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This is one of the questions we get most often from empty nesters who are ready to right-size: “Should we stay in Duval or make the move to St. Johns?”
Great question. And there’s no single right answer. There IS a right answer for you based on what you actually want your next chapter to look like. Let’s break it down.
What St. Johns County Offers
St. Johns County has been one of the fastest-growing counties in the entire state of Florida for good reason. It consistently ranks among the top counties in the nation for schools (which matters for resale even if your kids are grown), safety, and quality of life.
The case FOR St. Johns:
Newer construction with modern layouts and low maintenance
Nocatee is one of the most amenity-rich master-planned communities in Florida
Generally lower crime rates than urban Duval
Strong resale value with faster appreciation than Duval over the past decade
Close to beaches including Ponte Vedra Beach and St. Augustine Beach
The honest tradeoffs:
Further from downtown Jacksonville, the airport, and major medical facilities
Higher price points, with the median home price roughly $140,000 more than Duval
Very car-dependent
HOA fees are common and can be significant
What Duval County Offers
Duval is Jacksonville proper. It’s urban, diverse, and has significantly more variety in neighborhoods, price points, and lifestyle options.
The case FOR staying in Duval:
More walkable neighborhoods including San Marco, Riverside, Five Points, and Avondale
Closer to Jacksonville’s best restaurants, arts scene, and cultural events
Better access to major medical centers, which matters as we age
More affordable overall
The St. Johns River waterfront is stunning and uniquely Duval
Easier access to the airport and interstates
The honest tradeoffs:
Older housing stock in many desirable neighborhoods
More variability in neighborhood quality
Less of a “new community” feel if that’s what you’re looking for
So Which Is Right for You?
Here’s our honest take after 20+ years of helping Jacksonville families move.
Choose St. Johns if you want new construction, love amenity-rich community living, prioritize safety rankings, and don’t mind being further from the city.
Choose Duval if you want walkability, character, proximity to healthcare and culture, and want to maximize what your dollar buys.
Many of our downsizer clients end up in St. Johns. But the ones who stay in Duval often land in San Marco, Riverside, or the Mandarin/Julington Creek area, and they love it.
Want to talk through which county makes more sense for YOUR next chapter? Call or text: (904) 515-2479
Grab our Right-Sizing Roadmap — it includes a neighborhood comparison worksheet to help you think through exactly this decision. Request yours here.
Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS® | KW Atlantic Partners Southside The Hanley Home Team HanleyHomeTeam.com