Pea Ridge, Florida, though often considered an unincorporated community, sits strategically within Santa Rosa County, offering residents a blend of suburban convenience and access to larger metropolitan amenities in Pensacola. It's an area defined by its proximity to military bases, natural beauty, and a strong community focus, particularly around the highly regarded Santa Rosa County School District.
Many homes here are the popular Concrete Block Ranch style, reflecting the region's mid-century growth. Properties often show wear from years of Florida sun and humidity, with issues like aging Cast Iron Pipes being a common concern for homeowners. For those commuting to Pensacola for work, access via US-90 can be a daily consideration, particularly around the US-90 & Avalon Blvd (FL-281) intersection in Pace, which experiences significant traffic during peak hours.
Here are a few neighborhoods and areas closely associated with Pea Ridge, each offering a distinct living experience:
1. Pace Crossroads Area
Located immediately west of Pea Ridge, the Pace Crossroads area (part of zip code 32583) is a bustling hub. It offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and newer residential developments. Families are drawn to this area for its newer housing stock and excellent schools within the Santa Rosa County School District, including Pace High School. While growth here means more amenities, it also means more traffic, especially along US-90. Homes here vary from contemporary family residences to established properties, some of which may still contend with older Cast Iron Pipes or require updates.
2. Milton Historic District
Just east of Pea Ridge, Milton (zip code 32570) offers a charming historic downtown along the Blackwater River. This area features many older homes, some dating back to the early 20th century, alongside many Concrete Block Ranch homes from the 1950s-70s. Residents enjoy local parks and community events, and it's home to the well-known Milton High School. While offering a quaint lifestyle, these older properties often require significant maintenance, including potential issues with original plumbing like Cast Iron Pipes or dealing with specific Septic Tank requirements common in older, less developed areas. Proximity to the river also means some areas fall into Zone AE for flood risk.
3. Chumuckla Area
North of Pea Ridge, the Chumuckla area (extending into 32570 and surrounding areas) offers a more rural and spacious living environment. This region is characterized by larger lots, custom homes, and a quieter pace of life. It’s appealing to those seeking privacy and room to spread out, often with access to equestrian properties or agricultural land. Commuting to Pensacola from Chumuckla involves navigating local roads before reaching US-90 or I-10. Properties here might face specific challenges related to larger land parcels, such as extensive Septic Tank requirements and maintaining outbuildings, or adapting to Hurricanes with appropriate structural resilience.
4. Navarre Beach Causeway Area
Further south, closer to the coast (partially covered by zip code 32563), lies Navarre. While distinct from Pea Ridge, many Santa Rosa County residents consider Navarre a key part of the local fabric due to its popular beaches and military presence. This area offers beautiful coastal living, but it also carries increased risks from Hurricanes and a higher prevalence of properties in Zone AE flood zones. Homes vary, but many are newer constructions designed to withstand coastal conditions. However, older properties here might still feature common issues like Cast Iron Pipes or face stringent building codes due to environmental factors.
Whether you're near Milton High School or grabbing a meal at Andy's Seafood and Steaks, Pea Ridge and its surroundings offer a diverse real estate landscape. We understand the specific nuances of selling a house in this region, from handling Cast Iron Pipes to navigating Septic Tank requirements.
