Living in Pensacola

Rich Heritage
Founded over 400 years ago, Pensacola is a city proud of it's rich heritage. The North Hill Preservation District and Seville Historic District, both listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offer a glimpse of the past through beautifully restored neighborhoods. Shops, museums and turn-of-the-century architecture make for a delightful walk through Historic Pensacola Village. The newly renovated T.T. Wentworth, Junior, Florida State Museum houses historical exhibits and features Discovery!, a hands-on children's museum. Pensacola's history is unearthed every day at the Fort of Pensacola Archeological Trail Project, which will eventually display the remains of the forts that once protected colonial Pensacola.

Museums
History of a different sort is found at the National Museum of Naval Aviation where one of the largest collection of military aircraft and memorabilia is on display. The history of aviation is traced on a full-scale time line from 1911 to the Space Age. And the newly completed west wing which features a seven-story atrium where four blue angel skyhawks soar in a permanent diamond formation is something not to be missed. For a moving and thought provoking experience visit The Wall South, located at Veteran's Memorial Park, is the nation's first full-name replica of the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial in Washington, DC. Other museums include the Pensacola Museum of Art and Quayside, the South's largest cooperative art gallery, feature works of local and regional artists.

Utility Service and Cost
Customers in the Pensacola area pay an average of 21.6% less than the national average for their power. Pensacola has one major electric utility company (Gulf Power) with a 2,174-megawatt capacity. The area has a natural gas line that can supply companies (Energy Services of Pensacola) with ample, inexpensive natural gas. The Escambia County Utility Authority (ECUA) provides water and sewer services for Pensacola.

Arts
The community's commitment to the arts is also apparent through the Pensacola Symphony, First City Dance, Kaleidoscope Dance Theatre and Pensacola Opera. The beautifully restored Saenger Theatre plays host to many of these events as well as to nationally known performers and touring companies.

Restaurants
Dining in Pensacola is a special treat. Restaurants offer a variety of menus and prices to suit both palate and pocket. Fresh seafood is available year-round and the "catch of the day" is often featured. Fresh beef, chicken and ethnic cuisine is not overlooked in the area with something to please everyone. At many restaurants, food and fun go hand in hand. Sing-alongs, dancing, and floor shows combine for a unique dining experience.

Population
Approximately 60,000 people live year-round in the Pensacola city limits, with about 1,000 newcomers added each year. As Pensacola grows, so does Escambia County which now has 282,000 residents.. The youthful populations of the Naval Air Station, Pensacola Junior College, and the University of West Florida combine with the large group of military civilian retirees for a stimulation mix of energy, skills and concerns which greatly enhance the quality of life in the area.