The Community
New Hope is an unincorporated community along State Road 79 in Washington County, and one of the oldest settlements in this part of Florida. It was founded around 1822 or 1823 by James and Elizabeth Bright and the Nicholas Mitchell Family. The original settlement was a plantation on the west end of the Holmes Valley Escarpment, overlooking the Choctawhatchee River.
The early settlers produced "Bright Brick," which was used in the construction of the Naval Yard at Pensacola — a connection to early Florida infrastructure that most Washington County communities cannot claim. The Panic of 1837 depleted land values and the wealth of the founding families, but the community endured.
Today, New Hope has approximately 3,400 residents and offers the quiet, rural atmosphere that defines much of Washington County. The community sits along SR-79, which runs north to Bonifay and south toward Panama City Beach.
For Land Buyers
New Hope's location along the SR-79 corridor gives it practical access in both directions — north toward I-10 at Bonifay and south toward Bay County and the coast. The land here is a mix of rural homesites, timber, and small agricultural parcels.
The proximity to the Choctawhatchee River means buyers should check flood zone status on any parcel near the river corridor. The escarpment terrain provides some higher ground, but the floodplain can extend well inland along tributary drainages.
As with other SR-79 corridor communities, Vernon is nearby for eastern county context, and Chipley provides the nearest full county services.
Nearby
- Vernon — nearby on SR-79
- Caryville — Choctawhatchee River town to the north
- Chipley — county seat
- Full county guide
Common Questions
Where is New Hope FL?
New Hope is an unincorporated community in Washington County on State Road 79, along the Choctawhatchee River. It is one of the county's oldest settlements, founded around 1822-1823.
What is the history of New Hope?
New Hope was founded by James and Elizabeth Bright and the Nicholas Mitchell Family around 1822-1823. The original settlement was a plantation on the west end of the Holmes Valley Escarpment along the Choctawhatchee River. They produced 'Bright Brick' which was used in the Naval Yard at Pensacola.
How many people live in New Hope FL?
New Hope has approximately 3,400 residents. The community provides a quiet, rural atmosphere along the SR-79 corridor.