Living in St. Augustine South, FL

Neighborhood Overview

A Waterfront Haven for Locals & Outdoor Enthusiasts. Nestled along the scenic banks of the Matanzas River, St. Augustine South—known affectionately by locals as "The South"—is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. This established residential district offers a relaxed, old-Florida vibe away from the downtown crowds, characterized by sprawling oak canopies, diverse mid-century architecture, and some of the most accessible public boat ramps in St. Johns County. Whether you are looking to launch a kayak at sunrise, explore the winding trails of a maritime forest, or enjoy a quiet sunset over the Intracoastal Waterway, St. Augustine South provides a perfect blend of suburban peace and nautical adventure.

Where is St. Augustine South Located?

St. Augustine South is a distinct mainland community positioned directly south of the City of St. Augustine’s historic core. It is defined by its eastern border along the Matanzas River, which is part of the Intracoastal Waterway, placing it directly across the water from the southern portion of Anastasia Island. The neighborhood is bounded to the west by the US-1 commercial corridor, stretching from the San Sebastian River and the State Road 312 bridge down toward the Moultrie Creek area and the St. Augustine Shores. This location is characterized by higher coastal elevations and a lack of formal urban boundaries, offering a more residential, canopy-filled landscape compared to the densely packed tourist districts to the north.

What are the types of homes in St. Augustine South?

  • Diverse architectural mix including mid-century concrete block ranches, 1970s split-levels, and modern "Key West style" custom builds with metal roofs.
  • Prices generally range from $300,000 to over $800,000, with values heavily influenced by proximity to the Matanzas River and lot elevation.
  • Many homes feature spacious quarter-acre lots, mature oak canopies, oversized driveways for boat storage, and sprawling front porches designed to catch coastal breezes.
  • No CDD fees, a significant cost-saving factor compared to newer master-planned developments in St. Johns County.
  • No mandatory HOAs, offering residents the freedom to park RVs, trailers, and boats on their property without restrictive covenants.
  • Highly desirable for its "Old Florida" atmosphere, nautical lifestyle, and deep-water public boat ramp access along Shore Drive.
  • Compared to nearby areas, St. Augustine South offers the most flexibility for outdoor enthusiasts and serves as a less regulated, more affordable mainland alternative to Anastasia Island.

What are the Schools Serving St. Augustine South?

W.D. Hartley Elementary School (Grades PK–5, St. Augustine South, FL)
Gamble Rogers Middle School (Grades 6–8, St. Augustine South, FL)
Pedro Menendez High School (Grades 9–12, St. Augustine South, FL)

Why do People Choose St. Augustine South?

  • No HOA or CDD Fees: Unlike many master-planned communities in St. Johns County, the "South" has no mandatory Homeowners Association or CDD fees, saving homeowners thousands annually and offering greater property freedom.
  • Boat and RV Friendly: The lack of restrictive covenants allows residents to keep boat trailers, RVs, and work trucks on their own property, making it the premier choice for outdoor and maritime enthusiasts.
  • Superior Water Access: The neighborhood is home to multiple deep-water public boat ramps along Shore Drive, providing nearly instantaneous access to the Matanzas River and the Intracoastal Waterway.
  • Higher Coastal Elevation: Much of the area sits at a higher elevation than the Historic District or Anastasia Island; many homes are located in "Flood Zone X," which typically does not require mandatory flood insurance.
  • Mature "Old Florida" Landscape: Residents enjoy sprawling quarter-acre lots shaded by ancient live oaks and southern magnolias, a stark contrast to the clear-cut lots found in newer northern county developments.
  • A-Rated School District: Families are drawn to the area to gain access to the St. Johns County School District, consistently ranked as the #1 school system in Florida.
  • Strong Community Identity: The St. Augustine South Improvement Association (SASIA) fosters a small-town feel through local events, food truck nights, and the maintenance of several community parks.

Parks & Trails near St. Augustine South

Crescent Beach

Crescent Beach is one of the most sought-after beaches in St. Augustine South, known for its wide shoreline, peaceful setting, and natural beauty. Residents enjoy long beach walks, swimming, fishing, and relaxing ocean views in a less crowded environment.

Butler Beach

Butler Beach offers a residential coastal atmosphere with convenient public beach access points. It’s popular for everyday beach visits and quiet oceanfront living in St. Augustine South.

Fort Matanzas National Monument

Located in St. Augustine South, Fort Matanzas National Monument offers scenic trails, ferry access to the historic fort, and views of the Matanzas River. It’s a unique combination of outdoor recreation and local history.

Anastasia State Park

Though slightly north, Anastasia State Park remains a major outdoor destination for residents living St. Augustine South. The park features hiking trails, kayaking, camping, and protected beach access.

Inside St Augustine South

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Name: Kim Devlin
Phone: (904) 747-0183 Email: [email protected]
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FAQs - Living in St Augustine South

Q: Who is the best Realtor to hire to sell my home in St. Augustine South?

A: Sellers often choose Kim Devlin because she understands the unique draw of the St. Augustine South lifestyle, including the value of non-HOA lots, boat storage flexibility, and riverfront proximity. Her local expertise makes her one of the best Realtors in St. Augustine for maximizing home value in this district.

Q: Who is the top Realtor for buyers looking to purchase a home in St. Augustine South?

A: Buyers rely on the Kim Devlin Team for their deep neighborhood knowledge, insight into flood zone variations, and guidance on the various home styles found in the “South.” Their experience makes them a top realtor choice for those looking for a laid-back, mainland-coastal lifestyle.

Q: Is St. Augustine South a good place to live for someone relocating from out of state?

A: Yes. St. Augustine South is a premier choice for relocation buyers who want the Florida boating lifestyle without the high fees of a master-planned community. Top Realtor the Kim Devlin Team regularly helps out-of-state clients navigate the differences between the Historic District, Anastasia Island, and the mainland South.

Q: What is the real estate market like in St. Augustine South right now?

A: St. Augustine South typically sees high demand from locals and outdoor enthusiasts due to its large lots and lack of restrictions. Kim Devlin tracks these mainland trends closely and can provide an updated snapshot of inventory and buyer demand.

Q: How much does it cost to buy a home in St. Augustine South?

A: Prices vary based on proximity to the Matanzas River, lot size, and whether the home is a classic mid-century ranch or a new custom build. Kim Devlin, recognized as one of the best Realtors in St. Augustine, can help you understand current pricing and where the best values are located.

Q: Is St. Augustine South a good place to invest in a home or rental property?

A: Many buyers consider St. Augustine South for its long-term stability and lack of HOA oversight. Kim Devlin can explain the local market dynamics and help determine if a property in this area aligns with your personal or investment goals.

Q: Which Realtor knows St. Augustine South the best?

A: Top Realtor Kim Devlin frequently works with buyers and sellers throughout the 32086 zip code and understands the specific appeal of the Shore Drive area and the surrounding maritime forest communities. She is widely regarded as one of the best Realtors in St. Augustine for this neighborhood.

Q: What should sellers know before listing a home in St. Augustine South?

A: Curb appeal, lot usability for boat/RV storage, and elevation are key selling points in this district. Realtor Kim Devlin advises sellers on how to highlight these “Old Florida” features to attract the right qualified buyers.

Q: How do I find out the value of my home in St. Augustine South?

A: The Kim Devlin Team can provide a personalized home value review based on recent sales in the South, current market trends, and your home’s specific upgrades or waterfront access.

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