Every week, I talk to people moving to St. Augustine who say the same thing. They want sunshine, space, and that easy Florida lifestyle. And they are right. Living in St. Augustine Florida can absolutely deliver that.
But here is the catch. Four out of five buyers I work with almost choose the wrong neighborhood before we ever talk.
Why? Because St. Augustine Florida is not one lifestyle. It is many. From barefoot beach mornings and surfboards leaning against fences to golf carts cruising past Publix and quiet streets with Old Florida charm, where you live shapes how you live. If you are moving to St. Augustine Florida, understanding neighborhood differences matters more than almost anything else.
Below is a breakdown of some of the best neighborhoods to consider when relocating to St. Augustine FL, plus the lifestyle pros and cons buyers often overlook.
"We were looking in the St. Augustine to move and Kim was referred to us from a friend that had moved to the area a few years ago and had Kim as her Realtor. Best referral I have ever gotten!! Kim was the absolute BEST! She worked hard for us to find the perfect forever home for us now that we have retired. I highly recommend Kim as your Realtor—you can’t go wrong!" -Kelly W.
1. St. Augustine Beach: Everyday Coastal Living
Living in St. Augustine Beach feels like a permanent vacation for many buyers. Mornings start with ocean air and bike rides. Sand is part of daily life, and sunscreen becomes a household staple. The weekly pier farmers market turns into a social event with live music, coffee, and neighbors catching up.
What buyers love
- Walkable beach lifestyle with biking as daily transportation
- Mix of older cottages, mid century homes, and newer builds
- Strong sense of community with local events
What to consider
- Higher insurance costs due to proximity to the ocean
- Salt air maintenance on roofs, windows, and vehicles
- Home prices increase closer to the beach
St. Augustine Beach real estate is ideal for buyers who want coastal living and are prepared for the costs that come with it.
2. Palencia: Luxury and Structure
Palencia offers a polished, gated lifestyle that attracts buyers looking for prestige and built in amenities. Oak lined streets, a championship golf course, and a private clubhouse define daily life.
What buyers love
- Resort level amenities and gated security
- Strong community feel with organized events
- Luxury homes and modern coastal builds
What to consider
- HOA rules and CDD fees
- Higher property taxes and insurance
- Less flexibility for customization
Palencia fits buyers who value convenience, structure, and upscale living over flexibility.
3. Nocatee: Resort Style Family Living
Nocatee is one of the most sought after communities in St Johns County. Golf carts dominate daily life.
What buyers love
- Family focused community with top rated schools
- Constant events, markets, and live music
- Wide range of housing options
What to consider
- HOA and CDD fees fund amenities
- Busy and active environment
- Homes priced at a premium due to demand
For families relocating to St. Augustine FL who want activity and structure, Nocatee delivers.
"Kim was amazing! She helped us navigate the whole process of moving and continues to support us even after our move offering helpful suggestions for service providers, etc. We would highly recommend Kim to anyone looking to move to the Saint Augustine area. She knows the area so well! Reach out to Kim and her team. You won’t be disappointed!"-Marcie P.
4. Vilano Beach: Quirky Coastal Character
Vilano Beach real estate attracts buyers who want character over polish. Bright beach houses, murals, surf culture, and local favorites like Beaches and 180 Grill define the area. It is laid back, retro, and proudly different.
What buyers love
Unique homes with personalityStrong local vibe and coastal freedom
Proximity to the ocean and sunsets at Porpoise Point
What to consider
Limited parking on busy weekends
Flood insurance considerations
Wide price swings depending on home type
Vilano is perfect for buyers who want coastal living without master planned rules.
5. Palm Valley: Old Florida Freedom
Palm Valley blends waterfront estates with modest homes and wide open space.
You will see paddleboards, chickens, Teslas, and quiet streets all coexisting. There is privacy, independence, and a true Old Florida feel.
What buyers love
Large lots and fewer restrictions
Access to nature and the Guana Preserve
No cookie cutter layouts
What to consider
Fewer sidewalks and community events
Longer drives for shopping and dining
Flood zones for waterfront homes
Palm Valley is ideal for buyers who want space and freedom while staying near St. Augustine Florida.
6. St. Augustine Shores: Affordability and Convenience
St. Augustine Shores offers value, location, and connection.
With golf, tennis, walking paths, community lakes, and the Riverview Club hosting events, it remains one of the most practical neighborhoods for relocation buyers.
What buyers love
Affordable homes compared to newer communities
Close to downtown, beaches, and shopping
Active community with events and paved paths
What to consider
Some homes need updates
Smaller HOA keeps things simple rather than polished
For buyers focused on living in St. Augustine Florida without stretching their budget, the Shores hits a strong balance.
Final Thoughts on Moving to St. Augustine Florida
There is no single best neighborhood in St. Augustine Florida. There is only the one that fits your lifestyle. This is why working with a local St Augustine realtor matters. If you are relocating, moving to St. Augustine FL, or comparing the pros and cons of Florida living, my team helps buyers match lifestyle to location every single week.
Ready to Find Your Place in St. Augustine?
Contact Kim Devlin, your trusted St. Augustine real estate agent, to explore homes, neighborhoods, and lifestyle options that truly fit you. Call, text, or email anytime and let’s make St. Augustine feel like home.
Check out this article next
