Home of the World’s Largest Air Force Base

Okaloosa

Okaloosa County is home to Eglin Air Force Base, the world’s largest Air Force installation, which hosts the headquarters of the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), the 96th Test Wing, and the 33rd Fighter Wing (F-35 graduate flying and maintenance training wing), among others. With research and testing at the forefront of activities at Eglin, numerous technology and defense contractors have established a presence here, including renowned powerhouses such as Boeing, BAE Systems, and Lockheed Martin. All benefit from a pro-business local government, award-winning public schools (including Florida’s first STEM-focused middle school), a myriad of post-secondary education options, and a steady stream of young, technically astute military retirees.