Eglin AFB is served by the Okaloosa County School District, which operates several schools in the region, including Niceville High School and Valparaiso Elementary School. The base is also home to the Eglin AFB Elementary School, which provides education to the children of military personnel. In terms of healthcare, the area is served by the Fort Walton Beach Medical Center and the Twin Cities Hospital, both of which are located in nearby Fort Walton Beach.

Recreation and Leisure

The area surrounding Eglin AFB offers a wide range of recreational and leisure activities, including: * Fishing and boating on the nearby Choctawhatchee Bay and Gulf of Mexico * Hiking and biking on the Eglin AFB Trails and Yellow River State Forest * Beach activities on the nearby Destin Beach and Fort Walton Beach * Golfing at the Eglin AFB Golf Course and Shalimar Pointe Golf Club

📝 Note: The area surrounding Eglin AFB is also home to several annual events and festivals, including the Niceville Jazz Festival and the Valparaiso Heritage Museum Festival.

Table of Demographic Data

Category	Value
Population	20,000
Median Household Income	50,000</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Median Home Price</td> <td>200,000
Unemployment Rate	4%

In summary, Eglin AFB and its surrounding area offer a unique blend of military and civilian life, with a strong economy, good education and healthcare, and plenty of recreational and leisure activities. The area is an attractive place to live, work, and visit, with its natural beauty, mild climate, and outdoor recreational opportunities.