If you live in New York City, you’ve probably felt the squeeze of high living costs, crowded commutes, and long winters. It’s no surprise that thousands of New Yorkers are heading south every year in search of sunshine, space, and savings. One of the top destinations? St. Augustine, Florida — a historic coastal town just south of Jacksonville. But is it really worth leaving the energy of the Big Apple behind for a slower Florida lifestyle? Let’s break it down.
Cost of Living & Housing
- Housing prices: The median home price in New York City hovers above $700,000, while St. Augustine’s median is closer to $400,000–$450,000 — nearly half the cost.
- Taxes: Florida has no state income tax, compared to New York’s top marginal rate of 10.9%.
- Utilities & groceries: Everyday expenses tend to be 10–20% cheaper in Florida, though insurance costs (especially homeowners) can be higher due to hurricanes.
Weather & Lifestyle
- Seasons: NYC offers four distinct seasons; St. Augustine has mild winters and long, sunny summers.
- Outdoor activities: Beaches, boating, golf, and year-round outdoor dining replace snowy commutes and bundled-up city walks.
- Pace of life: Expect a more relaxed, small-town coastal feel — very different from Manhattan’s 24/7 buzz.
Job Market & Retirement
- Work opportunities: New York dominates in finance, media, and tech. St. Augustine’s economy is smaller, driven by tourism, healthcare, education, and remote work opportunities.
- Retirement perks: St. Augustine is particularly attractive for retirees — warm climate, lower taxes, and plenty of 55+ communities.
Community & Culture
- Schools & families: St. Johns County (home to St. Augustine) is consistently ranked among the top school districts in Florida.
- Culture & amenities: St. Augustine blends small-town charm with big cultural appeal — historic sites, art festivals, and a lively food scene.
Local Insights: Why St. Augustine Stands Out
- Beaches: St. Augustine Beach and Vilano Beach are just minutes away.
- History: Known as the “Nation’s Oldest City,” St. Augustine has centuries-old architecture and a vibrant downtown.
- Neighborhoods: Popular picks include Davis Shores (walkable), St. Augustine South (affordable, family-friendly), and Palencia (upscale master-planned community).
- Lifestyle perk: Many former New Yorkers love that they can own a single-family home with a yard for the price of a small Brooklyn apartment.
Practical Considerations
- Distance & moving logistics: The drive from NYC to St. Augustine is about 15 hours, or a quick flight into Jacksonville International Airport.
- Relocation challenges: Adjusting to Florida’s heat, hurricane prep, and car-centric lifestyle can take time.
- Current real estate market: St. Augustine homes move quickly — buyers should be ready to act fast with pre-approval.
- Tips: Visit first, research neighborhoods, and connect with a local agent who understands relocation buyers.
Conclusion
Moving from New York City to St. Augustine, Florida, means trading crowded subways for sandy beaches, sky-high taxes for financial relief, and a hectic pace for coastal calm. For many, the savings, sunshine, and lifestyle upgrades make it well worth the move.
👉 Thinking about making the move from New York to St. Augustine? Reach out to the Kim Devlin Team— we specialize in helping families relocate from the Northeast and would be happy to guide you every step of the way.