What if your weekend started with a sunrise beach walk, a kid’s soccer game at a community park, and dinner in a historic downtown? If you are exploring a move to St. Johns County, you are likely weighing schools, commutes, and the day-to-day rhythm of life along Florida’s northeast coast. This guide gives you a clear picture of neighborhoods, lifestyle tradeoffs, and practical steps so you can plan with confidence. Let’s dive in.
Where St. Johns County fits
St. Johns County sits just south of Jacksonville and north of Flagler County on Florida’s Atlantic coast. You will find barrier islands, inland suburbs, and the historic city of St. Augustine within the county lines.
Coastal location and growth
The county has grown steadily over the last decade as families, professionals, and retirees move to Northeast Florida. According to the U.S. Census, the 2020 population was 273,425, reflecting strong in-migration to the region. You can review population trends on the U.S. Census QuickFacts page for St. Johns County for context and updates. U.S. Census QuickFacts for St. Johns County
Who chooses St. Johns County
Many residents commute to Jacksonville or work locally in tourism, healthcare, education, and professional services. Newer master-planned communities attract growing families, while beach and historic districts appeal to lifestyle seekers and second-home buyers.
Neighborhood vibes at a glance
You will see clear lifestyle differences across the county. Here are the areas you will hear about most.
Ponte Vedra and Ponte Vedra Beach
These coastal suburbs offer golf, resort amenities, and a polished suburban feel. Communities are planned with trails and clubs, and homes often include larger single-family properties. You will also find some condos and townhomes near the beach.
St. Augustine and St. Augustine Beach
St. Augustine blends walkable, historic streets with a lively dining and arts scene. Nearby beach neighborhoods on Anastasia Island add surf, fishing, and coastal condo options. Inland, you will see a mix of historic cottages and newer subdivisions.
Nocatee and master-planned hubs
Nocatee stands out as a large, amenity-rich community with pools, parks, trails, and frequent programming. It is popular with families who value on-site schools and recreation. Housing ranges from townhomes to modern single-family homes with active HOA-supported amenities.
Western county and rural pockets
Head west for a more relaxed, semi-rural setting with larger lots in some areas. You will find new subdivisions, older homes, and a broader range of price points compared to the coast.
Homes and prices you can expect
Typical home styles include modern suburban builds in planned communities, traditional Florida or Colonial-style homes in older neighborhoods, beach cottages near the shoreline, and condos or townhomes along the beaches and riverfronts.
St. Johns County generally carries higher home values than many inland counties. Coastal areas, especially Ponte Vedra and Ponte Vedra Beach, tend to command premium prices. More budget-friendly options often appear inland or in older neighborhoods. For current market trends, inventory, and pricing, review resources from Florida Realtors or consult recent local MLS reports. Florida Realtors market resources
Getting around and daily commute
Major roads and patterns
Most residents drive. I-95 runs north to Jacksonville and south toward Palm Coast and beyond. U.S. 1 and A1A handle local and coastal traffic. Commute times depend on where you live, with shorter trips from northern communities and longer drives from southern or inland areas.
Seasonal traffic
St. Augustine and the beaches attract visitors year-round, with a bump in spring and summer. Tourist season can slow drives near downtown St. Augustine and along coastal corridors, especially on weekends and holidays.
Public transit reality
Regional and county bus services exist, but options are limited. Plan on a personal vehicle for most commuting and errands.
Schools and learning options
The St. Johns County School District is recognized within Florida for strong academic performance on state metrics, which draws many families to the area. School zoning can change with growth, so always verify assignments and boundaries directly with the district. You will also find private school options and nearby higher education, including Flagler College in St. Augustine. St. Johns County School District
Parks, beaches, and weekend fun
Beach time is a staple here. You can access public beaches across the county, including St. Augustine Beach and Ponte Vedra Beach. For nature and low-key adventure, Anastasia State Park offers dunes, estuaries, trails, and miles of shoreline for hiking, paddling, and birding. Anastasia State Park
Just north, the GTM Research Reserve protects coastal habitats and provides trails, kayak launches, and educational centers. It is a favorite for quiet sunrise walks and weekend exploration. GTM Research Reserve
Golf is woven into the lifestyle, with well-known courses and clubs in Ponte Vedra. Many master-planned communities also include pools, playgrounds, dog parks, and organized activities that make it easy to meet neighbors.
Healthcare, shopping, and dining
You will find hospitals, medical centers, and outpatient clinics throughout the county, with access to more specialized care in Jacksonville. Shopping ranges from everyday grocery chains and big-box retail to local boutiques. Dining runs from casual family favorites to upscale restaurants in historic St. Augustine and resort areas in Ponte Vedra.
Weather, storms, and maintenance
Climate snapshot
St. Johns County has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Outdoor life happens year-round, from beach days and bike rides to neighborhood events.
Hurricane season planning
Hurricane season runs June through November. If you are considering coastal or low-lying homes, check FEMA flood maps, understand local elevation, and plan for flood insurance if required by your lender. It is smart to ask about wind mitigation features, hurricane shutters, and any prior storm repairs. FEMA Flood Map Service Center | National Flood Insurance information
Everyday upkeep
Florida’s humidity can lead to mildew or moisture issues. Termites and salt-air corrosion near the coast are also common. A thorough home inspection that covers pests and moisture, plus regular maintenance, can help you stay ahead of these items.
Costs, taxes, and insurance basics
Florida has no state income tax. Property taxes apply, and you may be eligible for exemptions if the home is your primary residence. It is best to review current millage rates and exemption details with the county. St. Johns County Property Appraiser | St. Johns County Tax Collector
Homeowners insurance premiums in Florida can be higher than in many states. Coastal homes may need separate flood and wind coverage. Get quotes early, especially for beach or riverfront properties, so you can fine-tune your budget.
HOA fees are common in master-planned communities and condo buildings. Fees fund amenities and shared maintenance and vary by community, so review them in the context of your lifestyle and budget.
Buyer checklist for a smooth move
Use this quick checklist to streamline your search:
- Confirm school zoning and boundary maps directly with the district. St. Johns County School District
- Check FEMA flood zone and elevation, even if the home is not on the coast. FEMA Flood Map Service Center
- Request home, wind, and flood insurance quotes before making an offer. Flood insurance basics
- Review HOA documents, budgets, and rules for any community with amenities.
- Ask your inspector to assess moisture, termites, and wind-resistance features.
- Confirm utilities, including septic vs. sewer and well vs. municipal water for rural areas.
- Review current market data from Florida Realtors and recent local MLS reports. Florida Realtors market resources
How to choose your best fit
If you want beach access and resort-style amenities, Ponte Vedra and nearby coastal areas offer a polished feel and shorter drives to the shore. If community programming and modern amenities top your list, Nocatee and similar master-planned neighborhoods make daily life convenient. If you prefer historic charm and walkable streets, St. Augustine puts you near restaurants, arts, and year-round events. If space and a quieter pace appeal, western St. Johns County provides larger lots and a semi-rural setting.
There is no one right answer. The best choice balances your commute, budget, and lifestyle priorities. A few neighborhood tours will make the tradeoffs clear.
Ready to map out areas that fit your goals and budget? Connect with Anabella Taazieh for local guidance and a friendly, step-by-step plan for your move.
FAQs
What is the population of St. Johns County?
- The 2020 U.S. Census counted 273,425 residents in St. Johns County, and the county has seen steady growth in recent years. U.S. Census QuickFacts
How are public schools described in St. Johns County?
- The district is recognized within Florida for strong performance on state metrics; always verify current reports and school zoning on the district’s site. St. Johns County School District
What are typical commute routes to Jacksonville from St. Johns County?
- Most commuters use I-95 for north-south travel, with U.S. 1 and A1A serving local and coastal trips; travel times vary by where you live and seasonal traffic.
Which parks and beaches are popular for outdoor time?
- Residents enjoy St. Augustine Beach, Anastasia State Park for trails and shoreline, and the GTM Research Reserve for hiking and paddling. Anastasia State Park | GTM Research Reserve
What should I check before buying a coastal home in St. Johns County?
- Review FEMA flood maps and elevation, get flood and wind insurance quotes, and look for wind mitigation features and shutters. FEMA Maps | Flood insurance info
How do property taxes and exemptions work in St. Johns County?
- Tax rates vary by area, and primary residents may qualify for exemptions; confirm current details with the county’s appraiser and tax collector. Property Appraiser | Tax Collector
