If you’re thinking about moving to St. Augustine, Florida, you’re not alone. More people than ever are exploring living in St. Augustine—drawn by the coastal feel, the historic charm, and the neighborhoods that combine lifestyle and value. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or just a change of pace, knowing where to live in St. Augustine, FL can make all the difference.0
Why So Much Buzz About Living in St. Augustine Florida?
St. Augustine is always evolving. But lately, certain areas are gaining serious momentum. Homes are barely on the market before they’re gone. There’s fast new construction, growing demand, and people—both locals and newcomers—are tuning in to what’s shifting. If you’re considering moving to St Augustine FL or moving to St. Augustine Florida, these are the kinds of neighborhoods you’ll want on your radar.
Best Neighborhoods to Live in St. Augustine Florida
Below are four standout neighborhoods—each with a different vibe, appeal, and lifestyle. If you want help narrowing things down, the Kim Devlin team are local experts who can guide you through options, values, and hidden gems.
1. SilverLeaf
Top places to live St Augustine Florida often include master‑planned communities like SilverLeaf. If you’re looking for amenities, ease, and family‑friendly design, this is a neighborhood that feels more like a lifestyle than just a subdivision.
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No CDD fees (rare for a community with such amenities)
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Splash pads, resort‑style pools, dog parks, walking & biking trails, golf cart paths
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Growing town center: coffee, wellness spots, artisan shops, and soon, a major Publix
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Direct access to major roads (State Road 16, St. Johns Parkway, and future First Coast Expressway) makes commuting or getting to beaches or Jacksonville straightforward
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Zoned for some of the highest‑rated schools in the county
If you’re seriously moving to St Augustine Florida and want a place that’s already planning for what’s next, SilverLeaf is at the top of the list.
2. Madeira
If SilverLeaf is about planned amenities and neighborhood‑wide community, Madeira offers a balance: quiet convenience + coastal proximity.
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Just minutes from downtown St. Augustine and Vilano Beach
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Gated, well‑maintained, surrounded by preserves and wetlands — feels private
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Newer homes, upgraded finishes, often larger lots and yards
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Great option for relocation buyers who want to be close to action without sacrificing peace
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Homes typically in the $500s to over $1 million depending on size, view, location
For anyone living in St. Augustine Florida and wanting proximity without noise or hustle, Madeira is one of the best neighborhoods St. Augustine FL that gives you both.
3. St. Augustine South Area
If you prefer a more laid‑back, less formal feel—something authentic and flexible—this area might be just what you’re after.
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No HOA, which means more freedom with property: boats, RVs, landscaping, and so forth
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Larger lots, mature trees, spacious yards
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Close to the Intracoastal with two public boat ramps—not quite waterfront everywhere, but water access is real
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Mixed housing: some older homes (70s‑80s), some updated, some brand new
For folks moving to St. Augustine Florida who want value, character, and room to breathe, the South area delivers a lifestyle many find rare.
4. Vilano Beach
If your idea of living in St. Augustine FL involves the sand, surf, and a coastal rhythm, Vilano Beach is one of the top places to live St Augustine Florida for that quintessential beach town lifestyle.
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Walk to the beach, grab a bite at local spots like Beaches, watch sunsets from Porpoise Point
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Mix of charming older beach cottages and newer updated homes
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Strong neighborhood identity—not overdeveloped or full of big chains
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Easy access to downtown and convenience, while retaining that “lived in” local vibe
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Some homes require flood insurance; elevation matters—working with a local realtor helps
If you’re moving to St. Augustine Florida for the beach life and a relaxed pace, Vilano Beach could be your dream setting.
Comparing the Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Best For | Price Range | Trade‑Offs |
|---|---|---|---|
| SilverLeaf | Families, new construction, amenities, schools | Moderate to upper | New community; you might be one of the earlier residents |
| Madeira | Coastal feel, quieter retreats, upgraded finishes | $500K‑$1M+ | Some flood zone concerns; gated community cost |
| St. Augustine South | Flexibility, room, real cost‑value | More affordable per lot and space | Fewer amenities; some older homes to update |
| Vilano Beach | Beach lifestyle, character, walkability | Wide range; beach premium | Potential flood insurance, some homes older or weathered |
Things to Consider When Moving to St Augustine Florida
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Flood zones & elevation: Especially in coastal and wetland‑adjacent areas (Madeira, Vilano) this can impact insurance and cost.
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HOA / no HOA: If you care about rules or want variety, South area wins; if you want more structure, communities like SilverLeaf or Madeira might suit you better.
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Distance to work, schools, amenities: Commutes, grocery, medical care all matter.
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Future growth: Areas like SilverLeaf are being built with infrastructure and connectivity in mind (roads, schools, retail).
Where to Live St. Augustine Florida: Final Thoughts
If you’re moving to St Augustine FL, deciding where to live in St Augustine FL comes down to lifestyle: beach vs inland, planned community vs independent property, busy vs peaceful. The best neighborhoods St. Augustine FL are those that align with your priorities.
As a local expert, I’m Kim Devlin, St Augustine Florida Realtor, and my team lives and works here. We know these neighborhoods inside and out. Whether you’re ready to move now or just exploring, I’m here to help you understand what’s right for you. Reach out when you’re ready—no pressure, just real, helpful insight.
Explore More & Get Started
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Tour homes in SilverLeaf, Madeira, St. Augustine South, and Vilano Beach to see what feels like “you.”
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Budget for more than just purchase price—insurance, maintenance, travel.
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Use a realtor who understands living in St. Augustine Florida—the hidden details, zoning, growth, and value trends.
Let your move be a smart one—find the place here that doesn’t just look good on paper, but feels like home.
If you’re serious about moving to St Augustine Florida or just curious about which neighborhood fits your lifestyle best, don’t navigate it alone. Contact us and we’re here to help. We live, work, and specialize in St. Augustine FL real estate, and we know what makes each pocket of this area unique.