Commuting in Pensacola: Getting Around Without the Stress

Evan King
Oct 30
4 min read

Updated: Oct 31

TL;DR For an easy commute in Pensacola, live near Highway 98 or New Warrington Road. WillowBrook Apartments puts you within 10 to 15 minutes of NAS Pensacola, Corry Station, and downtown, with bus routes nearby and flexible lease options for military families and local renters.

If you’re relocating to Pensacola for work, school, or military orders, your daily route matters. Whether you’re stationed at NAS Pensacola, training at Corry Station, or working downtown, where you live determines how much time you spend in traffic.

Pensacola traffic is light compared to other Florida cities, but base shifts, school zones, and bridge routes can slow things down. Choosing an apartment near the right roads, especially Highway 98 and New Warrington Road, makes everyday travel easier and more reliable.

How Long Does It Take to Get to NAS Pensacola?

NAS Pensacola sits on the southwest edge of the city along the Gulf Coast. From West Pensacola, the drive to base typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.

WillowBrook Apartments is located near Twin Oaks Drive just off Highway 98. From there, the route to NAS is direct with only a few stoplights between your home and the main gate. It’s an easy commute for service members and civilian employees who want a quick, consistent drive without highway congestion.

What Is the Commute Like to Corry Station?

Corry Station, home to the Navy’s Information Warfare Training Command, is even closer than NAS. It sits just north of the main base near New Warrington Road and can usually be reached in 10 minutes or less from West Pensacola.

Living near Twin Oaks Drive, Lillian Highway, or Mobile Highway keeps your drive simple and predictable. These routes connect directly to both bases without requiring highway merges or bridge crossings.

How Do You Get to Downtown Pensacola?

Downtown Pensacola sits along the bayfront near Palafox Street. The easiest route from West Pensacola is Highway 98 heading east.

This drive usually takes 15 to 20 minutes and avoids the bottlenecks found on I-110. It’s a popular route for professionals working at Baptist Hospital, local offices, or restaurants downtown because it’s dependable and straightforward.

Is There Public Transit in Pensacola?

Yes. Escambia County Area Transit (ECAT) provides several routes through West Pensacola, including lines along Highway 98, Mobile Highway, and New Warrington Road.

WillowBrook Apartments is within walking distance of ECAT stops that connect directly to NAS Pensacola, Corry Station, and downtown. Most buses run every 60 to 90 minutes on weekdays, offering an affordable option for renters without cars.

What Should Renters Look for in a Commute-Friendly Apartment?

In Pensacola, commute times depend more on access than distance. Living near a main route often saves more time than being slightly closer to work.

Before choosing an apartment, consider:

Proximity to Highway 98 or New Warrington Road
Whether your route avoids bridges or I-110
Number of traffic lights and school zones
Access to ECAT stops
Reliable parking options

Apartments in West Pensacola often offer the best balance. WillowBrook is in the 32506 ZIP code, giving residents a short, direct drive to NAS Pensacola, Corry Station, and downtown without using the interstate.

Can You Live Near NAS Pensacola Without a Car?

It’s possible, but works best if you live near Highway 98 or New Warrington Road.

WillowBrook Apartments is close to ECAT stops that serve both bases and the city center. Transit is dependable for daytime schedules, but many residents prefer having a car for flexibility.

Where Do Most Military and Civilian Renters Live in Pensacola?

Most choose West Pensacola for its location, affordability, and access to both bases.

Apartments in the 32506 ZIP code, including WillowBrook, keep you close to work while avoiding heavy traffic and higher downtown rents.

Local Tip: Timing Makes the Difference

Traffic near base gates builds up during morning arrivals and afternoon shift changes. Leaving just ten minutes early can make a noticeable difference. Locals also plan around school drop-off hours to keep drives shorter and smoother.

Book a tour to view WillowBrook Apartments in person or call us to learn more.

FAQ: Commuting in Pensacola

How long does it take to get from West Pensacola to NAS Pensacola?

From West Pensacola, the drive to NAS Pensacola usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. WillowBrook Apartments offers one of the most direct routes via Highway 98 and Twin Oaks Drive.

What is the easiest way to reach downtown Pensacola?

Highway 98 east provides the fastest route to downtown. It’s typically a 15 to 20 minute drive and avoids the slowdowns found on I-110 and the bay bridges.

Do ECAT buses go to NAS Pensacola or Corry Station?

Yes. ECAT routes along Highway 98 and New Warrington Road connect to both NAS Pensacola and Corry Station. Riders should check weekday schedules since buses usually run once every 60 to 90 minutes.

Is West Pensacola a good area for commuters?

Yes. It’s close to both bases, near major roads, and free of interstate traffic. Many locals live in 32506 because it combines short commutes with more affordable rent.

Can you live near NAS Pensacola without driving?

You can if you choose an apartment near ECAT routes. WillowBrook is within walking distance of several stops that serve both bases and downtown, though many residents still prefer to have a vehicle for convenience.

About the Author

Evan King is the Property Manager at WillowBrook Apartments in Pensacola, Florida. With a deep understanding of the local community, he helps residents and newcomers alike find the right fit for their lifestyle. From flexible leases to neighborhood insights, Evan makes off-base and local living simple, comfortable, and stress-free.

Pensacola Apartment Reviews

See what residents are saying about life at WillowBrook Apartments. Click here to read more reviews.

“Bralynn is so sweet and so are the maintenance, electrician and plumbing guys, no issues so far and they come quick when you have problems like maintenance/plumbing issues, they completely replaced our water heater in 2 days.”-Daidy H.

“Bralynn in the office is very quick at communication and handling any concerns! Maintenance is very timely and the workers are nice! The complex is currently being renovated so it looks a bit rough on the outside but it’s getting prettier everyday! Nice quiet place to live near the bases.”

-Evelyn W.