What Should I Know Before Moving to St. Johns County? The 2026 Relocation Guide
St. Johns County has become one of the most sought-after places to live in Florida. Families, professionals, retirees, and out-of-state relocators are choosing this area for its award-winning schools, relaxed coastal lifestyle, and strong sense of community. If you are considering a move, here is everything you should know to make an informed and confident decision.
1. St. Johns County Has the Top-Rated Schools in Florida
If schools are an important part of your move, you will love this area. St. Johns County consistently ranks as the number one school district in Florida. Families often relocate specifically for the education system and the abundance of high-performing K to 12 schools.
What makes the district stand out:
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Exceptional academics
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Strong extracurricular opportunities
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Newer school facilities in many communities
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High parent involvement and community support
This also contributes to strong property values.
2. The Lifestyle Is Coastal, Active, and Family Friendly
You get a blend of beach living, outdoor recreation, and suburban comfort.
Local perks include:
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Miles of beaches
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Boating and fishing along the St. Johns River
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Golf cart friendly neighborhoods
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Community pools, splash parks, fitness centers, and nature trails
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Local farmers markets, festivals, and family events
Residents often describe the lifestyle as relaxed, warm, and welcoming with a small-town feel and big-city conveniences nearby.
3. New Construction Is a Major Part of the Market
St. Johns County is one of the fastest-growing areas in Florida. As a result, new construction communities are booming, offering buyers:
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Resort-style amenities
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Modern floor plans
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Energy-efficient features
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Gated entrances
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Golf cart paths and nature preserves
Popular new construction areas include Rivertown, Nocatee, Silverleaf, Shearwater, Palencia, Beachwalk, Beacon Lake, Bartram Ranch, Mill Creek Forest, St. Johns Landing and Madeira.
If you are moving from out of state, buying or building new construction can be an easier and more predictable process.
4. Cost of Living Is Higher Than the Florida Average
Residents often find that St. Johns County is more expensive than other parts of Florida. This comes from:
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High-demand location
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Top-rated schools
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Rapid growth and development
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Newer communities with upgraded amenities
Expect slightly higher costs for housing, property taxes, and homeowner fees compared to other North Florida counties.
Even with that, St. Johns County remains more affordable than many major metro areas across the country, especially for families relocating from the Northeast, West Coast, or South Florida.
5. You Will Encounter HOA and CDD Fees
Most master-planned communities have:
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HOA fees that maintain amenities and neighborhood standards
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CDD fees that fund infrastructure such as roads and community amenities
These fees vary widely, so it is helpful to understand what you are paying for when comparing neighborhoods.
6. Commute Times Depend on Where You Live
Traffic has increased due to growth, but commute times depend on:
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Where you work
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Proximity to I-95
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Access to State Road 9B
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Whether you choose northern or southern St. Johns County
Northern St. Johns County typically offers shorter drives to Jacksonville employers. Southern St. Johns County offers more space, quiet, and a more historic and coastal environment.
7. Florida Insurance and Flood Zones Are Important to Understand
While much of St. Johns County is not in high-risk flood zones, it is still important to understand:
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Florida homeowners insurance
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Wind policies
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Flood zone designations
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Elevation levels
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How new construction impacts insurance rates
This is a normal part of buying in Florida and something you will review during your home search.
8. The Weather Is Mild, Warm, and Outdoor Friendly
Northeast Florida has four gentle seasons. Winters are mild, springs and falls are beautiful, and summers are warm with afternoon rain showers. Hurricane season is part of Florida life, although Northeast Florida is less hurricane-prone than many parts of the state.
Most residents spend the majority of the year outdoors enjoying the beaches, parks, and local amenities.
9. Each Community Has Its Own Personality
A surprising part of relocating here is how different the neighborhoods feel from one another.
Here are a few examples:
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Nocatee: Top amenities, planned development, strong community events
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Rivertown: Scenic river living, trails, nature-focused lifestyle
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Silverleaf: No CDD, new construction, family focused
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Palencia: Golf, mature trees, resort-style amenities
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Beachwalk: Lagoon living, coastal luxury
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St. Augustine South: No HOA, quiet, established
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World Golf Village: Golf lifestyle with larger homesites
There is truly something for every lifestyle.
10. Working With a Local Relocation Expert Makes the Move Easier
Buying a home from out of state can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be. A local expert can help with:
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Community comparisons
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Virtual home tours
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Understanding HOA and CDD fees
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Insurance considerations
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School district questions
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Builder incentives
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Relocation timelines
Most clients say the area feels much less overwhelming once they have clear guidance.
Ready to Explore St. Johns County?
If you are thinking about relocating, I would love to help you find the perfect neighborhood for your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.
You can start by requesting my free digital relocation guide or by scheduling a quick call.
Free relocation guide - Download here
Free moving checklist - Download here
Melissa Anderson | eXp Realty
📲 904.222.0668
📩 [email protected]
