Bay County, Florida is located on the Gulf of Mexico in Northwest Florida. Panama City, Panama City Beach and Lynn Haven are all cities in Bay County. Bay County has a population of over 180,000, with a growth rate that is double the national rate. Additionally, within a 60-mile radius, the population increases to 621,290. The major pillars of the economy include tourism, military, education and a growing manufacturing base.

Many residents of Bay County have located and/or moved to the area because of the growing economy, opportunities for growth, quality education and quality of life. Located within Bay County are Tyndall Air Force Base and Naval Support Activity Services, with a combined employment of 12,000 active duty military and civilian personnel. In Northwest Florida, there are six major military installations with over 2,000 exiting military members annually. Additionally, Bay County is home to the country’s newest international airport and an international port, Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) and Port Panama City, respectively.