Why St. Augustine Will Steal Your Heart & Become Your Home

Within the compass of northeastern Florida lies St. Augustine - a small beach town with a big city vibe. Acclaimed not only for its tranquil coastal aesthetic, the city is most known as being the oldest continually occupied European-established settlement in the U.S.

Beyond its historical relevancy, St. Augustine features 42 miles of numerous beaches, a lively art and theatre community, and countless annual events that attract visitors of all ages. Let's dive into the unique living experiences St. Augustine offers its residents and why thousands have chosen to call this beachy oasis home.

History

Established in 1565 by intrepid Spanish explorers, St. Augustine is filled with landmarks that tell the tales of past centuries. One of the city's crown jewels is the Castillo de San Marcos, a fort from the 17th century. There's also Flagler College, a stunning architectural masterpiece that was once an opulent hotel built in the late 1800s by the influential businessman Henry Flagler.

Opportunities

St. Augustine isn't just a city with a past; it's a city with a promising future. If you're looking for a new career path, this could be the perfect place to start your journey. The economy's bread and butter is undeniably its tourism sector. The year-round warm climate has turned the area into a tourist magnet drawing in over five million visitors annually from different regions across the country. Yet, beyond the tourism industry, St. Augustine's cityscape remains filled with other diverse career options.

With Flagler College & Hospital and the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, there are numerous opportunities for academic and healthcare professionals. In addition, the large amount of tourism has created a niche retail market, presenting plenty of options for unique business ventures and specialty retail concepts. Lastly, given its coastal location along the beautiful Florida coastline, there's always a need for additional people who are skilled in marine services, environmental conservation, and aquatic tourism.

Cost of Living

One of the downsides of living in St. Augustine is housing expenses tend to be higher than the natural average. However, many benefits and options exist to make living here affordable. Outside of housing costs, the overall cost of living, including things like utilities, gas, healthcare, and groceries, is pretty comparable with other cities across the nation. While public transportation is available, many residents opt to either drive, ride their bike or walk along the well-connected network of roads and parkways.

Outdoor Activities

Along the 42-mile coastline that hugs the Atlantic Ocean, water lovers can participate in all the activities that beaches have to offer, like parasailing, wave surfing, jet skiing, paddle boarding, fishing, or just lying at the beach working on their tan. But the city is about a lot more than just its beaches. St. Augustine also has quite a few fantastic state parks, like Anastasia State Park and Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, to name a few. Here, you'll find plenty of residents and visitors hiking, camping, birdwatching, and enjoying the simplicity of connecting with nature. Lastly, with numerous top-notch golf courses throughout the area, golfing is another pastime that many people enjoy.

Neighborhoods to Explore

Historic District

Known as 'Old Town' or downtown, this is the heart of St. Augustine. Many of the areas are preserved to showcase the Spanish colonial architecture. It's also home to the Castillo de San Marcos and Flagler College. The neighborhood presents its residents with cobblestone streets, quaint shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

Davis Shores

Located on Anastasia Island, Davis Shores is a waterfront community known for its proximity to the beach. Residents here enjoy the vibe of laid-back coastal living with instant access to boating, fishing, and water sports. The neighborhood features a mix of architectural styles ranging from mid-century homes to modern waterfront living.

North City

Upwards from the Historic District, North City makes its fiery presence known as a neighborhood radiating artistic energy. It's a gathering spot for artists, with an abundance of galleries and studios waiting to be discovered. A major perk of living in North City is the sweet spot it offers between two worlds. On one hand, you're close to all the amenities of the Historic District, and on the other, you can enjoy the serene suburban aesthetic. The neighborhood presents a blend of property options ranging from distinctive historic homes to new construction developments.

Lincolnville

Lincolnville holds a significant place in the hearts of African Americans in St. Augustine. Born shortly after the Civil War by freed slaves, it quickly became a hub for meetings, protests, and pivotal events. New businesses have swept through Lincolnville in recent years, leading to its revival. The architectural diversity of this neighborhood is a testament to its unique history, with beautiful Victorian homes with expansive porches, bungalows, and small cottages.

World Golf Village

A short drive northwest of downtown, you'll find World Golf Village. As the name implies, this neighborhood is a golf lover's dream. It contains top-notch golf courses, including the renowned World Golf Hall of Fame. But that's not all. High-end spas and fine dining options are right outside your doorstep. This neighborhood is perfect if you're in the market for a roomy house for your family or a quiet condo within a luxe community.

New Construction Market

St. Augustine's real estate market is buzzing, especially when it comes to new construction. There has been a surge of interest, particularly from retirees. Many are attracted to modern living, abundant activities to keep them active, excellent healthcare options, and the proximity to Jacksonville. Some communities are designed with seniors in mind, often providing additional services like assisted living and community transportation. Despite the tight inventory and rising prices, buyers are snapping up these properties quickly.

Have we convinced you that St. Augustine is the next place you want to call home? Its rich history, culture, and natural beauty lie along the Florida coastline, waiting for you to take advantage of it all. Begin your search with NewHomesMate for your dream new construction home in St. Augustine. Let's work together to get you into your future home.