According to a 2025 U.S. Census report, the Panama City and Panama City Beach metropolitan area is among the fastest-growing in the country, and it’s easy to see why. As pristine beaches unfold along an expansive coastline with the quaint towns of 30A to the west and a thriving central core, plenty is happening throughout the region.

With that comes the opportunity to lay roots in the area at a community like Salt Grass at Ward Creek right off Highway 79. Featuring new homes built by award-winning Kolter Homes, Salt Grass sits in the heart of what’s sure to be the next major center of commerce and residential life near Panama City Beach. A new grocery store will open as the anchor tenant of a shopping center in 2026, and a major state university is constructing a major research hospital nearby.

“It’s a centrally located area that’s very easy to get in and out of,” said Salt Grass community director Tommy Hudson. 

The Lila brings natural light and thoughtful design together for a warm, welcoming retreat.

As other planned communities pop up, Kolter’s 107 homesites at Salt Grass offer something more. Many are up to 20 feet larger than comparable homesites in the area, and most back up to green space or a nature preserve. Homes also offer more privacy with no back-to-back homesites.

Hudson also mentions that construction on the resident-only clubhouse will begin this winter and should be completed by early summer 2026. The clubhouse will have a pool, pickleball courts, and more.

“It’ll have plenty of options for those looking to make the most of Florida’s sunny weather,” he said.

Currently, five move-in-ready homes are available featuring Kolter Homes’ two largest floor plans, the Lila and the Madison.

The Lila offers almost 2,134 sq. ft. of space across three bedrooms and three bathrooms. Both move-in-ready homes with this floorplan come well-equipped with an owner’s suite, lanai, and additional upgrades.

The Madison blends flexible layouts with elevated finishes for a bright, modern feel.

Meanwhile, the Madison floorplan offers personalization options with both three- and four-bedroom layouts. The two new homes ready for immediate move-in highlight the flexibility of the design. At 226 Palatka Street, a four-bedroom, three-bath layout backs up to greenery and is a short walk to the community’s water features. This 2,281 sq. ft. Madison includes interior upgrades such as a gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops, a fifty-inch linear gas fireplace, and soft-close cabinetry.

Hudson notes that there are several incentives available for buyers interested in getting in early on what’s sure to be the Emerald Coast’s next great neighborhood. For a limited time, those who purchase a new homesite can add a bonus room to their floor plan at no additional cost. Special financing offers with mortgage rates in the four percent range are also available for qualified buyers. (See Kolter New Homes Guide for details. Restrictions may apply.)

It’s an exciting time to get in early in an area that’s sure to become one of Panama City Beach’s most sought-after neighborhoods in the years to come. With the beach, airport, and local culture just minutes away, Salt Grass at Ward Creek by Kolter Homes is positioned to be a destination for families and young professionals alike, creating new roots in Panama City Beach.

To learn more about Salt Grass at Ward Creek and explore available homes, visit kolterhomes.com.