For relocation buyers, St. Johns, Florida consistently stands out as one of the best places to live near Jacksonville due to its top-rated schools, master-planned communities, newer homes, and a suburban lifestyle that still offers access to major job centers.
Why St. Johns Is One of the Best Places to Live Near Jacksonville
- Highly rated public school districts
- Family-focused master-planned communities
- Newer construction with modern layouts
- Easy access to Jacksonville and employment hubs
- Strong long-term resale and demand
Understanding St. Johns for Relocation Buyers
Many people searching for the best areas to live in Jacksonville, FL eventually discover that the answer often lies just south of the city. St. Johns County has become a top destination for buyers relocating from out of state who want space, structure, and predictability.
Unlike urban neighborhoods inside Jacksonville, St. Johns offers a more planned and consistent experience. Roads, schools, amenities, and neighborhoods were designed with long-term growth in mind. This matters when you’re relocating and want fewer unknowns.
Relocation buyers are often balancing schools, commute times, lifestyle preferences, and budget. St. Johns simplifies that decision by offering clearly defined communities with established amenities and homeowner associations that maintain consistency.
Top Areas Within St. Johns to Consider
Nocatee
Nocatee is one of the most recognized master-planned communities in Northeast Florida. Buyers relocating to the area are drawn to its resort-style amenities, walking trails, parks, and on-site schools. Homes range from townhomes to luxury single-family residences.
Julington Creek & Fruit Cove
These areas appeal to buyers who want strong schools and established neighborhoods without the density of newer developments. You’ll find mature landscaping, a mix of home ages, and convenient access to I-295 and I-95.
Durbin Crossing & Aberdeen
For buyers prioritizing newer construction and modern layouts, Durbin Crossing and Aberdeen offer a balance of affordability and amenities. These neighborhoods are popular with relocating families who want move-in-ready homes.
Commute and Lifestyle Considerations
Relocation buyers often worry about commute times. St. Johns provides access to major roadways leading into downtown Jacksonville, the Southside, and medical and corporate employment centers. Many buyers find the tradeoff worth it: a slightly longer drive for significantly better schools and neighborhood consistency.
Lifestyle-wise, St. Johns leans suburban. You won’t get a downtown nightlife scene, but you will get planned amenities, youth sports, walking paths, and community events that appeal strongly to families and professionals relocating from larger metro areas.
“Kim is an absolute rockstar! We were relocating and she was an incredible asset in our search for the perfect new home. She spent time showing us houses in different neighborhoods until we decided on the right one for us. Not once did we feel rushed or pressured to pick one. She always had great advice and helped us through the process. We have already recommended her to friends and family! Thanks Kim for your great skills in real estate and now we have a new friend too! — Jill A.
Common Misconceptions About Living in St. Johns
“It’s too far from Jacksonville.”
Many relocation buyers assume St. Johns is isolated. In reality, most daily needs are within the county, and Jacksonville access is straightforward via major highways.
“All neighborhoods feel the same.”
While planned, each community has a different personality. Understanding those differences is key to choosing the right fit.
Important Things to Know Before Choosing an Area
- HOA rules and fees vary widely by neighborhood
- School zoning can change as new schools open
- Some areas prioritize amenities over lot size
- New construction timelines can affect move-in dates
“I have lived around the country and experienced many realtors. Kim Devlin will make your search fun, her expertise and experience is top-tier, the top 1% for sure. If she can not find it, it’s not out there… Thank you Kim for all your research and time spent with us.” -Brian R.
FAQ
Is St. Johns better than living inside Jacksonville?
For many relocation buyers, yes. St. Johns offers stronger school systems and newer communities, while Jacksonville offers more urban diversity.
Are there new construction options in St. Johns?
Yes. St. Johns is one of the most active new-construction markets in Northeast Florida, with a wide range of builders and price points.
Is St. Johns good for long-term value?
Consistent demand, strong schools, and limited land supply support long-term value stability.
Next Steps
If you’re relocating and trying to decide which area near Jacksonville fits your lifestyle best, clarity matters more than speed. A short conversation can often eliminate months of uncertainty.
If you’d like to schedule time to talk through neighborhoods, timing, or options, you can reach out by email at [email protected].